President Bola Tinubu has congratulated the former Governor of Ekiti, Ayodele Fayose, on his 65th birthday, describing him as a courageous and consistent political figure with great influence.
In a statement issued on Friday in Abuja, Tinubu said Fayose, popularly known as Osokomole, had remained a prominent force in Nigeria’s political landscape since his emergence as Ekiti governor in 2003, during Tinubu’s second term as Lagos State Governor.
He said Fayose’s first tenure, though troubled and eventually cut short, revealed his resilience in the face of political adversity.
“He bore the pains with uncommon strength. He embraced adversity with equanimity,” the president said.
Tinubu praised Fayose’s 2014 return to office as “one of the great political comebacks of our time,” noting that he became the first politician to defeat two incumbent governors in Nigeria.
He said Fayose’s courage, candour, and consistency had defined his public life, adding that the former governor was known for expressing his views boldly, regardless of whose interest was affected.
“Osokomole is a man who has never lacked the courage of his convictions. His strength as a national political figure is his consistency,” Tinubu said.
The president described Fayose as a grassroots politician deeply connected to ordinary people, earning him the cognomen ‘Ore Mekunnu’ (friend of the poor).
Tinubu said Fayose achieved notable progress in infrastructure, education, and healthcare during his two terms as governor, citing projects such as the Ekiti State High Court complex and the new governor’s office.
He acknowledged Fayose’s support for his administration and prayed for his continued health and renewed purpose in service to God and humanity.
