NIGERIA: Tinubu Hails Senator Abu Ibrahim At 80, Describes Him As Loyal Ally

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria

The Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to his longtime friend and political ally, Senator Abu Ibrahim, as the elder statesman marks his 80th birthday on Tuesday.

In a statement from the State House titled “President Tinubu’s Tribute to His Longtime Friend & Ally, Senator Abu Ibrahim, at 80,” the President described Senator Ibrahim as “more than a friend” but “a brother,” recalling their shared history of political struggle and democratic activism dating back to the early 1990s.

“Since we first met in the Senate chambers in 1992, during the aborted Third Republic, our friendship has only grown deeper and stronger,” Tinubu said.

He noted that while he represented Lagos West Senatorial District under the defunct Social Democratic Party (SDP), Senator Ibrahim represented Katsina South under the National Republican Convention (NRC). Despite being on opposite sides of the political divide, Tinubu said their bond was built on shared ideals of justice, good governance, and democratic advancement.

The President praised Senator Ibrahim’s unwavering dedication to democracy and his people, describing him as “a principled statesman and trusted ally whose wisdom, loyalty, and service to Nigeria have inspired many.”

“Due to his democratic credentials and commitment to the development of Katsina State, it was no surprise that he was re-elected to the Senate twice, in 2003 and 2011,” Tinubu added.

Recalling their joint resistance against military dictatorship, Tinubu narrated how Senator Ibrahim played a courageous role after the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, joining others in reconvening the Senate in Lagos to condemn the annulment and demand an end to military rule.

“Our defiance earned us police detention for weeks. When the authorities released him and left the rest of us in the cell, Abu refused to leave, insisting that all of us be released together,” Tinubu recounted.

He also commended Ibrahim’s instrumental role in the formation and growth of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2013 and lauded his continuous advocacy for peace and national unity within the party.

“As a patriot, Abu has lived a life of dedication to public service and the pursuit of a greater Nigeria,” Tinubu said, acknowledging the senator’s strong support during his 2023 presidential campaign and ongoing contributions to the implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The President expressed gratitude for Ibrahim’s steadfast support and friendship, praying for his continued good health and long life.

“I join his family, friends, and associates in praying for many more years of good health and renewed strength for Senator Ibrahim, so that he may continue his laudable service to the nation and humanity,” Tinubu said.