- Even after becoming a governor, the avalanche of responsibilities that rest on his shoulder as number one citizen of a state has not chipped away at his artistic disposition.
Before becoming a governor, he was known for his dancing moves than his activities as a member of Nigerian upper legislative chamber, the senate. His unabashed public display of his dancing steps earned him the sobriquet dancing senator. The suffixed honorific appellation would later give way for a grander public office title when he became a governor — the dancing governor.
Even after becoming a governor, the avalanche of responsibilities that rest on his shoulder as number one citizen of a state has not chipped away at his artistic disposition.
These days it is not uncommon to see Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, entertaining guests and serenading onlookers at events with his dancing steps and sleek moves, leaving the place with nothing but hearty laugh and sheer joy.
But many did not know how this hobby became part and parcel of the governor’s life. This love for dancing almost nudged him towards a different trajectory, one that could have tossed him under the klei light in the entertainment industry instead of the murky waters of politics
In a recent interview on Arise TV, Adeleke recounted how he earned the name Jackson. He revealed that he wanted to be musician while growing up
“Music was supposed to be my path,” a nostalgic Adeleke disclosed. However, in the conservative 1960s, opting for a musical career was something frowned upon by many African parents. His father prioritized “going to school,” discouraging young Ademola’s artistic ambitions.
Fate, though, had other plans. In 1981, Adeleke found himself in Alabama, attending Jacksonville State University. It was during their anniversary celebrations that his dancing gift truly shined. He competed, conquered the stage, and found himself face-to-face with the school president in the final moments.
The name, “Ademola Adeleke,” proved difficult for the president to pronounce. There and then, amidst the cheers and the music, an unexpected moniker emerged: “Jackson.” It fit perfectly, evoking the reigning king of pop, Michael Jackson, whose music filled the air. And so, Jackson was born – not the singer, but the governor with a dancing soul.
Today, Governor Adeleke embraces his Jackson persona. He sees it as a bridge, a way to connect with people across all walks of life. His dancing isn’t just a inconsequential hobby; it’s a celebration, a reflection of his joy and his affabibilty. It’s a reminder that even amidst the weight of leadership, the rhythm of life still plays on, urging him to move, to connect, and to live.