Hon. Dare Adeleke, stalwart of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and one of Oyo State’s most recognisable political figures, celebrates his birthday today, Sunday 28 September 2025. His life, marked by political triumphs, philanthropy, and family devotion, has drawn tributes from across Nigeria and beyond.
Adeleke’s journey has been tied to the fortunes of the PDP since its formation in 1998, when he became the party’s first Youth Leader in the South-West. Over two decades later, his reputation as a formidable grassroots organiser endures. Party insiders credit him with ensuring that no PDP candidate in his constituency has lost an election at ward, local government, or constituency level, a record that makes him indispensable to the party machinery.
Unlike many of his contemporaries, Adeleke has remained loyal to the PDP despite repeated overtures from rivals. Now Chairman of the PDP caretaker committee in Ekiti State, he faces the delicate task of rebuilding cohesion and preparing for the 2026 governorship elections. Colleagues describe him as fearless yet pragmatic, able to confront entrenched interests while extending an olive branch to emerging politicians.
In public service, Adeleke is remembered for transforming Pacesetters Transport Services during his tenure as chairman (2019–2023). Once dismissed as a “cemetery of motor vehicles,” the service was turned into a functioning transport system credited with restoring pride to Oyo State. The achievement remains a defining legacy of Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration.
Tributes have poured in from political heavyweights, associates, and admirers. Chief Bode George, former Deputy National Chairman of the PDP, praised Adeleke as “a cerebral leader, a loyal party member, and a Nigerian of great integrity.” The Association of Ibadan Indigenes in the USA also celebrated him as “a pragmatic and illustrious son of Ibadan land” who has supported the diaspora community for over two decades. Youth group Ibadan Youth Vanguard described him as “a lion among men” for his courage in speaking truth to power.
Beyond politics, Adeleke is known as a devoted family man and philanthropist. Father to two successful children, he has supported dozens more through scholarships and mentorship. His philanthropy extends across Oyo and the South-West, where he is regarded as a humble benefactor with a heart of gold.
As Nigeria heads into another decisive election cycle, Adeleke’s role as strategist, community builder, and party loyalist remains crucial. For many, however, his greatest legacy lies not in political office but in the lives he has transformed.
Away from politics, he enjoys polo and golf, a reminder of the lighter side of a man many hail today as both leader and Omoluabi.
Happy Birthday to a man of the people.
