The All Progressives Congress (APC) has described former Head of State, General Abdulsalam Abubakar, as the architect of the current democratic dispensation in the country.
It also lauded the Governor of Lagos, Akinwunmi Ambode, for his continued display of exemplary progressive, pragmatic attitudes and discipline in his affairs.
The ovation to both men was contained in congratulatory letters on their respective 75th and 54th birthdays. The letters were personally signed by the APC National Chairman, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun.
To Abubakar, he wrote: “On the occasion of your 75th birthday, our great Party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) celebrates with Your Excellency — a first class General, nationalist, detribalised leader and a sterling example of statesmanship.
“Unarguably, efforts at entrenching democracy in the country and indeed globally is incomplete without copious reference to your immense contributions.
“The Party recalls with pride your role as the architect of the current democratic dispensation after a troubled and challenging period of transition.
“Since your exit from office, you have worked tirelessly to ensure peace in the country and in trouble-prone areas of Africa.
“In the lead up to the 2015 General Elections, you endeared yourself to many as a man of peace as a result of your outstanding work as head of the National Peace Committee for the Elections.
“The APC wishes you many more happy, healthy and fulfilled years of service to the nation.”
In the letter to Ambode, the APC boss hailed his administration for several achievements recorded in the state.
His letter reads in part: “Over the years, you have continued to display exemplary progressive, pragmatic attitudes and discipline in your affairs.
“Despite the challenge of satisfying the yearnings of the over 15 million residents of Lagos, your many achievements as governor of Nigeria’s commercial and industrial capital have been well-reported. To name a few, your administration has successfully embarked on massive road (re)construction and the Light Up Lagos Project which has reduced traffic congestion and reduced crime in the state.
“In the area of security, your administration has prioritised the safety of lives and properties of Lagosians by providing massive equipment and logistics support to security services, while also stepping up community policing efforts through the launch of the Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps.
“The implementation and disbursement of your administration’s N25 billion Employment Trust Fund has benefited many artisans and entrepreneurs in the state.
“As respite for the Lagos populace during the 2016 Yuletide period, your administration launched the affordable Lagos-Kebbi (LAKE Rice) which many residents benefited from.
“The country’s economic recession notwithstanding, Lagos continues to generate impressive internal revenue under your watch.
“The Party is proud to identify with you as you work assiduously to establish Lagos the ‘State of Excellence’ as a city-state which ranks among the best in the world.”