Biography
Richard Olufemi Bamisile (BAFEM) is a Nigerian politician currently representing Ekiti South II Constituency in the Federal House of Representatives. Known for his grassroots political influence, Bamisile previously served as the Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly from 2007 to 2009, where he played a pivotal role in legislative leadership.
Early Life and Education:
Born on September 27, 1965, in Ibadan, Oyo State, Bamisile hails from a royal lineage, with his father serving as the Elekota of Kota-Omuo (now Kota-Ekiti). His educational journey began at Mayflower School, Ikenne, and continued at Government College, Lagos. He pursued higher education in Political Science at the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University) but relocated to the United Kingdom following his father’s death. In London, he earned a Diploma in Networking and Data Processing from Eden College. Later, he obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and a Master’s in Public Sector Governance from Ekiti State University, where he is currently pursuing a PhD.
Political Career:
Bamisile's political career began in 2001 as a Special Adviser on Internally Generated Revenue at Surulere Local Government, Lagos. He gained prominence in Ekiti politics in 2003 as a Liaison Officer of Ekiti House in Lagos and won a seat in the Ekiti State House of Assembly in 2007, where he eventually became Speaker.
Over the years, Bamisile has held several strategic roles, including as Acting Chairman of the Ekiti State Sports Commission, Special Assistant (General Duties) to the Governor, and a member of various committees, such as the Ekiti State Transition Committee and Gubernatorial Strategy Committee.
A dynamic politician, Bamisile left the PDP in 2014 to support the APC and played an active role in the campaigns of former Governor Kayode Fayemi and President Muhammadu Buhari. He was a gubernatorial aspirant in the APC primaries for the 2018 and 2019 elections, further solidifying his influence in Ekiti State politics.
Known for his commitment to public service and grassroots engagement, Bamisile continues to advocate for his constituents in the House of Representatives, focusing on legislative reforms and sustainable development for Ekiti State.