President Bola Tinubu on Monday paid an emotional tribute to Alhaji Surajudeen Tokunbo Ayilara, a key member of his presidential campaign team and manager of the campaign accounts, who passed away recently.
In a tribute personally signed by the President, he extolled Ayilara’s unwavering dedication, loyalty, and service, highlighting his remarkable endurance and spirit, even in the face of frailty. Tinubu described Ayilara as a true progressive who believed in their shared vision for Nigeria.
“Alhaji Surajudeen Tokunbo Ayilara lived a life of unwavering dedication, loyalty, and service. Despite his frailty towards the end, he refused to give up, demonstrating his unyielding spirit and determination to carry on until his very last breath,” Tinubu wrote.
“Ayilara’s life was marked by hard work, endurance, and perseverance. He was selfless, loyal to his work, and a dedicated public servant. His commitment to serving Lagos State and humanity knew no bounds.”
Tinubu recalled their first meeting when he was elected governor of Lagos State. Ayilara was then serving as Director of the Abuja Liaison Office in the Lagos State civil service.
He previously worked in the military administration of Colonel Buba Marwa as Sole Administrator of Agege Local Government. One of his early accomplishments was completing the then-abandoned Lagos Liaison Office in Abuja within six months.
“Ayilara’s career in the Lagos Civil Service was distinguished by his exceptional leadership skills and dedication. He rose through the ranks to become a Permanent Secretary, excelling in protocol and administration.
After retiring from public service, I appointed him as my Special Adviser. He continued to serve in this capacity even after my tenure as governor,” Tinubu recounted.
Throughout Tinubu’s political journey, including the formation of progressive political parties Action Congress and Action Congress of Nigeria, Ayilara was a constant presence.
He played a crucial role in registering both parties and was a key figure in the presidential campaign team.
“To describe Alhaji Ayilara as merely a staff member or Special Adviser would be to significantly understate his importance to me. He was a trusted associate, friend, brother, and dependable partner,” Tinubu emphasized.
Expressing his deepest gratitude for Ayilara’s services to Lagos State and his unwavering support throughout his political career, Tinubu acknowledged that many achievements would not have been possible without Ayilara’s guidance and partnership.
“Ayilara was equally devoted to his family and friends, spending most of his life serving others and giving generously to those in need.
He was a humanitarian who embodied the spirit of selflessness. I will never forget Alhaji Ayilara, nor will Lagos State or anyone who knew him,” Tinubu stated.
President Tinubu extended his heartfelt condolences to Ayilara’s loving wife and children, as well as to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the people of Lagos State.
“May Almighty Allah grant Alhaji Surajudeen Tokunbo Ayilara Aljanna Firdaus,” Tinubu concluded.
