The National Chairman of the Labour Party, Julius Abure, has paid glowing tribute to the late Pa Ayo Adebanjo, describing him as a guiding force in the party’s growth and success.
Speaking during a visit to the Adebanjo family residence in Lagos, Abure credited Pa Adebanjo’s interventions with strengthening the party and helping to achieve significant milestones in the last general election.
The National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, in a statement, indicated that Abure, who led a delegation of Labour Party executives, commended the late elder statesman’s unwavering commitment to justice, democracy, and the rule of law.
He urged Femi Adebanjo, son of the late leader, to uphold these values and continue his father’s legacy.
Reflecting on his personal experiences with Pa Adebanjo, Abure said: “Whenever challenges arose in the Labour Party, he would call me to Lagos, and together, we would find solutions. His wisdom and leadership helped resolve multiple crises, especially in Lagos State, which has since become one of our strongest bases. His efforts contributed immensely to our outstanding performance in the last general election.
“Pa Adebanjo stood for what was right, defending democracy and the rule of law. I learned resilience and integrity from him, and I am proud that he lived to see an unbroken democracy in Nigeria for nearly 25 years.”
Abure highlighted the Labour Party’s impact in the 2023 elections, noting that the party filled a void for Nigerians who sought a credible third-force alternative.
Under his leadership, the party strategically positioned itself by assembling candidates committed to good governance.
He added, “For the first time in Nigeria’s history, we successfully mobilized the youth. They saw hope in our movement, believed in it, and actively participated. Even in his later years, Pa Adebanjo championed this cause alongside us.”
During his visit, Abure also received hundreds of new Labour Party members, led by Hon. Bartholomew Chima OmoBarca. As part of the event, he commissioned the newly established Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Secretariat, donated by OmoBarca.
The occasion was attended by key party figures, including Lagos State 2025 Labour Party governorship candidate Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, FCT Chairman Dr. Dayo Ekong, and members of the federal and state assemblies.
Abure assured the Adebanjo family of the party’s continued support, stating,
“Pa Adebanjo was a proud supporter of the Labour Party, and we will always stand by his family.”
