Dr. Builder Adeola Adebisi Banjo, former Council Chairman of Ikorodu North LCDA, commenced his gratitude tour on August 15, 2025, with visits to Ikorodu Divisional Apex leaders. The purpose of this tour is to express appreciation to the people of Ikorodu through their distinguished leaders, beginning with the Superior Apex Leader, Sir Prince Abiodun Ogunleye, an elder statesman residing in Solomade Estate, Ikorodu.
Also included on the itinerary were visits to Asiwaju Olorunfunmi Bashorun, a lawyer and prominent APC chieftain; the Asiwaju of Ibeshe Kingdom, Asipa Kaoli Olusanya; and Hon. Prince Lanre Balogun, former Lagos State Commissioner for Rural Development. The movement was organised to acknowledge the pivotal support these leaders rendered during Dr. Banjo’s tenure as Council Chairman.
He was accompanied on the tour by several former appointees who had worked closely with him throughout nearly 10 years of service in Ikorodu North LCDA. These included Mrs. Lydia Agoro, former Supervisor for Education in his first term; Prince Niyi Odugbesi, immediate past Secretary to the Local Government (SLG); Mr. Abiodun Banjo, immediate past Chief of Staff; Hon. Ayo Adekoya, immediate past two-term Leader of the Legislative House; Hon. Ambali Adeleke, immediate past Supervisor for Works; Hon. Basirat Babatunde-Adewunmi, immediate past Supervisor for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation; the Women Leader representing the five wards of Ikorodu North LCDA; as well as numerous well-wishers.
DR. BANJO’S ADDRESS OF GRATITUDE
In his speech, Dr. Banjo described the leaders as invaluable pillars upon which the community’s aspirations rest. He noted that his journey in leadership had never been solitary.
He stated, “Within the corridors of leadership, there have been instances when strength wavered, vision obscured, and challenges loomed large. Yet, amid these trials, I discovered not only my footing, but also my guiding principles in your steadfast presence and the robust support of those who exemplify honour within Ikorodu.”
Reflecting on the past decade, he added, “I was initiated into public service not for personal gain but as a vessel of service. Although the weight of responsibility could have overwhelmed me, your vigilant oversight and unwavering confidence enabled me to persevere.”
Continuing, he said, “When the opportunity arose, you did not merely endorse my efforts; you validated my mission. And when obstacles threatened to impede our progress, your support fortified my resolve.”
He emphasised, “I have learned that sustainable leadership is not predicated solely on power, but is nurtured by the loyalty and wisdom of individuals whose commitment is priceless.”
Dr. Banjo further highlighted that true success is not measured only by tangible achievements but also by integrity in service, earning the trust of the people, and honouring the counsel of elders. These, he stressed, constitute a legacy that neither office nor title can replace.
He remarked, “It is often said that a community lacking pillars will falter when faced with adversity. Ikorodu has always been bolstered by its steadfast leaders, individuals whose integrity remains unassailable and whose presence serves as a bastion of fortitude.”
He expressed profound gratitude, saying, “Your guidance has been the backbone of my journey – steady in moments of uncertainty, supportive when I stumbled, and resilient when I sought encouragement. You have not only offered your wisdom but have embraced me as a son.”
Although he has transitioned from office, Dr. Banjo reaffirmed his commitment to community service through initiatives such as the Edge Rate Campaign and Celebrations.
On August 15, 2025, he also presented a framed token to the leaders, describing it as a covenant of respect and commitment rather than a mere gift.
He concluded, “May the legacy of respect for elders endure in Ikorodu, and may future leaders rise with the same fervour and dedication that you have instilled in us. May we continue to honour the guardians of our dignity and joy in this community.”
LEADERS’ FEEDBACK REACTIONS:
Sir Prince Abiodun Ogunleye, the Ikorodu Divisional APC Superior Apex Leader, in his response, thanked Dr. Banjo for his gratitude and pronounced blessings upon him.
He said, “Being the Chief in the Cabinet, I can emphatically say that the former Council Chairman of Ikorodu North LCDA, Dr. Builder Adeola Adebisi, did well during his service to the people. The success he achieved was not with him alone. When he became the Executive Secretary of Ikorodu North LCDA, he came back to me and said, ‘For me to be able to perform very, very well in that axis, I will need partial restructuring.’ As at then, he was in total control of the case. He said, ‘I need your support.’ Despite the fact that he was a Mandate and I was Justice Forum, I said, ‘Okay, I have heard you; what do you want us to do?’ And he said, ‘Everybody has to be on board. It should not be a case of winner takes all, all groups must be part of the government and benefit from its dividends.’ I appreciate him for that maturity and understanding. That has accounted for his success as the Executive Secretary. Banjo is still in the Party cabinet.”
Prince Ogunleye added, “Despite coming from a rich and humble background, Banjo is hardworking and very cool-headed. I just want Ikorodu to be together and then hand over to the younger ones. May the good Lord help us to be in the position, to put them in the position for them to be more useful.”
He further remarked, “I didn’t know this is the level of appreciation you are bringing to me. Banjo is appreciative; he is not an ingrate. I wouldn’t know what my performance has been to be recognised like this. There are dividends in the office; it’s just that those who take too much are called thieves. There will be future assignments, not only for him, but also for his colleagues.”
Asiwaju Olorunfunmi Bashorun, a lawyer and APC chieftain, commended the initiative, acknowledging its uniqueness. He remarked, “It is very rare to see people doing what you are doing. Even at the state level, no one has ever thought of this. This has been you, right from when you started as Council Executive Secretary. This is unique. For you to look back and say, thank you, the God that has been using you for good will not stop. Be good in everything you do. Just bear it and push on.”
Hon. Prince Lanre Balogun, former Commissioner for Rural Development, also commended Dr. Banjo. He said, “The kind of crowd I saw when Dr. Banjo came to me truly shows that in togetherness, there is unity. This is a very rare occasion. Many people have left office, and many will still assume office, but after leaving office, nobody has ever thought of doing what Dr. Banjo has done today – showing appreciation to the distinguished leaders and people of Ikorodu.”
He praised Dr. Banjo’s achievements, adding, “You even went to school to acquire your doctorate without buying a certificate. For me, this is just the beginning – you are not winding down, you are winning up.”
Balogun also observed, “When you are in a position, you will see so many things that people don’t see. This ‘Thank You Tour’ after leaving office might not be possible in other council areas. But because of your character and cordial relationship with your officials, it is possible here.”
Asipa Kaoli Olusanya, Asiwaju of Ibeshe Kingdom, during the visit to him, stressed the importance of gratitude in leadership.
He said: “The social vibe of politics keeps people going. It is good to be thankful and appreciative. Leadership comes in three categories: Traditional leadership, Economic leadership, and Democratic leadership. Democracy is a call to service. Serve your people, for the aspiration of your people will serve as the mark of your performance.”
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