1. Nicknamed “Apamaku” – He earned the name Apamaku (meaning “one who survived death”) after surviving an assassination attempt in 1997 where his car was shot at 40 times.
2. Target of Abacha’s Hit Squad – On January 14, 1997, Abacha’s killer squad, led by Sergeant Barnabas Jabila (Rogers), ambushed him, but he and his driver escaped unharmed.
3. Prominent Pro-Democracy Activist – He was a key figure in the fight against military rule, especially during General Sani Abacha’s regime.
4. Leader in NADECO – As the deputy leader of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), he fought for the restoration of democracy after the annulment of the June 12, 1993 election.
5. Successor to Awolowo – After the death of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Adesanya became the Asiwaju of Yorubaland, a revered leadership position in the region.
6. Refused Exile – Unlike many other pro-democracy activists, such as Chief Anthony Enahoro, who fled the country, Adesanya chose to stay in Nigeria despite the risks.
7. Legal Luminary – He was a respected lawyer, running his own law chambers, which he was leaving when the assassination attempt occurred.
8. Afenifere Chieftain – He was a leading figure in Afenifere, the Yoruba socio-political group advocating for democracy, restructuring, and regional autonomy.
9. Opponent of Abacha’s Self-Succession Bid – He actively resisted Abacha’s plan to transform from a military ruler into a civilian president.
10. Son of a Traditional Healer – His father was a renowned and powerful herbalist, which influenced Adesanya’s deep sense of spirituality and courage.
11. Bullet-Riddled Car Became a Museum Exhibit – His Mercedes-Benz, which was left with bullet holes after the 1997 attack, was later displayed in a Lagos museum.
12. Champion of June 12 Struggle – He played a key role in advocating for the recognition of MKO Abiola’s victory in the annulled 1993 presidential election.
13. Died at Age 85 – He passed away on April 27, 2008, after decades of fighting for justice, democracy, and Yoruba interests.
14. Mentor to Many Activists – He worked closely with and inspired younger human rights lawyers and activists, including Gani Fawehinmi, Femi Falana, and Olisa Agbakoba.
15. Devoted to the Masses – Throughout his life, he remained committed to the common people, fighting for democracy, human rights, and social justice in Nigeria.
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