For Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, Loyalty Pays off

As in every other domain of human endeavour, loyalty attracts favour in politics. This is something Senator Opeyemi Bamidele of Ekiti Central Senatorial District can peg his life on following recent events. With his new status in the 10th National Assembly, Bamidele is a blazing example of the value of dedication and dependability.

The raffles for the power positions in the National Assembly have been completed. The victorious principal officers emerged after weeks of cold deliberation mixed with controversy, contention, and query. But the games are over, the awards have been distributed, and individuals like Senator Bamidele are better off for belonging to the right team.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has announced Bamidele as Senate Leader, Senator Dave Umahi from Ebonyi State as the Deputy Senate Leader, Senator Ali Ndume from Borno State as the Chief Whip, and Senator Lola Ashiru from Kwara State as Deputy Chief Whip.

The emergence of Bamidele and the others represent the closure of senatorial machinations. Before now, some senators still wanted to cause trouble, relying on external influences to have their way. However, Bamidele’s fidelity is well-noted, so it comes as no surprise that he got the top senatorial position.

 Bamidele served under President Bola Tinubu in 1992. Back then, Tinubu was a senator, and Bamidele was his Special Assistant on Legal Matters. When Tinubu became governor, Bamidele was there as Senior Special Assistant on Political and Intergovernmental Relations and later as the Lagos State Commissioner for Youth, Sports and Social Development.

Even though his journey with Tinubu was not very smooth all the way, Bamidele has proved his loyalty over time. Thus, his current position as Senate Leader for the 10th National Assembly is no surprise.