Apex lgbo Socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has mourned the death of Pa Ayo Adebanjo, saying he stood for the lgbo at the darkest time of history.
Ohanaeze said his death struck with the socio-cultural organization with dismay, upon receiving the heartrending news of his passage.
In a statement issued on Saturday by the factional Deputy President- General, Okechukwu lsigozoro, the group declared two traditional market days to mourn a true ally of the lgbo people.
Isiguzoro said the demise of Pa Adebanjo, represents an irreplaceable national loss for Nigeria, describing the late Afenifere as a rare breed of progressive elder statesman who transcended the limitations of tribalism and sectionalism.
He said Pa Adebanjo in a remarkable display of patriotism, supported the candidacy of an Igbo son, Mr. Peter Obi, in the 2023 presidential election, setting aside parochial interests in favour of justice and equity.
“This act of solidarity amidst the historical frictions between the Yoruba and Igbo peoples, stands as a beacon of hope and reconciliation.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo proudly recognizes that Pa Adebanjo’s relentless advocacy forged pathways toward understanding, and dismantling the walls of suspicion that have separated our peoples for far too long.
“His fierce commitment to inclusivity and peace is a legacy that demands acknowledgment and reverence.
“It is inescapably clear that he stood with the Igbo Nation during one of the most tumultuous periods in our contemporary political narrative,” Ohanaeze said.
The body urged President Bola Tinubu and the governors of the South-East to honour Pa Adebanjo, by renaming a public institution in his name, to serve as a tribute to a man whose heart beat not for his own benefit, but for the collective good of the Nigerian society.
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“We implore the Dr. Alex Otti, Governor of Abia State and the only Labour Party governor, to demonstrate uncommon valour by renaming an institution, possibly the Abia State College of Education in Arochukwu or a major thoroughfare, after the esteemed Pa Ayodele Samuel Adebanjo.
“Furthermore, Ohanaeze Ndigbo will earnestly participate in the funeral rites and commemorations that shall be held in honour of this great man within the Oduduwa Nation.
“On behalf of the global family of the Igbo, both at home and in the Diaspora, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of Pa Adebanjo, the leadership of Afenifere, the Oduduwa Nation, and all South West governors.
“May the Almighty God grant him serene repose as we mourn the passing of a truly remarkable leader who dared to dream of unity in a divided land,” the statement added.
