Lamidi Ona-Olapo Adesina 20 January 1939 – 11 November 2012 was a Nigerian educator, columnist, and politician who served as the Governor of Oyo State from 1999 to 2003 under the Alliance for Democracy (AD). Known for his strong political stance and advocacy for democracy, he played a significant role in Nigeria’s political landscape, particularly in the struggle against military rule.
Lam Adesina Profile
| Name | Lam Adesina |
| Real Name | Lamidi Ona-Olapo Adesina |
| Date of Birth | 20 January 1939 |
| Date of Death | 11 November 2012 (73 years) |
| State of Origin | Oyo State |
| Tribe | Yoruba |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| Occupation | Educator, Columnist, and Politician |
| Religion | Islam |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Net Worth | $2 Million |
| Copied from | contents101.com |
Educational Background
Lam Adesina began his education at Loyola College, Ibadan, before proceeding to the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) degree in History between 1961 and 1965. In 1971, he furthered his education at the University of Ibadan, obtaining a Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE).
Career
Adesina started his professional journey as a teacher at Lagelu Grammar School, Ibadan, where he taught History, English, and Literature. He eventually rose to the position of school administrator (principal). Beyond the public sector, he worked in private educational institutions and later ventured into business by establishing a bookshop. Apart from his career in education, Adesina was also a respected columnist, known for his “Search Continues” column in the Nigerian Tribune, where he consistently criticized military regimes, leading to multiple arrests and detentions.
Lam Adesina’s political career began in 1979 when he was elected to the Federal House of Representatives for Ibadan South I Constituency under the platform of the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN). However, his political journey was interrupted by the military coup of 1983, which forced him to return to private business. In 1988, he was elected to the Constituent Assembly.
During the 1990s, Adesina emerged as a prominent leader of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) in Oyo State, advocating for an end to military rule and the recognition of MKO Abiola’s 1993 presidential election victory. His activism led to his arrest and imprisonment in 1998 under General Sani Abacha’s regime, where he was labeled a “prisoner of war.”
In 1999, as Nigeria transitioned to democracy, he was elected Governor of Oyo State under the Alliance for Democracy (AD). His tenure focused on improving education, healthcare, and infrastructure. However, he lost his re-election bid in 2003 to Rashidi Ladoja.
After leaving office, Adesina remained an influential political figure in Oyo State. He played a key role in supporting Abiola Ajimobi’s 2003 Senate bid. Although the two later had political disagreements, they reconciled in 2009 when Ajimobi returned to the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN). Adesina later backed Ajimobi’s successful campaign for Governor of Oyo State in 2011.
Controversies
One of the most notable controversies associated with Lam Adesina was his involvement in the legal proceedings concerning the assassination of Chief Bola Ige, former Attorney General of the Federation. As the Governor of Oyo State, he initiated legal action regarding the case. However, after his tenure, his successor, Rashidi Ladoja, withdrew the case from court, leading to speculation and renewed debate about the unresolved murder.
Personal Life
Lam Adesina was married to Saratu Lam Adesina, and together they had children, including Dapo and Ayobami. He was known for his dedication to education, politics, and democracy.
Lam Adesina Net Worth
At the time of his death, Lam Adesina’s net worth was estimated to be worth around $2 Million.
Death
Lam Adesina passed away on 11 November 2012 at St. Nicholas Hospital, Lagos, following complications related to diabetes. He was laid to rest at his Felele residence in Ibadan in accordance with Islamic rites.