BAF: Reflecting on the Celebrations of a Distinguished Senator AbdulFatai Buhari PhD

The social media space was awash yesterday with tributes celebrating the birthday of Distinguished Senator AbdulFatai Buhari, PhD, representing Oyo North Senatorial District. What stood out across the messages were the numerous testimonials of good governance, equal opportunity, and a commitment to raising a new generation of leaders, empowered citizens. As many rightly observed, Senator Buhari occupies a class far above the regular lawmakers representing Oyo State in Abuja.

A journey through the posts and comments of those whose lives he has touched leaves no doubt about his purpose-driven approach to leadership. His nickname, Babalúabi, was not earned casually, it is a reflection of how he has consistently mentored and supported young men and women to become better versions of themselves.

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Among the stories recounted recently before his birthday was that of a man with severe medical challenges whose situation caught the senator’s attention in one of the major communities in Oyo North. Senator Buhari took full responsibility for the man’s medical bills, enabling him to recover fully. But surprisingly, close to the election period, the same man was reportedly among those publicly criticizing the senator and claiming he would consider voting for another candidate if he was not given a deserving ‘handshake’. Yet, he eventually voted against BAF on election day as reported.

An ordinary politician might have reacted with anger or withdrawn support outrightly with that height of ingratitude. But Senator Buhari chose a different path. He not only overlooked the man’s actions but also went further to pay his daughter’s school fees and provide monthly stipends for a period of time. For him, the offence was not personal, and the child—seen as a promising daughter of the district deserved a chance untainted by her father’s misjudgment. The moral lesson was clear: Senator Buhari does not burn bridges, and he holds no grudges. Those who don’t believe in his mission today may still find alignment tomorrow.

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Another testimonial came from some councillors who served during the administration of the late Governor Abiola Ajimobi. One of them narrated how, years ago, he and other young party members approached Hon. AbdulFatai Buhari—then Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters—for a financial handout. Instead of indulging them, he advised they return with viable ideas he could support. Although disappointed at the time, they returned later when the local government elections approached, now ready to contest as councillors.

True to his word, BAF took their case to Governor Ajimobi (now of the blessed memories), convinced him wholeheartedly, and many of them were eventually given the opportunity to serve. It was another demonstration of his consistency, integrity, and commitment to helping people grow through meaningful opportunities, not temporary handouts. That’s who he is, nurturing the future through a proper seeds sown today

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As the celebrations continue, these stories—verified—paint a clearer picture of why Senator AbdulFatai Buhari is celebrated beyond politics. His leadership philosophy is anchored on empathy, fairness, forgiveness, empowerment, and vision. Qualities that continue to shape lives across Oyo North and Oyo State at large.

Congratulations once again on the attainment of new age, more good years with fulfilled aspirations, Distinguished Senator AbdulFatai Omotayo Buhari PhD.

Akintunde Yusuf writes from Ibadan, Oyo State.