By Akinloluwa Akinbode
As Oyo State charts the path toward a sustained era of progress and stability, Hon. Adedeji Dikrullai Olajide Odidiomo emerges as a natural torchbearer, whose experience, loyalty and passion for service sets him in a position as a worthy successor to Governor Seyi Makinde.
Long before he ventured into politics, Hon. Stanley Dikrullai Odidiomo had built a solid reputation as a compassionate community builder and advocate for human development. As far back as the 1990s, he was widely recognized for his unwavering commitment to youth empowerment, education and humanitarian outreach in which he was constantly volunteering, supporting small enterprises and extending assistance to the less privileged. His passion for human progress was evident in his everyday interactions, reflecting a heart deeply attuned to the needs of society.
By 1999, as Nigeria returned to democratic governance, his consistent record of service naturally drew attention from political leaders and community elders who urged him to amplify his love for humanity through active political participation. Guided by that conviction, Hon. Olajide Odidiomo joined the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) at its inception and has remained one of its most dedicated and loyal members for over two decades.
His journey within the PDP has been defined by hard work, loyalty and steadfast commitment to the ideals of good governance. Prior to the 2019 general elections, Hon. Odidiomo contested and won the PDP primaries to represent the Ibadan North-West/South-West Federal Constituency, a political stronghold traditionally dominated by the opposition. In a keenly contested race, he defeated the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), marking a significant victory that reaffirmed the trust and confidence of his people in his leadership capacity.
Since assuming office at the House of Representatives, Hon. Odidiomo has continued to justify that confidence through impactful representation and result-oriented service delivery. He has facilitated the provision of infrastructural projects and basic amenities across communities in his constituency including roads, boreholes, electrification projects, classroom rehabilitation, ICT hubs and youth empowerment schemes. His interventions have touched lives at every level, from educational support and skills acquisition to health and social welfare initiatives that strengthen and improve quality of life.
Within the PDP structure, Odidiomo remains a pillar of strength and support, consistently catering for the welfare of party faithfuls across all levels. His generosity, accessibility and bridge-building spirit have helped foster unity within the party, earning him admiration among party leaders, stakeholders and grassroots members alike.
At the National Assembly, his influence extends beyond his constituency. As the Chairman, House Committee on ICT, Hon. Odidiomo coming from his field of expertise, has become a leading voice in Nigeria’s digital advancement, leveraging his global experience as an Information Technology professional to promote innovation, bridge the digital divide and attract investment into the nation’s tech sector. His leadership in this area underscores his belief that technology remains a vital tool for economic empowerment and inclusive national growth.
Hon. Odidiomo has consistently aligned with the governor’s vision of transformative governance and people-centered development and I can say that, if not the number one fan of the Governor, he is second or third as he is a well-known ally of Gov. Seyi Makinde. His unalloyed loyalty and genuine commitment to Governor Makinde’s course are well known within political circles. Beyond Oyo State, he has also played strategic roles at the PDP National Secretariat, and in particular, the upcoming 15th and 16th November 2025 Elective National Convention holding here in Ibadan, where his organizational acumen and dedication is obviously contributing significantly to its success in the capacity of the Planning and Venue Committee Chairman.
Hon. Odidiomo’s character reflects the rare blend of competence, compassion and conviction that defines true leadership. A God-fearing humanist, philanthropist and visionary politician, he continues to stand out as one of the most trusted representatives of the people, a man whose actions consistently mirror his principles.
Akinloluwa writes from Egbeda Local Government
aakinloluwa@gmail.com
