Tinubu mourns late Surajudeen Tokunbo Ayilara, ex-Director of Lagos Liaison Office

*President Bola Ahmed Tinubu expresses his deepest condolences to the family of late Alhaji Surajudeen Tokunbo Ayilara, a former Director of the Lagos Liaison Office, in Abuja, Government and people of Lagos State, describing the deceased as ‘a trusted associate, friend, brother, and dependable partner’

Emmanuel Akosile | ConsumerConnect

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has expressed his condolences to the family, the Government and people of Lagos State over the death of Alhaji Surajudeen Tokunbo Ayilara, a former Director of the Lagos Liaison Office, in Abuja, FCT.

Tinubu, who noted this in a recent statement he personally signed, said late Alhaji Ayilara lived “a life of unwavering dedication, loyalty, and service”.

The Nigerian leader stated despite the deceased’s frailty towards the end, he refused to give up, demonstrating his unyielding spirit and determination to carry on until his very last breath.

The President wrote: “Ayilara lived a life of remarkable achievement, one 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 also noted: “Our paths crossed when I was elected governor of Lagos State.

“He was a top official in the state’s civil service, serving as Director of the Abuja Liaison Office.”

He explained that prior to that, Ayilara had worked in the military administration of Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd.) as the Sole Administrator of Agege Local Government.

The President stated: “One of his earliest assignments was to complete the then-abandoned Lagos Liaison Office, in Abuja, which he accomplished within six months.

“Ayilara’s career in the Lagos Civil Service was distinguished by his exceptional leadership skills and dedication.

“He rose from the ranks and eventually became a Permanent Secretary, excelling in matters of protocol and administration.”

According to the President, after retiring from public service, he appointed late Alhaji Ayilara as his Special Adviser.

“He continued to serve in this capacity even after my tenure as governor.

“Throughout my political journey, including the formation of our progressive political parties — Action Congress and Action Congress of Nigeria — Ayilara was a constant presence.

“He played a key role in registering both parties in Abuja and was an authoritative voice on those events,” stated the Nigerian President.

He described him as
“a true progressive at heart, Ayilara believed in our shared vision for Nigeria. “He was an integral part of my presidential campaign team, visiting numerous campaign stops with me and serving as my liaison with influential political figures.

“His primary responsibility was managing our campaign accounts during the intense campaign period.”

The President further said: “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.

“I must express my deepest gratitude for his services to Lagos State and to my family, as well as his unwavering support throughout my political career.”

He said: “It is possible that many of our achievements would not have been possible without his 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.”

Tinubu also noted: “He was a humanitarian who embodied the spirit of selflessness.

“I will never forget AlhajiAyilara, nor will Lagos State or anyone who knew him.”

The President stated: “May l, on behalf of myself, my family, the government and all the good people of Nigeria offer heartfelt condolences to his loving wife and children.

“I also extend my condolences to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the people of Lagos State on the loss of this outstanding public servant.

“May Almighty Allah grant Alhaji. Surajudeen Tokunbo Ayilara Aljanna Firdaus.”