By ADEYEMI ADELEYE

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

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that 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 Govs. Murtala Nyako; Babangida Aliyu; Gbenga Daniel; and Rabiu Kwankwaso.

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

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

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

?This milestone is a testimony to a life of service, courage and unwavering commitment to our nation,? he said.

?You have distinguished yourself as a professional, elder statesman and political leader. Your contributions to democratic development and national unity remain deeply appreciated.?

Makinde described 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.

Mohammed praised 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 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.

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

Chairman of the occasion, retired Gen. Ike Nwachukwu, represented by Chief Dele Ogedengbe, lauded George?s resilience.

?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,? he said.

?Throughout, he remained steadfast and focused.?

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

NAN reports that the 80th birthday 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)

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