The National Chairman of the Labour Party (LP), Julius Abure, has acknowledged the significant role played by the late Ayo Adebanjo in shaping the political landscape during the 2023 general elections.
According to Abure, Adebanjo’s unwavering support and strategic interventions contributed to the impressive performance of the Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, particularly in Lagos State.
Abure made these remarks on Monday while paying tribute to the late elder statesman, who was a prominent leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organization, Afenifere. His tribute was conveyed through a statement issued in Abuja by the National Publicity Secretary of the Labour Party, Obiora Ifoh, following a visit by party executives to Adebanjo’s residence over the weekend.
Reflecting on Adebanjo’s contributions, Abure highlighted his efforts in fostering unity within the Labour Party and facilitating crucial resolutions that strengthened the party’s political standing. He credited Adebanjo’s dedication to peace and democracy as a key factor in the party’s ability to secure remarkable victories in the 2023 elections.
“During the 2023 general elections, the Labour Party faced multiple challenges. Whenever a crisis arose, Pa Adebanjo would summon me to Lagos, where we would engage in discussions and resolve issues amicably,” Abure recalled.
He further emphasized that Adebanjo’s influence was instrumental in shaping the Labour Party’s growing presence in Lagos State, which has since become one of the party’s strongest bases. “Many of the challenges we navigated together strengthened our party. His wisdom and leadership helped us gain traction, making our performance in Lagos and beyond one of the most remarkable in recent electoral history.”
Abure also acknowledged the personal impact Adebanjo had on him, describing the late leader as an embodiment of integrity, courage, and commitment to democratic values. “I learned a great deal from Pa Adebanjo—his culture of resistance, his steadfastness in defending democracy and the rule of law. His unwavering stand on what was right left an indelible mark on me,” he stated.
The Labour Party chairman further noted that Adebanjo lived long enough to witness the continuous expansion of democracy in Nigeria, a feat that many of his contemporaries did not experience. “He actively participated in ensuring that democracy took firm roots in Nigeria. For close to 25 years, he witnessed an uninterrupted democratic process. He stood by us as we identified and mobilized our candidates, from the presidential level to the grassroots, and defied the expectations of the ruling elite in the 2023 elections.”
Abure lauded the unprecedented involvement of Nigerian youths in the last general elections, attributing part of their enthusiasm to the ideals championed by Adebanjo. “For the first time, young Nigerians found renewed hope in the electoral process. They saw themselves as part of a movement for change, and they embraced it wholeheartedly. Pa Adebanjo, despite his age, remained at the forefront of this struggle, lending his voice and influence to the cause.”
As the Labour Party continues to build on the foundation laid during the 2023 elections, Abure expressed optimism that Adebanjo’s legacy would inspire future generations to uphold the principles of democracy, justice, and good governance in Nigeria.
