Ikorodu, Lagos – November 1, 2025
Bldr. Adeola Adebisi Banjo, the immediate past Chairman of Ikorodu North Local Council Development Area (LCDA), on Saturday honoured Honourable Babajimi Adegoke Benson, Member of the House of Representatives representing Ikorodu Federal Constituency, with a symbolic frame titled “By Their Hands, We Rose.” In a stirring gathering that resonated with emotion, gratitude, and shared vision.
The event, held in Ikorodu, celebrated Rep. Benson’s humility, transformative leadership, and unwavering commitment to the progress of the Ikorodu Division.
The commemorative frame, according to Banjo, represents a collective acknowledgment of Benson’s hands-on contributions to governance and his enduring impact on the lives of the people.
Dignitaries at the gathering included Bldr. Olusesan Daini, former Chairman of Igbogbo Baiyeku LCDA; former Majority Leader Hon. Balikis Aderoju Ibrahim; SLG Niyi Odugbese; Hon. Basirat Babatunde; Comrade Adekoya Tunde; Ikorodu North’s Women Leaders; Prince Abiodun Banjo; and Mr. Babatunde Olowu, among others.
Dr. Banjo transcended political affiliations, speaking from a place of deep admiration and gratitude.
He described Hon. Benson as “a leader whose presence feels like prophecy” and “a son of Ikorodu whose service has redefined governance as an act of stewardship, not self-interest.”
“Today, I stand before you not as one who speaks of power, but as one who has been privileged to witness its purest form — service,” Banjo declared. “Leadership, in its truest form, is measured not by authority, but by compassion and conviction.”
He praised the lawmaker’s quiet yet impactful style, noting that Benson has consistently prioritized people-oriented projects — from road rehabilitation and empowerment schemes to educational and healthcare interventions — that have changed the face of Ikorodu Division.
“He did not wear Ikorodu like a cloak; he bore her like a calling,” Banjo said passionately. “He lit lamps where our paths had forgotten light, gave our elders bread and dignity, and answered the broken tar of our roads with smoothness and purpose.”
“He brought governance down from the clouds and made it sit among the people — at their tables, in their markets, and in their weary sighs.”
Describing Benson’s leadership as “a movement born out of compassion and vision,” Banjo noted that his name has become a symbol of hope across Isiwu, Imota, Ijede, and Baiyeku.
He also creatively captured Benson’s attributes in an acronym, describing him as “Extremely Resilient, Extra Resourceful, and Efficiently Responsible,” as well as “Enduringly Rooted, Earnestly Responsive, and Ethically Respected.”
“You did not chase credit; you chased impact,” Banjo told Benson. “Through your example, Ikorodu has seen that leadership is not about applause, but accountability — not about privilege, but purpose.”
Presenting the symbolic frame, Banjo emphasized that “By Their Hands, We Rose” is more than a token of appreciation; it is a declaration of gratitude for Benson’s enduring legacy.
“This is not merely a decoration,” he said. “It is a declaration that we recognize the hands that helped us rise. Thank you for showing us that service is still sacred and that greatness is still possible.”
The highlight of the event came when Mr. Babatunde Olowu unveiled a book presented to Rep. Benson, linking the presentation to the Spirit of ER — an initiative celebrating excellence and resilience in leadership.
Olowu spoke poetically about “ER” as a philosophy born from Nigeria’s spirit of endurance and transformation.
“There are moments when a people rise to name what they already know to be true — when the spirit of a nation finds voice in a single word. Today, that word is ER,” he declared.
He described ER as the invisible force behind courage, character, and conscience — traits embodied by Hon. Babajimi Benson.
“We honour Representative Babajimi Adegoke Benson not for titles but for truth and transformation,” Olowu said. “In his conduct, ER has found meaning, and in his service, it has found a story.”
He further revealed that Hon. Benson would soon be unveiled as the Face of ER Nigeria at a forthcoming national celebration, which will feature the launch of a new book titled “We Know He Cares” and a performance of the newly revised Asiwaju’s Anthem in his honour.
Visibly moved by the outpouring of admiration, Rep. Benson expressed gratitude for Banjo’s tribute and reaffirmed his commitment to service.
“I should be the one thanking you,” Benson said warmly. “We have fought many battles together, and seeing that your people still stand firmly with you shows that you did well.”
“It is a testament to your leadership and the impact you’ve made in your community.” Rep. Benson added
INN-HOUSE☆ 