By Ihechukwu Sunday
The apex sociocultural and political organisation of the Niger Delta people, Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), has joined other well meaning Nigerians to condole with the family of elder statesman and Afenifere chieftain, Pa Ayo Adebanjo, who passed onto eternal glory on Friday, February 14. Pa Adebanjo died at the age of 96.
A statement by PANDEF’s national chairman, Ambassador Godknows Igali, OON, described late Pa Adebanjo as a titan and legendary icon, who dedicated 96 years to activism, championing the cause of justice, equality and freedom for Nigerians, irrespective of tribe, ethnicity or religion.
Part of the statement read: “On behalf of the Board of Trustees and national leadership of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), and the entire people of the South-South geopolitical zone, we are profoundly shocked and saddened by the news of the passing of Pa Ayo Adebanjo, a legendary icon and elder statesman who dedicated an extraordinary 96 years to activism, championing justice, equality, and freedom for the Nigerian people.
“The news of his demise has left us in deep sorrow. As we struggle to come to terms with the loss of this distinguished lawyer, politician, and statesman, PANDEF recounts that he played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s history even predating its independence. ‘Throughout his illustrious career, Pa Adebanjo remained a steadfast advocate for democratic governance, human rights, and social justice. His relentless pursuit of a better Nigeria inspired generations to strive for excellence and demand accountability from their leaders. His contributions to the country’s struggle for independence, his role in shaping the Action Group and Afenifere, and his unwavering support for the marginalized and oppressed will forever be remembered.
“We particularly acknowledge that it is to his credit that relations between Afenifere and PANDEF flourished, fostering a spirit of truth and justice in Nigeria. This achievement highlights his dedication to unity and intra group collaboration. “Indeed, until his passing, Pa Adebanjo was the co-founder and deputy chairman, alongside Chief E.K. Clark, in the Southern and Middle Belt Forum, a platform that brings together leaders from the South East, South South, South West, and North Central regions. This forum continues to play a crucial role in promoting dialogue and understanding across Nigeria’s diverse regions, including close interaction with the Arewa Consultative Forum and Northern Elders’ Forum.
“PANDEF joins all other Nigerian patriots to celebrate Pa Adebanjo’s inspirational life, the last great titan of the Chief Obafemi Awolowo disciples, as a symbol of hope, resilience, and determination. As he bows out today, his legacy reminds us that one person can make a significant impact and that collective action can drive transformative change in our country.
“Our heartfelt condolences, especially of his personal friend and partner, Chief E K Clark, goes out to the family of Pa Ayo Adebanjo and the great people of the Yoruba nation who have lost a beloved son, leader, and champion. May they find solace in the enduring legacy he leaves behind for us all.
“May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
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Obi prays for God to grant Soludo greater heights Chuks Eze The presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general elections, Mr Peter Obi, has called on the Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo to show humility, gratitude and compassion, following what he described as an ‘unfortunate and bitter’ outburst by the governor. Speaking to journalists at the just-concluded Nigeria Guild of Editors meeting at the NAF Conference Center, Abuja, Obi congratulated Soludo for securing a second tenure and urged him to appreciate God’s mercies by responding to victory with grace rather than resentment. Obi’s remarks came after Soludo provoked controversy during his certificate-of-return ceremony, where he mocked his critics by calling Obi a ‘frustrated politician without a club’ and accused him of damaging the education system in Anambra. “I feel compelled to respond because if I do not, I will be accused of dodging the question,” Obi said, expressing surprise at Soludo’s remarks. “On an occasion meant to celebrate his certificate of return, instead of thanking Almighty God for granting him a second tenure; a moment to demonstrate love and magnanimity, he chose to show bitterness and resentment. It was deeply unfortunate.” Obi clarified his involvement in the recent Anambra election, saying, “I only attended three public events with the Labour Party candidate, strictly where I was invited. At none of these events did I mention anyone by name or meet with traditional rulers, market leaders or any other group to discuss candidates. There was nothing I said to warrant controversy or speculation,” he stressed. Reflecting on the Election Day, Obi recounted how he quietly fulfilled his civic duty, conscious of the weight of responsibility that comes with leadership. “I witnessed irregularities and disruptions that could have easily escalated into chaos,” he said. “When outsiders attempted to cast votes in our community, I stepped in and urged my people to remain calm and allow them to act peacefully. In that moment, I was reminded that integrity must always take precedence over politics. True leadership is measured, not by the contest for power, but by the courage to uphold fairness, restraint and the dignity of our people, even in the most trying circumstances.” Addressing Soludo’s mocking remarks, he used a vivid metaphor from football to clarify his perspective: “On the day of the election, journalists approached me as if I were on the ballot. I reminded them that I served as governor 13 years ago and have since moved on to a higher level in national politics. In football terms, if gubernatorial candidates are in the first division, I am in the Champions League. I ran for Vice President in 2019 and for President in 2023, winning 11 states and Abuja. I play well at that level, and my record speaks for itself.” He also reflected on his age and historic achievements in Anambra State. “In both the old and new Anambra, only Jim Nwobodo and I became governors in our 40s. I was the first to serve a second tenure. I have no personal issue with Governor Soludo. I pray that God grants him even greater heights, if that will inspire him to show humility, compassion and a genuine concern for the people,” he said. He concluded with an appeal, saying, “We must recognise the mercies God grants us. Leadership is not about resentment or bitterness; it is about service, gratitude, and love for our people.”
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