Opadokun @80: Tinubu, Abdusalam, Osoba pay tribute for sacrifice to democracy

President Bola Tinubu, former Head of State, Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar (rtd), Chief Olusegun Osoba and other eminent Nigerians Wednesday paid glowing tribute to the secretary of the defunct National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), Pa Ayo Opadokun, on attainment of 80 years.

They described him as a moral compass and voice of reason in the Nigerian polity.

Reading the congratulatory messages sent by the president and former head of state was Rev Olusegun Ogungboye of Grace Baptist Church Offa, Kwara state, at a service held at Ikate Baptist Church Surulere, Lagos on Wednesday.

It was tagged: “Ayo Opadokun at 80 Testimonies of Impact.”

President Tinubu described Opadokun’s life as life of sacrifice, courage, and patriotism in the struggle for the enthronement of democracy in Nigeria which is a testament to his character and conviction.

“From the trenches of the June 12 struggle to the conference hall of national discourse, Chief Opadokun has remained consistent, principled, and unwavering in his commitment to good governance, federalism and the rule of law.

“As a comrade-in-arms in the fight against military dictatorship, I recall with pride the shared sacrifices and the resolve that ultimately birthed the Fourth Republic, now in its 27th year and still counting.

“Chief Opadokun was a leading voice and organiser for NADECO and Afenifere in the struggle against military dictatorship.  Owing to his activist stance, he suffered persecution, detention and targeted crackdowns by state security operatives during the Abacha military regime.

“Let me assure Chief Opadokun that, fired by our shared vision, the Renewed Hope Administration under my leadership will continue to strive for a more democratic, more equitable and more prosperous Nigeria on this important milestone of his 80th.”

Abubakar said his attainment of milestone offers an opportunity not only to congratulate him on attainment of four score years, but to reflect on a life devoted to the service of Nigeria, the defence of democratic ideals, and the pursuit of justice, equity and the rule of law.