By Desire Emmanuel
President Bola Tinubu on Friday, November 21, threw his ‘political war’ with the former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Bode George, behind and celebrated him on his 80th birthday, describing George as a distinguished Nigerian and an outstanding politician.
Tinubu, whose address was read by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, at the birthday reception held at the Naval Dockyard, Victoria Island, Lagos, applauded George’s service to the nation.
Tinubu said he was delighted to honour George, whom he described as an elder brother and respected Lagos indigene.
“At 80, Chief George has lived a whole life. He dedicated his life to this country with a distinguished career in the military.
“As a leader of note and ‘Lagos boy’ as he has always proudly described himself, he has devotion and undisguised love for the country and his state of birth.
“Today’s event is thus a celebration of a distinguished Nigerian, and an outstanding politician,” Tinubu said.
He said George had lived a full life dedicated to serving Nigeria through distinguished military and public career.
The president said the celebration was a tribute to a patriot, statesman and outstanding politician, adding that he was pleased when he received George’s invitation to attend the event.
He said the invitation reflects the Lagos spirit of shared history and good neighbourliness.
Tinubu said the event showed that politicians could disagree, yet uphold values that bind them as one national family, noting that he and George had been on opposite political sides since 1999.
Tinubu stressed that political differences never diminished his admiration for George as a leader.
He added that mutual respect had always existed between them despite years of political rivalry.
The president said he was happy that George marked his 80th birthday in good health.
He recalled George’s past vow to go into exile if he became president, saying he urged him then to stay in Nigeria, assuring him of his commitment to ensuring country’s peace and prosperity.
Tinubu acknowledged that George had since offered valuable advice through various interventions on national issues.
The president described the memoir as a detailed account of George’s life, education and military service.
He said the book also covered George’s roles as military governor, PDP leader and former NPA chairman.
The President urged Nigerians to support the launch and wished George continued health and greater service to the nation.
