Though Pa Ayo Adebanjo, Afenifere leader has been extremely antagonistic to Nigeria’s president-elect, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, the incoming president paid him back in a different coin on his 95th birthday.
Instead of insulting him, Tinubu showered encomium on him and praised Pa Adebanjo for his contributions to progressive politics and good governance in the country.
“The elder statesman is one of the few remaining disciples of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo,” Tinubu said in a statement issued by Tunde Rahman.
Asiwaju 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 Pa Adebanjo for his leading role in the fight against military dictatorship, his pro-democracy struggles in NADECO and remarkable leadership within the Afenifere fold.
In a statement from his office, the President-elect said: “I congratulate Baba Ayo Adebanjo on attaining 95 in good health. Baba is one of the few remaining disciples of our late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
“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.”
