The pan-Yoruba socio-cultural and socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has officially dispelled rumours concerning the death of its esteemed leader, Chief Ayo Adebanjo.
The clarification came from the National Publicity Secretary of Afenifere, Comrade Jare Ajayi, in a statement issued on Sunday from Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State.
Late on Saturday evening, social media platforms were awash with false reports claiming the demise of Chief Ayo Adebanjo, a stalwart Awoist and a dedicated patriot.
PLATFORM TIMES gathered that the rumours caused widespread anxiety among Afenifere members and admirers of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, whom Adebanjo has long revered and followed.
In his statement, Ajayi categorically refuted the rumours, asserting, “We are hereby categorically stating that Pa Ayo Adebanjo is still very much with us – to the glory of the Almighty God.”
Ajayi further expressed the organisation’s hopes for the continued health and longevity of its leaders, emphasising, “Our Leaders would still be around with us for long so that they can provide proper direction.”
Chief Ayo Adebanjo celebrated his 96th birthday in April 2024.
This milestone follows the recent 98th birthday of another prominent Afenifere leader, Chief Reuben Fasoranti, on May 11, 2024.
Clarifying the origins of the rumour, Ajayi suggested that the confusion might have arisen from the recent passing of Professor Ayo Banjo, a former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, who died on Friday.
Ajayi noted the similarities in their names as a possible source of the mix-up, explaining, “As can be seen, the two men not only shared first names, Ayo, their second names are also similar.
One is Adebanjo while the other is Banjo. Incidentally, both of them are of Ijebu extraction.”
The Afenifere spokesman urged the public to disregard the erroneous news of Pa Adebanjo’s death, reaffirming his vitality and the ongoing role he plays within the organisation.
The swift response from Afenifere underscores the importance of accurate information and the potential impact of misinformation, particularly concerning revered figures in the socio-political sphere.
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