Where Is Dimeji Bankole NOW ?

Dimeji Bankole, the former speaker of the House of Representatives, has been a prominent figure in Nigerian politics for over two decades. However, in recent years, he has maintained a relatively low profile, leaving many to wonder: where is Dimeji Bankole?

Early Life and Education

Born on November 14, 1969, in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Dimeji Bankole hails from a prominent political family. His father, Alani Bankole, was a senator during the Second Republic. Bankole’s early life was marked by academic excellence, and he went on to study political science at the University of Lagos.

Rise to Prominence

Bankole’s entry into politics was facilitated by his family’s influence and his charisma. He was elected as a member of the House of Representatives in 2003, representing the Abeokuta South Federal Constituency. His leadership skills and oratory prowess quickly earned him recognition, and he became the Deputy Chief Whip of the House.

In 2007, Bankole’s colleagues elected him as the Speaker of the House of Representatives, a position he held until 2011. During his tenure, he played a crucial role in shaping Nigeria’s legislative agenda, advocating for good governance, and promoting the interests of his constituents.

Achievement as Speaker Federal House of Representatives. 

Dimeji Bankole, the former Speaker of the House of Representatives, has a notable record of achievements during his tenure from 2007 to 2011. Some of his key accomplishments include:

Recovery of Unspent Funds: Bankole ensured that federal ministries, departments, and agencies returned unspent budgeted funds, totaling around ₦1.3 trillion, to the government treasury during his four-year tenure as Speaker.

Passage of Key Legislation: Under his leadership, the House of Representatives passed significant bills, including the Fiscal Responsibility Act and the Freedom of Information Act, which promoted transparency and good governance.

Termination of Inflated Contracts: Bankole’s tenure saw the investigation and termination of the inflated ₦64 billion contract for the second runway at the Nnamdi Azikwe Airport in Abuja .

Promoting Accountability: He suspended 11 members of parliament indefinitely for disorderliness and fighting in the house, demonstrating his commitment to maintaining order and accountability.

Mentorship and Leadership Development: Bankole handpicked and mentored young, competent individuals, some of whom went on to become senators, representatives, and ministers, demonstrating his investment in future leadership 

Controversies and Challenges

Bankole’s tenure as Speaker was not without controversy. He faced allegations of corruption, including the misuse of public funds and the awarding of contracts to cronies. Although he denied these allegations, they tarnished his reputation and contributed to his eventual downfall.

In 2011, Bankole lost his bid for re-election as Speaker, and he subsequently withdrew from active politics. The reasons for his withdrawal are unclear, but it is speculated that he faced intense pressure from his party and the government to step down.

Personal Life

Dimeji Bankole divorced his first wife, Olaitan Bankole in 2017. This made him a much sought after bachelor in the circle of eligible spinsters within and outside Nigeria for a while. He got married again on 15 January 2021, to Miss Aisha Shinkafi Saidu, according to Islamic rights.

The wedding was held at Harrow Park, Ahmadu Bello Way, Abuja and it had in attendance several prominent figures including Aminu Tambuwal the current governor of Sokoto state. Nigerian musicians Laycon and Timi Dakolo were also present at the event and they thrilled guests with lovely music.

His bride Miss Aisha Shinkafi Saidu is the step-daughter of the former state governor of Kebbi State, Abubakar Atiku Bagudu. She is a lawyer and graduate of the University of Hull in the UK. She is a granddaughter of late political heavyweight and onetime head of Nigeria’s security organisation Alhaji Umaru Shinkafi, Marafan Sokoto and her mother is Shinkafi’s daughter and a sister to the former Governor of Zamfara State, Mahmud Shinkafi

Current Whereabouts

So, where is Dimeji Bankole today? Sources close to the former Speaker indicate that he has been living a private life, focusing on his business interests and family. Although he has maintained a low profile, Bankole is rumored to be involved in behind-the-scenes politics, advising politicians and business leaders.

His absence and silence have caused fans and admirers of Oladimeji to question his whereabouts. 

In a Facebook post by Caleb Fumnaya, he stated.

How many of you remember this man Hon. Dimeji Bankole?

Former House of Reps Speaker during late Yaradua’s tenure. 

One of his major achievements was spearheading and making sure that the Freedom of Information Act (FOI) bill was passed into law. 

Remains the youngest Speaker that Nigeria has ever produced at the age of 37 years old, he is Very smart, intelligent, and eloquent.  

He’s one of my favorite legislators in Nigeria. 

While in secondary school then, I always went to a newspaper stand to read about Nigerian politics and he’s always in the news for the right reasons. 

Man made me like white native kaftan so much .

I’m still wondering why he’s no longer active in Nigerian politics today. 

What can you remember Him today?”

Business Ventures

Bankole has invested in various business ventures, including real estate, agriculture, and energy. He is the chairman of the Bankole Group, a conglomerate with interests in several sectors. Although the exact nature of his business dealings is unclear, it is reported that he has been successful in his entrepreneurial endeavors.

Legacy

Dimeji Bankole’s legacy is complex and multifaceted. As Speaker, he played a crucial role in shaping Nigeria’s legislative agenda and promoting good governance. However, his tenure was also marked by controversy and allegations of corruption.

In recent years, Bankole has maintained a low profile, focusing on his business interests and family. Although he has seem to have withdrawn from active politics since after stepping down for Prsident Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the 2022 APC Presidential primary elctions, his legacy continues to shape Nigeria’s political landscape.

Dimeji Bankole’s rise to prominence was meteoric, but his fall from grace was equally dramatic. Although he has withdrawn from active politics, his legacy continues to shape Nigeria’s political landscape. As the country navigates its current challenges, many wonder what role Bankole might play in shaping its future.

Only time will tell if Dimeji Bankole will re-emerge as a major player in Nigerian politics. Until then, his whereabouts remain a subject of speculation and intrigue.