By Our Reporter
ABUJA (PRECISE POST) – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended warm felicitations to his longtime friend and political ally, Senator Abu Ibrahim, on the occasion of his 80th birthday, describing him as a principled statesman, courageous democrat, and loyal companion in the struggle for good governance and democracy.
In a message personally signed by the President and released Monday on the X handle of Bayo Onanuga – Special Adviser (Information and Strategy), Tinubu reflected on his decades-long friendship with Senator Ibrahim, recalling their first meeting in 1992 during the aborted Third Republic when both served as senators — Tinubu representing Lagos West under the defunct Social Democratic Party (SDP), and Ibrahim representing Katsina South under the National Republican Convention (NRC).
“Abu has been more than a friend. He is my brother,” President Tinubu wrote, adding that their bond, rooted in shared ideals of justice, good governance, and democracy, has endured beyond party lines and political leanings.
The President praised Senator Ibrahim’s steadfast commitment to democratic values, progressive politics, and service to his people, noting that his re-elections to the Senate in 2003 and 2011 were testaments to his integrity and dedication to public service.
Tinubu also commended Ibrahim’s courage during the fight against military dictatorship in the 1990s, recounting how the senator stood firm during their detention following the annulment of the June 12, 1993 election.
“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.
The President further acknowledged Ibrahim’s contributions to the formation and consolidation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2013, and his consistent advocacy for peace and national unity within the party.
Highlighting Ibrahim’s role during the 2023 presidential campaign and his continued advisory support since the inception of the current administration, Tinubu expressed gratitude for his friend’s unwavering loyalty and patriotism.
“As a patriot, Abu has lived a life of dedication to public service and the pursuit of a greater Nigeria,” the President said. “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.”
