Alli Celebrates Arapaja At 68, Hails Former Oyo Deputy Governor As Statesman

The governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State, Senator Sharafadeen Alli, has congratulated a former Deputy Governor of the state, Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja, on his 68th birthday, describing him as a statesman and bridge-builder whose contributions to democracy and good governance remain significant.

Alli, in a birthday message personally signed on Tuesday, described Arapaja as a courageous leader, a proud son of Ibadan and a distinguished Nigerian whose public service record has continued to make an impact in Oyo State and beyond.

He said the former deputy governor was a rare gift to the state, the country and humanity, noting that he had served in various capacities with courage, loyalty, wisdom and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people.

The APC governorship candidate recalled Arapaja’s remarkable political and public service journey, which included serving as Chairman of Ibadan South East Local Government, Member of the House of Representatives and Deputy Governor of Oyo State between 2007 and 2011 under the late Governor Otunba Adebayo Alao-Akala.

He also highlighted Arapaja’s diplomatic engagements as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Iran and later Jordan, where he served until 2015.

According to Alli, Arapaja has distinguished himself as a family man, politician, public administrator, diplomat and patriot, consistently demonstrating integrity, courage and dedication in the discharge of his responsibilities.

“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 leadership qualities continue to shape political developments in Oyo State.

He added that Arapaja had remained steadfast in character and commitment, earning respect through his ability to unite people and provide purposeful leadership.

While wishing him many more years of fruitful service, the APC chieftain prayed for good health, longevity 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 mobilizer. Happy 68th Birthday, Your Excellency. Oyo State is proud of you,” Alli added.