By Aaron Ossai
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke yesterday commissioned the multi-million naira Leadership Centre named after the first civilian governor of the state, Senator Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke at Adeleke University, Ede facilitated by a member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Bamidele Salam.
The centre is envisioned as a hub for nurturing ethical, inclusive, and people-focused leadership.
Governor Adeleke, delivering his remarks at the event, described the centre as a “landmark initiative” that captures his late brother’s enduring legacy.
According to his speech, “It is with mixed feelings of joy and remembrance that I attend this event as a special guest. The commissioning of the Leadership Centre named after my late brother, the first executive governor of Osun State, is a landmark event. The significance is both for the Adeleke dynasty and the people of Osun State.
“My late brother, former Senator and pioneer governor of our dear state, truly represents a school of thought in political leadership. His style, ideas, and philosophy are unique and distinctive. He was a model never before seen in Osun State. He is a leader deeply entrenched in people’s hearts because of his classic, people-centered governance approach.
“When he was alive, my late brother was a leveler who detested discrimination in all forms. His artisan supporters were as important to him as his wealthy admirers. When invited to local events, he wore the clothes selected for the occasion. To him, all men and women are created equal, and differences based on class and wealth were unacceptable.
“If late Senator Adeleke upheld equality in private and public life, he also demonstrated open inclusiveness as a political leader. In both private and public decisions, the late Governor ensured that all stakeholders had a say. He adopted the Athenian model of democracy, where all residents contributed to the governance process.
“Another unique feature was his pro-people outlook. Decisions were made from the viewpoint of the people. Throughout his tenure as Governor, my late brother focused on delivering democratic dividends and good governance to the people of Osun. He was deeply driven by a love for the citizenry, which he saw as the true goal of democracy.
“Aside from all the above, Senator Adeleke was a strong believer in building a state in infrastructure as a foundation for economic growth and development. He devoted the bulk of his time to creating critical institutions and agencies designed to jumpstart a strong state economy.
“A key ingredient of strong leadership is the ability to inspire followers. Our late Excellency spread optimism amidst governance challenges. His can-do spirit fostered a loyal political following. He mentored many new leaders who continued the spirit of open governance and sustainable development”, he added.
