Things To Expect At Baba Bush Alebiosu’s 90th Birthday As Power Circles Converge

Preparations are massively gathering momentum for the 90th birthday of Alhaji Busura Adedeji Alebiosu, a revered elder statesman whose influence stretches across Lagos politics and deep into Ijebuland, with insiders describing the upcoming celebration as a carefully curated experience that goes beyond a routine gathering.

Sources familiar with the planning say the event will unfold as a two-part ceremony, beginning with a special prayer session on Friday, April 24 — his birth date — followed by a grand birthday reception on Saturday, April 25 at Balmoral, where Nigeria’s political and social elite are expected to converge in what is already shaping up to be one of the most exclusive events of the year.

The organisers have lined up tight security arrangements, with K’square providing cover, reflecting both the stature of the celebrant and the calibre of expected guests. Entry, insiders say, will be strictly by invitation, underscoring steps taken to guests and valuables.

Music legend Wasiu Ayinde Marshal is billed to perform, adding a cultural and celebratory tone to the evening, while a specially produced documentary on Pa Alebiosu’s life will be screened, featuring interviews with longtime friends, political associates, and beneficiaries of his decades-long influence.

There are strong indications that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu may attend, alongside Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his deputy Obafemi Hamzat, both of whom have confirmed their presence. Members of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC), where Baba Bush remains a highly respected figure, are also expected to turn out in full force, just as the Council of Otunbas in Ijebuland, which he chairs, will be in full attendance.

Beyond the ceremonies, the event is expected to double as a subtle political theatre, with influential figures positioning to demonstrate closeness to the nonagenarian, whose mentorship has shaped careers across generations.

Observers say it will offer a rare glimpse into the enduring networks of loyalty and influence that the senior citizen has built over decades.

Those close to the organisers hint at a generous display of appreciation, with gifts lined up not just from the celebrant but also from his children, adopted protégés, and others whose lives have been touched directly or indirectly by his interventions.

Surprise appearances by old-time associates are also being anticipated, adding an element of intrigue to the proceedings.

A senior member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and chairman of the Council of Otunbas in Ijebuland, Pa Alebiosu has long been regarded as a political compass whose counsel has guided many.

Tributes that trailed his 88th and 89th birthdays — including descriptions of him as a “destiny helper” — are expected to pale in comparison to the scale of homage being planned for his 90th.

With a guest list spanning political heavyweights, traditional leaders, and community stakeholders, the celebration is widely seen as a reflection of a life defined by influence, mentorship, and enduring relevance — a milestone that, by all indications, will match the stature of the man at its centre.