Political and Religious Leaders Celebrate Tunde Bakare's Legacy at 70
If you walked into The Citadel in Oregun, Lagos on November 11, the air would have been electric—not just from the pulpit, but from the seats packed with some of Nigeria’s most influential figures. Pastor Tunde Bakare’s 70th birthday drew President Bola Tinubu (through his representative George Akume), Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, plus a lineup of heavy-hitting former governors, all there to honor a man whose words echo far beyond Sunday mornings.
George Akume, standing in for Tinubu, didn’t mince words. He called Bakare a "true man of God" and a "beacon of inspiration," shining a spotlight on his unwavering integrity and bold drive for justice. Akume made it clear: Bakare has left an undeniable mark—not just inside church walls, but on the national stage, too. His relentless voice, full of urgency when it comes to societal matters, has often caught the ears of those in power.
Governor Sanwo-Olu and Dapo Abiodun were present, flanked by former governors like Ibikunle Amosun, Olusegun Osoba, Gbenga Daniel, Nasir El-Rufai, Kayode Fayemi, Obong Attah, and a representative for General Yakubu Gowon. This collection of established statesmen—men who don’t typically show up just anywhere—illustrates the weight of Tunde Bakare's influence. At 70, he’s acknowledged for managing a careful balancing act: guiding a large congregation while maintaining a powerful voice in Nigeria’s often-turbulent political scene.
The speeches delivered through the service were full of genuine admiration. Tinubu’s message highlighted not only Bakare’s spiritual leadership but his willingness to jump into the national conversation, even when it ruffles feathers. He’s the rare cleric who steps out from behind the pulpit to demand better governance, push for justice, and call for unity—never shying away from criticizing policies or leaders when his conscience demands it.
The celebration wasn’t just about a birthday. It was an acknowledgment of decades spent weaving faith and advocacy together, pushing the country forward with both a preacher’s fire and a patriot’s resolve. The crowd gave warm recognition to Bakare’s knack for sparking thought and dialogue, especially during critical times for Nigeria. That dual role—as both a shepherd to his flock and an often-outspoken national voice—was top of mind for the political elite in attendance.
Why Bakare’s Voice Still Matters in Nigeria
What keeps Bakare relevant after all these years? His mix of direct honesty, political involvement, and deep-rooted faith has given him staying power. Those who attended the service repeatedly circled back to his integrity—rarely an easy feat in public life. Sanwo-Olu told guests that Lagos itself has benefited from Bakare’s wise counsel, no small compliment coming from the country’s sprawling economic hub. Abiodun, too, pointed to Bakare’s passion for fairness and his knack for motivating not just regular citizens but the power set gathered in the room.
In a nation where religion and politics often feed off each other (sometimes dangerously so), Bakare has managed to hold himself apart. He isn’t seen as a politician in priest robes or a cleric dabbling in power; he’s recognized as a figure trying to bridge the gap—challenging leaders, shining a spotlight on injustices, and calling his congregation and country to something higher.
At 70, Bakare is hardly slowing down. If anything, this celebration was a reminder that the crossroads of pulpit and politics is his chosen arena—and as long as he has a voice, he’ll keep using it to stir debate, demand results, and remind Nigeria’s elite that their choices matter beyond the ballot box and into the soul of the nation.