Tinubu, Akume eulogise Akande at 87

By Lateef Ibrahim, Abuja

President Bola Tinubu and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume have eulogized former Osun State Governor and elder statesman, Chief Bisi Akande, on the occasion of his 87th birthday, describing him as a pillar of Nigeria’s democratic evolution.

Speaking at the birthday celebration of the octogenarian in Ila Orangun, Osum State, both Tinubu and Akume praised Akande’s lifelong commitment to democratic ideals, principled leadership, and selfless service to the nation, noting that his contributions to Nigeria’s political development remain enduring and invaluable.

President Tinubu’s speech, according to a statement by the Special Adviser, Media and Publicity to Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr Yomi Odunuga, was read by Senator Akume during the ceremony on Friday.

Tinubu described the elder statesman as a mentor whose wisdom and counsel have helped guide generations of political leaders through difficult moments in Nigeria’s democratic journey, adding that the nation owes him a debt of gratitude for his sacrifices and steadfast belief in democratic governance.

The President prayed for continued good health, strength, and peace for Chief Akande, expressing confidence that his legacy of integrity and patriotism would continue to illuminate Nigeria’s path toward unity, stability, and progress.

Akume, while delivering his personal goodwill message, said Chief Akande’s life exemplifies courage, humility, and unwavering commitment to democratic values, describing him as an elder statesman whose service to the nation has left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s political history.

Recalling how they launched a planned offensive towards the deconstruction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the South West, he said the strategy was driven by a shared belief in progressive governance, discipline, and grassroots mobilisation, which ultimately reshaped the region’s political landscape and laid the foundation for the emergence of a formidable opposition that later evolved into the All Progressives Congress (APC).

He commended Akande’s tenure as Governor of Osun State and his role as the interim National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), noting that his leadership helped shape the country’s political landscape and strengthened democratic governance.

According to Akume, Akande’s vision, integrity, and wisdom continue to inspire leaders across generations, adding that Nigeria’s democratic journey would be incomplete without recognising his immense contributions to national development.