By Amos Tauna, Kaduna
Dr. Kingsley Okundaye, the National Coordinator of the Liberal Progressive and Patriotic Members Congress (LPPMC), has described late Pa Ayo Adebanjo as an honest, non tribalistic and unapologetically consistent with his views on the need for transparency in governance.
Okundaye, made the observation when he led a delegation of the organization’s national executive to pay condolences to the family of the late Pa Ayo Adebanjo, a revered elder statesman and champion of democracy.
The visit, which took place on 17th February 2025, was a solemn tribute to the life and legacy of a man who dedicated his life to the struggle for a better Nigeria.
The Liberal Progressive & Patriotic Members Congress (LPPMC) is a leading socio-political organization committed to promoting good governance, transparency, and socio-economic development in Nigeria.
Under the leadership of Dr. Kingsley Okundaye, the LPPMC has championed initiatives aimed at empowering marginalized groups, fostering inclusivity, and advocating for ethical leadership.
Dr. Kingsley Okundaye, a native of Edo State, has been at the forefront of LPPMC’s efforts to mobilize Nigerians for progressive change. His leadership has been marked by a commitment to unity, collaboration, and grassroots engagement.
During the visit to the Adebanjo family, Dr. Okundaye described the deceased as an honest, non tribalistic and unapologetically consistent with his views on the need for transparency in governance.
He noted that the deceased would be remembered as one of the very few heroes of our democracy and emphasized the importance of honoring the legacy of leaders like Pa Adebanjo, whose contributions to Nigeria’s democracy remain unparalleled.
“Pa Ayo Adebanjo was a beacon of hope and a symbol of resilience in our nation’s struggle for justice and equity,” Dr. Okundaye stated.
“His life reminds us of the sacrifices made by those who came before us, and it is our duty to carry forward their vision for a better Nigeria.”
Pa Ayo Adebanjo, who passed away at the age of 96, was a towering figure in Nigeria’s political landscape, as a leader of the Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere, and a key member of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), Adebanjo played a pivotal role in the fight against military rule and the restoration of democracy in Nigeria.
He said the deceased was a staunch advocate for restructuring and true federalism, believing that these were essential for Nigeria’s unity and progress.
He stated that late Adebanjo’s unwavering commitment to justice and equity earned him the respect of Nigerians across all regions and ethnicities, saying that his passing has been described as a monumental loss to the nation, but his legacy continues to inspire movements like the LPPMC and leaders like Dr. Kingsley Okundaye.
During the visit, Dr. Okundaye was accompanied by members of the LPPMC delegation who joined other notable Nigerians who shared Pa Adebanjo’s vision for a better Nigeria. Among them were Mr. Peter Obi, Former Governor of Anambra State and Labour Party Presidential Candidate in the 2023 elections, Dr. Tanko Yunusa,
Former Spokesperson for the Labour Party Presidential Campaign Council and current Obedient Movement international Coordinator, and Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, Former Vice President of Nigeria (2015–2023).
Others are Sen. Gbenga Daniel, Former Governor of Ogun State and current Senator representing Ogun East, Dele Farotimi, Human rights lawyer and political activist and Comrade Omoyele Sowore, Founder of Sahara Reporters and Presidential Candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC) in the 2019 and 2023 elections.
In his remarks, Dr. Okundaye called on Nigerians to honor Pa Adebanjo’s memory by continuing the struggle for a just and equitable society. “Pa Adebanjo’s life was a testament to the power of resilience and the pursuit of justice. As we mourn his passing, let us also recommit ourselves to the ideals he fought for,” he said.
The LPPMC delegation signed a condolence register and presented a condolence letter to the Adebanjo family and pledged to support initiatives that align with the late statesman’s vision for Nigeria.
The visit by Dr. Kingsley Okundaye and the LPPMC delegation underscores the organization’s commitment to honoring Nigeria’s heroes and advancing the cause of good governance. As the nation mourns the loss of Pa Ayo Adebanjo, his legacy serves as a reminder of the enduring power of courage, integrity, and selfless service. The LPPMC, under Dr. Okundaye’s leadership, remains dedicated to building a Nigeria that reflects the dreams of its founding fathers and heroes like Pa Adebanjo.
