The governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress in Oyo State, Senator Sharafadeen Alli, has described former Deputy Governor Taofeek Arapaja as a brave citizen and a source of pride to the state as he marks his 68th birthday.
Alli, in a birthday message personally signed on Tuesday, praised Arapaja for his contributions to democracy, public service and good governance, describing him as a statesman whose impact on Oyo State and the country remained significant.
He said the former deputy governor had distinguished himself in various public offices through courage, loyalty, wisdom and commitment to the welfare of the people.
Alli also described Arapaja as a rare gift to Oyo State, Nigeria and humanity, noting that his record of service reflected his dedication to leadership and nation-building.
He traced Arapaja’s political journey from his tenure as chairman of Ibadan South-East Local Government to his election into the House of Representatives and subsequent appointment as deputy governor of Oyo State between 2007 and 2011 under the late Governor Adebayo Alao-Akala.
The APC governorship candidate also recalled Arapaja’s diplomatic service as Nigeria’s ambassador to Iran and later Jordan, where he served until 2015.
According to Alli, Arapaja has excelled as a family man, politician, public administrator and diplomat, earning respect through his conduct and commitment to public service.
“Ambassador Arapaja has excelled as a family man, a politician, a public administrator, a diplomat and as a patriot. In every assignment, he has demonstrated the courage to speak the truth, the commitment to serve and the passion to lift others,” he said.
Alli further described the celebrant as a bridge-builder and political mobiliser whose experience and political sagacity had continued to shape the state’s political landscape.
He added that Arapaja had remained consistent in leadership, character and service, noting that his contributions deserved recognition.
While wishing him many more years,
Alli prayed for good health, long life and renewed strength for the former deputy governor to continue contributing to the development of Oyo State and Nigeria.
“As you add another year today, I celebrate the enigma, the bridge-builder and the mobiliser. Happy 68th birthday, Your Excellency. Oyo State is proud of you,” he added.
