President Bola Tinubu has celebrated former Chief of Army Staff, General Alani Ipoola Akinrinade (retd.), on his 87th birthday, describing him as a principled patriot who chose democracy over dictatorship during Nigeria’s struggle against military rule.
Tinubu said Akinrinade’s courage and commitment to democratic governance placed him on the right side of history, particularly during the struggle for the restoration of the June 12, 1993 presidential election mandate.
The President’s message was contained in a statement issued on Saturday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
Tinubu described the retired general as a towering statesman, gallant soldier and committed patriot whose contributions to Nigeria spanned his distinguished military career and his involvement in the pro-democracy movement.
According to the President, Akinrinade was among the heroes whose sacrifices helped pave the way for the emergence of Nigeria’s Fourth Republic.
The President noted that Akinrinade’s contributions to national development extended beyond his military service to his involvement in the struggle against military dictatorship following the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election.
Akinrinade, a veteran of the Nigerian Civil War, rose through the ranks of the Nigerian military to become Chief of Army Staff and later Chief of Defence Staff before retiring from active service.
Following his retirement, he became a prominent figure in the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), which campaigned against military rule and advocated the restoration of democratic governance and the June 12 mandate.
Tinubu also commended the former military chief for remaining active in national affairs, noting his continued contributions to discussions on national unity, moderation and the country’s future.
The President said Akinrinade’s legacy was firmly established in Nigeria’s history, particularly through his military service and commitment to the restoration of democracy.
On behalf of the Federal Government and Nigerians, Tinubu prayed for the retired general’s continued good health, peace of mind and many more years of meaningful service to the nation.
