Nigeria has lost a political icon and entrepreneurial giant with the passing of Chief Michael Koleoso, the Babalaje of Sakiland, on Monday, September 2, 2024.
A stalwart of the Alliance for Democracy (AD), Koleoso served as National Chairman and Secretary to the State Government under the late Governor Lam Adesina’s administration.
Born on April 30, 1938, in Saki, Koleoso had a distinguished educational background, attending Olivet Baptist High School, Oyo, and later obtaining certifications from the School of Hygiene, Eleyele, Ibadan. He began his career in the civil service, rising to Head of the Health Department of the old Saki District Council, before venturing into business.
Koleoso’s entrepreneurial prowess led to the establishment of Esmak Nigeria Limited, a conglomerate with interests in commodity distribution, transportation, real estate, and hospitality. His leadership and vision earned him a reputation for discipline, self-restraint, and balance.
A seasoned politician, Koleoso was elected unopposed as a Councilor in 1976 and later represented Ifedapo Constituency in the Oyo State House of Assembly in 1979. He served as a commissioner under Chief Ige, the first executive governor of Oyo State.
Source: Insideoyo
