‘Do Not Burn Bridges ‘ – Rep. Lanre Oladebo Recounts How Adeleke’s Advice And Loyalty Secured His Seat

News Update

Hon. Lanre Oladebo, member representing Ayedaade/Irewole/Isokan Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, says patience, loyalty and heeding advice from Governor Ademola Adeleke after losing the 2022 Peoples Democratic Party primaries ultimately paved the way for him to secure the seat.

In a statement titled “Please, be careful, do not burn bridges,” Oladebo recounted losing the May 22, 2022, primary to late Otunba Sola Arabambi. He said he faced pressure to react angrily but chose calmness and loyalty instead.

“At that moment, it could have been easy to become discouraged, angry, or take actions driven by emotions,” he said. “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.”

Oladebo said he refrained from protesting, believing that “time, patience, loyalty and good conduct would speak for me someday.” His patience paid off when party leaders considered him as a replacement following Arabambi’s death two months before the general election.

“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,” he stated.

He used the experience to advise politicians facing setbacks not to make decisions out of anger. “Any decision made out of anger today may stand against you tomorrow when another opportunity comes to contest or serve,” he said. “Sometimes, patience, loyalty, and perseverance open doors that force and bitterness can never open.”

Oladebo also thanked Sen. Akogun Lere Oyewumi, Yeye Dupe Adeleke, Alhaji Kazeem Akinleye, Hon. Sunday Bisi, Dr. Adekunle Akindele, traditional rulers, party leaders and constituents for their support. He expressed gratitude to his colleagues in the National Assembly from Osun State, saying their loyalty to the state government and the governor helped secure return tickets for another term.

The lawmaker, who is Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Housing and Habitat, said he believes Governor Adeleke’s reelection on August 15 is “God-ordained” and pledged continued service to his constituents.

“Delays are not denials, and setbacks are not the end of the road,” he said. “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.”