By John Paul Akinduro
One of the most difficult tasks for me since working with the current Deputy Governor of Ondo State has been speaking about his personality; whether as a private citizen or a public servant. The challenge lies in the fact that there are simply too many remarkable stories to tell, and with each passing day, you discover even more about the depth of his character.
What does absolute loyalty even mean in this day and time? As someone who has spent close to two decades around the corridors of power, I have had the privilege of interacting with frontline political leaders and their lieutenants. I must confess that not many possess the rare and steadfast loyalty that defines Dr. Olayide Owolabi Adelami, mni.
You might think this loyalty has already been spoken about extensively by his principal. Indeed, everyone is aware of how seamlessly he works with the Governor; like a dependable supporting striker, carrying out assigned tasks with diligence, humility, and quiet effectiveness. I have also had the privilege of working closely with him to chair many of these assignments. His depth of knowledge is second to none and his type of dedication in public service is unmatched.
But beyond this professional loyalty lies something deeper. The Deputy Governor is loyal first to his conscience, and that is why he finds it natural to be loyal to every good cause. Loyalty, for him, is not an obligation; it is a way of life. He is loyal to his friends, loyal to his family, loyal to his community, loyal to his state, and loyal to his country.
As someone who reviews the newspapers with him almost daily, I can attest to his burning desire to see the Nigeria of our dreams become a reality. He is, indeed, a selfless leader by every yardstick of measurement.
After all, how can we truly measure loyalty if it has never been tested? Dr. Adelami’s loyalty has been tested repeatedly throughout his distinguished career, particularly during his time at the National Assembly.
One notable instance was in 2007, when, as Director of Finance and Accounts, he played a pivotal role in ensuring that a whooping sum of ₦7 billion in unspent funds was returned to the national treasury. This is an unprecedented act by any arm of government since Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999.
Beyond that historic moment, he was instrumental in several reforms within the National Assembly that continue to shape the day-to-day operations of the legislative arm to this day.
Yet, his loyalty extends beyond institutions and offices; it is deeply personal. He goes to great lengths to support the needy, often without being asked. This uncommon generosity and kindness has truly earned him the sobriquet ‘Oko Opo’ meaning husband to widows – he has thousands of widows and orphans he catered for regularly.
He maintains lifelong friendships with his primary school classmates regardless of their socio-economic status, a fact attested to by Rev. Ajibola Fagboyegun, who spoke glowingly of him at his (Fagboyegun) mother’s funeral in Uso earlier this year.
Dr. Adelami remains deeply loyal to the people of Owo, his immediate community, and every Ondo state person. His doors are open to everyone, irrespective of political structure, religion and tribal afflictions. It is little wonder that his people often describe him as a unifier.
Without attempting to draw comparisons, it is safe to say that beyond being one of the most qualified, grounded, and generous deputy governors in Ondo state modern history, he is perhaps the only one who had seen the full spectrum of public service before assuming office.
From his early days as a Grade Level 10 officer, when he was already entrusted with significant responsibility to the extent of being chauffeur-driven, through his distinguished career that culminated in his retirement in 2018 as Deputy Clerk to the National Assembly, Dr Adelami served without blemish and with respectable loyalty to institutions.
He has seen it all; people, power, and politics, and yet he remains remarkably humble and loyal to every good cause.
Need I say more? Our boss is loyal even to those who work with him. He treats every member of staff with equal respect; whether political aide or civil servant, senior officer or junior officer. His door is always open, and his ears are always willing to listen. That, perhaps, is the truest measure of leadership. Dr. Adelami won’t close for the day, if there is one single person in the anteroom waiting to see him.
Your Excellency, as you celebrate another year today, we do not merely celebrate your birthday; we celebrate a life defined by loyalty, integrity, and service.
Your loyalty remains your greatest legacy, and your integrity, your enduring crown.
May the years ahead bring you greater strength, wisdom, and opportunities to continue serving humanity.
Happy Birthday, Gentleman Lieutenant.
Akinduro is the Spokesperson to Ondo State Deputy Governor
3rd March, 2026
