As Kwara Governor and Lai Mohammed Tussle Get Messier, Who Will Settle Their Fight?
In the days to come, particularly just before the 2023 general election and immediately after, Nigerians are definitely going to enjoy a deluge of home videos from Nollywood. Thanks to the comedies and tragedies playing out on the Nigerian political stage and across the most prominent political parties, there will be quality material for these film productions. Take for instance the ongoing tussle between the governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, and the Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed: is there any better award-winning sequence of histrionics?
On the long string of disagreements that now characterises the relationship between Governor AbdulRazaq and Minister Mohammed, the most recent incident has the governor accusing the minister of snatching funds that were supposed to have been used to smoothen his gubernatorial campaign in 2019.
According to AbdulRazaq, a businessman from the Southeastern region of Nigeria donated N100 million to support his campaign. One way or another, that sum reportedly came through Minister Mohammed. Unfortunately, as Governor AbdulRazaq alleged, the funds somehow disappeared after they had reached Minister Mohammed. The governor’s conclusion—and the cause of the latest contention—is that Minister Mohammed had simply pocketed the money.
This is likely the heaviest indictment that AbdulRazaq is throwing against Minister Mohammed. It is close on the heels of Minister Mohammed’s claim that he—and not some other person—singlehandedly sponsored the governor’s election in 2019. As both claims centre around the campaigns and election that resulted in AbdulRazaq taking over the governorship seat, folks have stated that the contest is really about who is the real godfather and captain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara State.
Analysts have stated that while both parties continue to throw slings at each other, 2023 is just around the corner. If their party must advance their objectives by way of succeeding President Muhammadu Buhari and keeping the Kwara State governorship mantle on the APC shelf, they need to sit over coffee, engage in a few hours of tête-à-tête, shake hands, and come out with arms around each other. The alternative is a complete loss which would significantly affect both of them.
But who will get Governor AbdulRazaq and Minister Mohammed on a reconciliatory sofa? Who will settle their fight?
Popular Lagos Socialite, Tajudeen Owoyemi, Wife Become Asiwaju and Yeye Asiwaju of Offa
Regardless of the twists and turns that usually characterise human life, there are times that one can only describe as auspicious for certain people. This is true for the notable baron of hospitality, Tajudeen Owoyemi who has now ascended beyond the ranks of his peers and obtained chieftaincy status. More than that, so propitious are the times for Owoyemi that his wife, Madam Riuanatu, clinched a title alongside her hubby.
Saturday, October 23, 2021, was a big day for the people of Offa, Kwara State. Spearheaded by the Olofa monarch, Oba Mufutau Mohammed Gbadamosi, Okikiola Ajagungbade I, Esuwoye II, all corners and clans of Offa witnessed Owoyemi and his wife go from generous commoners to Asiwaju and Yeye Asiwaju of Offa kingdom, respectively.
The decision of Oba Gbadamosi to accentuate the prestige of Owoyemi is pegged upon the latter’s many contributions to the welfare of the townspeople, not to mention the reputation of the kingdom. Thus, Owoyemi was handed the mantle, the third person to ever do so in the history of the town.
Among the many illustrious figures that witnessed the new Asiwaju’s coronation are the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi; the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi; Ikateland’s Oba Saheed Elegushi; the Oniru of Iruland, Oba Omogbolahan Lawal; and the Emir of Lafiagi in Kwara State, Mohammed Kudu.
Owoyemi has been something of a household name in recent years, especially. His story astounds and inspires in equal measure. After all, to go from being the son of a petty trader to obtaining hegemony in the hospitality sector is no small deal. Today, Owoyemi’s Avalon Intercontinental Nigeria Limited stands alongside top international luxury hotels in the country. But it is his philanthropy that has earned him the greatest expressions of appreciation back home.
It is a new day for Owoyemi and his wife. The many good deeds that can be traced to them have yielded a rank in their native land that will remain with them until the very end.
Flying With Pleasure: How Emmanuel Udom Changed the Face of Aviation Sector in Nigeria
The governor of Akwa Ibom State, Emmanuel Udom, continues to top the ranks for the most innovative personality among his peers. Compared to others, Udom can proudly announce that he gave wings to the people of his state during his tenure, granted them the gift of flight, and remained involved long enough to ensure the success of the enterprise. Moreover, his preferred style of administration — concerning the running of the airline — remains commendable in the face of obvious difficulties.
There have been many attempts recently to depreciate the endeavours of Akwa Ibom’s Number One Citizen. As governor of the Land of Promise, Udom has implemented his promise to establish an airline that will be overseen by the state government. Since the airline, Ibom Air, started operations in 2019, it has been praised as a milestone since Udom reportedly almost singlehandedly brought about its existence. Lately, however, there have been a few glitches in the system that got outsiders talking, going so far as to belittle Udom’s achievement in the aviation sector.
For those who follow new developments in the sector, Ibom Air recently started ‘wearing the colours’ of an airline from Egypt—Egyptair. This led to the false impression that Ibom Air had been taken over by — or at least suffered significant loss at the hands of — the Egyptian airline. For an airline that could be described as a forerunner among its peers in Nigeria, reputation is not a coin that is so easily trampled. These rumours attempted to do exactly that.
However, details about the involvement of Egyptair have resolved the inaccuracies. To quell the rumours, the management of Ibom Air explained that one of the airline’s aircraft was undergoing maintenance. Thus, to continue to adequately serve the Akwa Ibom people, an aircraft from Egyptair was brought in to fill the gap. And the rumours ended.
There is a moral for this narrative, and that is that Udom and his Ibom Air have enough clout to ‘borrow’ an aircraft from the state-owned flag carrier of Egypt. All to ensure that the people of Akwa Ibom never stop enjoying the benefits of Ibom Air, for that matter. If that is not Governor Udom redefining governance and aviation with equal dexterity, what is?
Kayode Ajulo Becomes Fellow UK Chartered Institute of Arbitrators
When Nigerians are good at something, they are really good at it. This is the thought that comes to the mind of many people at the news of notable lawyer and civil rights activist, Olukayode Abraham Ajulo joining the Fellowship of Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb). As Ajulo takes this very big step towards the peak of the legal representation career, neither his records and achievements nor his present status as CIArb Fellow appear as glorious as the limitless possibilities in the days to come.
CIArb is the United Kingdom’s professional organisation that is as prestigious as it is an effective establishment representing the interests of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) practitioners. As the organisation is backed by the royalty of the UK, Ajulo just went from being a brilliant but regular lawyer to being an honourable member of an association armed with globe-level resources and networks.
CIArb operates in 149 countries, has more than 21,500 members, and is one of the foremost bodies admired by ADR practitioners all over the world. By obtaining his membership, Ajulo proves that he is no ordinary lawyer, so all familiar designations do not sufficiently describe him any longer.
Ajulo’s achievement is all the more astounding considering that he obtained his Bachelor’s degree in Law from the University of Jos, Nigeria, graduated from the Nigerian Law School Abuja, and went back to the University of Jos for his Master of Laws degree. The only ‘outside’ academia addresses tied to his name are his PhD pursuits in the School of Law at Middlesex University, London, and a Diploma in International Commercial Arbitration from the University of Oxford. Talk about there being ‘gold in them thar hills.’
For Ajulo, proud CIArb Fellow, there is no better time than now.
Gbenga Ashafa Loves His Lagos Roots
Some periods and eras are dominated by certain individuals to the point of having such periods named after them. This is one of such times in Nigeria’s timeline and Senator Gbenga Ashafa is one of these individuals who is currently taking the nation by storm. This is particularly true in Lagos State, a place that has been described numerous times as one of the main roots of Ashafa.
In recent days, Ashafa has become synonymous with the sort of aggressive advancement that is only written about in history books. The man, just over a year since President Muhammadu Buhari appointed him as MD/CEO of the Federal Housing Authority (FHA) of Nigeria, has completely outshone his forebears and eclipsed his own record of past achievements. Even so, his love for his Lagos roots and people does not appear vulnerable to any wearing down.
Recently, Ashafa rocked the minds of many Lagosians when he implemented a part of his promise to restore the glory of FESTAC Town. This he did by handing over the six-acre stretch of land (that is Mechanic Village/Market) in the historic housing estate to artisans. By so doing, Ashafa has extended the lifeline of FESTAC Town by many years seeing as the housing estate used to be known for the variety of arts and cultural expressions.
Despite being a national figure, Ashafa is evidently still very concerned with the development of his town, especially the grassroots. His comment, during the handing-over ceremony about even mechanics and technicians being important links in the chain of development, demonstrated that Ashafa is the visionary his current accomplishments — as the most effective FHA boss in recent years — reveal him to be.
To surpass one’s origin and roots is good. To keep said origin and roots in mind even after exceeding them is even better. By this, folks are even more sure of the sort of man that Ashafa is.
Happy Times: Princess Rosula Mku-Atu Bags Honorary Award
These are happy times for Princess Rosula Osula Mku-Atu, the prominent philanthropist, property baroness and founder of the non-profit organisation, Rosula Foundation. A few days ago, Crescent University, Abeokuta, conferred on her the honorary Doctor of Science (Honoris Causa) award in Business Administration. Among her many recent courses of action and accomplishments, this is the biggest one yet.
The relatives and friends of Princess Mku-Atu are currently celebrating her latest milestone. A deluge of congratulatory messages is already pouring into her social media handles and home as her new status and designation distinguishes her as a phoenix among her peers. As one of the most outstanding personalities at present, the honorary title clearly fits her.
The honorary ceremony was held on Saturday, October 23, 2021, at the institution. Combining the 12th and 13th Convocation, the school awarded Princess Mku-Atu the honorary title along with other high-shelf figures like the Agura of Gbagura, Oba Saburi Babajide Bakre; the former Accountant-General of the country, Dr Mohammed Kyari Dikwa; and notable scholar, Sheikh Muhyideen NajimdeenAl-Kubra.
Being what she is, a stupendous philanthropist, Princess Mku-Atu also directed her NGO, the Rosula Foundation, to lay the foundation for the Rosula Academy building at the university during the convocation ceremony. For those who are familiar with the lady and her foundation, this is not much of a surprise, especially considering that the NGO is primarily targeted at ensuring an ever-increasing standard of life for the underprivileged via formal education, empowerment and humanitarian services.
Also, Princess Mku-Atu is celebrated for her achievements in the real estate sector. Most notable among these achievements are Nehemiah Grace Limited, Sharon Properties Limited, and Jezreel Grace Villa and Apartment Ltd. The success recorded by only these companies are indicative of Princess Mku-Atu’s expertise.
Based on the success of this and many other endeavours and grand philanthropic gestures, several institutions and organisations have recognised Princess Mku-Atu as a rare paragon. In 2020 alone, she received the Vanguard Woman Entrepreneur of the Year 2020, Tell Communication’s 20 Nigerian Women of Distinction, and Across Africa Distinguished Leadership and Development awards.
Truly, great times for the illustrious businesswoman from the Bini royal lineage.
Golden Era as Yemi Edun Turns 50
It must be said that many Nigerians residing outside the shores of the country are gradually taking over their respective domains. Yemi Edun, the genius with an impossibly all-embracing grasp of property evaluation and acquisition is one of these individuals. Recently, he clocked 50 years, joining other prominent Nigerians in the enviable golden club of affluence and influence.
To date, there are only a handful of Nigerians with the same volume of kismet as Edun. Beyond his business interests and success, none of which can be reasonably described as mediocre or run-of-the-mill, Edun’s brilliance relies on eclipsing expectations, reaching new heights with seemingly easy steps, and inspiring others to imitate his giant strides.
With such prestige, it was no surprise that several notable personalities residing in Nigeria dusted their international passports to join Edun as he celebrated his 50th birthday. Among these dignitaries were former First Bank boss, Bisi Onasanya; oil and gas mogul, Dan Ngerem; property tycoon, Otunba Yemi Saheed Lawal; former Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun; super journalist and publisher, Aare Dele Momodu; the boss of Vandrezzer FC, Joe Udofia; and other prominent characters like Ayo and Simbo Ojuroye of Bet Naija, Ambassador Sarafa Tunji, Amara Kanu, Bola Obileye, Ayo Oyatolu, Gboyega and Moji Fatimilehin, Dr Eke Agbai and Abdulrahman Esene.
To say that the celebrations were over the moon is an understatement. Edun did not only treat his guests to the best views around the famous River Thames but also had them wine and dine while enjoying live jazz music. Then there was the boat cruise around London, something that none of the guests will forget anytime soon.
Then again, Edun is not the typical businessman. With his interesting blend of firmness and flexibility, it is no surprise that he raised Daniel Ford International from the ground up, leading the company to become a top-shelf establishment for real estate ventures. What might come as a shocker— although it may not, considering that Edun is the subject of this discourse — is that he was able to dominate his peers and make the Power List 2022, marking him as one of the most influential Black people in the United Kingdom for the second time running. Surely, there is more to come.
Lagos Traffic Humbles Fayose
Who wants to be a millionaire? Then answer this question: who said that “Lagos traffic is no respecter of anyone? I had to take okada to Ikeja to avoid missing my flight?” If your answer is anything other than Ayodele Fayose, you lost the game. This is about the same excitement that met the news of Fayose, one of the most notable political figures in the country, hailing and boarding a commercial motorcycle (also known as okada).
The photos of the former governor of Ekiti State on a commercial motorcycle has got some Nigerians cackling with unrestrained laughter and others completely perplexed and wondering what to make of the incident. Nevertheless, memes are certainly going to emerge very soon carrying Fayose’s face as the characteristic conditions of Lagos city played a number on him.
By every indication, Fayose did not climb out of bed thinking to himself, “This is a good day to navigate the bustling streets of Lagos on okada.” No! Fayose made plans based on his itinerary, considering the thickness and depth of his pockets. But plans that Lagos traffic cannot rout do not exist. And that is how the former governor ended up depending on a motorcyclist to beat the traffic.
According to Fayose (kudos to him for aptly capturing the whole thing, pictures and all), hailing and boarding okada was the only method out of the hectic Lagos traffic. This traffic, as even he expressed with resignation, is no respecter of persons. It did not care that Fayose intended to board a flight for some very important meeting, nor that it was effectively levelling his status along with every other Lagosian stuck in the same jam.
Regardless, Fayose, being Fayose, took it all in stride and had his security aide sitting behind him on the motorcycle as they made their way out of the gridlock.
How Florence Ajimobi Became De Facto Leader in Oyo APC
Celebrated British philosopher and social reformer, John Stuart Mill said that “A party of order or stability, and a party of progress or reform, are both necessary elements of a healthy state of political life.” This comment is timely when placed in the frame of the goings-on in the Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), as the former party leader’s wife takes over her late husband’s position.
Since the state and party lost Senator Abiola Ajimobi to the cold hands of death on June 25, 2020, APC in Oyo State has gone through many twists and turns—so has the widow of the late Ajimobi, Madam Florence Ajimobi. However, based on recent reports, either the tumbles and power tussles have reached their end due to her emergence as Oyo APC de facto leader or they just began.
Factions are somewhat allowed within political parties. However, the smaller the scale of the party’s operation, the greater the calls for unification. This is to ensure that rifts do not appear at local levels since these could lead to fractures that collapse the party’s grassroots pillars. This is why the current crisis in Oyo APC is conspicuous. As insiders have reported, the state party is undergoing a severe baptism of internal fire. Nevertheless, Madam Florence’s arrival on the scene has cooled the flames somewhat.
The qualification of this de facto leader of Oyo APC is predicated on her late husband’s prestige and contributions to the state as a governor, senator and APC acting National Chairman before his death. Those that shared the late Ajimobi’s vision have, therefore, not hesitated to ask his wife to prop up the party in her husband’s stead. She has taken this task with enviable equanimity, prompting more high-ranking party members to join her wagon.
At least, this is one viewpoint of the state of things at Oyo APC. However, regardless of the viewpoint, including those insisting that Madam Florence hijacked the party and could bring about its downfall sooner than later, it is a fact that she is at the helm of affairs.
