Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has explained why he visited the grave of his late uncle, Senator Isiaka Adeleke, before proceeding to his polling unit to cast his vote in the August 15 governorship election.
In an interview with Channels TV, Adeleke said the visit was part of his way of honouring his late uncle, whom he described as someone who played an important role in his life and political journey.
The governor disclosed this while reflecting on his victory in the election, where he secured a second term after defeating his closest challenger, Bola Oyebamiji of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Speaking about the role his siblings played in his victory, Adeleke said his late brother, Isiaka, had a strong influence on him, noting that they shared similar personalities and both loved life.
He said, “Well, big time! They played a lot of impact. Because sometimes, you see, I’m a jolly good fellow and…”
When reminded by the interviewer that he loved life, Adeleke replied, “I love life!” before adding that he and his late brother, Isiaka, were alike.
He said, “And I think I and my late brother, you know, Isiaka… we are alike. We, I mean, behave the same way. He loved life, too. He loved life, too. So, we are together.”
Asked if he missed his late brother, Adeleke said, “That… big time! I miss him a lot. Anytime, sometimes, I cry all the time. I miss him. I go to his grave and say, ‘Brother, I miss you,’ and I will cry.”
Explaining why he visited the grave before the election, the governor said, “Even yesterday, before the election, I always go there. I go and say, ‘Brother, here I am again on the march again. I’m going for an election. I want you to pray for me.’ You know, just… yes.”
According to Adeleke, visiting his late uncle’s grave before voting was significant to him because of the bond they shared and the influence Isiaka Adeleke had on his life.
He had visited the grave before proceeding to his polling unit, where he cast his ballot during the election.
Senator Isiaka Adeleke was the first civilian governor of Osun State and later represented Osun West Senatorial District in the National Assembly.
Adeleke’s decision to visit his late uncle’s grave before voting attracted attention, particularly after he emerged victorious in the election.
The governor thanked the people of Osun State for supporting his re-election and pledged to continue working towards the development of the state.
