Former Deputy Governor of Oyo State and legal practitioner, Barrister Hazeem Gbolarumi, has declared that anyone who claims to have succeeded in politics without the support of others is being dishonest, describing such denial as insincere and misleading.
According to him, godfatherism, when properly understood, is not wickedness but a reflection of collective effort and mutual support in political growth.
“Anybody who says he has no godfather is not sincere. Nobody succeeds alone. Those who contributed to your success are your godfathers. Politics is collective,” Gbolarumi said during an interactive session with journalists in Ibadan.
He stressed that political success is built on relationships, loyalty, and long-term commitment rather than personal ambition alone.
Tracing his political career to 1979, Gbolarumi said he has remained consistent and grounded at the grassroots, having served at various levels of governance.
“I started during the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) era. Later, I joined the Social Democrstic Party (SDP) where I served as State Secretary. I also served at the local government level. I didn’t just emerge suddenly. I am a grassroots politician,” he said.
He added that his name and political identity have remained unchanged over the decades, reflecting stability and dedication.
The PDP stalwart emphasised that he has never defected from the party since its formation, describing loyalty and consistency as rare but essential virtues in politics.
“I am a lawyer and a political practitioner. I have been in politics since 1979. My name has never changed.
“I have never left PDP. Some people move from one party to another after benefiting. I don’t believe in that kind of politics,” he said.
He maintained that political integrity is demonstrated through commitment, even in difficult times.
On internal disputes within the party, Gbolarumi said factionalisation is a natural outcome of political contests, urging members to prioritise unity after elections.
“People support different candidates, but once a winner emerges, we must unite. We are one family. The issues will soon be resolved,” he said.
Confirming his governorship ambition, Gbolarumi disclosed that he had formally informed the incumbent governor of his intention through a letter.
“He acknowledged it. Since no successor has been announced, I decided not to wait. Politics requires courage and preparedness,” he said.
While acknowledging the growing cost of politics, he insisted that money alone cannot guarantee leadership.
“My people are my network. You don’t need billions. You need credibility, trust, and God,” he added.
He described his relationship with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as close and brotherly, noting that he enjoys unrestricted access to him.
“We are brothers and friends. I don’t need an appointment to see him,” he said.
Gbolarumi also revealed that he had been approached by other political parties, including the African Democratic Congress (ADC), but chose to remain with the PDP due to its structure in the Southwest.
In an emotional tribute, he spoke about his late mentor, Chief Lamidi Adedibu, whom he described as a major influence in his life.
“He taught me generosity, humility, and discipline. He died in my arms. Before he passed, he placed his cap and slippers on me. That moment changed my life,” he recalled.
The politician said criticism is inevitable in public life and should be embraced.
“If you are not criticised, you are probably not doing anything meaningful,” he said.
He also pledged continued loyalty to the PDP, regardless of the outcome of future primaries.
“Even if I am not chosen, I will remain in the party. I have done so before,” he affirmed.
Gbolarumi disclosed that none of his children is involved in active politics, explaining that they are professionals.
He narrated how they once hid documents to prevent him from selling his London house to fund a campaign.
“They wanted to protect me,” he said.
He also described his trademark cap as part of his political identity.
“My cap represents my journey and my individuality,” he noted.
On governance, he advocated inclusive and consultative leadership, stressing that no leader can succeed in isolation.
“I believe in teamwork and collective leadership,” he said.
He added that he has helped nurture many political leaders, including chairmen, legislators, and governors.
“By God’s grace, my time will come,” he said.
Gbolarumi called for unity and mutual understanding among political actors.
“Politics should not divide us permanently. We may disagree today, but tomorrow we must work together for the progress of our state,” he said.
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