When I was senator, they called me dancing senator, that all I would be doing is dancing–Adeleke
In a revealing interview on Channels TV, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke addressed the public perception of his leadership style, demonstrating how he has transformed from the "Dancing Senator" to a hands-on governor focused on developmental projects.
Recalling the skepticism he faced, the governor shared, "When I was a senator, they called me Dancing Senator, that I would just go into the Government House, and all I'll be doing is dancing every day, having parties and everything." He continued, recounting public predictions: "Before you know it, the time will go."
However, Adeleke revealed his strategic approach to governance that was already in place: "Well, I didn't listen to them because I knew what I was going to do. I already had my blueprint, silently." Emphasizing his ability to combine his natural personality with serious governance, he noted, "While I was dancing, I was working."
The governor particularly emphasized his hands-on approach to project supervision: "I'm not the governor that sits around the office in the AC. I put on my sneakers, my cap, and go around and inspect projects so that these people will know that the contractors mean business."
This candid interview reveals a different side of Governor Adeleke, challenging the common misconception that his energetic personality would detract from his governance capabilities. His transition from the "Dancing Senator" to an active, project-focused governor demonstrates the possibility of combining personal authenticity with effective leadership.
The governor's revelation about his hands-on approach to project monitoring represents a departure from traditional governmental leadership styles in Nigeria. By personally inspecting projects and maintaining direct oversight, Adeleke appears to be establishing a new paradigm for executive governance at the state level.
His approach suggests that effective leadership can come in different styles, challenging the conventional notion of how a governor should behave or work. The interview highlights how initial public skepticism about his leadership capabilities has been confronted with evidence of actual governance and development initiatives.