The Edo State governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in last year’s election, Dr. Asue Ighodalo has sent warm felicitations to former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Chief Tom Ikimi, on his 81 birthday anniversary, describing him as ‘a towering statesman, an unwavering patriot and a true son of Esanland’.
Ikimi, who is the Oduma of Esanland, was National Chairman of the National Republican Convention in the aborted Third Republic (1990 to 1992), and a founding member of the All Progressives Congress.
He was also a member of the Constituent Assembly (1988 to 1989), Special Adviser to the then Head of State, General Sani Abacha in February 1994, and prepared the memo for the establishment of the highly successful Petroleum Trust Fund .
In a letter he personally signed, Ighodalo said that Ikimi’s leadership ‘has shaped political thought, strengthened democratic institutions and inspired generations across the land’.
The letter reads:
‘My dear Chief Tom Ikimi,
‘On this joyous occasion of your 81st birthday, I join your family, friends, and the great people of Edo State and Nigeria in celebrating a towering statesman, an unwavering patriot, and a true son of Esanland.
‘Your life’s journey has been one of deep service and unshakable principle. Over the decades, you have stood firmly at the forefront of the fight for justice, equity, and progress — for Esanland, for Edo State, and for Nigeria as a whole. Your leadership has shaped political thought, strengthened democratic institutions, and inspired generations across the land.
‘As a leading member of our great party and a respected national voice, your commitment to truth and fairness continues to shine brightly — especially in this defining moment in our state’s history. Your strong and consistent stand for the recovery of the Edo State governorship mandate is a testament to your enduring faith in the will of the people and the sanctity of democratic choice.
‘Today, we celebrate not only your 81 remarkable years but also the extraordinary legacy you continue to build — one of courage, wisdom, and deep love for your people. May God bless you with continued strength, good health, and many more years of fulfillment.
‘Happy birthday, Chief. Edo is proud of you. Nigeria salutes you.
‘With deep respect and warmest regards’,
