Tinubu hails Akande at 87, credits him for APC victory, presidency

From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to elder statesman and All Progressive Congress (APC) foundation chairman Bisi Akande on his 87th birthday, crediting the Osun elder for laying the groundwork that unseated an incumbent president in 2015 and shaping his own path to Aso Rock.

In a statement he personally signed o. Friday, Tinubu described Akande as a pivotal figure in Nigeria’s democracy, whose “leadership, industry, hard work, wisdom and labour of love” built the APC into a political powerhouse.

“Baba Akande has contributed a lot to the growth and development of this country and to the emergence and institutionalisation of democracy in the land,” Tinubu said, tracing Akande’s journey from accountant at British Petroleum to public servant.

He noted that inspired by Obafemi Awolowo’s ideology, Akande served as Secretary to the State Government and Deputy Governor in the old Oyo State during the Second Republic, before becoming Osun Governor from 1999 to 2003.

As APC’s interim chairman, he “laid the building blocks for a political edifice that, for the first time in Nigeria’s political history, unseated an incumbent in the centre in 2015,” the president noted.

Tinubu expressed personal gratitude, saying Akande’s “inspiration, advice and encouragement” propelled his political career to the presidency, while his ongoing support for the Renewed Hope Agenda remains invaluable.

“Having Baba Akande in my corner as a partner and ally has proved tremendously helpful,” Tinubu added, praising the nonagenarian’s unrelenting advocacy for democracy, social justice, and good governance despite his age.

The president prayed for Akande’s good health and renewed strength, calling him a “mentor and leader” for his integrity and commitment to progressive values.