Ayo Adebanjo: Obasanjo has always been a killjoy

Ayo Adebanjo, a leader of Afenifere, the Yoruba socio-political organisation, has taken a swipe at former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

In his autobiography entitled ‘Telling it as it is’, the elder statesman spoke at length about some encounters with Obasanjo.

The autobiography, due to be launched on April 3, gives deep insight into some dramatic episodes in Nigeria’s political history.

Adebanjo was accused of treason in 1962 alongside the late Obafemi Awolowo, former premier of western region, and 29 others.

In the 24-chapter book, the Afenifere leader gives his own side of the story on the allegation of plotting to overthrow a democratically elected government.

He also revealed his life in exile in Ghana, imprisonment in Usherford (Accra, Ghana), Kaduna and Lagos Kirikiri prisons.

The politician also tells of how the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) was formed and those who almost sabotaged its principles. The autobiography listed Awolowo’s private life and who his “authentic” political children are.

“With more insights into the National Democratic Coalition days during the rage and terror of General Sani Abacha, chief Adebanjo enlightened his readers on how the battle was fought and won including how MKO Abiola’s most trusted friends and allies betrayed him,” a statement announcing the launch read.

“The book also revealed some of the riveting dramas in the formation of Alliance for Democracy, the fiercest struggle for its body and soul and the reasons for its unavoidable demise.

“Born on April 10, 1928, in the very rural Okelamuren, Ijebu Ode (Ogun state), chief Adebanjo told his story as the only child of his mother, Salamotu Odubanke after several years of childlessness. His education, attending a few elementary schools, the prestigious CMS Grammar School, joining politics in 1951, his role as Organising Secretary of Action Group and sojourn to England to study Law are painted in vivid colours.”