By Tonia Okereke
Ohaneze Ndigbo Worldwide has mourned the passing of Afenifere leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo.
The respected group described Adebanjo as a paragon of friendship and solidarity towards the Igbo.
Ohaneze Ndigbo in a statement signed by the Deputy President General, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, on Saturday while sympathising with the Afenifere on the death of their leader.
Ohanaeze, recalled Pa Adebanjo’s unwavering support for the Igbo nation during the 2023 general election spoke volumes about his dedication to fostering unity.
The statement reads in part “In a poignant moment for the Igbo Nation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex sociocultural organization representing our people, is compelled to express our profound sorrow at the shocking news of the demise of Pa Ayo Adebanjo.
“The announcement of his passing has reverberated through our hearts and minds, invoking a deep and collective mourning for a man who stood steadfast as a paragon of friendship and solidarity toward the Igbo.
“In steadfast adherence to the rich traditions of our culture, Ohanaeze Ndigbo declares a period of mourning spanning two traditional Igbo market days. This solemn observance honors the memory of this illustrious leader of the Afenifere, the foremost Yoruba sociocultural organisation, whose departure we regard as a tremendous national loss for Nigeria.
“His lifetime of dedication and service reflects an unwavering commitment to the collective aspirations of diverse ethnicities across the region.
“Pa Adebanjo was a relentless champion of justice and equity, whose profound belief in the oneness of Nigeria transcended the shackles of tribal rivalry. His death represents a grievous void, particularly within the Middle Belt–Southern Nigerian Forum, through which he significantly contributed as a bona fide member. Here, we find unity in our shared grief— a tribute to a man whose vision extended beyond tribal lines.”
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