It was an emotional return to the roots, the very community where his values of peace, unity, service and philanthropy, were shaped.
That neigbourhood, the Temidire, Mosfala neigbourhood, today paid hosts to Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi, the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) candidate for Oyo Central Senatorial District
It was not just a fond reunion, but certain to attract people-oriented developments.
Speaking during a visit to the family compound of Alhaji AbdulRahman Oloye, where he lived between 1997 and 1999, Ajadi said his early years in the community shaped his values of peace, unity, service and philanthropy, qualities he promised to bring to the Senate if elected in the 2027 general election.
The visit turned into a homecoming celebration as elders, youths and women of the community welcomed the senatorial hopeful and openly endorsed his candidacy, describing him as one of their own whose character and generosity have remained unchanged despite his success in business and politics.
Ajadi recalled that he was popularly known as “Femi” during his stay in the community and spent much of his time organising young people around constructive activities.
“I lived here from about 1997 to 1999, and many people knew me simply as Femi. During that period, I coordinated youth activities because I believed that unity was the foundation of community development,” he said.
“We organised football competitions and other activities that brought young people together. I never tolerated cheating or rivalry because I wanted everyone to live in peace and harmony.”
“I have always loved activism because I wanted to see a better Nigeria. During the EndSARS movement, some participants lost their lives. Those events made me reflect deeply on the future of our country.”
“I later realised that activism alone could not change the negative narrative. That was why I decided to join politics—to pursue good governance from within the system and create lasting solutions for our people”, he stated.
The businessman and philanthropist said politics should be viewed as an avenue for service rather than personal enrichment.
“I have always been involved in philanthropy. Politics provides a larger platform to extend that spirit of giving through effective legislation, quality representation and people-oriented governance.”
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Ajadi also explained that although he had earlier sought the governorship ticket, he eventually accepted the APM’s senatorial ticket for Oyo Central, saying he remained committed to serving the people wherever the opportunity arose.
Reflecting on his late host and mentor, he paid glowing tribute to Alhaji AbdulRahman Oloye.
“Alhaji Oloye was a father figure to many of us. He taught us to love one another, to be good neighbours and to live responsibly. Those lessons have remained with me throughout my life.”
Community leaders who addressed the gathering described Ajadi as a man whose relationship with the community stretches back several decades.
One of the elders, Alhaji Bashir Adeshina, said Ajadi earned the respect of residents through exemplary conduct while living in the community.
“Ajadi is not a stranger to us. He has always been part of this community, and his good deeds before he left this compound are still remembered today. His character has remained consistent.”
The community secretary, Rasak Ahmed, popularly known as Alefa, urged residents across Mosfala to support Ajadi’s senatorial ambition.
“He understands this community because he lived here. He knows our challenges and our needs. We believe he will represent us effectively, so I appeal to our people to support his ambition.”
Youth leader Teslim Adelabu also testified to Ajadi’s influence during his younger days.
“He lived in Alhaji Oloye’s house and never engaged in criminal activities. Instead, he united young people through sports and peaceful engagement. He encouraged friendship and harmony among the youths.”
Speaking on behalf of the APM in the area, the party’s Ward 4 chairman in Temidire, Mosfala, Kazeem Okunola, said Ajadi had already demonstrated his commitment to community development through infrastructure support.
“On June 13, Ambassador Ajadi promised to rehabilitate a badly damaged inner road in the area in ward 2. By the time I returned to inspect the project, the work had already been completed. That shows he is a man who fulfils his promises.”
According to him, the road rehabilitation would improve transportation and stimulate commercial activities within the affected communities.
He also called on residents to support Ajadi’s candidacy.
“We appreciate what Governor Seyi Makinde has done in Oyo State, and we believe God has also given us Ajadi, who shares the same commitment to development.”
Another community leader, AbdulAkeem Ajao Adewale, popularly known as Alfa Tommy, said residents had repeatedly appealed for essential infrastructure, including a transformer, a primary healthcare centre and solar-powered street lighting, but those requests had yet to receive attention.
“We have requested a transformer, a health centre and solar lights without success. Now that one of our own is aspiring to represent us in the Senate, we believe our community’s voice will finally be heard.”
He expressed confidence that Ajadi’s philanthropic disposition would translate into quality representation at the National Assembly.
“Our son understands our struggles because he once lived here. I believe he will represent Oyo Central well and use his office to improve the lives of the people.”
Responding to the requests, Ajadi promised to donate a 300KVA transformer to the community and also pledged to renovate the community meeting hall to strengthen social interaction and community development.
Princess Olugbenga Dasola also commended Ajadi’s long-standing humanitarian interventions across Oyo State.
“His good works have been visible in many parts of Oyo State since his governorship aspiration. He has consistently demonstrated compassion and commitment to helping people.”
The emotional gathering reiterated with prayers led by Alhaji AbdulRahman Oloye, who recalled Ajadi’s years of living in his house.
“During his stay in my house, Ajadi was trustworthy, respectful and caring. He has not changed. He has always had a heart for helping people, especially the less privileged.”
The visit formed part of Ajadi’s ongoing grassroots consultations across Oyo Central Senatorial District as political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Cami Ezenwa is a Writer, Editor, Publicist, Biographer and Journalism Trainer
He has worked with the Daily Times, Daily Independent, Financial Standard and Business Television to mention some.
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