Celebrating the Kingmaker: Hazeem Gbolarumi Remembers Adedibu

​As Oyo State marks the 18th anniversary of the passing of the legendary Alhaji Lamidi Adedibu, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) gubernatorial flagbearer, Hazeem Gbolarumi, has led the state in celebrating the life and enduring impact of the man widely regarded as the “Kingmaker” of Ibadan politics.

​Reflecting on the legacy of the late patriarch, Gbolarumi—who worked closely with the political titan—described the anniversary as a moment to honor a man whose life was synonymous with grassroots empowerment. He hailed the late Adedibu as the “Aristotle of Oyo Politics,” a title earned through his unmatched ability to read the political pulse of the masses and transform the lives of the vulnerable through relentless philanthropy.

​”To celebrate Baba is to celebrate the very essence of politics with a human face,” Gbolarumi stated. “Having worked side-by-side with him, I saw firsthand that his ‘Kingmaker’ status was not just about political influence; it was about the deep, unwavering bond he shared with the common man. He was a politician to the core, and his life remains a masterclass in how to use power to elevate the people.”

​Gbolarumi noted that the late icon’s influence remains deeply woven into the fabric of the state, serving as a permanent guide for those who believe that true political power must be rooted in the streets and dedicated to the service of the populace. He emphasized that Adedibu’s strategies and his commitment to the welfare of the citizenry continue to set the standard for effective leadership.

​As the state gears up for the 2027 general elections, Gbolarumi pledged to carry the torch of his mentor’s populist vision. He vowed that his own administration would prioritize the same brand of empathetic, results-driven leadership that made Alhaji Adedibu a legendary figure in Nigerian history. Concluding his tribute, Gbolarumi asserted that the “Kingmaker’s” legacy is firmly etched in the sands of time, ensuring that his influence will continue to guide the path of future generations of leaders in Oyo State.