From the old Western Region to modern Ogun State politics, Olajide Ojuko’s remarkable journey with every state governor reflects decades of loyalty and influence
Olajide Ojuko: A Timeless Political Force, His Enduring Journey With All Ogun State Governors
…a most enduring political powerbroker and progressive torchbearer in Ogun West
By Lukman Omikunle
In the vibrant yet unpredictable arena of Nigerian politics, few figures in Ogun West command the respect, relevance, and staying power of Waliu Olajide Ojuko. A consummate progressive, Ojuko’s political journey is marked not just by longevity but by an unwavering devotion to public service, grassroots mobilization, and strategic leadership that has shaped multiple generations.
Born in 1951 to the respected Pa Rabiu Sule Ojolowo-Ojuko of Itimoko Compound, Ota, and Saramota Amota Ojolowo-Ojuko (née Bankole) of Mapa Compound and Oruba Quarters, Ojuko’s life was grounded in strong family values and communal service.
He began his education at Ansar-U-Deen Primary School, Ota, and later attended Iganmode Grammar School (1963–1968), where he returned briefly in 1971 as a teacher after completing his Cambridge Higher School Certificate at Muslim College, Ijebu-Ode. By 1974, he had earned a degree in Sociology from the University of Ibadan, followed by his NYSC service in Cross River State (1975), where he worked in the Federal Ministry of Communication and at the renowned Hope Waddell School, once attended by Nigeria’s late political icon, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe.
From Civil Service to Politics
Ojuko’s early career reflected his versatility. He served as a teacher under the Lagos State Teaching Service Commission and later in the Lagos State Civil Service, where he rose through key positions, including Secretary of the Lagos State Market Committee. His role in the construction of the first Tejuosho Market and other landmark projects positioned him for a political future.
“Working in Lagos gave me the opportunity to serve alongside some of Nigeria’s most influential personalities, including Alhaja Habibat Mogaji, the late mother of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Ojuko recalled in an interview with newsheadline247’s Lukman Omikunle.
His Enduring Journey With All Ogun State Governors Since Its Creation
Since the creation of Ogun State in 1976, Waliu Olajide Ojuko has distinguished himself as one of the few political figures to serve under every civilian governor the state has produced. His chain of appointments began when the first civilian governor, Chief Olabisi Onabanjo, appointed him to the board of Gateway Hotel, Ota.
Despite the disruption of military rule, Ojuko’s political resilience kept him relevant through successive administrations. He went on to hold strategic positions under Governor Olusegun Osoba, Governor Gbenga Daniel, Governor Ibikunle Amosun and currently with the incumbent Governor Dapo Abiodun.
His enduring service across administrations, spanning more than four decades, underscores not only his political dexterity but also his uncommon ability to adapt, remain relevant, and contribute meaningfully to governance in Ogun State.
Political Breakthrough and Rise
His formal political entry came in 1982, and by 1983, Governor Olabisi Onabanjo appointed him to the board of Gateway Hotel, Ota. Though cut short by the 1984 military coup, Ojuko pressed on, becoming a key player during the Babangida political experiments.
As State Secretary of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), he played a historic role in registering MKO Abiola’s presidential candidacy, an achievement he describes as one of the highlights of his career. At the same time, he served as a Director at WEMABOD Estates and Nigeria Wire and Cable Industries, both subsidiaries of the Odu’a Investment Group.
A Progressive Pillar
Ojuko has consistently aligned with progressive politics — from Alliance for Democracy (AD) to Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) and now the All Progressives Congress (APC). He briefly worked with the PDP under Governor Gbenga Daniel as Chairman of Western Hotels, before returning to the progressive fold.
In 1999, under Governor Olusegun Osoba, he was appointed Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperative, and Tourism, recording notable achievements over four years. Later, under Governor Ibikunle Amosun (2015–2019), Ojuko served as Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, where his grassroots depth and chieftaincy insights earned him recognition as one of the “Top 10 Performing Commissioners in the South West” by The Nation newspaper.
“That appointment gave me the platform to engage directly with traditional institutions and bring government closer to the people,” he said.
Presently, Ojuko is a Senior Special Political Adviser to the incumbent Governor Dapo Abiodun.
Ado-Odo/Ota and the Role of Powerbroker
In Ado-Odo/Ota, Ogun State’s largest local government, Ojuko’s influence is unrivaled. Even during the 2019 APM experiment, he was the only leader in Ogun West who successfully delivered his LGA for his party.
“Whether in APC or APM, my commitment has always been to ensure credible leadership and protect the political interest of Ogun West,” he emphasized.
His strategic leadership in the APC saw him rise to the position of Deputy State Chairman under Derin Adebiyi, further solidifying his status as a political unifier and strategist. Today, he serves as Senior Special Adviser (Political) to Governor Dapo Abiodun.
Legacy of Service and Influence
For many, Waliu Olajide Ojuko is more than a politician — he is an institution. His name resonates from Ota to Abeokuta, and his reputation as a bridge-builder, grassroots mobilizer, and political strategist has remained consistent across decades.
“My politics has always been about building, not destroying — about the people, not just the party. Ogun West still has much to offer Nigeria, and I remain committed to that vision,” Ojuko affirmed.
As Ogun West and Ogun State look toward the future, Ojuko’s legacy continues to inspire a new generation of leaders who see in him a symbol of resilience, loyalty, and progressive politics. Read More
