Afenifere Pays Tribute to Cornelius Adebayo, Praises Legacy of Service, Integrity, and Federalist Ideals
By Exponent News Akure ,27th June, 2025
The passing of Chief Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo, former Governor of the old Kwara State, has drawn an outpouring of tributes from the pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, which described him as a beacon of principled leadership and a lifelong advocate of true federalism in Nigeria.
In a statement jointly signed by its Leader, Oba Oladipo Olaitan, and Secretary General, Chief Sola Ebiseni, Afenifere extolled the virtues of Adebayo, calling him a “committed Awoist” and “a great son of Nigeria” whose contributions to national development cut across education, politics, and pro-democracy activism.
According to the group, Adebayo was a staunch member of the Obafemi Awolowo political family, dedicated to the vision of a Nigeria where every ethnic group enjoys genuine inclusion and autonomy within a properly structured federation.
“C.O., as he was fondly known, represented the very best of Nigeria’s political tradition. From his tenure as Governor under the Unity Party of Nigeria where he pursued mass education, to his refusal to compromise during the military era, he demonstrated rare integrity and commitment to the people,” Afenifere said.
The organization also recalled his distinguished roles as a university lecturer, Senator of the Federal Republic, Governor, and later Minister of Communications, noting that he was a man of intellect and conviction who used every office he held to serve the public good.
Particularly praised was his steadfast loyalty to democratic principles during the Abacha regime, when he rejected a ministerial appointment in protest of the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election and chose instead to stand with the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) and other pro-democracy forces.
Afenifere noted that Adebayo was not only a visible force in its ranks but also served at the highest level of other regional and national bodies such as the Middle Belt Forum and the Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum. He was the Chairman of Afenifere’s Political Committee and a guiding voice on issues of restructuring and national unity.
“His life was a testament to sacrifice, patriotism, and dedication to justice. Chief Adebayo’s legacy will continue to inspire generations of leaders who believe in a better, more equitable Nigeria,” the statement concluded.
Afenifere declared that though Chief Adebayo has bowed out, his ideas and values remain alive in the continued struggle for a truly federal and democratic Nigeria.
In another development, both Southern and Middle Belt leaders also expressed their tributes to the departed soul.
Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum Mourns Chief Cornelius Adebayo, Hails His Legacy of Justice and Federalism
The Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum (SMBLF) has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Chief Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo, describing him as a founding figure and towering pillar of the forum whose life was dedicated to justice, equity, and the vision of a truly federal Nigeria.
In a statement jointly signed by key leaders from its constituent groups—Afenifere, the Middle Belt Forum, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, and PANDEF—the Forum praised the late elder statesman for his consistent advocacy for the unity and progress of Nigeria’s diverse nationalities, especially through the promotion of true federalism.
Chief Adebayo, a former Senator, Governor of the old Kwara State, and Minister of Communications, was also a frontline leader in Afenifere, NADECO, and the Middle Belt Forum. Fondly known as “C.O.” by associates and admirers, he was lauded for his unwavering commitment to democratic ideals and his principled stand in national politics.
“Chief Adebayo served with the highest level of integrity and conviction. Whether in legislative chambers, executive positions, or in political movements, he stood firmly for the principles of justice, fairness, and national unity,” the SMBLF said.
The Forum highlighted Adebayo’s strategic leadership in uniting the people of Kogi and Kwara States and his role in fostering the political relevance of the North Central and Middle Belt as a cohesive bloc in national affairs.
“His voice was a rallying point for the people of the Middle Belt and Southern Nigeria in their quest for equitable treatment within the Nigerian federation,” the statement added.
Extending heartfelt condolences to the people of Kwara and Kogi States, as well as Chief Adebayo’s family and associates, the Forum noted that Nigeria has lost one of its finest patriots whose life symbolized courage, service, and moral integrity.
The statement was jointly signed by:
- HRM Oba Oladipo Olaitan (Afenifere)
- Dr. Bitrus Pogu (Middle Belt Forum)
- Senator John Azuta-Mbata (Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide)
- Amb. Godknows Igali (PANDEF)
The SMBLF concluded by affirming that while Chief Adebayo’s voice may be silent, his legacy remains a guiding light for the nation’s ongoing journey toward true federalism and inclusive development.
