President Tinubu Celebrates Senator Abu Ibrahim at 80, Hails His Role in Nigeria’s Democratic Struggles
By Passman Akpos
Abuja — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to his longtime friend and political ally, Senator Abu Ibrahim, as the former lawmaker marks his 80th birthday today.
In a heartfelt message personally signed by the President, Tinubu described Senator Ibrahim as a “brother, trusted ally, and principled statesman” who has made enduring contributions to Nigeria’s democratic development and national unity.
“Abu has been more than a friend. He is my brother,” Tinubu said. “Since we first met in the Senate chambers in 1992, during the aborted Third Republic, our friendship has only grown deeper and stronger.”
The President recounted their shared history in the early 1990s when both men served in the Senate — Ibrahim representing Katsina South Senatorial District under the National Republican Convention (NRC), and Tinubu representing Lagos West under the Social Democratic Party (SDP). Despite their differing party affiliations, Tinubu said their partnership was “rooted in shared ideals of justice, good governance, and democratic advancement.”
Tinubu lauded Senator Ibrahim’s unwavering commitment to democracy, describing him as a man of courage and conviction who stood firm against military dictatorship. He recalled how Ibrahim joined him and other pro-democracy lawmakers in reconvening the Senate in Lagos after the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election — a move that led to their detention by the police.
“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. “That moment showed the depth of his courage, loyalty, and solidarity.”
Highlighting Ibrahim’s political career, Tinubu noted that his ally was re-elected to the Senate in 2003 and 2011, where he continued to champion democratic values and the development of Katsina State.
The President also praised Ibrahim’s pivotal role in the formation and consolidation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2013, saying his advocacy for peace, unity, and progress within the party has been “noteworthy and deeply appreciated.”
“Senator Ibrahim supported my presidential aspirations in 2023 and joined me on the campaign trail across the country,” Tinubu said. “Since the beginning of our administration on May 29, 2023, he has continued to provide invaluable support and ideas for the successful implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda.”
President Tinubu expressed gratitude for the senator’s steadfast friendship and service to the nation, praying for continued health and strength for the octogenarian.
“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,” Tinubu concluded.
Background:
Senator Abu Ibrahim, born in 1945, is a prominent Katsina-born politician, administrator, and former lawmaker who served multiple terms in the Nigerian Senate. Known for his advocacy of democratic governance and his role in the formation of the APC, he remains one of northern Nigeria’s respected elder statesmen.
