The family of Chief Samuel Ayodele Adebanjo has released the official funeral arrangements for the revered nationalist, elder statesman, and leader of the Pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere. Pa Adebanjo passed away on February 14, 2025, at the age of 96.
A series of events will celebrate the life, legacy, and values of Pa Ayo Adebanjo, a man deeply respected for his lifelong dedication to democracy, Yoruba unity, and national development.
Dr. Biodun Shobanjo, chairman of the burial planning committee, expressed the family’s gratitude for the outpouring of support and prayers. He also welcomed all to join in honoring their beloved patriarch.
Funeral schedules are as follows service of songs Wednesday, April 30th, 2025 time: 2:00 PM at Eko Hotels & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos. Color: Shades of Green. Wake keep: Friday, May 2nd, 2025, time: 4:00 PM at Pa Ayo Adebanjo’s Country Home, Isanya Ogbo, near Ijebu Ode, Ogun State Color: Alari of Gold. Church Service/Funeral on Saturday May 3rd, 2025, time: 10:00 AM at St. Phillips Anglican Church, Isanya Ogbo, near Ijebu Ode, Ogun State. Color: Powder Blue Gele/Cap on Ankara or Royal Blue Lace.
Thanksgiving is on Sunday, May 4th, 2025, time: 10:00 AM at St. Phillips Anglican Church, Isanya Ogbo, near Ijebu Ode, Ogun State
The family invites friends, colleagues, political associates, and the general public to join them in paying their final respects.
Chief Samuel Ayodele Adebanjo was born on April 10, 1928, in Ogun State. He was the son of Joel Adebanjo Adedairo and Salamotu Odubanke.
Pa Adebanjo’s public life began in journalism. He later traveled to the United Kingdom to study law and was called to the English Bar in 1961.
His political career started in 1943 with the Zikist Movement. In 1951, he joined the youth wing of the Action Group, becoming a political disciple of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo. Throughout his life, Chief Adebanjo was a strong advocate for democratic governance, true federalism, and the interests of the Yoruba people within Nigeria.
He will be remembered as a key figure in Nigeria’s nationalist movement and a principled voice in the nation’s political development after independence.