Ayo Adebanjo is a national icon. He is a Trojan of progressive politics. An unrepentant follower of one of the greatest men that ever lived under the sun in the nation known as Nigeria, Chief Obafemi Jeremiah Oyeniyi Awolowo ( may his soul rest in peace). Mentored by AWO as he was fondly known, Adebanjo has been clothed by the blanket of equity, fairness and justice.
The ideals upon which AFENIFERE was founded about 73 years ago. Many of his ilks have passed on to eternal life, but papa is not just alive, he still at the forefront of the battle to create State Police for more efficient security in our land. He is still committed to the return of our political structure to the good old proto type of natural confederacy where real powers reside in the region with a center that is assigned with limited responsibilities. He believes that every Nigerian, regardless of tribe, religion or creed should have the chance to govern Nigeria in a rotational system anchored on meritocracy, not mediocrity.
Perhaps, Adebanjo and the Awolowo school of politics are right after all. Where has the strange federalism unemperically introduced by previous military regimes landed our country? The answer is known to all. We are in a cesspool of developmental, economic, social and educational throwbackism. We now operate federalism in profligacy. Our politics is full of sloganeering, while the indices of all round growth lie in paralysis.
I greet Pa Adebanjo as he turns 96 years of age. Papa is not just 96, but has lived 96 solid and meaningful years. I admire the old man with firm muscles and his made to measure suits. I like is passionate communication style. I envy his tenacity. I commend these attributes to all of us, old and young alike. We have so much to learn from him in pursuit of our national egalitarianism.
May God in his infinite magnanimity continue to bless Pa Adebanjo with many more years, good health and inestimable wisdom so that our country men and women can truly learn and emulate Pa Adebanjo’s uncommon commitment to the ideals of equity, fairness and justice.
Happy birthday to a wonderful elder-statesman and apostle of humanity. May God be with you for the rest of your life. Amen.
Dr. West-Idahosa, SAN.
