Chief Abraham Aderibigbe Adesanya 24 July 1922 – 27 April 2008 was a Nigerian politician, legal practitioner, and pro-democracy activist. He played a key role in shaping Nigeria’s political landscape, serving as a senator in the Second Republic under the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN). A committed progressive, he was a staunch advocate of democratic governance and a leading figure in Afenifere, a pan-Yoruba socio-political group. As a founding member of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), his activism was instrumental in Nigeria’s transition to democracy in 1999.
Abraham Adesanya Profile
| Name | Abraham Adesanya |
| Real Name | Abraham Aderibigbe Adesanya |
| Date of Birth | 24 July 1922 |
| Date of Death | 27 April 2008 (85 years) |
| State of Origin | Ogun State |
| Tribe | Yoruba |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| Occupation | Politician, Legal practitioner, and Pro-democracy activist |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Net Worth | $5 Million |
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Educational Background
Born in Ijebu Igbo, in present-day Ogun State, Adesanya had his early education at Ijebu Ode Grammar School. He initially worked as a teacher before traveling to the United Kingdom, where he pursued a degree in law at Holborn College of Law and trained at Gray’s Inn, qualifying as a lawyer before returning to Nigeria.
Career
Adesanya entered politics in 1959 after joining the Action Group (AG), a political party led by Chief Obafemi Awolowo. That same year, he was elected to the Western House of Assembly, representing the Ijebu Igbo constituency. As a loyal disciple of Awolowo’s political ideology, he played a prominent role in defending him against treason charges in 1962.
During the Second Republic, Adesanya was elected as a senator under the platform of the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN), choosing legislative leadership over a governorship opportunity. His political career was marked by an unwavering commitment to social democracy and the fight against authoritarian rule. As a key figure in Afenifere and NADECO, he resisted military rule, particularly during the regime of General Sani Abacha. His efforts contributed to the restoration of civilian governance in 1999.
Controversies
Throughout his political career, Adesanya remained a vocal opponent of military regimes, making him a target of political persecution. In 1996, he survived an assassination attempt, which was believed to be linked to his opposition to General Abacha’s dictatorship. His criticism of government policies, particularly on democratic governance and regional autonomy, often placed him at odds with political elites.
Personal Life
Chief Adesanya was married to Rosannah Arinola Adesanya with whom he had four children Adebayo Adesanya, Oluwasegunfunmi Adesanya, Modupeola Adesanya Adelaja, and Olufemi Adesanya. He was also blessed with ten grandchildren. A family man and respected elder statesman, he remained deeply connected to his community until his passing.
Abraham Adesanya Net Worth
Abraham Adesanya’s net worth was estimated to be around $5 Million during his lifetime.
Death
In his later years, Adesanya’s health declined significantly, leading to his reduced involvement in active leadership within Afenifere. On 27 April 2008, he passed away peacefully at the age of 85 while having breakfast in his residence in Apapa, Lagos.