Hon Aare Abdumajeed Oladimeji, Special Assistant on Youth Affairs to Governor of Osun State, has led a coalition of youth groups in Osun State to commemorate the 8th remembrance anniversary of the late Senator Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke, describing him as a rare breed of politician whose legacy of philanthropy and leadership still inspires many across the state.
Speaking at the rally to the late governor’s house, organized by the Coalition of Osun Youth for Imole, Oladimeji said the group represents a united voice of students and youths, working to promote unity and advocate for good governance, values the late senator consistently stood for.
“Senator Isiaka Adeleke was a mentor and a father figure to many. He empowered the youth and built leaders. His absence created a vacuum we are still trying to fill, but his teachings live on,” Oladimeji said.
“The essence is for us to come together to preach unity among youth in the state, across every local government in Osun State,” he continued. “We also want to show that we lost a region in Osun State. Our late Governor, our late mentor, who built a lot of youth intellectual capacity in Osun State. We miss him a lot.”
We are marking 8 years of remembrance of our father, mentor, who has touched the lives of many. He built communities. From his legacy, we have learned that when you are in a position, you must empower people. You must build people, because you never know who you are building today, tomorrow, they might be the ones who help you,” he said.
Comrade Ridwan Ayofe Adekilekun, Senior Special Assistant to the governor on Osun state signage and advertisement agency, said Adeleke’s inclusive style of politics laid the foundation for the current administration in Osun.
“The current government of Senator Ademola Adeleke is a continuation of his brother’s vision. From improved healthcare to road infrastructure and school renovations, the Adeleke legacy is alive in every corner of Osun State,” he added.
The youths called on political leaders nationwide to learn from Senator Adeleke’s legacy by using public office to uplift the people and prioritize service over self-interest.
In her remarks, Mrs. Adenike Adeleke, wife of the late senator, said she was moved by the continued love shown by Osun youths, emphasizing that her husband was a man who truly loved and served his people.
“People remember him because he was genuinely good. His generosity, godliness, and compassion for others are values we hope people continue to emulate,” she said.
