This summarises what Chief Ayo Adebanjo submitted as he remained essentially the last hope for many. He simply moulded his hopes and aspirations with the modernisation of the times. Usage of computers as he identified with the youth during the end sars, the demands and aspirations of the new Labour Party, the many groups ranging from the third force, the PDP diversification, and even APC were not ignored. Afenifere held on and listened, taking instructions and relishing the significant moments.
Yes, he was detribalised especially when you realise that he started with Zik before finally settling with his inseparable mentor or as he says leader in Awolowo. It’s important to add that when it comes to loyalty he has no guile which can not be said of the many who claim to be Awoist. This is of course a story for another era. Affirmatively these were men like Abraham seeking a city whose builder is the LORD. Politically a Nation built on perfection, discipline, integrity and deep patriotism.
For the vision they shared they were uncompromising and they could not understand the sheepish mode of the current generation. For they passed through prisons, and insurrections such as Operation Wet E, kolobakoloba and nothing could be gained through indifference or mere write-ups. Rather pragmatism was the order of the day, what they accomplished was through blood, sweat and tears
Papa often encouraged us to speak up, resist and match if need be. Always quick to remind us as he demonstratively agitated that he would not be around forever. He joked about it from age 90, telling us it would be odd to put on his obituary that the devil had done his worst. Apparently and deliberately he was ready to go, demonstratively with last summoned communions which he ate about four times as he prepared to go. In retrospect, however, he wanted to deliver to his leader that all they aspired for had gained much success. That was his reality, vision and purpose as for him a great deal had been sacrificed and we must not fail. Papa Ade mingled with the young and old even spike their lingo.
His sitting room and his room were open to most and in fact all. The meetings persisted even till early morning hours. This for him was a lifestyle a throwback as a matter of fact as he was travelling constantly to Ikenne at all hours. In fact amongst the cooks and stewards, his nickname was Awo’s firstborn. The room upstairs near Papa’s room he laid claims to unashamedly. My uncle Wole and Segun just had no choice but to look away most times.
His family were fully informed and told to join with him in his adherence, affection and connection to Awo. They did, though as youngsters they often tried to establish their alliances. In time they just understood resulting in some of us today attaining and establishing beyond their generation our own ties.
Mama who was so discerning did love the duo that is Papa and Mana Adebanjo to bits. The suspicious tendency was totally in suspension with them. She and Papa Ade will reel out Ijebu, amidst jokes and general gossip. The excitement on both sides was indeed captivating, especially during breakfast. Somehow though he did not speak much Ijebu with Papa, there was more professional and the language of politicking.
Politics in the 80s intensified movements and to date, many wonder how Pa Ade did not emerge as a governor. This basically did not change his position or his closeness he was there at every point. Domestically in the homefront he was always involved, he was trusted and nothing leaked. Pa Adebanjo was known for his candid words and this will sometimes put him as personal non grata. This happened with me, of which he had no apologies, incidentally each time I see him everything dissipates into all forgotten. Traceable to his boisterous passion for people even his ageless intervention.
I learnt that with his stern approach, he remains the defender of truths irrespective of whose ox is gored. In quoting him, concerning one letter I wrote, he spoke in my defence as he affirmed that I, Olufunke was well within my rights. This he did not tell me directly to avoid negativity even as he continually held the truth so dear. The truth is that over time people this day erroneously discard the voice of the aged and refuse to reason. This said, meanwhile, it does not deny the trust but eventually, these words judge all those involved. Time is a great teacher and we must never be stingy with facts as this is the vindication of the advancement of years as demonstrated by Pa Ayo Adebanjo
Nigerians what next, where is the next run to? The open-door policy provided spoiled us. Some crazy young politicians even fought physically on your premises which could have been chaotic. Your intervention and experience quelled it all, as many were ready to fight even more for you. Yinka Odumakin had gone before you, your demise will be throwing us into a deep search. Question can you be replaced?
For your love and even going on Valentine’s Day, your patriotism, hospitality, accommodating charitable stance and much tolerance for this generation.
E seun, iru yi se owon/ too expensive. Who will go for us, Unquestionably I know you will not sleep till we get one. Be assured to Rest in peace Baba, we shall get one soon as you have laid a viable foundation.
WE HAVE THE TEMPLATE
