‘You’re a visionary leader, encyclopedia of Nigerian politics,’ Oyebamiji salutes Bisi Akande at 87

The governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the forthcoming Osun State election, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO), has described former interim national chairman of the party and ex-governor of Osun State, Chief AbdulKareem Adebisi Akande, as a visionary leader and an encyclopedia of Nigerian politics as he marks his 87th birthday.

Oyebamiji hailed Akande’s immense contributions to the growth and development of the APC, describing him as a living legend whose political influence and leadership continue to shape Nigeria’s democratic journey.

In a congratulatory message, Oyebamiji praised the elder statesman, fondly known as Baba Ọmọ Kéékèè ké, for his exemplary leadership qualities and inimitable virtues of loyalty, discipline and integrity, which, he said, clearly distinguish him from his peers.

The APC governorship candidate recalled the pivotal roles played by Chief Akande in the return of progressive politics to governance, noting that he would forever be celebrated for his steadfastness, patriotism and commitment to national integration and nation-building.

“I am enthusiastically elated to celebrate our father, mentor, tutor and political pathfinder, Chief AbdulKareem Adebisi Akande, in whom we continually draw wisdom, knowledge and intellectual depth that have shaped who we are today,” Oyebamiji said.

“Baba Ọmọ Kéékèè ké, as he is fondly called, is a highly revered Nigerian elder statesman, Second Republic deputy governor of the old Oyo State, former governor of Osun State and the first interim national chairman of the All Progressives Congress.

“Being a living legend and indisputable encyclopedia of Nigerian politics, Chief Akande is globally recognised for his rare principles of selflessness, consistency, integrity, dignity and disciplined leadership in both public and private life. These virtues indeed place him among the finest leaders in Nigeria’s socio-political landscape.”

Oyebamiji further noted that during Akande’s tenure as governor between 1999 and 2003, he was widely celebrated for his outstanding financial discipline, noble character in public service and commitment to good governance and purposeful leadership.

“As a student under your political tutelage, we will continue to imbibe your blunt honesty in public discourse and unwavering commitment to progressive governance,” he added.

“On behalf of my family and members of our great party, I join your family, political allies and associates at home and in the diaspora to celebrate your selfless service to humanity and immense contributions to nation-building.”

Oyebamiji prayed that Almighty Allah grant the elder statesman good health, renewed strength and greater wisdom to continue impacting humanity and serving the nation.

“Happy birthday, our father, mentor, leader and political pathfinder. Long life and prosperity,” he said.