Tinubu Praises Pa Adebanjo On Birthday Despite Opposing His Election

Instead of using the privilege of his 95th birthday to fight back over his endless criticisms and stern opposition to his election, the President-elect, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu has instead opted to shower encomiums on Afenifere Leader, Pa Ayo Adebanjo on his 95th birthday.

The Yoruba leader who clocked 95 on Monday has been receiving accolades and felicities from eminent Nigerians on his special day.

Not many Nigerians however expected birthday wishes from Tinubu as the duo have been at the opposing end to each other’s political philosophy over the 2023 general elections.

Adebanjo, in the build up to the presidential election, publicly announced Peter Obi, candidate of the Labour Party as his preferred choice and that of the Afenifere renewal group.

He gave copious reasons Tinubu  cannot be the right president for Nigeria and explained why power must shift to the southern part of the country in the interest of fairness, transparency and inclusiveness.

Even after the election was won and lost, Adebanjo still stood his ground against the emergence of the former governor of Lagos State.

Many had however expected Tinubu to pay him back for what he did but the reverse turned out to be the case.

While greeting him on his birthday, Tinubu described Adebanjo as one of the few remaining disciples of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

He stated this in a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media, Tunde Rahman.

In the statement, Tinubu noted with admiration Pa Adebanjo’s consistency over the years in fighting for good governance and social justice in Nigeria.

The President-elect particularly commended the elder statesman for his leading role in the fight against military dictatorship, his pro-democracy struggles in NADECO and remarkable leadership within the Afenifere fold.

“Papa Adebanjo has remained consistent in sustaining the ideals of progressive good governance and social justice.

“I salute his courage over the years and the useful role he has played in ensuring that Nigeria remains a strong, united and prosperous country.

“We pray that Almighty Allah grant Baba more years so he can witness the dawn of a new era where the hopes of our people for a better, stronger, more secure and more prosperous Nigeria will not only be renewed but come to full realisation.

“I wish Baba Adebanjo good health, renewed strength and, above all, continued grace of God,” he said.