This was as the president reaffirmed his belief in Nigeria’s
unshakeable unity, declaring that the values that tie the nation together
remain stronger than any political disagreement.

This was contained in a statement issued on Friday and
signed by the Special Adviser, Media and Publicity to the Secretary to the
Government of the Federation, Yomi Odunuga.

The President revisited, with humour, the elder statesman’s
past declaration that he would go into exile if Tinubu ever became President.

He told the audience, “I pleaded with him that he would have
a change of heart, because we would all remain in Nigeria and work together to
achieve the peaceful and prosperous Nigeria that was our collective dream.”

Represented at George’s 80th birthday celebration and memoir
presentation by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator
George Akume, the President described the event as a tribute to “a
distinguished Nigerian, an elder statesman, and an accomplished public servant
who has lived a full life of service to country and community.”

Tinubu said George’s decision to invite him to the milestone
occasion reflected “the Nigerian and Lagos spirit, our shared humanity,
history, kindred spirit and good neighbourliness.”

Emphasising the message of national cohesion, the President
said, “The event of today has again demonstrated that, as politicians, we can
shout and disagree. Still, the values that bind us together as members of the
same household living in different rooms are more enduring and stronger than
what divides us.”

He acknowledged that while he and George had often been on
opposing political sides since 1999, their differences had not erased the
mutual respect they share.

“Since assuming office, Chief George has offered valuable
counsel through his public interventions on national issues,” he said.

Reflecting on the celebrator’s milestone, Tinubu described
George’s journey to 80 as “a testimony to divine grace and personal
resilience.”

On the memoir launched at the event, Tinubu said the book
chronicles George’s early life in Lagos, his naval career, his tenure as
military governor of old Ondo State, his stewardship at the Nigerian Ports
Authority and his engagements in party politics.

He expressed confidence that the work “will offer invaluable
lessons on leadership, public service, party politics, and military doctrine.”

The President pledged full support for the publication and
encouraged attendees to do the same by purchasing copies for personal use and
public institutions.

He wished George continued good health, strength and many
more years of service to God and humanity.

George had in the lead-up to the last general election
repeatedly said he would leave the country should Tinubu win the election.

“Look at all the elections they (INEC) have done. Look at
what happened in Osun. The results showed the will of the people. If they allow
the result to be streamed electronically, there is no way he (Tinubu) would
win.

“But if the people keep saying he is the man they want, I
have no qualms. I will go and live anywhere I want to live,” he said in one
instance.