The HKT Family and Friends Group on December 24, 2025, held its annual end-of-year celebration, marking over two decades of sustained political and social engagement despite its standard bearer no longer holding public office.
The event, which drew party faithful, community leaders, and political stakeholders from across Ajeromi-Ifelodun and environs, featured social interactions and notable innovations, including a Medical Outreach Programme and Financial Support for families of deceased members.
The event day was preceded by the group’s annual prayer meeting at 27 Imam Street, which then transitioned into a Community Medical Outreach. During this outreach, residents were screened for various ailments and provided with immediate medical advice and assistance.
In a gesture described by attendees as rare in political circles, the group also presented financial support to each family of late former members of the group to support them during the yuletide season. Beneficiaries expressed appreciation for what they described as the group’s uncommon show of compassion.
Speaking about the event, the Leader of the 6th Legislative Arm of Ifelodun LCDA and the only Councilor produced by the group, Hon. Ilesanmi Elijah Oluwatosin, described the 2025 celebration as “a product of consistency, determination, hard work, and structural sustainability.”
According to him, the annual gathering, sustained by Hon. Kolawole Musbau Taiwo, serves as a platform for political associates, old and new friends, to reconnect socially, celebrate the season, and give thanks to God.
“The event reflects Hon. Taiwo’s continued commitment to the well-being of his political family and the creation of an atmosphere that promotes unity, understanding, and social cohesion among like-minded individuals,” Oluwatosin said.
Chairman of the group, Mr. Ezekiel O. Taiwo, said this year’s celebration was one of the most successful in the group’s history, highlighting two major changes that enhanced participants’ experience.
He explained that the decision to move the event from its usual Army Barracks venue allowed guests to enjoy the programme for longer hours in a more relaxed environment. He also noted that the absence of high-profile musical acts did not diminish the event, as attendees freely enjoyed a variety of music and entertainment.
Mr. Taiwo praised Hon. Kolawole Taiwo’s creativity and innovative contributions, especially to Ajeromi- Ifelodun politics and Lagos state at large, noting that several initiatives pioneered by the group’s standard bearer had since been adopted by others, like Car gifts.
The chairman also used the occasion to urge public office holders to adopt a more inclusive approach to party support, particularly towards less-privileged members. He cautioned against concentrating large sums of money on a few beneficiaries who have already gained from the system, noting that modest assistance to grassroots members could help many establish small businesses and earn sustainable livelihoods.
Also speaking, Comrade Ganiu Ajide Agbalaya, a Media Aide to Hon. Kolawole Taiwo, who served as Master of Ceremony at the occassion described the event as an avenue for political actors to set aside differences and celebrate life.
A foundation member of the group and a political leader in Ifelodun LCDA, Hon. AbdulFatah Ibn Hamzat, said the 2025 edition stood out for its inclusiveness, extended duration and diverse entertainment adding that the newly introduced welfare support for families of deceased members was a commendable initiative that would be improved upon in subsequent editions. “this 2025 edition of the end-of-year party stole the show in entire Ajeromi- Ifelodun, offering a diverse musical lineup and scintillating Hype man Joezzy proficiency thrilled attendees, a departure from previous editions featuring single-artist performances, in fact, we enjoyed ourselves,” he concludes.
The event attracted several political leaders and community stakeholders, including representatives of local and state government officials, traditional leaders, party executives, and allied political groups across Ajeromi-Ifelodun.
Organisers said the large turnout and peaceful atmosphere reaffirmed the group’s enduring influence and relevance within the local political landscape.
Top dignitaries at the event included members of the Ifelodun G17, led by Hon. Taiwo Oyewole Adenekan; Chief Mrs Kolawole Dasola, the very supportive wife of Hon Kolawole Taiwo; Hon. Lukmon Sa’ad Olumoh; Hon. Abdulbaqi Oladimeji Balogun; Hon. Kamal Bayewu; and Hon. Mayor Olu Akindipe Olamilekan, Chairman of Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government.
Others were Hon. Fatai Ajidagba; Hon. Mufutau Adewale Egberongbe, a former member of the House of Representatives and the Lagos State House of Assembly; Hon. Olawale Ariyo, popularly known as Megida; Hon. Olugbenga Ayorinde, Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations; and Engr. Hon. Wahab Adigun, amongst many others
