The Babalaje Political Dynasty has commemorated the second anniversary of the death of the late Chief Michael Adeniyi Koleoso, OFR, describing his vision, values and contributions to public service as enduring legacies that continue to inspire leaders and communities across Oke-Ogun and Oyo State.
Koleoso, who was the Babalaje of Sakiland, died in 2024 at the age of 86.
In a tribute issued to mark the anniversary, Hon. Adeniyi Adebisi, the Allied Peoples Movement candidate for Old Ifedapo Federal Constituency, comprising Saki West, Saki East and Atisbo, described the late politician as a statesman, visionary and builder of men whose influence extended beyond the positions he held in government and politics.
Adebisi said two years after his transition, the impact of Koleoso’s wisdom, courage and commitment to the development of his people remained evident across Sakiland, Oke-Ogun, Oyo State and beyond.
He described Koleoso as a committed follower of the progressive political ideals of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Chief Bola Ige, noting that the deceased dedicated much of his political career to the advancement of the Yoruba people and Nigeria.
Koleoso served as Commissioner for Works and Commissioner for Establishment and Training in Oyo State, before becoming Secretary to the Oyo State Government during the administration of the late Governor Lam Adesina.
Adebisi said Koleoso distinguished himself in the various positions he occupied through his administrative competence, political courage and commitment to effective governance.
He also recalled the late politician’s contribution to South-West politics as National Chairman of the Alliance for Democracy, saying Koleoso played a significant role in the party’s political activities during the 1999 governorship primary election in Lagos State.
According to Adebisi, the primary eventually produced Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the party’s governorship candidate.
Tinubu subsequently became Governor of Lagos State and is currently the President of Nigeria.
Reflecting on his personal relationship with the deceased, Adebisi said Koleoso was more than a political leader to him, describing him as a father figure, mentor and trusted source of counsel.
He disclosed that Koleoso nominated him for his first appointment as a Commissioner in Oyo State under the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde, describing the gesture as one that significantly altered the course of his public service career.
Adebisi said the late Koleoso believed in him when others doubted him and consistently provided guidance and mentorship that shaped his understanding of leadership.
“He mentored me with patience, guided me with wisdom, and challenged me to be a leader of integrity and impact. His words shaped my understanding of leadership, and his example taught me that true service is measured not by what we gain, but by what we give,” Adebisi said.
He said he remained eternally grateful for the opportunities created for him by the late politician, adding that he would honour Koleoso’s memory by dedicating himself to continued service to the people.
Adebisi also highlighted the late politician’s contribution to the development of Oke-Ogun, particularly the establishment of the Michael Adeniyi Koleoso GRA, which he described as a testament to Koleoso’s vision for urban development in the region.
He added that the institutions Koleoso championed and the leaders he mentored remained part of his enduring legacy.
According to him, the late Babalaje’s values of integrity, courage and selfless service remained relevant at a time when society needed leaders committed to putting public interest above personal gain.
“Great men are not remembered by the positions they occupied, but by the lives they touched and the footprints they left behind. Baba’s footprints remain indelible,” he said.
While remembering Koleoso, Adebisi also offered prayers for his family and children, urging them to draw strength from the legacy their father left behind.
He prayed that they would continue to excel in their respective endeavours and uphold the values of excellence, integrity and service associated with their late father.
Adebisi said the second anniversary was an opportunity not only to mourn Koleoso but also to celebrate a life dedicated to his people, community and country.
“Two years on, we do not mourn as those without hope. We celebrate a life well-lived, a race well-run, and a legacy well-established. We honour a man who gave his all for his people, his community and his nation,” he said.
