On October 24, 1927, one of Nigeria’s most influential political figures, Chief Lamidi Ariyibi Akanji Adedibu, was born at Oja-Oba, Ibadan.
He was born into the Olupoyi chieftaincy ruling house on October 24, 1927. He grew up to become the most dominant force in Oyo State politics for over five decades, a power broker so influential that it was said no one could assume political office in the state without his blessing.
Adedibu began his political career in the 1950s as a member of the Ibadan People’s Party before joining the Action Group led by Chief Obafemi Awolowo. He later pitched his tent with the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) in the Second Republic.
His political influence reached its peak during the military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida and in the Fourth Republic, where he became a major pillar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Former President Olusegun Obasanjo famously described him as the “father of the PDP.”
Adedibu was also known as the “Strongman of Ibadan Politics,”. His style of politics was described as a blend of populism and grassroots mobilization. His Molete residence in Ibadan became a Mecca for politicians seeking endorsement.
Among his political protégés were former Governor Rashidi Ladoja, former Governor Adebayo Alao-Akala, and Senators Teslim Folarin and Kamorudeen Adedibu, his biological son.
Chief Adedibu died on June 11, 2008, at the University College Hospital, Ibadan, at the age of 80. At the time of his death, he held the traditional title of Ekarun Olubadan of Ibadan.
