Omoluabi Senator: The Remarkable Journey of Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli
By Akeem Abas
Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli is a respected leader, politician, and public servant in Nigeria. He has spent decades working tirelessly to make a positive impact on the lives of Nigerians, particularly in his home state of Oyo.
He is widely regarded as an Omoluabi Senator – a leader who embodies the highest ideals of integrity, honesty, and humility.
These great qualities of Alli had over the years earned him several accolades such as humble servant, quintessential leader, promise-keeper and until recent Omoluabi Senator.
Born in Ibadan, Nigeria, on April 20, 1963 to the renown Olofiere Family in Mapo area of Ibadan, and grew up at N4/224A Oke Aremo in Ibadan North local government area of Ibadan.
He began his educational career at the Progressive Day School, Alaadorin, Isale-Osi, Ibadan, and proceeded to Anwaru – Islam (Ahmadiyya) Grammar School, Eleyele Ibadan for his W.A.S.C ‘O’ level certificate and later to Ilesha Grammar School, Ilesha, Osun State for his W.A.S.C. ‘A’ Level HSC Certificate.
For his tertiary education, Alli studied law from the University of Ibadan in 1986 and attended the Nigerian Law School, Victoria Island in 1987. Years later and to satisfy his urge for higher degrees in Law, Alli notwithstanding his successful legal and political career, went back to the same University of Ibadan and bagged Masters Degree in Law.
He has had a towering and enviable political career since age 28 when he became the first elected Executive Chairman of the most populous council in Oyo State, Ibadan North between December 1991 and November 1993.
He was Pioneer State Secretary of Peoples Democratic Party (Oyo) from September 1998 to Sepember 1999 and later Acting State Chairman, Peoples Democratic Party.
Under the administration of former Gov. Rashidi Ladoja, Alli served as Secretary to the State Government from May 2003 to May 2005 ; Chief of Staff from May 2005-May 2007 and joined the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) where he became Chairman, Board of Directors, Odu’a Investment Company Limited from November 2011 to April 2014,
Many do not know that Alli was first elected for the same Oyo South Senatorial District on the platform of United Nigeria Congress Party(UNCP) in 1998, but was not sworn-in alongside others due to military incursion and junta led by late General Sani Abacha.
His political experience spanning over three decades also saw him emerging
Deputy Governorship Candidate of the Labour Party earlier in 2015 and Governorship Candidate of Zenith Labour Party, Oyo State in 2019.
Senator Alli’s reputation as an Omoluabi Senator is well-deserved. He is widely admired for his honesty, integrity, and humility – qualities that are rare in Nigeria’s political landscape.
He is deeply respected by his colleagues, who see him as a voice of reason and a trusted ally. His constituents also hold him in high esteem, as he is known for his accessibility, kindness, and empathy.
Outside of politics, Senator Alli is a devoted family man, philanthropist and had rose through the ranks of the Warrior (Balogun) line of the Ibadan traditional system to become Maye Balogun of Ibadanland today.
He is committed to giving back to his community and has undertaken several projects to empower women and youth, traders, artisans and the less privileged.
His selfless service has inspired many young Nigerians to pursue a career in public service and to work towards the greater good.
He has devoted his life to serving Nigerians, and his impact has been felt in various sectors of society. His remarkable journey is an inspiration to many, and his legacy will undoubtedly endure for generations to come.
Senator Sharafadeen Alli is truly an exemplary leader who embodies the qualities of humility, promise-keeping, and a genuine concern for the welfare of the people he serves.
His humility is evident in the way he carries himself, always approachable and willing to listen to the concerns and needs of the people. Despite his many achievements and positions of influence, Senator Alli remains grounded and connected to the grassroots, making him relatable and trustworthy to those he represents.
One of the defining characteristics of Senator Alli is his unwavering commitment to keeping his promises. He understands the importance of maintaining trust and credibility with the people who have placed their confidence in him.
Whether it is initiating developmental projects, improving infrastructure, or championing social causes, Senator Alli can always be relied upon to deliver on his commitments.
He values the trust bestowed upon him and works tirelessly to fulfill his promises, ensuring that the expectations of the people are not only met but exceeded.
Senator Alli is widely respected in political circles for his integrity, empathy, and approachability. He leads with a human face, demonstrating deep compassion for the challenges faced by ordinary citizens.
He consistently seeks opportunities to uplift and improve the lives of the people , advocating for policies that prioritize the needs of the people.
Senator Alli understands that true leadership requires the ability to connect with individuals from all walks of life, making himself accessible to anyone who seeks his counsel or assistance.
In a world where many politicians prioritize personal gain and self-interest, Senator Sharafadeen Alli stands out as a beacon of public service. His humility, promise-keeping, and genuine concern for the people he represents make him a respected and admired leader.
Senator Alli’s leadership style is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the betterment of society, and his tireless efforts serve as an inspiration for future leaders.
In conclusion, Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli is a true Omoluabi Senator – a leader who embodies the values of honesty, integrity, and humility.
With Senator Alli representing Oyo South at the National Assembly, constituents and the people of Oyo State, can be rest assured that they have a representative who truly cares and will steadfastly work towards improving their lives.
•Akeem Abas is a journalist and Senator Sharafadeen Alli’s Special Adviser on Media.
