As he marks his 60th birthday, Olawale Rasheed, the spokesperson to Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke and a member of the Osun State Executive Council, has reflected on his career trajectory, one that has seen him transition from journalism to policy advocacy, business, and ultimately, politics.
In an exclusive interview, Rasheed, a former journalist with Nigerian Tribune, recounted his experiences covering Nigerian politics, his encounters with key political figures, and the lessons learned along the way.
He also shed light on his current role in the Adeleke administration and his thoughts on Osun’s political future.
A Journalism Career Defined by Bold Reporting
Rasheed’s journey into journalism began during his time at the University of Ilorin, where he was active in campus journalism.
After graduation, he joined Nigerian Tribune, where he quickly made a name for himself through his fearless political reporting.
“I grew up in a politically conscious environment, my father was a political leader, and I always saw the media as a powerful tool to shape public opinion. Journalism was my first love, and I was passionate about uncovering the truth,” he said.
During his time at Tribune, he reported on major political events and interviewed high-profile politicians.
He recalled a tense encounter with former Senate President Chuba Okadigbo.
“I wrote an article about how the Senate was operating under Okadigbo, and he was not pleased. The next time I visited the Senate, he confronted me and questioned my motives. But I stood by my story,” he recounted.
Similarly, his reporting once led to a confrontation with former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Ghali Umar Na’Abba.
“I was banned from the House of Representatives because of a story I wrote. It was a major issue at the time,” he said.
Despite these challenges, Rasheed remained committed to journalistic integrity. He recalled an incident involving the late Chief Bola Ige, who was impressed by Tribune’s balanced reporting.
“Ige walked up to me one day and said, ‘I have issues with Tribune, but I must admit that your stories are fair.’ That was one of my proudest moments,” he said.
His career also brought him close to power. He covered former military ruler Ibrahim Babangida, who once acknowledged his sharp political analysis.
“I was in Minna for an assignment, and Babangida’s people told me he wanted to meet me. When I got there, he said, ‘You’re that Tribune journalist who writes about politics. I like your articles.’ That moment reinforced my belief in what I was doing,” Rasheed said.
His time in journalism was not without danger. He narrowly escaped death during a Boko Haram attack in Maiduguri while serving as a special assistant to a minister.
“That experience was terrifying. It made me realize how much journalists risk their lives to report the truth,” he said.
Transition to Policy, Business, and Politics
After years in active journalism, Rasheed moved into policy advocacy and business. He became involved in railway consulting and also worked as a special assistant in the ministries of power and youth development.
“I didn’t leave journalism because I fell out of love with it. The media landscape was changing, and I wanted to explore new opportunities. Policy and business allowed me to apply my knowledge in a different way,” he explained.
However, his passion for politics never waned. His relationship with Governor Adeleke began long before the 2022 election, and he played a crucial role in shaping Adeleke’s media strategy.
“Politics is the most noble of all human endeavors,” he said. “I have always believed in the power of good governance, and working with Adeleke has given me the platform to contribute meaningfully to Osun State.”
Assessing Adeleke’s Performance
Speaking on Governor Adeleke’s leadership, Rasheed described him as a “visionary and people-oriented leader” who has remained committed to good governance. He listed some of Adeleke’s key achievements while doing the tenure with him.
- Road Infrastructure: Over 150 kilometers of roads constructed across the state.
- Healthcare: Rehabilitation of 200 primary healthcare centers and upgrading of major hospitals.
- Education: Over 100 schools renovated, with improved learning facilities.
- Workers’ Welfare: Payment of ₦48 billion in pension arrears and gratuities.
- Higher Education: Establishment of the University of Ilesa.
- Ongoing projects: Flyovers in Osogbo and Ile-Ife to ease traffic congestion.
“The difference between Adeleke and past administrations is clear. He is not distracted by unnecessary political battles; he is focused on governance. That is why Osun State is moving forward.”
He dismissed speculations that Adeleke might defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC), saying,
“The governor is a core PDP man. He has no intention of leaving the party.”
2026: No Vacancy in Abere
On Adeleke’s chances in the 2026 governorship election, Rasheed was confident. He argued that Adeleke’s governance style and achievements have won over the people of Osun, making his re-election almost certain.
“There is no vacancy in Abere for 2026, Adeleke has always been the people’s choice. In 2018, we were rigged out, but in 2022, we won convincingly. The APC in Osun is in disarray. They have no candidate strong enough to challenge Adeleke.”
He also took a swipe at former governor Gboyega Oyetola, saying,
“The people of Osun rejected Oyetola in 2022, and they will reject him again. This administration is delivering results, and that is what matters.”
A Life of Service and Commitment
As Rasheed celebrates his 60th birthday, he remains grateful for the journey so far. Looking back at his career, he expressed pride in his contributions to journalism, policy, and politics.
“My life has been defined by service—to the people, to the state, and to the truth,” he said. “I am not done yet. There is still a lot more to do for Osun and Nigeria.”
With his deep experience in journalism, policy, and governance, Rasheed continues to be a significant figure in Osun’s political landscape, shaping narratives and contributing to the development of the state
