Kunle Adelabu
It has been enormous outpouring of congratulatory messages from eminent individuals, youth leaders, groups and residents of Ikorodu Division which also double as the Ikorodu Federal Constituency as its representative, Rep. Babajimi Adegoke Benson turned 50 years.
The golden anniversary which is today, Wednesday, March 30, 2022, has been explosive on all the social media platforms related to Ikorodu, as residents pour out commendations, praises and prayers on the young legislator who is the Chairman, House Committee on Defense.
Benson who was elected into the Lower Chamber of the National Assembly at 43, has changed the political landscape of Ikorodu with many projects facilitated and also initiated several impactful programmes for his constituents, including the establishment of the IKD106.1FM radio and monthly ‘Apo – Anu’.
Today, youths in Ikorodu joined millions globally to celebrate Rep. Benson.
Bayode Treasures-Olawunmi President/Co-CEO, iRead Afrika Foundation, described Benson as a great leader.
“Rep Babajimi Adegoke Benson, you have been a great leader, you exemplify greatness in the manner at which you demystified leadership. Your Midas touch is felt in the nooks and crannies of your constituency and beyond” he said.
“As you celebrate this golden jubilee of your sojourn on this earth, may your path continue to be smooth, may you live in good health and much more prosperity. I know you’ve have seen better days sir, but know this and be assured of it, your best days are still very much ahead of you.
Hameed Olalekan Aroyewun (HOA), a aspirant for the Ikorodu Constituency II seat, Lagos State House of Assembly, commended that imprints and standard set by the lawmaker in Ikorodu political circle since his emergenvce.
“As a leader of Modern cast, you have set standards and imprints that are indelible beside which future aspirants to your present position or any public office at all can be measured. In Ikorodu Federal Constituency, the doors of a docile and pedantic legislator has been eternally closed” he said.
“Truly, a leader who serves his people well will be enshrined in their hearts and minds, this explains why we have all waited for this day, we all have it locked down in our reminders and marked in our calendar, everything today in Ikorodu division and over is golden, The golden jubilee of our golden son and poser boy is in fact a gold medal.
“Albeit as a politician, it is almost impossible for everyone to agree with your political views but what seems the most apparent is that millions love you, and there is no doubt that history will accord you a prominent position for transforming your society better than you met it.
The Ikorodu Division Youth Initiative (IDYI), in a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Comrade Hameed Ganiyu, wrote:
“JB as he is fondly called is amazing trailblazer, a quintessential leader and a mentor to many who has created a niche to himself in the terrain of Lagos State and Nigeria politics through his effective and quality representation of his people.
“Honourable sir, we are using this medium to appreciate you for all your good deeds across Ikorodu federal constituency and bringing dividends of democracy to the people” the statement said.
Lekan Biliamin Oba, Chairman, National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), described Rep. Benson a rare gem.
“You are a rare gem whose name will forever remain on the sand of time measuring the lives you have touched positively, nurtured and help grow. Many of us are proud student of your Leadership thoughts and we thank you for teaching us that the best service is the service to Humanity and to the People”.
Tayo Odesanya (Prof), a social media commentator and analysts, said that the celebrate is golden in character and deeds.
“It’s neither an overhype, nor sycophancy, that the main qualities of gold are embedded in your personality
“JB is odourless. You are exceptionally valuable. JB is a noble brand. The Sàlèjèjè ideologue is attractive
“He’s a political HEAVYWEIGHT. And, isn’t he non-toxic?
“In agreement with these attributes is the golden colour the Ikorodu sky wears today as you blow those fifty candles. Ikorodu is eternally grateful to year 1972 for releasing you”, Tayo said.
Oluwakemi ‘Bashexy’ Hassan, Senior Legislative Aide, National Assembly, Abuja, in his own statement described the celebrant as a distinctive representative adding that he is a blessing to Ikorodu.
“Celebrating JB at 50! A distinctive leader with a distinctive representation”.
“Remembering all his good works; indeed Rep Babajimi Adegoke Benson is a blessing to Ikorodu Federal Constituency and the nation at large considering his efficacy in our Constituency and gaint strides at the Green Chamber. With no doubt, JB is a representative every brilliant mind can reckon with. Ikorodu is blessed”.
“I have witnessed his feelings and drive about the good people of Ikorodu for years and which he has facilitated many road networks, school structures with facilities and much more, this is absolutely commendable. His Food Bank Intiative is a rare care concept that has fed and still feeding countless families each month. The act of his social well being and relationship with elites and other categories of his constituents is different”, Bashexy said.
Hon. Azeez Jimoh Olosugbo, the former Council Leader, Ikorodu LG Legislative Arm, wish the celebrant more grace in lifew.
“A toast to a man of the moment!!! My MHR, Hon.Bababjim Adegoke i Benson. I wish you all the very best and continuous grace to excel in all that you do. Happy 50th birthday Sir”, he said.
Azeez Lamina, Chief Executive Officer, Waves Media also commenting said:
“It feels very refreshing and enthralling to be celebrating Honourable Babajimi Benson as he makes it to the big 50 today” he said.
“Sir, I’d like you to know that you stand tall amongst equal. Your compassionate quirk, problem solving skill, passion for growth, unrelenting service to the common good of all and more importantly your generosity sets you apart in the crowd.
“In this clime, it is almost impossible for a politician to be so loved by his people but you have shown it’s possible. You have gracefully connected with the diversity of your constituents regardless of class and status in a manner that is enough to be studied in a university.
Mr Owolabi Anifowshe, a former aspirant for the Ikorodu House of Representatives seat said that he is celebrating Rep. Benson for his sterling character.
“To attain the golden age of 50 may look a commonplace albeit not with the God’s grace, favours, accomplishments, Strength and valour and every goodness that comes with it”, he said.
“I celebrate your sterling personality in a day like this.You earned my admiration like thousands of Ikorodu Division residents you represent at the National Assembly, you have demonstrated an innovation not very common in politics, and indeed human affairs.
“These qualities have indeed added a desirable Golden flavors to you as you attain the Golden age of 50. I pray for more wisdom as you progress through life. Happy birthday Rep. Jimi Benson. Congratulations”, Anifowoshe said.