***Says His Rise from Aide to Senate Leader Exemplifies Dedication to Democracy
President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has described the rise of Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele from a legislative aide to a top-ranking lawmaker as a testament to his decades of dedication to Nigeria’s democracy.
Speaking at the 29th convocation ceremony of Ekiti State University (EKSU) in Ado-Ekiti, where Bamidele was conferred with a Doctor of Law (Honoris Causa), Akpabio praised him as a shining star and a worthy ambassador of Ekiti State.
“Senator Bamidele embodies the excellence that Ekiti people are known for. He was sent to the Senate as an ambassador, and he has not disappointed. President Tinubu and the entire 10th Senate are proud of him,” Akpabio stated.
Reflecting on his early political career, Akpabio recalled Bamidele’s role as a Senior Legislative Aide to then-Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 1992, emphasizing that his current leadership position was earned through years of unwavering service.
Beyond political achievements, Bamidele’s commitment to Ekiti’s development was highlighted with the commissioning of an ultra-modern event center, built in honor of his late mother, Mama Juliana Tinuola Bamidele. The Senate President lauded this gesture as a reflection of his deep ties to his roots.
Akpabio also commended EKSU’s growing influence, recognizing its role in producing national leaders, including Governor Biodun Oyebanji, and celebrating its status as Nigeria’s top-ranked state university.
Meanwhile, Bamidele reaffirmed the Senate’s resolve to uphold national stability, citing the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State as a necessary step to safeguard democracy. He assured that under Akpabio’s leadership, the Senate would continue prioritizing the nation’s interests.