Lamidi Ariyibi Akanji Adedibu (1927 – 2008)

Lamidi Ariyibi Akanji Adedibu (1927 – 2008)

Populist Politician

Lamidi Adedibu was a major power broker in Nigerian politics. Born on October 24, 1927, at Oja-Oba, Ibadan, he was a member of the Olupoyi chieftaincy ruling house. In the 1950s, he co-founded the Ibadan People’s Party and later joined the Action Group under Chief Obafemi Awolowo. He also became a member of the National Party of Nigeria (NPN), led by Chiefs Adisa Akinloye and Richard Akinjide.

Adedibu’s influence grew significantly during the military reign of General Ibrahim Babangida, where he supported Major General Shehu Musa Yar’adua’s candidature in the Social Democratic Party. His dominance in Oyo State politics earned him the title “the strong man of Ibadan politics,” as it was said that no one could assume any political post in the state without his approval.

His political legacy extended to his family, with his son, Kamorudeen Adekunle Adedibu, being elected Senator for Oyo South in April 2007. His protégé, Rasheed Ladoja, became the governor of Oyo State in May 2003, though their relationship soured by August 2004 over the allocation of government appointments.

Lamidi Adedibu passed away at the University College Hospital in Ibadan on June 11, 2008.