Former President Goodluck Jonathan, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, and other eminent Nigerians on Friday extolled the virtues of Peoples Democratic Party chieftain, Olabode George, as he marked his 80th birthday.

Mr George, a retired naval commodore and former military governor of Ondo State, celebrated the milestone at the Naval Dockyard, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The event attracted several dignitaries, including former governor Murtala Nyako; Babangida Aliyu; Gbenga Daniel; and Rabiu Kwankwaso.

Also in attendance was the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and the Chairman of the Lagos Governance Advisory Council, Tajudeen Olusi.

Also present were top PDP leaders such as the National Chairman, Kabiru Turaki, National Secretary, Taofeek Arapaja, BoT Chairman, Senator Adolphus Wabara, alongside retired military officers, family members and associates.

Mr Jonathan, represented by Col. Paul Edor-Obi (retd.), described Mr George as a mentor and father figure.

He said, “This milestone is a testimony to a life of service, courage and unwavering commitment to our nation. You have distinguished yourself as a professional, elder statesman and political leader. Your contributions to democratic development and national unity remain deeply appreciated.”

Mr Makinde described Mr George as “a general who cannot be pushed over in character, courage and discipline.”

“Thank you so much for being a part of my political journey,” he said.

Also, Mr Mohammed praised Mr George as “an outstanding figure we are all proud of,” adding that the celebrant was a detribalised Nigerian and “a colossus who always says his mind.”

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, said Mr George had been a proud bearer of the traditional title of Atona Oodua of Yorubaland.

“Chief Olabode George is very refined. Everything about him is top-notch and inspiring,” the monarch said while offering prayers for him.

Businessman, Kessington Adebutu (Baba Ijebu), represented by his son, Oladipupo Adebutu, congratulated Mr George and launched his autobiography with N20 million.

Chairman of the occasion, Gen. Ike Nwachukwu (retd), represented by Dele Ogedengbe, lauded Mr George’s resilience.

He stated, “Bode George has gone through a lot in life — prosecution, conviction and imprisonment — yet he kept fighting until he was exonerated by the Supreme Court. Throughout, he remained steadfast and focused.”

He urged Nigerians to emulate the celebrant’s determination and never give up in the face of challenges.

The 80th birthday celebration featured the review and public presentation of two books: “Unfiltered: A Chronicle of Selected Speeches.’’ and “Bode George: From the Cradle, To the Seas, To the Podium.””

Prof. Femi Otubanjo of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, who reviewed the autobiography, said the work provided a detailed account of a life shaped by discipline and resilience. 

(NAN)