A former deputy governor and veteran politician, Barrister Hazeem Gbolarumi, has said he would have attained the governorship position many years ago if his late political mentor, Alhaji Lamidi Adedibu, were still alive.
Speaking during an interactive session with journalists in Ibadan, Gbolarumi reflected on his long political journey, describing himself as a product of grassroots politics and consistent party loyalty.
“I am a lawyer by profession and a political practitioner. I have been in politics since 1979. I started during the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) era and later joined the Social Democratic Party (SDP), where I served as State Secretary. I also worked at the local government level before it was split. I did not just emerge suddenly,” he said.
He stressed that he had worked through all levels of party organisation, from ward to state, and had earned several traditional titles in recognition of his service.
Unlike many politicians who frequently switch party affiliations, Gbolarumi said he had remained faithful to the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) since its formation.
“I have never defected from PDP. Some people move from one party to another after benefiting. I don’t believe in that kind of politics. I believe in loyalty and consistency,” he stated.
Addressing internal divisions within the party, he described factionalisation as a natural outcome of political competition.
“During contests, people support different candidates. But once a winner emerges, everybody should unite. We are still one family. I believe the issues will soon be resolved,” he said.
On his governorship ambition, Gbolarumi confirmed that he had formally informed the incumbent governor of his intention.
“I wrote to the governor, and he acknowledged my letter. He has not officially named any successor. So I decided not to wait. Politics is about courage and preparedness,” he explained.
While admitting that contemporary politics had become more capital-intensive, he maintained that financial strength alone could not determine electoral success.
“My people are my network and networth. You don’t always need billions to win elections. You need credibility, trust, and divine backing,” he said.
Reacting to debates on godfatherism, the PDP chieftain argued that political success is always collective.
“Nobody succeeds alone. Even if you claim you have no godfather, people must have supported you in one way or another,” he noted.
Gbolarumi disclosed that he enjoys a close relationship with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, describing their bond as fraternal.
“I have free access to him. I don’t need an appointment. We are brothers and friends,” he said.
He also revealed that he had been approached by other political parties, including the African Democratic Congress (ADC), but preferred to remain in PDP due to its established structures.
In an emotional tribute, Gbolarumi recalled the final moments of his late mentor, Alhaji Lamidi Adedibu, describing him as the greatest influence in his political life.
“He taught me generosity, humility, and discipline. He died in my arms. Before he passed, he placed his cap and slippers on me. That moment changed my life forever,” he recounted.
The politician said criticism was inevitable in public life and should be embraced.
“If you are not criticised, you are probably not doing anything meaningful,” he said.
He reiterated his loyalty to the PDP, even if he fails to secure the party’s ticket.
“If I am not chosen, I will still remain loyal. I have never abandoned this party, and I will not,” he pledged.
On his family, Gbolarumi disclosed that his children were not active in politics and once prevented him from selling his London property to fund political activities.
“They hid the documents because they wanted to protect me,” he said.
He also spoke about his trademark cap, which he described as part of his personal and political identity.
“My cap represents my journey and my individuality,” he said.
Outlining his vision, Gbolarumi advocated collective and inclusive leadership.
“No leader can succeed alone. Governance must be based on teamwork, consultation, and inclusiveness,” he stated.
He added that he had played key roles in nurturing several political leaders at various levels.
“By God’s grace, my time will also come,” he said.
He called for unity among political actors, stressing that political differences should not lead to permanent divisions.
“Politics should not divide us forever. We may disagree today, but tomorrow we must still work together for the progress of our state,” he said.
