The Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, has described the former Governor of the state of Osun, Chief Abdulkareem Adebisi Akande as a selfless leader and one worthy of emulation in all ramifications.
In a letter to celebrate Akande’s 82nd birthday, Aregbesola extolled the varying attributes of the celebrator as an epitome of a visionary reflective in frugality and wisdom.
Below is the full letter
CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR 82ND BIRTHDAY
Beautiful young people are accidents of nature but beautiful old people are works of art – Eleanor Roosevelt.
I write to felicitate with you on your 82nd birthday. Every single day of all these years that it has pleased the good Lord to give to you has been a blessing to humanity, the black race, our country Nigeria, our party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the good people of Osun.
You have earned every stripe, every wrinkle, every scar and every grey strand of hair. They are priceless treasures and evidence of a lifetime dedicated to service.
You have been an exemplary leader in vision, discipline, frugality, selflessness and uncommon wisdom. I count myself blessed to have drunk from your rich fountain.
Your simplicity about life and incapacity for malice towards any is the stuff of legends and we shall continue to admire these virtues in you.
As a follower, you taught us loyalty and as a leader, we learnt responsibility from you. As a warrior, we can follow you to battle with our eyes closed because you lead in the front but when we look back, we also see you solidly behind us.
On behalf of my wife and our associates, I offer our heartfelt congratulations for the godly and impactful 82 years and rejoice with you and your family.
It is my prayer that the almighty God will prolong your life in good health, happiness and fulfillment. May your likes continue to thrive in the land.
Wishing you a very happy and fulfilling birthday sir.
Ọgbẹni Rauf Arẹgbẹsọla
