Adedayo Clement Adeyeye biography, early life, age and career
Adedayo Clement Adeyeye biography, early life, age and career
Adedayo Clement Adeyeye, a prominent Nigerian politician and member of the All Progressive Congress (APC), has had a distinguished career spanning teaching, journalism, legal practice, and politics. Born on April 4, 1957, in Ikere-Ekiti, Nigeria, Adeyeye has significantly influenced various sectors in Nigeria, particularly in Ekiti State.
Early Life and Educational Background
Adedayo Clement Adeyeye was born into a royal family. His father, Oba David Opeyemi Adeyeye, Agunsoye II, was the Arinjale of Ise Ekiti, while his mother, Olori Mary Ojulege Adeyeye, hailed from a royal lineage in Ikere-Ekiti. Adeyeye’s early education began at St. John’s Primary School in Ikere-Ekiti (1964-1968). He then attended Annunciation School (1969-1973) and Christ’s School Ado Ekiti (1973-1975). Adeyeye furthered his education at the University of Ibadan, earning a bachelor’s degree in political science in 1978, followed by a master’s degree in international relations from the University of Lagos in 1981. He also holds a law degree from the University of Lagos (1986) and was called to the Nigerian Bar Association in 1987.
Professional Journey and Achievements
Adeyeye’s career began in teaching, with his National Youth Service at Isuikwuato High School, Imo State, and subsequently at Mary Immaculate Grammar School, Ado-Ekiti. He transitioned to journalism in 1981, joining the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) as Editor II and later held editorial positions at The Punch newspapers. Adeyeye then moved into legal practice, founding the law firm Dayo Adeyeye & Co., where he served as Principal Partner until 2000.
Adeyeye’s political career took off as a member of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), advocating for the end of military rule in Nigeria. He was the Director of Publicity for the Falae for President Campaign Organisation (1990-1992) and held advisory roles in various political campaigns. His notable contributions include serving as the Executive Chairman of Ekiti State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), where he earned the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) award for his innovative contributions to education in Ekiti State.
Political Contributions and Leadership Roles
Adeyeye’s political influence grew as he held several key positions, including Minister of State for Works under President Goodluck Jonathan from 2014 to 2015. He was also appointed Pro-Chancellor of Ekiti State University in 2015. Despite a controversial loss in the 2018 Ekiti Governorship primaries, Adeyeye continued to play a pivotal role in Nigerian politics. He successfully contested for the Ekiti South Senatorial District seat in the 2019 National Assembly elections, although his victory was later contested.
Currently, Adeyeye serves as the National Chairman of the Southwest Agenda for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (SWAGA), driving political strategy and advocacy within the APC. His leadership and dedication to public service have made him a respected figure in Nigerian politics, known for his commitment to educational reform, democratic governance, and socio-economic development.
