APC chieftain and convener of the Allow Alao Movement, Engr. Oyedele Hakeem Alao, has congratulated Professor Adeolu Akande on his 61st birthday, describing him as one of Oyo State’s most consistent voices of intellect, loyalty, and progressive politics.
Professor Akande, who turned 61, was celebrated by family, political associates, and party stakeholders across Oyo State.
In a message made available to newsmen in Ibadan on Friday, Engr Alao described the celebrant as a statesman whose career continues to shape governance, party politics, and mentorship in the state.
“On behalf of myself, my family, political associates, and the teeming supporters of the Allow Alao Movement across Oyo State and beyond, I rejoice with the Akande family, friends, and well-wishers on this milestone,” Alao stated.
A prominent figure in Oyo’s political and academic circles, Professor Akande served as Deputy Chief of Staff to the late former Governor of Oyo State, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, CON, between 2011 and 2019. He was also previously appointed Deputy Chief Press Secretary to Vice President Atiku Abubakar in 2001.
Political observers note that his role in the Ajimobi administration was central to the execution of the government’s “Restoration Agenda” — a period that prioritized fiscal discipline, infrastructure renewal, and the rebranding of Oyo as an investment destination.
Alao noted that Akande’s tenure remains a reference point for “technocratic competence and loyalty in public service.”
“His input helped drive policy coherence, administrative efficiency, and coordination within the Government House at a time when Oyo needed steady hands,” Alao added.
Beyond public office, Akande has remained a strong stakeholder of the All Progressives Congress (APC), with significant influence in the Oke Ogun axis of Oyo State.
According to Alao, Akande’s political reach and strategic counsel have been critical to stabilizing the party in the zone and ensuring that Oke Ogun’s interests are reflected in state and national party conversations.
“As someone who shares the vision of a progressive, united, and prosperous Oyo State, I have watched closely how Prof. Akande continues to mentor younger politicians, uphold party discipline, and advocate for the development of the Oke Ogun region,” Alao said.
He described the former Deputy Chief of Staff as a “bridge-builder” who combines scholarship with grassroots politics — a rare blend that has kept him relevant across different political cycles.
Alao, who was the APC governorship aspirant in Oyo State in 2023 and 2027, said Prof. Akande’s career offers valuable lessons for the new generation of politicians.
“For us in the Allow Alao Movement, his life is a template. You can be principled, loyal, intellectually grounded, and still remain committed to the grassroots. That is the kind of leadership Oyo State needs more of,” he said.
He prayed for more years of impact for the celebrant.
“As Prof. Akande clocks 61, I pray Almighty God grants him sound health, long life, and renewed strength to continue to serve Oyo State, the APC, and Nigeria. Oke Ogun is proud of him. APC is proud of him. Happy 61st Birthday, Prof. Adeolu Akande.”
Prof. Akande’s 61st birthday was marked by goodwill messages from across APC ranks, academia, and the Oke Ogun community.Tagged Adeolu Akande, Allow Alao, Oyedele Alao, Oyo State