A senior aide to the President, Hon. Ibraheem Kunle Olarewaju, has praised the first Executive Governor of Ekiti State, Otunba Niyi Adebayo, describing him as a central figure in the state’s democratic and administrative foundation as he marks his 68th birthday.
Hon. Olarewaju, an All Progressives Congress chieftain and Senior Special Assistant to the President on National Assembly Matters, House of Representatives, said Otunba Adebayo’s leadership remains deeply woven into Ekiti State’s political history.
In a congratulatory message released on Tuesday, the presidential aide said the former governor’s tenure laid the groundwork for governance in Ekiti at a delicate moment following the state’s creation. He noted that Otunba Adebayo provided direction and stability when institutions were still taking shape.
According to him, Otunba Adebayo governed with restraint, respect for due process, and financial discipline, qualities he said helped the young state find its footing in Nigeria’s evolving democratic space.
Hon. Olarewaju added that the former governor’s influence did not end with his time in office. He said Mr Adebayo has remained an important voice in national discourse, drawing from his experience in public service to support democratic growth and responsible governance.
He also highlighted Otunba Adebayo’s leadership style, describing it as calm and principled, with a strong capacity to unite people across political and ideological lines. He said this approach has earned the elder statesman enduring respect within and beyond Ekiti State.
The presidential aide further acknowledged Otunba Adebayo’s role in mentoring younger politicians and public servants, noting that many continue to draw inspiration from his conduct in public life and commitment to progressive values.
Hon. Olarewaju wished the former governor good health and long life, expressing hope that his experience and counsel would continue to serve Ekiti State and Nigeria at large.
