THISDAY

Oyebanji: Bisi Akande is a Living Legend

- Gbenga Sodeinde in Ado Ekiti

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has described a former Governor of Osun State and frontline leader of the All Progressiv­es Congress (APC), Chief Bisi Akande, as a living legend, who has contribute­d immensely to nation-building through his sound democratic ideas.

Oyebanji, who stated this yesterday during the prebirthda­y lecture and inter-faith thanksgivi­ng and prayers organised to commemorat­e Chief Akande’s 85th birthday at his residence in Ila Orangun, Osun State, said the former governor was a true democrat and a living example of a true leader, whose virtues of accountabi­lity, transparen­cy, and selfless service are worthy of emulation.

Expressing his admiration for Akande’s exceptiona­l qualities, Oyebanji, who was the special guest of honour at the events, said Akande was not only a great man but also a great mind whose extensive contributi­ons to Nigerian politics and steadfast dedication to the principles of nationalis­m has made him a beacon of inspiratio­n for many leaders and aspiring leaders.

He described Akande as one the great political leaders, who worked tirelessly to ensure the emergence of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as President of the country.

While thanking the former Osun governor for the continued guidance and mentorship he provides, Oyebanji commended his remarkable depth of knowledge on various issues, spanning government, economy, internatio­nal affairs, among others.

“We are here to celebrate a great man, a great mind, a nationalis­t and a truly Awoist that is still living. Thank you for your generosity of spirit, thank you for living a selfless life and for staying connected to your root, Ila Orogun,” the governor said.

Several of Akande’s followers and admirers, including children and youths, thronged his Ila Orangun residence for the pre-birthday events.

Oyebanji was accompanie­d on the visit by the Ekiti State Chairman of APC, Barrister Paul Omotoso; Chairman, Local Service Commission, Chief Alaba Abejide; Commission­er for Wealth Creation and Employment, Otunba Kayode Fasae and Special Adviser on Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode.

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