President Bola Tinubu has praised former Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, for his dedication to democracy, governance, and national development as he marks his 60th birthday.
In a statement released on Sunday, Tinubu reflected on his long-standing relationship with Fayemi, dating back to the pro-democracy struggles of the 1990s when they fought against military rule.
A Legacy of Democracy and Leadership
During the military dictatorship of General Sani Abacha, Tinubu recalled how Fayemi played a crucial role in the movement for democracy, particularly in the campaign for the release of Chief MKO Abiola and the de-annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election.
“In those dark days, civil rights and pro-democracy activists, especially those in exile, had to rely on their ingenuity to survive. Kayode’s brilliance, commitment, and strategic skills were invaluable to our cause,” Tinubu stated.
Fayemi was instrumental in establishing Radio Kudirat, a pro-democracy radio station named after Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, which helped counter military suppression of press freedom.
From Activism to Politics
Following Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999, Fayemi founded the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD), focusing on peace and security across Africa.
He later transitioned into politics in 2006, contesting the Ekiti governorship election in 2007 under the Action Congress (AC).
Although his initial victory was denied, he fought a three-year legal battle and was eventually declared governor in 2010 after a court-ordered re-run election.
Fayemi later played a key role in the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2013 and chaired the party’s presidential primary panel that selected Muhammadu Buhari as the APC candidate.
A Respected Leader in Governance
Tinubu commended Fayemi for his leadership, noting his contributions as a Minister of Mines and Steel Development in the Buhari administration and his tenure as a two-term governor of Ekiti State, where he navigated economic challenges while ensuring governance progress.
The president also acknowledged Fayemi’s loyalty to the APC, particularly his decision to step down for him during the 2023 APC presidential primaries, demonstrating “remarkable humility and comradeship.”
“With our long years together in the trenches and years of party and national politics collaboration, Fayemi has been an able lieutenant, an invaluable ally, and a committed patriot,” Tinubu said.
Celebrating a Life of Service
Beyond politics, Fayemi has distinguished himself as an academic, author, administrator, and development expert. Tinubu extended his best wishes to him, saying:
“As he turns 60, I wish him continued health and fulfilment in the years ahead.”
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