The Salami Legacy: A Story of Sports, Service, Leadership and Enduring Relationships in Ibadan • ISCO Backs Arisekola for ‘Ibadan North Reps Bid’
When the history of Oyo State is discussed, particularly the rich sporting heritage of Ibadan, the name Lekan Salami remains one that resonates strongly with generations of sports lovers. His passion for sports development and his enduring association with Shooting Stars Football Club established a legacy that transcended his time and contributed significantly to the culture of football and sports in Ibadan and beyond.
The Lekan Salami legacy was subsequently carried forward in different ways by his son, Idowu Salami, of blessed memory, who carved out his own identity through his commitment to public service and his concern for the welfare of the people of Ibadan North.
Idowu Salami was widely associated with a desire to contribute to the social and political development of his community and sought opportunities to translate this commitment into public service.
Among his political aspirations was his interest in representing the people of the Ibadan North Federal Constituency. Although his political journey was ultimately cut short, his commitment to his ideals and the people he sought to serve remained an important part of his legacy.
The ISCO Legacy
One of the enduring structures associated with Idowu Salami was the Idowu Salami Campaign Organisation (ISCO). Over the years, the organisation developed a formidable network of supporters and coordinators across Ibadan North.
Under the leadership of Hon. Dayo Adeniyi and Hon. Muyiwa Bhadmos (Ribadu), the organisation maintained its structure and relationships even after the passing of Idowu Salami. Its continued existence became a reflection of the bonds, values and relationships established during his lifetime.
Beyond politics, ISCO represents a story of friendship, loyalty, organisation and continuity, a network built around a shared connection to the ideals and aspirations that Idowu Salami represented.
A Relationship Rooted in Ibadan’s History
The relationship between the Salami family and the Arisekola Alao family is another important dimension of this story. For decades, the two families have shared a relationship that forms part of the broader social history of Ibadan.
Such relationships have often extended beyond individual generations, reflecting the deep networks of family, friendship, business, community engagement and public service that have helped shape the city’s history.
Idowu Salami and Farouk Umar Arisekola Alao
Idowu Salami also maintained a relationship with Farouk Umar Arisekola Alao, whom he regarded with considerable confidence and respect.
This relationship became particularly significant during the 2018 Ibadan North House of Assembly primaries, when Idowu Salami supported the emergence of Farouk Umar Arisekola Alao and expressed his willingness to contribute his resources and network to the process.
While circumstances ultimately took the political journey in a different direction, the episode remains part of the history of the relationships and political engagements that shaped Ibadan North during that period.
In this regard, the ISCO team is pledging their full and unwavering support for Farouk Umar Arisekola-Alao as he proceeds to the poll, contesting for the seat of an honorable member of the National Assembly.”We stand by you in the same winning spirit and will do all we have in our power to ensure victory across all the 12 wards of Ibadan North LGA. All our coordinators across the wards are set to hit the road running and, Insha’Allah, victory is certain.
A Legacy That Endures
The continuation of these relationships through succeeding generations demonstrates an important feature of Ibadan’s heritage: the ability of values, friendships and community connections to endure beyond individuals and across generations.
The names may change, generations may come and go, but the legacy of service, commitment and community remains.
