Ekiti State Governor, Ayodele Fayose
John Ameh and Kamarudeen Ogundele
The Speaker, House of Representatives, Mr. Yakubu Dogara, Governor Ayo Fayose of Ekiti State and notable Nigerians on Monday described a former Lagos State Governor, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, as a pillar in Yorubaland and Nigeria as a whole.
Fayose said this in a congratulatory message to mark Tinubu’s 64th birthday.
Tinubu was born on March 29, 1952.
A statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to Fayose, Mr. Idowu Adelusi, said that the APC national leader had, over the years, proved to be a great political figure in the country.
“I heartily felicitate with Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as he clocks 64 on March 29.
“Whether one likes it or not, Asiwaju Tinubu has become a political pillar and leader, not only in Yorubaland but in Nigeria.
“He is a great politician who takes well-calculated political steps. I and the good people of Ekiti State join millions of Nigerians and Asiwaju Tinubu’s friends and supporters across the world to rejoice with him on this auspicious occasion.
“Asiwaju Tinubu is a good case study when one talks about political resilience and doggedness and no wonder he now ranks among the leaders of this great country.
“I pray that God gives him the grace to witness many more years in sound health in the land of the living,” Fayose was quoted as saying in the statement.
Dogara also on Monday praised Tinubu, describing him as a ‘formidable political force’.
The Speaker said Tinubu’s experience as a politician brought noticeable changes to the country, adding that he deserved to be celebrated at 64 years old.
Dogara added that the entire House applauded Tinubu’s achievements at 64.
The Speaker’s goodwill message was contained in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Public Affairs, Mr. Turaki Hassan.
Part of the message read, “On this joyous occasion of your birthday, we, in the House of Representatives, salute you, great leader, for the milestones you have attained in Nigeria.
“Your feats are bold and exceptional; from business to governance and politics. As a governor, you made sweeping reforms that till date, your successors are still building on and making Lagos State proud.
“In politics, you have been a formidable force, helping to put together a great political party that won power at the centre in Nigeria.
“You have proved to be a true hero of democracy, a light that cannot be concealed!
“As you mark yet another year, my prayer for you is that God will continue to consolidate your efforts and crown them all with success.”