Senator Nicholas Tofowomo, who represented Ondo South at the Ninth National Assembly, has congratulated a former Ondo State governor, Olusegun Mimiko, on his 71st birthday.

Mr Mimiko was born on October 3, 1954.

Mr Tofowomo, in his goodwill message on Friday in Okitipupa, described Mr Mimiko as a rare leader and benefactor.

He recalled with deep appreciation the pivotal role the former governor played in shaping his political career.

Mr Tofowomo, who was commissioner for transportation in Mr Mimiko’s administration, praised his uncommon leadership qualities, describing him as a man of courage, fairness and compassion.

“I congratulate my leader, Mimiko, on the occasion of his 71st birthday anniversary. I owe him a life of gratitude because he gave me my very first political appointment as commissioner for transportation, a position I held for six years. That opportunity allowed me to bring my experience in the transport sector to the fore, especially in managing the Free School Shuttle for pupils and students, which was the first of its kind in Nigeria and Africa.

“My former boss and my leader for life treated me with respect and stood by me in the face of challenges. He is a phenomenal leader whose impact will remain indelible in the history of our state and in my personal life. I am forever indebted to him. I will never forget how he stood firmly by me and refused to relieve me of my duties, in spite of repeated pressures from my own people in Ile-Oluji, who, on at least several occasions, urged him to remove me from office.

“Had he yielded to them, I would not have gained the experience that eventually prepared me to serve as a senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. For that, I will forever dedicate my journey in public service to Almighty God, my mother, and my leader, Mimiko,” Mr Tofowomo said.

He, however, prayed for good health, divine wisdom, and strength for the former governor as he advanced in age.

Mr Mimiko was Ondo governor from 2009 to 2017.

(NAN)