Apatira celebrates Tinubu at 74

…woos constituents ahead of party primaries

The immediate past Executive Chairman of Itire-Ikate LCDA and aspirant for the Lagos State House of Assembly, Surulere Constituency II, Hon. Ahmed Olanrewaju Apatira, on Thursday hosted an interfaith prayer session for Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

The event, held in Coker-Aguda, attracted party leaders, representatives of ethnic and youth groups, artisans, trade associations and religious leaders. Organisers said the gathering also marked President Tinubu’s 74th birthday, celebrated on March 29.

In his remarks, Apatira described Tinubu as a strategist and courageous leader, expressing confidence in his capacity to reposition the nation’s economy.

“We are gathered to celebrate our principal, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, with pride, gratitude and admiration. He is a defining figure in Nigeria’s history whose leadership has remained exemplary,” he said.

He traced Tinubu’s political journey from his pro-democracy activism to his tenure as Governor of Lagos State and now President, noting that he has consistently championed equity and national development.

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“At a time when leadership demands courage, he has demonstrated sacrifice and commitment. We pray that Almighty Allah grants him good health and wisdom to steer Nigeria’s progress beyond 2031,” Apatira added.

On his political ambition, Apatira expressed optimism about securing his party’s ticket for Surulere Constituency II.

“We are contesting to reposition Surulere Constituency II for effective governance and grassroots development. We enjoy the support of party leaders and constituents. Participation in our movement is voluntary, and we believe it is our turn to represent the people at the State House of Assembly,” he said.

Chairman of the Council of Imams and Alfas, Surulere Constituency II, Alhaji Mahmud Babatunde Raji, urged politicians to prioritise the welfare of the people and avoid making unrealistic campaign promises.

“If you make promises during campaigns, ensure you fulfil them. Do not promise what you cannot deliver. When you fulfil your promises, Allah will grant your heart’s desires,” he said.

Other Muslim clerics at the event included the council’s Vice Chairman, Ahmad Tijani Faari; Chief Imam of Itire Division, Imam AbdulWaasi AbdulRaheem; Imam of Coker Central Mosque, Imam Mahmud Idris Olatunde; and Chief Imam of Aguda Land, Imam AbdulHakeem Akinyemi.

The Christian delegation, led by CAN Chairman, Surulere Division, Reverend Alao Solomon, also offered prayers for the President’s long life and good health.

Also present was the Babaloja-General of Lagos, Alhaji AbdulWaasi Balogun.

The Lagos State APC Women Leader, Alhaji Omobolanle Akinyemi Obe, urged members to revalidate and collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) ahead of upcoming elections.

She called on party supporters to turn out in large numbers on election day to support President Tinubu, Apatira and other APC candidates, stressing the importance of voter registration and participation.