Alhaji Adebisi Clarifies Origin of ‘Olopoeyan’ Name, Speaks on Party Defections

Ibadan, Nigeria – May 18, 2025 — Renowned Oyo State politician, Alhaji Rasheed Adebisi, popularly known as Olopoeyan, has revealed that the name “Olopoeyan” was not part of his original identity but a nickname conferred upon him by the late political icon, Alhaji Lamidi Adedibu.

Speaking during a live interview on Fresh FM radio on Sunday morning, Alhaji Adebisi explained that his real name is simply Alhaji Rasheed Adebisi. He stated that it was the late Adedibu, often regarded as the father of modern-day grassroots politics in Oyo State, who coined the name “Olopoeyan” for him after observing the large number of supporters he commanded in the state’s political landscape.

“In truth, my surname is not Olopoeyan. That name was given to me by Baba Adedibu. He used to say that I moved around with so many followers and supporters that it was impossible to ignore me,” Adebisi explained. “‘Olopoeyan’ in Yoruba means ‘a man with many followers,’ and it simply stuck from then on.”

During the same program, Adebisi also weighed in on the growing trend of political defections from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). While he acknowledged that cross-carpeting is not unusual in Nigerian politics, he was critical of some politicians who switch parties without clear grievances.

“Politics is dynamic, and people can move if they feel cheated or sidelined,” he said. “However, when politicians defect from the PDP to the APC without any conflict or dissatisfaction, it raises questions about their integrity. In such cases, one can rightly call them political thieves.”

Alhaji Adebisi’s remarks have sparked fresh debate within the political circles of Oyo State, especially as political realignments continue ahead of the 2027 general elections. Known for his grassroots mobilization strength and vocal advocacy within the PDP, Adebisi remains a formidable figure in Oyo State’s political affairs.

Observers believe his comments may be a subtle warning to party members contemplating defection and a reaffirmation of his loyalty to the PDP, even amid internal party challenges.

As Nigeria’s political landscape continues to evolve, such revelations and candid opinions from veteran politicians like Alhaji Rasheed Adebisi add deeper context to the narratives shaping the nation’s democracy.