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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended warm congratulations to former Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, on the occasion of his 60th birthday, recognizing his dedication to democracy, good governance, and national development.
In a statement released on Sunday, President Tinubu reflected on his long-standing relationship with Fayemi, recalling their joint struggles during the pro-democracy movement of the 1990s. He emphasized their shared commitment to restoring democratic rule in Nigeria and ensuring the nation's stability and progress.
Tinubu recounted Fayemi’s role in the fight for the actualization of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, which had been annulled by the military government. He commended Fayemi’s relentless activism, particularly in advocating for the release of Chief MKO Abiola, the winner of the election.
During the military dictatorship of General Sani Abacha, Tinubu noted that Fayemi was a key figure in the underground resistance movement. Despite the government's crackdown on civil rights activists and press freedom, Fayemi played a significant role in the dissemination of pro-democracy messages and strategies that helped sustain the struggle.
“During that dark period, many activists were forced into exile, but their commitment to democracy never wavered. Fayemi’s intellectual contributions and strategic brilliance were instrumental in keeping the movement alive,” Tinubu remarked.
One of Fayemi’s notable contributions was his involvement in the establishment of Radio Kudirat, a clandestine radio station named in honor of Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, which served as a voice for the pro-democracy struggle. Tinubu praised Fayemi’s courage and innovation in ensuring that suppressed voices were heard despite military censorship.
Following the restoration of democracy in 1999, Fayemi continued his contributions to national development by establishing the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD), a think-tank dedicated to promoting democratic governance, security, and sustainable development across Africa.
Fayemi formally entered partisan politics in 2006 when he contested the Ekiti State governorship under the platform of the Action Congress (AC). Although his initial victory was not recognized, he remained steadfast, pursuing legal action to reclaim his mandate. After a protracted legal battle, Fayemi was declared the rightful winner and was sworn in as governor in 2010 following a court-ordered re-run election.
President Tinubu acknowledged Fayemi’s resilience and leadership in Ekiti State, highlighting his governance style, policy reforms, and developmental projects aimed at improving the welfare of the people.
Role in APC and National Politics
Beyond his tenure as governor, Fayemi played a crucial role in the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2013. As one of the key figures in the party’s foundation, he was instrumental in shaping its policies and strategic direction.
During the 2015 general elections, Fayemi served as the Director of Policy in the APC Presidential Campaign, contributing to the party’s historic victory over an incumbent president for the first time in Nigeria’s history.
After the election, Fayemi was appointed Minister of Mines and Steel Development in President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, where he worked to revitalize the mining sector and enhance Nigeria’s economic diversification efforts. In 2018, he returned as Ekiti State governor for a second term, continuing his efforts to implement reforms and improve governance in the state.
Tinubu also recalled Fayemi’s selfless act during the 2023 APC presidential primaries, where he voluntarily stepped down in support of Tinubu’s candidacy. He described this decision as a “remarkable demonstration of loyalty, humility, and comradeship.”
“With our long years together in the trenches of activism, as well as our shared journey in party and national politics, Fayemi has proven to be an invaluable ally, a dedicated democrat, and a true patriot,” Tinubu said.
Beyond politics, Tinubu acknowledged Fayemi’s accomplishments as an academic, author, policy strategist, and governance expert, emphasizing his contributions to national discourse and public administration.
In celebrating Fayemi’s 60th birthday, Tinubu wished him continued success, good health, and fulfillment in his future endeavors.
“As he marks this milestone, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to him. I pray for his continued strength, wisdom, and prosperity in the years ahead,” Tinubu concluded.