During an emotional ceremony at Adelepe University in Ede, Osun State, Governor Ademola Adeleke inaugurated the multi-million-naira Senator Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke Leadership Center on Wednesday.
The cutting-edge facility, supported by the Representative from Ede North, Ede South, Egbedore, and Ejigbo Federal Constituencies in Osun State, is dedicated to the memory of late Senator Isiaka Adeleke, who served as Osun State’s inaugural civilian Governor. This center aims to foster ethical, inclusive, and citizen-centric leadership development.
During his keynote speech, Governor Adeleke referred to the Center as a “significant undertaking” that stands as a testament to his late brother’s lasting impact.
He stated: “My attendance at this event as a Special Guest is tinged with a blend of happiness and nostalgia. The inauguration of the Leadership Center honoring my late brother, who was the inaugural Executive Governor of Osun State, marks a significant moment. This occasion holds importance not only for the Adeleke family but also for all residents of Osun State.”
My deceased older sibling, who once served as a senator and groundbreaking governor of our beloved state, embodied a distinct ideology within political leadership. His methods, concepts, and beliefs stood out uniquely. He set an unprecedented example in Osun State—an individual profoundly embedded in the populace’s heart through his exemplary, citizen-focused governing style.
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When my brother was alive, he was an egalitarian who abhorred any form of discrimination. He valued his artisan followers just as much as his affluent fans. At community gatherings, he would dress according to the event’s norms. In his view, everyone—regardless of social standing or financial status—was inherently equal, and distinctions rooted in these factors were intolerable.
He stated, “If the late Senator Adeleke promoted equality in his personal and professional spheres, he equally showcased broad inclusion within his role as a political figure. With each choice, he made certain that all parties involved were heard. Adopting an approach akin to ancient Athens’ democratic principles, he encouraged active participation from all community members in the governing activities.”
“Another unique feature was his pro-people outlook. Decisions were always made from the viewpoint of the people. Throughout his tenure as Governor, my brother remained focused on delivering democratic dividends and good governance to the people of Osun. He was deeply driven by love for the citizenry, which he saw as the true purpose of democracy.
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“Moreover, Senator Adeleke was a strong believer in infrastructure development as a foundation for economic growth. He dedicated a significant part of his time to establishing institutions and agencies designed to jumpstart a strong state economy.
A crucial aspect of robust leadership lies in the capacity to motivate those who follow. Our esteemed former Excellency instilled hope during times of governmental difficulties. His positive attitude cultivated a devoted political base. Many emerging leaders were nurtured under him as they embraced his ideals of transparent government and sustainable progress.
Establishing a Leadership Center in memory of the inaugural Executive Governor of Osun State serves as a fitting homage to a revered heritage. This initiative acts as a legacy project aimed at educating current and future generations about the importance of participatory, collaborative, and transparent leadership styles.
I would like to extend my congratulations to the originator of this initiative and also a protégé of our late brother, Hon. Bamidele Salam. The persistent endeavors made by him to uphold the legacy of Senator Isiaka Adeleke are greatly valued by both the complete Adeleke family and every follower of our departed leader.
I anticipate that the Center will oversee multiple programs aimed at developing leaders. In our current era, our country requires individuals who possess the abilities necessary for transparent governance, conflict resolution, civic-mindedness, and altruistic service. Within Adeleke University, this center could function as an essential hub for instilling these competencies.
“It is with this sentiment that I inaugurate this Center in honor of the inaugural Executive Governor of Osun State, the previous Asiwaju of EdeLand, my esteemed sibling, Senator Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke,” stated the Governor in conclusion.
During a heartfelt speech, Representative Bamidele Salam, who represents Ede North, Ede South, Egbedore, and Ejigbo Federal Constituency, commemorated the eighth anniversary of Senator Adeleke’s death.
He stated: “One Sunday morning, Femi Adefila and I were attending service at a church in Dada Estate when Femi abruptly got up and gestured for me to join him outside. I was confused and curious about the reason behind this.”
We went out, and Femi broke the news that someone had just phoned to say ‘Gov’ had died. Curiously, I questioned, “Which Gov?” We were standing beneath a tree when the barrage of calls started pouring in, all verifying the sad reality.
On this very day, eight years ago, Osun State, Nigeria, and all of humanity suffered the loss of an exceptionally extraordinary individual—a distinguished leader known as His Excellency, Otunba Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke.
May the Almighty provide him with everlasting peace. Constructing tributes fitting for someone as remarkable as Otunba Adeleke is an arduous task. Regardless of the number of statues or edifices we dedicate to him, they would all fall short—particularly considering the immeasurable impact he had on so many individuals.
Today, as we inaugurate this Leadership Center, I see it as a modest gesture, just a ripple in the vast sea, among the numerous actions taken—and yet to be undertaken—in his memory.
When we opted to establish this Center, I pondered over what true leadership entails. Fundamentally, leadership is about showing compassion.
I recall discussing this concept with the Speaker of the Osun House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adewale Egbedun. He stated, “Compassion is essential for anyone aiming to become a political leader.” Someone devoid of compassion could never excel as an effective leader.
When we consider compassion, we often turn our thoughts towards influential figures such as Jesus Christ of Nazareth and the Holy Prophet Muhammad, who exemplified this virtue. Otunba Isiaka Adeleke was also among these leaders.
He went on to say: “The Leadership Centre stands as our method for safeguarding his heritage, his narrative, and all the numerous contributions that could otherwise vanish over time.” Recalling an old discussion with a notable individual from our community, he voiced concerns regarding Governor Adeleke’s move into politics.
Dr. Deji Adeleke, our patriarch, shared with me that Otunba Adeleke first considered running for local government chairperson. However, when he discussed this with his father, Senator Ayoola Adeleke, the notion appeared far-fetched—he felt Otunba was too sophisticated and well-traveled, particularly after spending numerous years in the United States.
Subsequently, Otunba Adeleke came back with an even more ambitious goal: to run for the position of Governor of Oyo State. Once again, his father burst out laughing. Nevertheless, Otunba’s resolve remained unshaken. Supported wholeheartedly by His Excellency Ademola Adeleke and the entire family, he plunged headfirst into the campaign.
As historical records indicate, the political campaigns conducted by Otunba Adeleke in 1989, 1990, and 1991—which were before Osun State came into existence—were among the most dynamic and extravagant in the annals of the former Oyo and Osun States.
That sort of history should never be overlooked. This is precisely why we’re establishing this Center—to ensure that coming generations can visit, press a button, and discover the story of Otunba Isiaka Adeleke.
In an age where vast amounts of political history are vanishing, we require this Center to record his life, achievements, and heritage.
This is a space where future generations, even those 30 years from now, will be able to understand who Otunba Isiaka Adeleke was and what principles he upheld.
“Otunba Adeleke was a man of immense patience and tolerance—qualities essential in any great leader.
The facade of the Center draws inspiration from Otunba Isiaka Adeleke’s traditional cap. Within, it houses a library, a photo gallery, three offices, and a lecture hall with a capacity for 250 to 300 individuals.
We additionally possess a development strategy spanning the coming three to five years aimed at establishing systems and procedures that will uphold the Centre’s mission and vision.
“Lastly, I would like to praise the brothers, sisters, spouse, and offspring of Otunba Isiaka Adeleke. Your backing and dedication to his heritage are truly priceless,” he ended.
At the event, His Royal Highness, the Timi of Ede Land, Oba Munirudeen Adesola Lawal (Laminisa I), also addressed those present and spoke about Otunba Isiaka Adeleke, referring to him as “a personification of wisdom, strength, and leadership.”
He praised Rep. Salam for “gathering the history and correcting the records.”
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