The political family of the late Ibadan political heavyweight, Chief Lamidi Ariyibi Akanji Adedibu, on Wednesday reunited at his Molete residence in Ibadan, Oyo State, with former associates and loyalists paying tribute to his enduring influence on Nigerian politics while calling for unity within the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP).
The gathering, described as a grand reunion of the Lamidi Adedibu political dynasty, attracted prominent politicians and stakeholders who reflected on the late politician’s contributions to grassroots mobilisation, party building, and the emergence of several political leaders across Oyo State and Nigeria.
Adedibu, who remained one of the most influential political figures in Oyo State until his death in 2008, was widely recognised for his strong grassroots structure and his role in the growth of the PDP. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo had famously described him as the “father of the PDP.”
Speaking at the reunion, the wife of the late politician, Alhaja Bose Adedibu, highlighted her husband’s political contributions and the role he played in strengthening the PDP structure.
She said Baba Adedibu’s greatest achievement was his ability to build people and create opportunities for political actors who later rose to prominent positions.
According to her, many politicians who benefited from Adedibu’s political platform should continue to uphold the values of loyalty, unity, and commitment to the party.
“Baba believed in unity. He built people and strengthened the party. The PDP became stronger because of the foundation he helped to lay.”
She urged PDP members across the country to put aside differences and work together for the progress of the party.
“No family can succeed when there is division. We must remember the vision Baba had and continue to promote unity.”
Also speaking at the event, former Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barrister Hazeem Gbolarumi, described Adedibu as a political mentor whose influence went beyond Oyo State.
Gbolarumi said many political leaders, including governors, lawmakers, traditional leaders, and national figures, benefited from Adedibu’s political structure.
He noted that the late politician’s influence spread across the South-West and contributed to the growth of many political careers.
“We are all beneficiaries of Baba Adedibu’s political structure. From governors in the South-West to people who have occupied national positions, many people benefited from his guidance.”
The former deputy governor added that Adedibu’s contribution to Nigerian politics could not be ignored, describing him as a leader who understood grassroots engagement.
“Baba was a master strategist. He knew the people, he understood politics, and he created opportunities for many people.”
Gbolarumi also used the occasion to appeal for reconciliation among PDP members, stressing that unity remained important if the party must regain its strength.
“Politics is about disagreements, but after every contest, we must come together. We are one family and we must work together.”
Senator Kola Balogun, a protege of the late politician, spoke about the impact Adedibu had on Oyo State politics.
He described him as a political institution whose contributions shaped the direction of governance and political organisation in the state.
“The history of politics in Oyo State cannot be complete without mentioning Baba Adedibu. He left a structure and a legacy that many people benefited from.”
According to him, Adedibu’s greatest strength was his ability to connect with ordinary people and mobilise support from the grassroots.
Chief Saka Balogun also recalled his close relationship with the late political leader, describing Adedibu as a unique personality whose loyalty and commitment to his associates created strong bonds.
He said Adedibu was not only a politician but also a mentor who invested in people.
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