Six years after the passing of former Oyo State Governor, Abiola Ajimobi, memories of his leadership, courage and transformative impact on the Pace Setter State remain vivid among those who worked closely with him and benefited from his mentorship.
Joining family members, friends, political associates, mentees and admirers to mark the sixth anniversary of his transition, former local government chairmen who served under his administration, popularly known as Team Koseleri, have paid glowing tribute to the late statesman, describing him as a visionary leader whose influence continues to resonate across Oyo State and beyond.
In a statement signed by the Coordinator of Team Koseleri, Hon. Yekeen Popoola, the group said Ajimobi’s years in office represented a defining era in the political and developmental history of Oyo State, marked by bold leadership, strategic reforms and an unwavering commitment to the advancement of the state.
According to the former council bosses, the late governor distinguished himself as a leader who was never afraid to take difficult decisions in pursuit of the greater good, even when such decisions attracted criticism and opposition.
“Six years after his departure, the footprints of Senator Abiola Ajimobi remain visible across Oyo State. His life was a testament to purposeful leadership, courage and a sincere desire to leave society better than he met it,” the statement noted.
For many residents, Ajimobi’s administration remains synonymous with urban renewal, infrastructural development and efforts to restore orderliness in major cities across the state. His government embarked on road construction and rehabilitation projects, beautification initiatives and reforms aimed at repositioning Oyo State as a modern and competitive sub-national entity.
Members of Team Koseleri recalled that beyond the physical projects, Ajimobi championed a governance philosophy anchored on discipline, accountability and institutional development.
The group noted that while governance often requires difficult choices, Ajimobi demonstrated remarkable political courage by pursuing policies he believed would secure long-term benefits for the people, irrespective of the political consequences.
His tenure, they observed, helped strengthen the foundations for sustainable development while enhancing investor confidence and improving the state’s image on the national stage.
The former local government chairmen also highlighted the late governor’s role as a mentor and builder of leaders, noting that many individuals who today occupy strategic positions in public service and politics benefited from his guidance and support.
“To us, he was more than a governor. He was a mentor, a father figure and a leader who believed in empowering others. He inspired confidence in young leaders and provided opportunities for growth and service. His mentorship continues to shape our approach to leadership and governance,” the statement added.
The group described Ajimobi as a politician who combined intellect with administrative competence, qualities that enabled him to navigate complex governance challenges and implement reforms that continue to attract commendation years after leaving office.
As Oyo State continues its journey of growth and development, Team Koseleri said the late governor’s contributions remain an important chapter in the state’s history and a reference point for future leaders.
They urged the younger generation to draw lessons from Ajimobi’s dedication to public service, resilience in the face of adversity and commitment to the collective good.
While acknowledging the pain of his absence, the group expressed gratitude for what they described as a life of impact and service, stressing that the former governor’s legacy remains alive in the institutions he strengthened, the infrastructure he delivered and the countless lives he touched.
The former chairmen offered prayers for the repose of his soul and for continued divine comfort for his family, associates and all those who continue to cherish his memory.
“As we commemorate six years since his transition, we pray that Almighty God grants Senator Abiola Ajimobi eternal rest and admits him into Aljanah Firdaus. We also pray for his family and all those he left behind, asking God to grant them strength and comfort.
“Though he is no longer with us physically, his ideals, vision and contributions to the development of Oyo State remain enduring legacies that will continue to inspire generations.”
For Team Koseleri, the sixth anniversary of Ajimobi’s passing is not merely a moment of remembrance but an opportunity to celebrate a leader whose courage, vision and determination helped shape the modern Oyo State and whose legacy continues to speak long after his departure.