UK-based Gambian activist Ablie Jobe has died.

Jobe, who lived most of his life as an exile in London, passed away on Friday morning. 

He was known for his political activism inspired by his pan africanist views.

He campaigned against the Jammeh dictatorship and was an influential member of the diaspora movement for democracy in The Gambia.

Jobe fled The Gambia in 1981 in the wake of the failed Kukoi Coup. He was a radical socialist and campaigner accused of trying to overthrow the Jawara government.

Gambians from all walks of life have taken to social media to express condolences.

One said: “It is another sad day for me to lose a lifelong friend, a brother and a comrade. Aib Jobe was a democratic human rights activist, most of his adult life. He will be greatly missed.”

Another said: “It is very sad. Mr Jobe was the torchbearer in London in the  fight for the restoration of democracy in the Gambia.  

“I was privileged to work with him coordinating with Amnesty International and other organisations during Gambia Day of Action every 22nd July and many other demonstrations in standing up against the rule of fear.”

Another added: “I join the multitude of Gambians in condoling with Mr. Ablie Jobe’s family in this sad hour and to all Pro-democracy activists, Pan-Africanists, and democratic activists in Europe and North America.”