THE DEATH OF ADEDIBU
AN era in the politics of Western Nigeria and indeed the whole of Nigeria ended yesterday with the death of Lamidi Ariyibi Akanbi Adedibu. He was aged 81.
Popularly known as " Alaafin Molete", a reference to his over- lordship in Molete neighbourhood in Ibadan city or the Garrison commander" on account of his brand of politics - a blend of cheap populism, and raw thuggery - that often compelled either violent loyalty or violent opposition, he was not just a law unto himself in politics, he was a law unto others, especially in the current Fourth Republic.
His favour was curried by presidents, governors and all who sought power. And to them, he became a revered father, "Baba Adedibu!"
Ilaji Ibadan ti won npe l'enikan (One mistaken for a person when he is indeed half of Ibadan). That was Odolaiye Aremu, the late local musician, the dadakuada exponent, singing the praise of Adedibu.
He actually forcefully graduated from being "half of Ibadan" to being practically the whole of Oyo State, determining who became governor or held any political office at all. Those who crossed his path, even a governor, got removed.
The demise of the controversial Ibadan politician, who bestrode the political landscape like a colossus, engendered mourning among a cross-section of Nigerians, including Vice President Goodluck Jonathan who described him as "a firm believer" in the nation.
Adedibu died at the intensive care unit of the University College Hospital (UCH), 40 minutes after he was brought in unconscious from the immigration office in Agodi where he had slumped.
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