Hon. Lanre Oladebo, member representing Ayedaade/Irewole/Isokan Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has attributed his emergence as a federal lawmaker to patience, loyalty and the encouragement he received from Governor Ademola Adeleke after losing the Peoples Democratic Party primary election in 2022.
Oladebo disclosed this in a statement issued on Friday, where he reflected on his political journey and advised politicians against taking decisions driven by anger after electoral setbacks.
The lawmaker recalled that he lost the party’s primary election held on May 22, 2022, to the late Sola Arabambi, noting that despite the disappointment, he chose patience and loyalty instead of protesting the outcome.
According to him, Governor Adeleke encouraged him at the time to remain calm, positive and trust in God’s process, advice he said later shaped his political future.
Oladebo explained that following the death of Arabambi barely two months before the general election, party leaders considered him as a replacement candidate for the House of Representatives seat.
He said the development eventually paved the way for his emergence as a member of the National Assembly.
The lawmaker urged politicians and others facing disappointment not to allow temporary setbacks push them into actions capable of damaging future opportunities.
According to him, decisions taken in anger could later become obstacles when another opportunity for service emerges.
Oladebo also appreciated several leaders of the party and government officials for their support throughout his political journey.
Oladebo expressed confidence in Adeleke’s re-election bid ahead of the August 15 governorship election in Osun State, saying the governor’s second term ambition would receive massive support from party faithful.
His full statement titled reads “PLEASE, BE CAREFUL, DO NOT BURN BRIDGES.
“Exactly 4 years ago. On Sunday, 22nd of May, 2022. I lost a primary election to late Otunba Sola Arabambi of blessed memory. At that moment, it could have been easy to become discouraged, angry, or take actions driven by emotions. But I remained grateful to Sen. Ademola Adeleke, whose words of encouragement gave me strength and hope. He advised me to stay strong, remain positive and have trust in God’s processes.
“I chose not to protest or take any contrary action. I believed that, time, patience, loyalty and good conduct would speak for me someday. Today, to the glory of Almighty God, the Giver of all security and with the support of my people, I am proudly serving as a member of the House of Representatives and also returning for the second term.
“This is a lesson and an encouragement to everyone going through disappointment or political setbacks today: be careful of the actions you take in moments of pain. Any decision made out of anger today may stand against you tomorrow when another opportunity comes to contest or serve. Sometimes, patience, loyalty, and perseverance open doors that force and bitterness can never open.
“I also want to sincerely appreciate Akogun Lere Oyewumi for his unwavering support throughout this journey. He stood by me like a father standing by his son, constantly encouraging, guiding, and supporting me so I would not fail. Your belief in me has been deeply inspiring, and I remain sincerely grateful for this you do as my father.
“To my distinguished Yeye Dupe Adeleke, the matriarch of the Adeleke dynasty, my lovely Alhaji Kazeem Akinleye, Hon Sunday Bisi, Dr Adekunle Akindele and all the great people that have been supporting me in this journey.
I say thank you wholeheartedly. Your positivity, kindness, love, and sincere support can never be overlooked and unappreciated. The journey becomes easier and more meaningful when one is surrounded by good people with good intentions.
“As I reflect on this journey today, I am reminded that God’s timing is always perfect. Delays are not denials, and setbacks are not the end of the road. I remain hopeful and inspired for the future, believing that greater opportunities and more impactful service still lie ahead.
To everyone still waiting for their time, do not lose hope. Stay focused, remain humble, keep working, and trust God. Your season will surely come.
“I sincerely appreciate my colleagues and senior brothers at the National Assembly, particularly from Osun State – Hon Bamidele Salam, Hon Akanni Olohunwa, Hon Adewale Gangaria, Hon Olusoji Adetunji, Hon Lukman Mudashiru L&K for your companionship and the loyalty to the Osun State Government, the Executive Governor and the good people of the state. Our committed efforts and loyalty to the Governor have earned us the tickets for another productive terms in offices. It’s a big lesson that loyalty is a critical ingredient of both micro and macro politics.
“Once again, to my Governor, father, mentor and overall leader, I thank you for believing in me when it mattered most. May God Almighty continue to uphold and preserve you for the betterment of Osun State and the Nation at large. I believe your reelection on August 15 is God-ordained and we all shall be here to celebrate another four years of superlative achievements.
“To my traditional father, the Alapomu of Apomu Land, HRM Oba Kayode Adenekan Afolabi Atoyebi II, I remain grateful for your constant prayers, overwhelming support at all times. I extend my appreciations to all royal fathers in our federal constituency for their support and encouragement. To our party leaders across board, the supporters and the constituents, thank you for standing by me throughout this journey. And above all, to Almighty God, all glory belongs to You for turning challenges into testimonies.
The journey continues, and the best is yet to come.”