Minister, YCE, Niger Delta group call for unity amid founding fathers’ passing

By Vera Wisdom-Bassey

The Minister of Commerce and Industry, Jumoke Oduwole, has called on Nigerians to preserve the legacy that the late Pa. Ayo Adebanjo laid down before his demise.

She made this call during her visit to the family of the deceased in Lekki yesterday.

“We need to appreciate the impactful life he lived, a life he experienced. “He lived in Nigeria, loved Nigeria and fought for the unity of the country.  He is an example of what we the younger ones need to know on how to love, as well as one that embraces people too,” she said.

She urged the coming generations to emulate his life, “because he stood for what he believed in and also encouraged and mentored others too.” 

Describing Pa Adebanjo as an icon of his generation, she said he was an opinionated person, noting “that that is how to stand for what one believes in, and to live for a wider society, and not just for ourselves.”

In the same vein, the Pan Niger Delta Group has called on Nigerians to remain steadfast in preserving the unity and legacy of the nation’s founding fathers. This appeal came during their visit to the residence of the late Pa Adebanjo, a revered nationalist who dedicated his life to Nigeria’s progress.

During the visit, the group reflected on the immense contributions of both Pa Adebanjo and Chief Edwin Clark, who recently passed away at the ages of 96 and 97, respectively. They emphasised that although these visionary leaders are no longer alive, their ideals and values must not be forgotten. According to them, the responsibility of safeguarding Nigeria’s unity now rests on the shoulders of the younger generation, who must continue to build upon the strong foundation laid by these nationalists.

Bassey Ekefre, the National Deputy Chairman of the Pan Niger Delta Group (PANDGP), spoke passionately about Adebanjo’s influence on Nigeria’s political and social fabric. He described him as a ‘colossus,’ whose unwavering commitment to national unity set an example for future generations. He urged the youth to embrace the path the founding fathers had walked, emphasising that their sacrifices should not be in vain.

Also, the Yoruba Council of Elders extended their condolences to Adebanjo’s family, recognising his lifelong dedication to Nigeria’s development. They described him as a man of principle, who always stood firm in advocating for the nation’s unity. According to them, Adebanjo was a leader, who never hesitated to champion the cause of national cohesion, even in the face of adversity.

Similarly, Chief Oladipo Oyewole, paid tribute to Adebanjo’s unwavering dedication. He highlighted how, despite his advanced age, he remained actively involved in meetings and discussions aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s unity. “He was a fighter, who stood his ground on every issue concerning Nigeria’s oneness. Even in his old age, he never missed any gathering that sought to bring the country together,” Oyewole remarked.

The visit served as a solemn reminder of the contributions of these great men and the necessity of preserving their legacy. As Nigeria continues to navigate its socio-political landscape, the call for unity and national progress remains paramount. The Pan Niger Delta Group and other stakeholders insist that Nigerians must uphold the vision of the founding fathers, ensuring that their sacrifices were not in vain.