Â
Â
Â
In an exclusive interview with The Populist News, Hon. Taiwo Lekan Salami, a PDP chieftain and aspirant for the Ibadan North Federal Constituency in the last general election, shares his motivations, inspirations, and vision for his community.
Why Did You Venture into Politics?
Hon. Taiwo Lekan Salami began by honoring the late Honorable Musiliu Akinremi (Jagaban), who represented Ibadan North Federal Constituency in the Federal House of Representatives until his demise, recognizing his invaluable contributions to Ibadan North Federal Constituency.
“May he continue to rest in perfect peace and may God comfort all those he left behind,” he said.
He explained that politics has been a longstanding tradition in the Lekan Salami family.
His late father, Chief Olalekan Salami, was a prominent figure in Oyo State and national politics. His younger brother, Idowu, who aspired for the House of Reps ticket under the APC in 2018, passed away in 2021.
Hon. Salami’s political journey was both an emotional and spiritual calling to immortalize his brother’s dream.
Reflecting on his professional journey since returning to Nigeria in 1994, Hon. Salami has had a successful career in telecoms, banking, and consulting.
“I believe it is time to move to the next level and face a different kind of challenge that enables me to give back to society, serve my community with purpose, and be a channel to offer hope and belief to the masses,” he said, emphasizing the importance of purposeful representation for the youth and women.
Inspiration to Join the PDP
Hon. Salami recounted how the Lekan Salami family’s visit to the commissioning of the Lekan Salami Stadium by Governor Seyi Makinde was a turning point.
The transformation of the previously neglected stadium inspired the family to join the PDP and contribute to the development of Ibadan and Oyo State.
No Regrets in Joining PDP
“Absolutely none whatsoever,” Hon. Salami asserted when asked about any regrets in joining the PDP.
He highlighted his professional background and the performance-driven ethos he shares with Governor Makinde.
He praised the administration’s achievements in infrastructure, healthcare, security, and investment, citing verifiable results that make belonging to the PDP a source of pride.
Importance of the Upcoming Election
Hon. Taiwo Lekan Salami stressed that the upcoming bye-election is critical for the PDP, as the party last won the Ibadan North Federal Constituency seat in 2007.
He emphasized that Ibadan North, with the largest voter base in Oyo State, is pivotal for the 2027 general election.
“The bye-election will be a watershed for the 2027 general election, hence why it is critical for PDP to be victorious,” he explained.
Why He is the Right Candidate
With a 30-year career in the private sector, Hon. Salami believes his extensive experience in delivering value and transforming ideas into results sets him apart.
“My wealth of experience in delivering value, identifying solutions, and transforming ideas into evident results sets me apart,” he asserted, noting his successful business enterprises and leadership in a consulting firm.
Contributions to the PDP
Hon. Taiwo Lekan Salami listed his contributions to the PDP, including the donation of a 24/7 solar power solution, chairs, fans, and TVs for the LG secretariat.
He also empowered youths and women, provided match tickets for local sports events, secured employment opportunities with MTN, and supported ward meetings with benches and cash donations.
Assessment of the Local Government Chairman’s Performance
Hon. Taiwo Lekan Salami praised Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade, the Executive Chairman of Ibadan North Local Government, describing him as a “round peg in a round hole.”
He commended the chairman for his inclusive approach, innovative projects, and efforts to elevate the position admirably.
Message to Party Members
As the party prepares for the upcoming bye-election, Hon. Salami encouraged members to get their voter cards ready, campaign vigorously, and vote massively for the PDP.
“I will also like to advise them all to support whichever candidate is chosen to represent the party at the forthcoming elections,” he urged.
Hon. Taiwo Lekan Salami’s interview reflects his deep commitment to his community and his readiness to bring about positive change through purposeful representation.
