Ademola Adeleke

**Ademola Nurudeen Jackson Adeleke** (born May 13, 1960) is a Nigerian politician and businessman who currently serves as the Executive Governor of Osun State, Nigeria, a position he assumed in 2022. He is a prominent member of the People's Democratic Party (PDP) and is widely recognized for his unique public persona, which has earned him the moniker "The Dancing Senator."Early Life and Education Ademola Adeleke was born in Ede, Osun State, Nigeria, into the prominent and influential Adeleke family. He is the younger brother of Isiaka Adeleke, a former Governor of Osun State, and the father of Nigerian-American singer Davido. His primary and secondary education took place in Nigeria, after which he moved to the United States for further studies. He attended Jacksonville State University in Alabama, United States. His educational background and subsequent career as a successful businessman provided the foundation for his entry into Nigerian politics.Career Progression and Political Ascent Prior to his political career, Adeleke established himself as a businessman, working in executive and directorial roles, particularly in the telecommunications and real estate sectors. His political career began following the sudden death of his elder brother, Senator Isiaka Adeleke, in April 2017. Ademola Adeleke successfully contested the Osun West Senatorial by-election, stepping into his late brother's shoes and winning the seat on the platform of the People's Democratic Party (PDP). His tenure as a Senator solidified his public profile, largely due to his vibrant personality and ability to connect with the masses.Major Achievements and Notable Works Adeleke rose to national prominence during the 2018 Osun State gubernatorial election, which he contested under the PDP. Although initially unsuccessful, the election was highly contested and eventually decided by a run-off. He continued his pursuit of the governorship and successfully contested the 2022 Osun State gubernatorial election, defeating the incumbent Governor, Gboyega Oyetola. As Governor of Osun State, Adeleke's administration has focused on various infrastructure projects and social programs. Notably, his government has been recognized for its efforts in recreating and expanding the Iwo central business districts, exemplified by the ongoing dualization of the Odo Ori-Post Office road, aimed at boosting economic development in the region. He has also been involved in navigating the complex political landscape within his party, the PDP, in Osun State.Current Status Ademola Adeleke currently serves as the Executive Governor of Osun State. He remains an active figure in Nigerian politics, leading the state government and participating in national political discourse. His political camp has indicated a stance of support for the second-term ambition of the current President of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu, signaling a complex and evolving political strategy ahead of future elections.