Michael Opeyemi Bamidele CON (popularly known as MOB), born on July 29, 1963, is a distinguished Nigerian lawyer, human rights activist, and politician.
He currently serves as the Majority Leader of the Nigerian Senate, a position he has held since 2023. He has been representing Ekiti Central Senatorial District in the Nigerian Senate since 2019.
Early Life and Education
Bamidele was born in Iyin Ekiti, Ekiti State, but spent his formative years in Lagos State. He attended Baptist Academy secondary school and later Obafemi Awolowo University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in religious studies.
He went on to study law at the University of Benin, graduating in 1990, and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1992. He furthered his legal education at Franklin Pierce University, United States of America, where he obtained a master’s degree in law and was called to the New York Bar in January 1999.
Legal and Political Career
Bamidele began his legal career as one of the defence counsel for Moshood Abiola during his treason trial, led by Chief Godwin Olusegun Kolawole Ajayi. His political journey started with his participation in the 1992 primary elections for the Federal House of Representatives under the Social Democratic Party, though he did not win.
He served as Special Assistant on Legal Matters to Senator Bola Tinubu until Nigeria’s democratic process was interrupted by General Sani Abacha in 1993. Bamidele’s political career in Lagos State saw him hold several key positions:
Senior Special Assistant on Political and Intergovernmental Relations (July 2000 – May 2003)
Commissioner for Youth, Sports, and Social Development (July 2003 – May 2007)
Commissioner for Information and Strategy (July 2007 – February 2011)
Legislative Career
In 2011, Bamidele was elected to the 7th National Assembly, representing Ekiti Central Federal Constituency 1.
During his tenure, he became known for his critical stance on political issues, including his article in March 2015, “My Hatred for Asiwaju Bola Tinubu,” where he criticised the controversial documentary, “The Lion of Bourdilion.”
Recent Achievements
In October 2022, Bamidele was honoured with the national title of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) by President Muhammadu Buhari, recognising his contributions to Nigerian politics and governance.
Key Positions and Honours
Member of the House of Representatives (June 2011 – June 2015)
Fellow, Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (Nigeria)
Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) – 2022
Michael Opeyemi Bamidele’s career reflects his dedication to legal practice, human rights advocacy, and significant contributions to Nigerian politics, particularly in legislative leadership and public service.
Stephen Ikechukwu Onyekwelu
“In the practical use of our intellect, forgetting is as important as remembering.” William James
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