INTELLECTUAL ROUNDTABLE BOOK UNVEILED
The latest book written by Seye Adetunmbi, the prolific writer, has been unveiled. The book is titled Intellectual Roundtable: Seminal Essays and Reflections on the Informed Discourse of Professionals and the Debates of Technocrats in Credible Intellectual forums. It was formally made available to the public on August 13, 2025 when it was published on Amazon. The 14th book of the serial author has 26 chapters in six sections. The ideological corpus is pictorial and loaded with the extracts of the best moments in three of the intellectual roundtables the credible ideologue convened in the past two decades.The book is available in kindle, paper back and hardcover through these links
Paper Back
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FMFPW1XD/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?crid=2B4SYABRGFK71&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.-zhggCzEMRTxQxBD0uY8iGRC_vh7z_8yRbDXDt8lEWkn1asXpQC9_IL8e01bedIBG0JTIQkWDp9RnNT5OLZE8g.vny_13nX9EAubaRXJLWqXwpanLvOeJi8H5OsDKUVfAo&dib_tag=se&keywords=intellectual+roundtable&qid=1755185310&sprefix=intellectual+roundtable%2Caps%2C87&sr=8-3
Hard Cover
https://www.amazon.com/stores/Seye-Adetunmbi/author/B08537XRYY?ref_=pe_1724030_132998070&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true
Kindle
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FM8KR39P
It is yet another excellent work of an integrity personified author, published by Mindscope Africa for those who collect good books in their library.
HIS ROYAL MAJESTY OBA LUYI ROTIMI (1938-2025)
The statement signed by Prince Lanre Rotimi, the eldest child and first male son of Oba Luyi Rotimi is quoted thus:
QUOTE
The palace and family of Oba Luyi Rotimi FCA London, the Olujigba of Ijigba with deep sense submission to God, announce the passing away of our monarch. The monarch passed away at the wee hour of Tuesday, 22nd April 2025, at the ripe age of 87.
He was appointed Olu of Ijigba by Oba Adebiyi Adesida the then Deji of Akure on 6th February, 2012 land and was upgraded to crown Oba on 24th August, 2022 by the then Governor of Ondo State Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu.
He was a former Managing Director of National Bank and an Assistant Director General of Nigeria Stock Exchange.
The monarch passed away after a brief illness at Federal Medical Centre, Owo.
UNQUOTE
My heartfelt sympathy goes to my friend, Prince Lanre Rotimi, and his siblings on the transition of their beloved father.
HRM, Oba Luyi Rotimi, was a brilliant Chartered accountant and a quintessential technocrat.
It is delightful for me to state that I "cut my teeth" in investment banking in 1990 as a young corporate finance manager under his tutelage as the Chairman/CEO of Silver Financial Services Limited (Member of NSE) when we handled a major divestiture of Ondo-State Government in Araromi Aiyesan Oil Palm PLC through a private placement. It was my first major practical corporate finance assignment, fresh from MBA school.
The technical and meticulous manner he took me through the valuation of the holdings of the major international investor in the then IMB PLC when we were given the mandate to see through the divestiture, remains indelible in my mind.
He also tasked with the assignment of the floating the first community bank in Lagos-Island, 3i (Isale-Eko, Idumota & Idumagbo) Community Bank which was initiated by him and promoted by Silver Financial Services.
He was among the very few distinguished Nigerians I was privileged to work with through whom I learned a lot and garnered a considerable knowledge on my professional calling within a short space of time.
He was a fine gentleman and a remarkable man of style. I admired him and he was always happy to see me whenever we met. He was also interested in my progress.
May his gentle soul rest in peace, amen.
Seye Adetunmbi
EKITIPANUPO IS 20
The tested indigenous intellectual roundtable of repute, Ekitipanupo Forum will be 20 years old on March 6, 2025. The resourceful intellectual platform and a persistent progressive socio-political group has been able to sustain over the years to remain trusted voice and the conscience of the poor masses without any blemish. Considering the fact that the 20th anniversary falls on a working day, the Executive Council (EXCO) of Ekitipanupo under the sublime leadership of alagba Gabriel Akinyemi resolved to mark the milestone with a reunion conference of members, virtually on the anniversary day from 6 to 8 pm Nigeria time. This timing was chosen in order to accommodate as many as possible Ekitipanupo members globally.
The other members of the EXCO are: Mrs Fola Richie-Adewusi, Deputy Leader; the General Secretary, Bode Babalola; Ayo Olaleye, Deputy Secretary; Legal Adviser, Miss Oludayo Olorunfemi; Wilson Agbaje Ojo, PRO; Deputy PRO, Tunde Oso; Chief Victor Adewusi - Envoy, USA; Caleb Arogundade, Envoy, UK; and Tunde Jegede - Envoy, Canada
Having devoted most of the past events to Ekiti socio-political issues, this 20th anniversary celebration is dedicated to all the members of the forum and the Nigerian public.
Consequently, the first session of the 20th anniversary conference will be a talk on healthcare by Prof Laofe Ogundipe. Dr. Dokun Adedeji will lead other public intellectuals of repute to discuss things that can be done differently from the status quo to make life more abundant for the majority of Nigerians through good leadership and plausible purpose driven government. The discussants include: Adedapo Osanyinbi, Mrs Bunmi Fatoye-Matory, Mrs Adeola Adaramola, Dr Sina Fagbenro-Byron, and Basorun Segun Sanni.
Ekitipanupo was formally convened on March 6, 2005 by Seye Adetunmbi, the convener of Capital market Roundtable in Nigeria, the Okanlomo of Ikole-Ekiti and the Eletolua of Ifisin-Ekiti. The primary objective of the socio-political group is to bring resourceful Ekiti indigenes together towards deploying their intellect for the good of their kinsmen.
To register for participation, send an email to ekitipanupo@gmail.com or a Whatsapp message to +2348077757944.
DIAMOND JUBILEE: JKF
60th birthday anniversary is a milestone! Dr John Kayode Fayemi is celebrated as he joins the diamond age today February 9, 2025.🎂 🥳 He was onetime the governor of Ekiti-State. Happy Diamond Jubilee to JKF, a smart politician and a tested public servant. https://mindscopeafrica.blogspot.com/2018/04/jk-fayemi.html?m=1
THE PUBLIC INTELLECTUAL: DR. DOKUN ADEDEJI AT 70
No doubt, we have quite a number of public intellectuals in Nigeria. What we don't have in large numbers are public intellectuals of repute who, come rain or shine, they are as constant as the northern start on the side of the truth and what is honourable. One of the few consistent progressive public intellectuals in this category is Dr Dokun Adedeji a.k.a. Doksie of Christ’s School fame👏 It is my hope one day to do a more detailed write up to celebrate oga Doksie as a remarkable brilliant mind, a unique man of integrity who will neither applaud nor associate with the cant and the chicanery.
To attest to the fact he is a highly cerebral public intellectual, here are extracts of his commentaries in some intellectual communities that I have been privileged to be part of, with him as a leading light in the online interactive platforms. It will take a book to capture most of his rich engagements in the public debates over the years. This is just a tip of the iceberg.
Dr Dokun Adedeji wrote:
QUOTE 1
Yeah, it's now the talking point after the current #endbadgovernance protests, ending bad citizenship! Buzz words are our specialities. No meaning or purpose but just words! My question is, who will spearhead the fight? Who will be the rallying point? I hasten to say that unless someone or a few of this thieving class decide to commit class suicide and lead the war, it ain't gonna happen. The saddest part of of our deceit and hypocrisy is that if elections are held today, these same crowd of political vultures and carpetbaggers, will return in triumph! We love our chains even though we complain about their tightness. We nurse them like bangles! Las las we will be alright sha.
Doksie
QUOTE 2
Egbon,
With due respects, this is probably your best piece since you have been writing about President Tinubu. Many before now were simply adulation fit for the campaigns! Sir, I will rather that Mr. Tinubu starts from disavowing the obscenely humongous severance package accorded him and other Governors or public officials, which make hardworking Nigerians who have worked for many years but struggle till death comes, to collect what rightly belonged to them.
Thereafter, he will reflect the same courage to deal with the political parasites that inhabit our nation space. I hope he can summon the courage to leave himself a legacy unfortunately shunned by Mr Obasanjo and those after him. I wish him the best of luck in this quest.
If we can do the above, it will not be difficult to trim the presidential fleet and cut down on the convoys of office on our roads.
Egbon, if you have his ears, whisper these to him because they may not let him read distasteful stuffs like your piece!
Doksie
UNQUOTE
If you are looking for an intellectual who will say it as it is, you can count on Dr Dokun Adedeji.
Dr Adedeji is one of the distinguished products of Christ’s School Ado-Ekiti who are very passionate about sustaining the legacy of the school.
He is a man with a good heart and a jolly good fellow.
Happy platinum jubilee to you, sir🎂 🥳 🎉 🎈 🎁 🎊
As'eyi s'amodun, sir.
1A
OLUROPO DADA: 13th President of the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers
Oluropo Dada, FCS, FCIB, MCIS, emerged as the 13th president of the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS) of Nigeria. He was elected the President and Chairman of the Governing Council of the foremost professional body in the Nigerian capital market at the 29th AGM of the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers, held on the 30th of April 2024. He was the immediate past 1st Vice-President of the CIS, after serving as the 2nd Vice-President of the Institute. 
Ropo Dada is a tested banker and a successful chartered stockbroker. Subsequent to qualifying as a dealing clerk of the Nigerian Exchange Limited (NGX), he worked as a top management staff of Anchoria Investment & Securities Limited. Also, he worked as a senior management staff of Marina International Bank Limited, which later merged with Access Bank PLC, where he was the Group Head of Capital Market and the General Manager/Chief Operating Officer of Marina Securities Limited, now part of Coronation Securities Limited.
He is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (FCS), a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (FCIB), a member of the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment (MCSI), United Kingdom and a Member of the Chartered Institute of Directors, (C-IOD) of Nigeria.
He attended University of Lagos between 1985 and 1988 where he obtained a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration and a Master in Business Administration (MBA). He is also a product of Leeds Business School, of the Leeds Beckett University, United Kingdom, where he obtained a Master’s degree in Corporate Governance.
He co-founded Network Capital Limited, a dealing member of the Nigerian Exchange Limited and he is the pioneer Chief Executive Officer of the highly proficient financial intermediary service company in Nigeria.
Ropo, a distinguished professional of repute who has assumed duty as leader of the "pride of city gentlemen" in Nigeria is a native of Aiyede-Ekiti, a prominent member of Ekitipanupo Forum and one of the accomplished practitioners in the Capital Market Roundtable of Nigeria.
Congratulations and have a fruitful tenure in office. 🎊 👏 💐 🥳 🎊 🍾🥂
1
CIS PRESENTS THE HISTORY OF CAPITAL MARKET IN NIGERIA
"It is a true historical book on the Nigerian
capital market. The compendium was based on the first-hand narratives of some
of the frontline practitioners in the market. It was compiled by the Chartered
Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS), the foremost stock market’s professional body
in Nigeria. CIS was established through the Act of Law in 1992 and Dr Gamaliel
Onosode, the renowned “Mr Integrity” became the pioneer president of the prime
professional institute in the Nigerian capital market. The book will serve as a
useful learning text for students of securities, investments, finance,
economics and general capital market studies. This is certainly a laudable
initiative and the CIS is commended for sponsoring this unique publication on
the history of capital market in Nigeria." -
Seye Adetunmbi FCS, MCISI, Proprietor, Mindscope Africa
VENERABLE ENGR. P.B. OYEBOLU 1930-2024
Baba, the distinguished engineer of repute, Venerable Phillip Bolude Oyebolu passed on Saturday January 13, 2024. For a detailed write up on him, visit
He was survived by his beloved wife, Mrs Fibisola Oyebolu and children - Tomiwa, Bolade, Sola, Yetunde and Funmilayo.
May his gentle soul rest in peace, amen.
RECLAIMING THE JEWEL OF AFRICA FOR PUBLIC PRESENTATION IN ABUJA
All is now set for the public presentation of zi best-seller book, RECLAIMING THE JEWEL OF AFRICA, the book written by Olusegun Aganga, onetime a Federal Minister, in the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The book launch will be held at Shehu Musa Yar' adua Centre, Abuja on the 24th of July, 2023 at 10 a.m. The Special Guest of Honour is His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, onetime President of Nigeria, will deliver the keynote address, while Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, a former President of Nigeria, is the Chairman of the occasion.
Segun Aganga is a technocrat par excellence, having worked for two leading institutions in accounting and investment banking for three decades, in the United Kingdom, and had always been driven by values over the years. He was born in Lagos and he is a product of Christ’s School, Ado-Ekiti, University of Ibadan and University of Oxford. In 2006, he founded the Nigerian Leadership Initiative to bring together some of the most accomplished and credible Nigerians in the diaspora and Nigeria to play a transformative role in Nigeria. . From Goldman Sachs, London where he was a Managing Director, he joined the public service on the 6th of April in 2010 as the federal Minister for Finance and Chairman of the Economic Management Team. He became the Federal Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment in June 2011 and served his country till 2015. He was conferred the National Honour of the Commander of the Order of Niger (CON) in 2011. As the chair of the WTO MC8 ministerial conference, he laid the foundation for the first WTO trade agreement and also played a pivotal role in finalising the agreement in Bali, Indonesia, in 2013.
His book was first unveiled to the public on the 12th of July, 2023 at the University of London and Lord Hastings was the Chairman of the commendable and highly successful event, while the Nigeria High Commissioner, Ambassador Sarafa Isola graced the occasion with his closing remarks. Right on the heels of the timeless book of the moment still basking on the ground breaking book launch in the United Kingdom, Nigerians are bound to witness in Abuja, a spectacular public book presentation in the contemporary history of Nigeria in the recent times.
HOMECOMING OF 1978 & 1979 HSC SETS OF CHRIST'S SCHOOL, ADO-EKITI
Members of the 1978 and 1979 HSC sets of Christ’s School, Ado-Ekiti will hold the Homecoming of their alumni group (HSC7881), between 22nd and 24th of April in 2022. This is a follow-up to their Reunion of 2018 which was held in Lagos. And that in December 2021, the hybrid alumni group, HSC7881 presented classroom desks, tables and laboratory equipment to the school as part of ongoing plans to give back to the school, under the leadership of Otunba Nuru Jinadu, the President of the Group and Princess Moradeke Ajibade, the Vice-President. This Homecoming is therefore meant to facilitate maiden Reunion in the premises of their alma mater after 42 years that the two HSC sets spent a session together in the school. The shared treasured memories remain indelible in their minds which underscores deep appreciation of the prized heritage of the great school.
Highlights of activities are highlighted as follows: On Friday 22nd of April in 2022, there will be a variety evening, to relive some of the enduring traditions of the school, starting from 5:00pm. The high point of the Reunion is on Saturday 23rd of April in 2022, the Homecoming Gala Evening/Dinner will take place from 6pm and attendance is strictly by invitation. On Sunday 24th of April in 2022, HSC7881 family will do thanksgiving at Emmanuel Cathedral Church, Ado-Ekiti during the 10am service. Members of Christ’s School family resident in Ado-Ekiti are cordially invited to the thanksgiving service.
Members of the two HSC sets are over 400, spread all over the world. The current global President of Christ’s School Alumni Association, Kunle Jinadu FCA, FCS is a member of the group; likewise, the General Secretary, Jide Egunjobi. Some of the other members of HSC7881 family include: Messrs Bisi Olawole, HRM Oba Adeniyi Ajakaiye, Prof Tope Ojo, Tunde Anthonio, Segun Faloye, Dayo Famosaya, Ayo Olujohungbe, Alaba Ipaye, Akin Osuntokun, Prof Sesi Ajayi-Vincent, Eyitayo Jegede SAN, Akin Areola, Sola Afonja, Seye Ogunleye, Bola Adefemi, Tunde Olaniyan, Prince Goke Aroloye, Akin Falodun, Prince Akintunde Adelusi, Ropo Alabi, Prof Adejumo, Kehinde Ogunsakin, Ishola Oladesu, Kayode Oluwajana, Alfred Ologuntoye, Bola Alegbeleye, Tunde Shitu, Kayode Olatuyi, Jide Agbebi, Tunde Apata, Mrs Deola Adaramola (nee Adejimi) Mrs Dupe Fakeye (nee Akinyede), Mrs Margaret Ekisola, Mrs Tope Awe (nee Odupaiye), Mrs Moni Alade (nee Akinyede), Olori Yinka Kiladejo, Mofe Akinbanji, Sola Ajetunmobi, Toyin Jinadu, Prof Mrs Bunmi Ajayi (nee Fadare), Mrs Bola Osagie (nee Anjorin), Mokun George, Mrs Funke Oladipo (nee Asaba), Prince Wale Alade, Amechi Elumelu, Mrs Dupe Bello (nee Peters), Tokunbo Adegun, Mrs Yetunde Fosudo (nee Aiyegbusi), Gbenga Omotoso, Deji Samo, Ope Adebayo, Col. Deji Okeya, Dr Taiye & Dr Kehinde Orimolade, Gbenga Falodun, Femi Ebenezer, Bayo Otegbola, Yemi Ogunjobi, Tokunbo Oyeyemi, Biodun Olajiga, Yomi Olorunfemi, Tunji Eko, Folorunso Osunrayi, Dr Dele Akinpelumi, Abayomi Ayodele a.k.a. Alaska, Seye Adetunmbi.
This is wishing everyone who makes it to the Homecoming, a refreshing reunion.
BIOGRAPHIES AND PANEGYRICS
By Seye Adetunmbi
"It is an encyclopedia bringing the world under one roof! It is a challenge to human industry to write in such minute details and in such elevated diction with the most inevitable words. Seye, this is a legacy for time and eternity. Each biography is told in the three dimensions of the subject. This is unique. As I started reading through the book, I went on nonstop for ten hours! The book encapsulates a world panorama. It is a treasure and a gift to our age." - High Chief Alex Ajayi. Thanks to the nonagenarian elder statesman, the nonagenarian. Yes, the latest published book, “Abridged Biographies and Integrated Panegyrics” is like having 100 books in the one-stop pictorial book. It is my biggest book so far. A collection of my write ups in the past over 30 years on selected individuals and institutions. It took me over one year to collate the articles and essays.The following extracts from the comments of some of the people who have seen the hard copy, say it all. The octogenarian Venerable L. L. Eso wrote: "Seye, this is awesome. One of its kind…..could only have come from Adetunmbi’s stable. Brilliant and Legendary! That is what it will always represent! Congratulations……….keep on flying like the eagle…"
Oga Yemi Akeju wrote: "Oh dear Seye, That's a Great One and Quite Unique.."
Also, the respectable nonagenarian Chief (Dr.) Francis Adebayo Daramola wrote: "Congratulations on the publication of the 'Abridged Biographies and Integrated Panegyrics'. I see the work as an Encyclopedia of the 'greats' the 'nobles', men and women role models who have contributed immensely to society and societal life at not only local level, but at national and international levels of human engineering and endeavor. I feel honored and relished to see write-ups on some of my Teachers, (Chief B. A. Ajayi and Chief J.E. Babatola); my old classmates (Jonathan Akinola and Major Robert Adeyinka Adebayo) and my students (Ojogbon Samuel Akinyemi Akeju, Prof. Bolaji Aluko, Oshunniyi and Prof Oyebode) all of whom are alumni of the prestigious Christ's School, Ado-Ekiti among those featured in the scholarly biographies. There are others I know who have made names in the military, academia, medicine, the world of commerce and industry etc. The pictures that adorn the "Abridged Biographies and Integrated Panegyrics" are of rich and illuminating quality. The book is a "must read" for old and young and should be found in libraries and book shelves, moreso now that the study of History is being given priority in our institutions and school curriculum. Well-done Seye, omo Baba. Thank you for the Complimentary copy. May your tribe increase.
Dotun Akinola wrote: The book is lovely. Thank you so much for honoring my father. Words cannot express my gratitude. I will be showing this to everyone who visits me now!
The hard copy is available at University of Lagos Bookshop, Yemyem Super Store in Unilag, LUTH and Magodo. There is also a pickup location in Abuja which will be provided on request. The book is also available on Amazon through this link https://www.amazon.com/dp/
NIGERIA AT 61 AND EKITI AT 25: CONGRATULATIONS
Seye Adetunmbi Felicitates With Nigerians On 61st Independence
Anniversary And His Kinsmen On The 25th Year Of Creating Ekiti-State
“Despite economic, political and security challenges that the country is facing now, Nigerians have reasons to give thanks to God for still having a country 61 years post independence. More importantly for some of the accomplishments of the government. Nevertheless, there is need to consciously take deliberate actions to depart from systems fanning embers of discord and disintegration for Nigeria to fulfil her utmost potential” This statement is contained in the goodwill message of Okan Seye Adetunmbi, a front-line governorship aspirant in Ekiti-State come 2022.
He went further to congratulate Ekiti people, who are also celebrating 25th year of creating Ekiti-State. “There must be a concerted effort to make sure that good deeds of the state government are improved upon by succeeding administrations. May things continue to look up in our Jerusalem” Said Adetunmbi.
The Financial Intermediation Guidebook is Timely - Arunmah Oteh
In her distinct commentary during the zoom presentation of the book titled, Financial Intermediation: Operations and Practice - A Guidebook for financial market operators and practitioners written by Seye Adetunmbi, Ms Arunmah Oteh, an academic scholar at Oxford University and onetime Director-General of Securities and Exchange in Nigeria, She said:
Quote
“I am delighted to join you from Oxford today, thanks to technology. I must say that it is a timely book, coming out post the unprecedented global crisis. The crisis has turned back the hand of the clock on the global economy, on the African economy and on the Nigerian economy. With the extreme level of poverty in Nigeria and steep decline in 2020 in oil prices, it is no longer tenable for Nigeria to depend on fossil fuel for export revenue and its well-being. Especially because, our greatest resource is our people and the unique enterprise experience, and of course it is the capital market that unleashes this. Therefore, effort to diversify the economy has to be accelerated with a sense of urgency.
The book will enable regulators, market participants, issuers, investors - retail and institutional to understand better the jewels and gems of the market. I believe that a vibrant domestic capital market will be at the epicenter for any nation that wants to build forward together. Nigeria must look for more innovative ways to generate resources for building forward together. The domestic capital market provides patient capital so that we can expand businesses, create new businesses and create jobs. It is also good for good governance, for meritocracy and appropriate capital allocation. I am absolutely excited by what this book will do for us and financial intermediation, because it can help to truly unleash the potential of our market.
It is a book written by a veteran investment banker and stockbroker who understands the Nigerian economy from his wealth of experience garnered in the several positions he has held. I like the fact that he is a candid commentator on the Nigerian economy. He is the convener of the Capital Market Roundtable in Nigeria. In his humble's way, he talked about learning from others, but he has actually thought a lot of people over the years. I appreciate the author for talking about about democratisation of the Nigerian economy for the participation of an average Nigerian.
The book will help retail investors to know what to look for in financial intermediaries, how to invest in the market and know their rights. As I have always said, the first line of defense for any investor is the investor’s knowledge; this is the most important risk management tool. The book also gives international investors a primer on Nigerian capital market and offers wise nuggets that will enable them to identify great opportunities that Nigeria has to offer.
The author, Chief Seye Adetunmbi is a role model worthy of emulation for his humility, sense of community and his involvement in the church as evidenced in the way he has been honoured. I must appreciate his wife, Mrs Olabowale Adetunmbi, a distinguished lawyer and other family members for allowing the Nigerian capital to share him with you. Let me thank you for your service to the nation through the capital market, also through your writings that extend beyond the capital market; it covers culture, Nigerian economy, history and politics; you illuminate Nigeria for people within and outside world to appreciate. I look forward to a nation and society that will continue to benefit from your intellect and commitment to showcasing Nigerian capital market in Nigeria and Africa.”
Unquote
No doubt, the international technocrat of repute and university don added substance and remarkable colour to the public presentation of the book to the public.
BOLA AJOMALE SET TO REVIEW A FINANCIAL MARKET GUIDEBOOK
Mr Bola Ajomale, the Managing Director of NASD PLC is set to review a guidebook on Financial Intermediation and Practice. The book was written by Seye Adetunmbi, the Chief Operating Officer of Value Investing Limited.
Bola Ajomale is a versatile investment and financial adviser with over two decades cognate experience locally and internationally. He trained as an accountant in Ernst & Young and as a stockbroker in City Securities Limited where he headed Stockbroking operations. He expanded his research and financial advisory skills at Agusto & Co where he was a Senior business consultant. His international exposure includes various project and investment advisory work at Manulife Financial and Canada Pension Plan Investment Board both in Canada.
Bola Ajomale read Economics at the University of Leeds (UK). He is a Fellow and member of Council of the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers (CIS), a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and a Member of the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investments (CISI UK) where he is the inaugural National Advisory Council President. Ajomale is a Trustee of the Association of Securities Exchanges of Nigeria
The book presentation is scheduled to hold via zoom on July 21st, 2020 at 2:30 pm.
The Chairman of the zoom presentation is Dr Alimi Abdulrazaq, the Chairman of Forte Oil - Upstream Services Limited while Mr Atedo Peterside, Chairman of ANAP Foundation and Dr. Uduimo Justus Itsueli, Chairman of Dubril Oil Limited are the Special Guests of Honour. The Chief Presenter of the Book is Chief Dele Fajemirokun, a distinguished entrepreneur of international repute. The Lead Presenters include Senator Ibikunle Amosun, Chairman of National Assembly Committee on Capital Market; Mr. Kayode Alabi, Deputy Governor of Kwara State and Mr Gboyega Alabi, the Deputy Governor of Osun State. The special guests expected at the book launch are Alhaji Lamido Yuguda, the Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Ms Yewande Sadiku, the Director-General of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission, Mr Oscar Onyema, the Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian Stock Exchange, Ms Arunmah Oteh, onetime Director-General of SEC and Mr Tunde Amolegbe, President of Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers.
The book presentation is scheduled to hold via zoom on July 21st, 2020 at 2:30 pm.
The Chairman of the zoom presentation is Dr Alimi Abdulrazaq, the Chairman of Forte Oil - Upstream Services Limited while Mr Atedo Peterside, Chairman of ANAP Foundation and Dr. Uduimo Justus Itsueli, Chairman of Dubril Oil Limited are the Special Guests of Honour. The Chief Presenter of the Book is Chief Dele Fajemirokun, a distinguished entrepreneur of international repute. The Lead Presenters include Senator Ibikunle Amosun, Chairman of National Assembly Committee on Capital Market; Mr. Kayode Alabi, Deputy Governor of Kwara State and Mr Gboyega Alabi, the Deputy Governor of Osun State. The special guests expected at the book launch are Alhaji Lamido Yuguda, the Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Ms Yewande Sadiku, the Director-General of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission, Mr Oscar Onyema, the Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian Stock Exchange, Ms Arunmah Oteh, onetime Director-General of SEC and Mr Tunde Amolegbe, President of Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers.
PURPOSE-DRIVEN REPRESENTATION
A Scorecard of Senator Olubunmi Adetunmbi in Office
Distinguished Senator Olubunmi Adetunmbi, was elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) during the 2019 general elections and was sworn in as a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, representing the good people of Ekiti North Senatorial District on 11th June 2019. True to his promise, within one year in the red chamber, as Senator representing the good people of Ekiti North zone, he has recreated the concept of quality representation with his sterling performance.
INFRASTRUCTURE
1) Construction of Ilado Road, in Iwore Quarters, Ifaki Ekiti, Ido-Osi Local Government.
2) Construction of Atiba- Idi Ogun Road, Ilero Quarters, Ifaki Ekiti, Ido-Osi Local Government.
3) Construction of Anglican Church Road, Opposite Central Mosque, Ilero Quarters, Ifaki Ekiti, Ido-Osi Local Government.
4) Construction of Road at Ilefon Street beside Iye-Ekiti Main Market, Iye-Ekiti, Ilejemeje Local Government.
5) Construction of Road at Ojumoko/Awo Street, around Oba's Palace, Iludun Ekiti, Ilejemeje Local Government.
6) Construction of block of lock-up shops at Iran Street, Ijesa-Isu, Ikole Local Government.
7) Construction of Drainage beside Anglican Church, Ilero Quarters, Ifaki Ekiti, Ido-Osi Local Government.
8) Construction of Drainage at Ilefon Street beside Iye-Ekiti Main Market, Ilejemeje Local Government.
SOCIAL INVESTMENT PROGRAM: 250 members across the Senatorial District.
FOOD VENDORS STAFF: 250 people
COVID-19 CBN-assisted loans for business: 100 people were assisted.
FINANCIAL INTERMEDIATION: Operations and Practice
An extract from the Foreword
Quote
“The very detailed book by Seye Adetunmbi is a Collectors' item for those interested in the broad history of financial intermediation and detailed history of the Nigerian capital market.
“The very detailed book by Seye Adetunmbi is a Collectors' item for those interested in the broad history of financial intermediation and detailed history of the Nigerian capital market.
The book is also a text book because it delves into theory and practice. Not often that one finds history, theory and practice rolled into one. The theoretical underpinnings of various financial instruments are revealed and discussed effortlessly and day-to-day practices are rolled in from an experienced practitioner's point of view.
The book is clearly a practitioner's guide, as it is replete with practical titbits that are difficult to find even in the most detailed manuals or templates of active capital market operators.
A practical guidebook and a reference manual that contains phenomenal details that practitioner's do not need to memorise. They only need to know where to find such information when needed.
The author's capacity for meticulous details shines through most of the paragraphs.
The book is a compendium of past landmark articles and presentations by the author who has addressed various types of audiences across Africa.
The book ends with titbits from Nigerian capital market operators in conversation on various controversial or topical matters. The contributions reveal the complexity of problems faced by operators and challenges thrown up by the economy through periods as diverse as the 2008 global financial crisis to later oil boom years and then to lean years ushered in by collapsed oil and commodity prices.
All in all, the book will feed a variety of appetites. There is something in there for a diverse audience comprised of students, historians, academics, practitioners including both capital market operators and the clients that they serve, be they issuers or investors in securities.” - Atedo N. A. Peterside CON
Unquote
Unquote
The paperback book is available in Amazon store through this link https://www.amazon.com/dp/9789682875?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860
The eBook is available in Amazon through this link https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08BNFHWN1/ref=nodl_
THE SCHOOL
Quote
“....The training and the family values inculcated in us by our parents and those instilled in us by virtue of the school we attended during our character formation years, to a very large extent determine who and what we become in life.
I may have been privileged to work for a top four Accountancy Firm, to be a Managing Director at the number one Investment Bank in the world in the United Kingdom for more than 30 years and have served Nigeria first, as Minister of Finance and later as Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, I would always credit my parents and Christ School for laying the solid foundation on which others built on......I am what I am today because I attended Christ’s School, Ado-Ekiti and the family values I imbibed in my formative years.
I consider it a privilege and a great honour to be a product of Christ’s School, Ado-Ekiti." - Segun Aganga
Unquote
Above is an excerpt from the Foreword to a compendium on Christ's School, titled "The School".
The paper back is available on Amazon through this link
https://www.amazon.com/dp/9789797281/
To explore the Kindle eBook click on this link https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0861KM16Q
The Author
Seye Adetunmbi
BUHARI IN KEBBI - Senator Olu Adetunmbi
Nigerians are animated by the alleged attack of President Mohammad Buhari (PMB) by one Mohammed Gunddare (MG) at a public event in Kebbi on Thursday March 12. It was widely reported and the video footage of the incident went viral, with preponderant views believing that the man had the intention of attacking President Mohammad Buhari (PMB). Mohammad Gunddare was perceived and presented as a frustrated and angry youth that wanted to attack and hurt PMB at a public function in Kebbi. On the contrary Gunddare said his action was as a result of emotional “love for Buhari’s honesty and integrity”. Though Mohammed Gunddare confessed his worshipful awe of PMB, this graduate of public administration agreed that he took enormous risk in an attempt to get the attention of Mr. President. Why would a young graduate seek the personal attention of the President in public in such a dramatic manner? The answer to this rhetorical question will be varied depending on where on stands on and concerning the scale of social inequity in the country.
The confessions of Mohammed Gunddare is comforting to those who were genuinely concerned about the incident though some skeptics will still argue that he was coached or goaded or worse still financially induced to issue a revised motivation for the unfortunate incident. There already were wild rumors of Gunddare’s arrest and torture some even said he has been shot and taken out by security agencies. At least everyone has heard what motivated his actions and that he is still alive contrary to the rumored claims that he has been killed. It is in this regard that the action of Governor Bagudu should be commended for taking time to ensure that the public is informed by the agent provocateur of the motive behind his action and made to face the magnifying enquiries of the media.
In my view, though useful, it’s not the material facts of the drama that matters, but the spontaneity of lack of concern, sympathy or empathy for PMB. I found intriguing the malicious celebration of encounter by several people as evidenced in the way the footage went viral and the toxic comments it generated from the general public. It is particularly worrying given the recent similar experience during PMB’s visit to Maiduguri, though said to have been organized by some disgruntled partisan interest groups in Maiduguri.
Regardless of the source of infraction, the glee with which the random general public turned the footages into mass or viral public jest of the President and APC speaks volume about public perception of our Party and the President. I personally took the Maiduguri and Kebbi incidents as a straw poll of some sort, and we all can see that the result is worrisome to say the least. A few enquiries kept coming to me, could this be a proxy evidence of anger, resentment and expression of bad wish for the President and APC? Otherwise why would Nigerians so happily gloat over unfortunate incidents affecting their President? Or, could the recent oil price shocks, exchange rate slide, inflation, youth unemployment and schisms within APC have contributed to these overwhelming negative emotions directed at PMB and APC? Finally, how do we stem a growing tide of what appears to be a burst of accumulated social discontent that could envelope the country? In a strategic and research driven environment, this type of questions should be interrogated and analyzed to find out if there are deeper underlying reasons for the Maiduguri and Kebbi encounters.
These are the issues that we need to debate and attain proper understanding of their root causes and find lasting solutions to. The lack of depth in the pursuit of unraveling these makes one to agree with those who challenge the the capacity of APC current leadership to provide the direction and grit that it’s mission of change requires.
In conclusion, Nigerians should be grateful to Governor Atiku Bagudu for thinking it fit to identify and bring out Mohammed Gunddare to give a public account of the incident that happened in Kebbi. This is good news for promoting voice, accountability and deeper discussion on the social consequences of public policy in Nigeria. Governor Atiku Bagudu deserves commendation for giving us more to think about by the simple act of bringing Mohammed Gunddare to face the media.
Senator Olubunmi Adetunmbi
Representing Ekiti North
Chairman Senate Committee on National Planning & Economic Affairs.
Nigerians are animated by the alleged attack of President Mohammad Buhari (PMB) by one Mohammed Gunddare (MG) at a public event in Kebbi on Thursday March 12. It was widely reported and the video footage of the incident went viral, with preponderant views believing that the man had the intention of attacking President Mohammad Buhari (PMB). Mohammad Gunddare was perceived and presented as a frustrated and angry youth that wanted to attack and hurt PMB at a public function in Kebbi. On the contrary Gunddare said his action was as a result of emotional “love for Buhari’s honesty and integrity”. Though Mohammed Gunddare confessed his worshipful awe of PMB, this graduate of public administration agreed that he took enormous risk in an attempt to get the attention of Mr. President. Why would a young graduate seek the personal attention of the President in public in such a dramatic manner? The answer to this rhetorical question will be varied depending on where on stands on and concerning the scale of social inequity in the country.
The confessions of Mohammed Gunddare is comforting to those who were genuinely concerned about the incident though some skeptics will still argue that he was coached or goaded or worse still financially induced to issue a revised motivation for the unfortunate incident. There already were wild rumors of Gunddare’s arrest and torture some even said he has been shot and taken out by security agencies. At least everyone has heard what motivated his actions and that he is still alive contrary to the rumored claims that he has been killed. It is in this regard that the action of Governor Bagudu should be commended for taking time to ensure that the public is informed by the agent provocateur of the motive behind his action and made to face the magnifying enquiries of the media.
In my view, though useful, it’s not the material facts of the drama that matters, but the spontaneity of lack of concern, sympathy or empathy for PMB. I found intriguing the malicious celebration of encounter by several people as evidenced in the way the footage went viral and the toxic comments it generated from the general public. It is particularly worrying given the recent similar experience during PMB’s visit to Maiduguri, though said to have been organized by some disgruntled partisan interest groups in Maiduguri.
Regardless of the source of infraction, the glee with which the random general public turned the footages into mass or viral public jest of the President and APC speaks volume about public perception of our Party and the President. I personally took the Maiduguri and Kebbi incidents as a straw poll of some sort, and we all can see that the result is worrisome to say the least. A few enquiries kept coming to me, could this be a proxy evidence of anger, resentment and expression of bad wish for the President and APC? Otherwise why would Nigerians so happily gloat over unfortunate incidents affecting their President? Or, could the recent oil price shocks, exchange rate slide, inflation, youth unemployment and schisms within APC have contributed to these overwhelming negative emotions directed at PMB and APC? Finally, how do we stem a growing tide of what appears to be a burst of accumulated social discontent that could envelope the country? In a strategic and research driven environment, this type of questions should be interrogated and analyzed to find out if there are deeper underlying reasons for the Maiduguri and Kebbi encounters.
These are the issues that we need to debate and attain proper understanding of their root causes and find lasting solutions to. The lack of depth in the pursuit of unraveling these makes one to agree with those who challenge the the capacity of APC current leadership to provide the direction and grit that it’s mission of change requires.
In conclusion, Nigerians should be grateful to Governor Atiku Bagudu for thinking it fit to identify and bring out Mohammed Gunddare to give a public account of the incident that happened in Kebbi. This is good news for promoting voice, accountability and deeper discussion on the social consequences of public policy in Nigeria. Governor Atiku Bagudu deserves commendation for giving us more to think about by the simple act of bringing Mohammed Gunddare to face the media.
Senator Olubunmi Adetunmbi
Representing Ekiti North
Chairman Senate Committee on National Planning & Economic Affairs.
Prince Adetoyi Olabode: An Ekiti Born Entrepreneur Cum Philanthropist
By
Biodun Borisade
By
Biodun Borisade
A nobleman from the royal lineage of Ile-Titun, Oke Afin Street in Otun-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Prince Adetoyi Ezekiel Olabode is an Agric Entrepreneur with endless capacity in grooming talents to change the narratives of Entrepreneurship in Ekiti State and Nigeria through his numerous programmes on; Skills Acquisition, Mentorship/Capacity Building Programmes, Job Creation, and Corporate Social Responsibility projects (a very impactful philanthropic gesture).
One of his notable strides in Infrastructural Development in Ekiti State is the acquisition of more than 200 plots of land at Otun Aiyetoro road for the development of Housing and Industrial Park.
The illustrious son of Otun-Ekiti, Prince Olabode, understanding the importance of culture and celebrating his root, has successfully sponsored seven editions of Otun-Ekiti Day.
In Ekiti State, Olabode has been a diligent crusader of agricultural development, Social Investment, and capacity building for youths. He is on the Board of Fountain Holdings Limited (an investment arm of Ekiti State Government), a lead aggregator for Ekiti School Feeding Programme. He is also the 1st Vice-Chairman Board of Trustees, Youth in Commercial Agricultural Development in Ekiti state (YCAD).
Speaking of a man who prides in philanthropic deeds and meeting the needs of the people through Corporate Social Responsibility, Prince Olabode has been a good Ambassador of Otun-Ekiti within and outside Nigeria.
Through his annual CSR programmes, student-indigenes of Otun-Ekiti are offered Industrial Attachment opportunities nationwide. Leading by example, he appointed an Otun-Ekiti indigene as the Head, Information and Technology Department of Hi NUTRIENTS International Limited, while employing additional four as staff. Over 30 Otun and Moba-Ekiti youths have been registered for the Youth in Commercial Agriculture (YCAD) programme.
Many youths of Otun-Ekiti has benefitted from the generosity of the nobleman through grants and scholarships for tertiary education. Over 200 jamb forms have also been distributed to scholars in Otun, Moba, Ilejemeje and Ido-Osi communities.
He instituted Bursary and Scholarship Awards for Otun and Moba indigenes, a programme that has been running since 2014 to date with extension to Ekiti North and Ikole LGA. Over 400 youths in the same locations have been trained on Entrepreneurship.
As an author of international repute, in Chapter Two of his book ‘The Entrepreneur’ (an Autobiography), Prince Olabode showcased his root, Otun-Ekiti to the world.
Other numerous projects carried out by Prince Olabode are; the installation of borehole water systems in Amututu junction and Ogbon Isan at old Adebayo Hospital road, Oke Afin.
CHRIST’S SCHOOL ALUMNI: 2019 CAROL SERVICE IN LAGOS
ANNUAL CAROL SERVICE IS HERE AGSIN!!!
🌲🎷🎼🎹🎸🎤🎻💒🔔📣🕺🏿💃🏿
The Christ's School Alumni Association, Lagos Chapter’s Carol Service and End of The Year Get-together is here again!
Date: Saturday 14th December 2019
Time: 3pm Prompt
Venue: Archbishop Vining Memorial Church Cathedral, GRA, Ikeja, Lagos.
Reception: 48B Sobo Arobiodu Street, GRA , Ikeja, Lagos-State
Come one, Come All - Every Alumnus resident in Lagos as well as others who can make it to the carol service and their family members are all invited
Announcer📣🎤
Organizing Committee
CHRIST’S SCHOOL ALUMNI HSC7881 ELECTED EXECUTIVES
The alumni of Christ’s School, Ado-Ekiti, HSC Sets of 1978 and 1979 constituted their substantive executive council on Sunday October 13th 2019 after the declaration of the result of the election held on Saturday 12th October 2019.
The combined two HSC sets formally convened on June 1st 2017 through an online interactive platform. The forum adopted the name Christ’s School Alumni HSC7881.
On April 20th 2019, the group held its maiden Reunion in Lagos.
Chief Nurudeen Jinadu emerged as the elected president of the HSC 7881 forum.
The result of the election as declared by the Returning Officer. Dr Dayo Kayode, on behalf of the Independent Electoral Commission of the Alumni group is stated as follows:
1. Chairman/President: Chief Nuru Jinadu
2. Vice-Chairman/VP: Mrs Moradeke Ajibade nee Adejayan
3. General-Secretary: Dr Bolajoko Malomo
4. Assistant Secretary: Mrs Nike Nathan, nee Adegoroye
5. Financial Secretary: Mrs Lanre Adeoye, nee Jenkins
6. Welfare Secretary: Dupe Peters
7. Publicity Secretary: Folorunsho Osunrayi
8. Social Secretary: Yemi Owoseni
9. Treasurer: Mrs Jola Oyewole, nee Fagbemi
10. Legal Adviser:
Olusola Afonja
11. Chief Whip: Sola Ajetunmobi
12. Mrs Sade Ofi nee Folayan - Assistant Chief Whip
13. Ex-Officios
Col Deji Okeya Rtd
Prince Tunde Adelusi
Okan Seye Adetunmbi
Prior to the election of the substantive inaugural executive council, the activities of the group was conducted by an interim EXCO under the leadership of Prince Tunde Adelusi.
Congratulations to the newly elected executives of the distinguished forum.
MY LONG WALK WITH GOD: AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF PROF TUNDE ADELUSI
MY LONG WALK WITH GOD
CHRIST’S SCHOOL ALUMNI: 2019 CAROL SERVICE IN LAGOS
ANNUAL CAROL SERVICE IS HERE AGSIN!!!
🌲🎷🎼🎹🎸🎤🎻💒🔔📣🕺🏿💃🏿
The Christ's School Alumni Association, Lagos Chapter’s Carol Service and End of The Year Get-together is here again!
Date: Saturday 14th December 2019
Time: 3pm Prompt
Venue: Archbishop Vining Memorial Church Cathedral, GRA, Ikeja, Lagos.
Reception: 48B Sobo Arobiodu Street, GRA , Ikeja, Lagos-State
Come one, Come All - Every Alumnus resident in Lagos as well as others who can make it to the carol service and their family members are all invited
Announcer📣🎤
Organizing Committee
CHRIST’S SCHOOL ALUMNI HSC7881 ELECTED EXECUTIVES
The alumni of Christ’s School, Ado-Ekiti, HSC Sets of 1978 and 1979 constituted their substantive executive council on Sunday October 13th 2019 after the declaration of the result of the election held on Saturday 12th October 2019.
The combined two HSC sets formally convened on June 1st 2017 through an online interactive platform. The forum adopted the name Christ’s School Alumni HSC7881.
On April 20th 2019, the group held its maiden Reunion in Lagos.
Chief Nurudeen Jinadu emerged as the elected president of the HSC 7881 forum.
The result of the election as declared by the Returning Officer. Dr Dayo Kayode, on behalf of the Independent Electoral Commission of the Alumni group is stated as follows: 1. Chairman/President: Chief Nuru Jinadu
2. Vice-Chairman/VP: Mrs Moradeke Ajibade nee Adejayan
3. General-Secretary: Dr Bolajoko Malomo
4. Assistant Secretary: Mrs Nike Nathan, nee Adegoroye
5. Financial Secretary: Mrs Lanre Adeoye, nee Jenkins
6. Welfare Secretary: Dupe Peters
7. Publicity Secretary: Folorunsho Osunrayi
8. Social Secretary: Yemi Owoseni
9. Treasurer: Mrs Jola Oyewole, nee Fagbemi
10. Legal Adviser:
Olusola Afonja
11. Chief Whip: Sola Ajetunmobi
12. Mrs Sade Ofi nee Folayan - Assistant Chief Whip
13. Ex-Officios
Col Deji Okeya Rtd
Prince Tunde Adelusi
Okan Seye Adetunmbi
Prior to the election of the substantive inaugural executive council, the activities of the group was conducted by an interim EXCO under the leadership of Prince Tunde Adelusi.
Congratulations to the newly elected executives of the distinguished forum.
MY LONG WALK WITH GOD: AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF PROF TUNDE ADELUSI
MY LONG WALK WITH GOD
BIOGRAPHY OF BABATUNDE ADELUSI MD, PHD
–– A REVIEW ––
DATE: SATURDAY 3RD AUGUST. 2019
PREAMBLE: The Holy Writ says, “Do you see a man who excels in his work? He will stand before kings; He will not stand before unknown men” (Prov. 22:29). “I, the Lord, have called you in righteousness, and will hold your hand; I will keep you and give you as a covenant to the people, as a light to the Gentiles” (Isa. 42:6) “… And He who formed you, O Israel (Babatunde): Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are Mine” (Isa. 43:1).
The hymnists: Georg Neumark (1621 – 81) and Henry Francis Lyte (1793 – 1847) exhort and confessed: “Leave God, to order all thy ways, and hope in Him whate’er betide: Thou ‘It find Him in the evil days Thy all-sufficient strength and guide: Who trusts in God’s unchanging love Builds on the rock that noughtcan move”
“My spirit on Thy care, Blest Saviour, I recline; Thou wilt not leave me in despair, For Thou art love divine” (see MHB 504 and 506).
ABSTRACT: The Scriptures and Hymns quoted above aptly describe and sum up the life journey and the personality of Babatunde Adelusi.
History rarely witnesses the emergence of personalities whose monumental achievements change the course of life, especially in the world of Medicine and Christian Ministry. Very Rev. Prof. Babatunde Adelusi is one of such outstanding personalities whose contributions are multi-dimensional.
For over half a century, he advanced our understanding on Medicine, especially in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, and close to two decades of the Church and Christian Ministry, in cosmic parlance and worldview. He has inspired several generations of young Christian minds to accept God’s verdict for their lives, and as well relate with Him as the Omniscient, Omnipotent and Omnipresent. He has even mentored many of these young ones to choose their profession, vocation, and sacred ministry with the full natural inclination to Divine knowledge, and Spiritual insight, as their future endeavours.
Babatunde Oladipo Emitayo Adel
Life, no doubt, is a challenge. It’s demands may be overwhelming, but we can find hope, guidance, and knowledge to help. Life may not always be fair, but God is always faithful. But life is black when you have nothing to look forward to.
Peter Marshall enthused: “When we long for life without difficulties, remind us that oaks grow strong to contrary winds and diamonds are made under pressure”. And Thomas Jefferson reflected and said, “Nothing gives one person so much advantage over another as to remain always cool and unruffled under all circumstances”.
These assertions capture a small window into the life, and leadership mien of the author, gleaned through the reading of this book, and my association with him as a Teacher and Preacher (the two detestables) in the Diocese of Ibadan for almost Eight years. His acute decency and decorum, ability and dedication has endeared him to me.
I can boldly say “My Long Walk with God” is the Autobiographical testimonies of Babatunde Adelusi. In the ardous race of life the Lord did not suffer him to stray, but strengthened his feet with steady pace, and transfigured him with His heavenly light, and made him still to press forward in His way. No doubt, the Lord has filled his whole being/soul with strong desire to do His will.
Our gathering today, 3rd August, 2019 is to celebrate an Enigmatic, Pragmatic, Simple, Sagacious, Salubrious, and cerebral Scholar/professional, and Church leader, that could be described as “DIVINE BIRD! OR HEAVENLY BRAND!!”, released by the uncreated Sun, and freed by the Lord’s quickening voice on 30thJune, 1939.
STYLE OF WRITING
My Long Walk with God is a treatise true to type. The book is an easy to read with a simple structure, but with detailed analysis, which is akin to the author – the living legend! Mostly, autobiographies are written in first-person point of view. This means that the narrator is also in the story. No wonder, the author was able to capture very significant stages in his life in a detailed manner.
It is a collection of flawless write-ups and heart-to-heart expressions from varying degree of the author’s phase of life. The overview of the author’s personality, likes and dislikes, and the special events that shaped his life was told in a very graphic manner (as in the Foreword) that makes an interesting reading from beginning to the end.
It is even more amazing that the author treated his life as an interesting story. He gathered, in a beautiful way, the scenes of his life. He organized his story his from infancy to adulthood, mentioned the roles played by friends and family, added a range of emotions, began with engaging sentences. “I have often wondered why God always send ordinary men, most especially the reluctant ones for that matter, on His desired errands … I believe that I most have been a chosen instrument of service to the Lord right from the beginning …” (see pages 9 & 13). And he ended up giving it a befitting title, very apt and soul-searching – My Long Walk with God!
PURPOSE
The aptness of the title to this autobiographical testimony cannot be overemphasized. The author sets out its purpose using a string of infinitives for his walk of life with God. The teachings enshrined in this publication are wide-ranging, based on the author’s life, and the divine essence of God in his life and times, and are not easily summarized.
Approached chronologically, as it were, they revolved around different historical situations in his life story: Birth and parentage, Academic exploratio
I must confess, we have detailed account which actually convey that character traits and ideals of the author. He is very meticulous, has knack for details and marvelous in writing.
The benefits to be gained by the study of this book are the attainment of wisdom and discipline, the understanding of words of insight, the acquisition of a disciplined and prudent life in which one does what is right, just and fair.
The author’s experience of the glory of the Lord, whose upper hand has shown in this walk, is followed by his call to serve the heavenly King, who revealed Himself from his very start. Babatunde chided his responsibility as ‘God-child’, but saw His hand as the onlypropelling force which, ultimately, provided the template for his discovery, recovery and repositioning in life. This is fact, is, the purpose of life.
The Design of Creation points to the Master Designer. Isaac Watts confessed: “I sing the mighty power of God that made the mountains rise, that spread the flowing seas abroad, and build the lofty skies”. In the quest to evaluate the significance of our lives, something deep inside tells us that such a thing cannot be measured by wealth and fame. The measure of a life is determined by the Ruler of the Universe. This fact featured prominently in the book as life begins and ends with God.
The lucid account of the academic and ministerial life of BabatundeAdelusi, in this publication, has an inspiring foreword which exemplifies his work and candour, and to testify to the fact that God is involved in all spheres of his life.
This book offers the readers the ample opportunity to seize every moment with a view to making their lives a testimonial within the two fold essence: Natural/Physical attestation and Divine approbation.
More pleasing is the fact that the real intention or purpose of this book is to offer a guide to “Co-travellers”, whose avowed intent is to be pilgrims. It will be a penchance for the readers as they are travelling a similar path and so find every aspect of this work applicable to their own trajectory.
I reckon that given the broad spectrum of the reach of this publication, most if not all readers will find valuable nuggets to take away and apply, for we write each day as a chapter in a book. We begin on the premise that God exists and that He has a plan for His creation and for His people!
God is sovereignly working His will in our lives, and if we make of our pathway by heeding His call for our lives, all will begin and end well!
THE REVIEW
In this review, I shall give a brief account of the author and the reason behind him in writing this autobiography titled “My Long Walk with God”, I shall endeavour to give a brief summary of the various things present in different parts of this book for the benefits of the reader(s), and as well as my personal opinion about this book, and what makes this book worth reading.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
The author is a legendary, living person of the twenty-first century. Babatunde in the eyes of people, is person with an ‘acceptable sacrifice’ to God, from the very beginning of his life’s journey. What he detested in life has become the well-attested fabric of his life and also shot him to limelight. He is fully settled in the fact that, God’s commands are unavoidable.
Babatunde was proudly born into the Christian home of the famous David Adelusi of Ayetor
• The author’s tone throughout the book is reflective and solemn, though at times, humorous. However, the account follows a straightforward rubric, and the goal is to project the author’s life as an act of God, with a view to changing lives. In fact, he could best be described as a brand plucked out of burning!
The author uses narrative to investigate questions about the externalities and internalities of meaning life and self-esteem. He also made use of Christian metaphors and Bible images which suggests his devotion.
The two women, Esan (mother) and Oluremi (wife) in his life’s journey, till date, form a huge part of his life and ministry. Esan, a disciplinarian but loving was adored a Mother in a million. And Oluremi, his wife, was his greatest friend, love of his life, and the bedrock of his home. She was fondly described by the author as Precious Priceless Gem.
ABOUT THE BOOK: What is there in this book?
Without mincing words ado, this book: “My Long Walk with Godhas a superb narrative framework. It is an eloquent easy to ready presentation and publication, and free-flowing well connected narrative. However, monotonous repetition of clichés like, “Sooner than Later” and “even though”..
The biographer, no doubt, gave a minute detail of his life, but the accounts were staggered, not on a strait-jacket or, sequence, as many would love it to be. It is amazing to have a – 195 page publication, having its presentation in Three broad parts, aside the Introduction, Foreword, Acknow
We have catalogue of lessons to learn and to lean on the unseen guiding hands of Providence. Also, doggedness in the determination to pursue an Educational career sacrificing pleasures and commitments to conveniences.
• The determination of and love of a mother to see her son succeed even when abandoned as ‘a plague’ by her husband, regardless of her indomitable faith and, unconditional, undying love for him. No wonder, his son, owes all his achievements to her, and still cherishes her in death.
• The need to prioritize in order to achieve success is the high point. That is, the benevolence of the Almighty God in providing willing assistance. “Man proposes but God disposes”. The author is on the run from destiny whereas destiny is always running after him. Subsequently, the author broke two enviable records: First Doctor in Ifaki, his native town, and the first set of “Made in Ibadan Doctors!”
• Another great lesson in the book is the aphorism: “You, often suffer alone, but when success/celebration comes, it becomes a crowd issue”. Even the father who made little or no contributions was boasting to everyone – “Father of the first doctor in my town”. Is this not rife today in our society?
• This book is a bundle of life changing experiences. A must read for every believer.
The Youths need to learn from the author who had a firm decision not to let any relationship with any girl rob him of his future ambitions. And should also learn from the mistake of the first son, the dangers of making marital choices with due consultation, counsel and advice of parents.
• The publication on the author’s call and voyage into the Sacred Ministry, and his final submission is intriguing. Also the mention of the author’s different losses is amazing
• Despite the fact that the author finds himself in a land where Christianity is openly banned, he never ceased to practice his faith. In Saudi Arabia – the Open Prison Yard, he sneaks to attend fellowship at the British Embassy. This is enviable.
• It is highly commendable that the author gave family his utmost attention, and the very best to his children. This, however, he could not get from his father. He was his children’s best counsellor, but never imposed his thoughts nor exerted pressure.
• Mention must be made of that voice on the night of June 7, 1998 – bold, living echoes of Matt. 9:37, though it received resistance with a wave of land later as the author was angered by God’s act of severing him with his Priceless Precious Gem and Consort, Iyabode Oluremi. In his words, interalia: I was angry with God reminding myself that I have not forgiven Him for taking away my Precious Priceless Oluremi, even if He had forgiven me my sins of ignorance of His manner of acting His will. (pg. 175).
Thanks be to God, who alone moves in a mysterious way and works His sovereign will. The author was mesmerized to have a stronger belief in God that he is needed by Him in the ministry by his encounter with a mystery-woman in Jamaica, about two years later, precisely June 2000. The unknown lady physically confronted him with the challenge of God’s call upon his life. His avowed resentments against God were gone, and the freshness of an avowed intent to be a pilgrim and, God’s errand boy began to grow in him.
• The intrigues in the house of God – the Church, was not spared in the publication. The author exposes the swift, subtle way of handling issues in the Church by its leaders. Rather than follow man-made policies, we should learn to listen and follow the leading of the Holy Spirit.. God is not bound by human policy!
• In conclusion, the author, at the end of his Long Walk with God,exults the Blessed Trinity and gives God all the glory for leading him this far, with great patience. He recognizes that he could not have been anything without God.
Even in his reluctance to submit to God’s call, His love never left him. What a wonderful God!
CRITIQUE: Without mincing words, the publication is a must read, fascinating and interesting, but the author ignored some basic features of its sort, and it is hoped that in his subsequent documentation on the same line of thought, he would adjust to completely win the hearts of his readers.
• VAGUE ACCOUNT OF SPIRITUAL BIRTH: The author was factual and exact in his recollection about his biological birth (Friday June 30, 1939), but was unable to point at a date or time of his spiritual birth. No doubt, Christ came into his heart and life at some points, but it was not very clear. Again, the encounter with the unknown mystery lady in Jamaica that changed his direction towards accepting God’s call was without a specific date (June 2000), whereas the promptings he received at the instance of the call, has a date, time and, year (7th June, 1998 at 2.00 a.m.).
• NO PHOTO SHOTS: The author treats the publication as a ‘novel’ not as autobiography demands. The photo session/sho
July 12th 2019 will mark posthumously the 100th birthday anniversary of the birth of Chief David Opeyemi Adetunmbi. He was the Asiwaju of Ifaki in 1974-1990, the Baba Ijo of St. Michael Anglican Church, Ifaki-Ekiti in 1978-1990 and became a national leader of Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT) when he was elected the first National Vice-President in 1976, and later acted as the NUT National President in 1978-1979. On March 21st 1990, Chief David Opeyemi Adetunmbi passed-on. His family members will give thanks to God on his birthday anniversary and do general thanksgiving in church in the following Sunday. Read more
PRODUCED 43 PIONEER MEDICAL DOCTORS WITHIN SIX AND HALF YEARS OF EXISTENCE
Afe
Babalola University (ABUAD), the fastest growing University in Africa has recorded yet another first in the history of
medical schools in Nigeria after commissioning 400-Bed Teaching Hospital in the
Ado-Ekiti campus on October 20th 2017. The university teaching hospital which was built on 60 hectares of
land has consists of 9 blocks. The central block has five floors while the
remaining eight have four floors each making total of 37 expansive
floors.
On September 13th 2018, ABUAD will induct 43 pioneer medical doctors; 8 of them graduated with distinctions, the equivalent of 1st Class honours degree in order disciplines. This is a feat because ABUAD is the first university in Nigeria to produce such a 100% result of graduating students in the medical school within the first six and half years of its establishment as a front-line private university in Nigeria. This is a professional examination monitored by Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria and conducted by external examiners.
Congratulations to the graduating students, the Founder and Chancellor of the University, Aare Afe Babalola; the academic and non-academic staff of the great institution that remains the pride of university system in Nigeria.
On September 13th 2018, ABUAD will induct 43 pioneer medical doctors; 8 of them graduated with distinctions, the equivalent of 1st Class honours degree in order disciplines. This is a feat because ABUAD is the first university in Nigeria to produce such a 100% result of graduating students in the medical school within the first six and half years of its establishment as a front-line private university in Nigeria. This is a professional examination monitored by Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria and conducted by external examiners.
Congratulations to the graduating students, the Founder and Chancellor of the University, Aare Afe Babalola; the academic and non-academic staff of the great institution that remains the pride of university system in Nigeria.
The climax of the crowd pulling indigenous festival is always in the evening around 5pm when Okorobo will come out from the grove (ugbomole) of Iwore quarter. Today's event was preceded by Oko (farm) Okorobo during which some indigenes were captured in the festive mood while preparing delicious pounded yam in the farm.
When Okanlomo Eletolua heard about the festival, he responded with this panegyrics of the festival in Ifaki-Ekiti dialect.
Emi l'omo ogbon meji ku a oke, ku a odo k'oju a ro ni l'ijo Okorobo
Oni l'ayiye oro
Odun alaogbao
Omo olomo na ipe l'oluya,
Omo olomo na ipe l'olubi ini
I so yo gb'omo re si dagere oke k'ewi ki reluwe ba un le a lo.
Se ni ma jeun-jeun ki ma t'amiba m'oro, ki ma m'otun wa ran je!
Oluwore Familoye oni l'oro re o
Aja ma a ro l'oni o
A s'eyi s'amodun
To know about the famous festival, click on this link Okorobo Ifaki
EKITI TRANSITION COMMITTEE PRESENTED REPORT
The transition committee constituted by Dr J. K. Fayemi in July 2018 had completed its assignment and formally presented its report on Friday, September 7th 2018.
Senator Olubunmi Adetunmbi, Chairman of JKF/APC Transition Committee presented the report to the Governor-Elect, Dr. John Kayode Fayemi at AB Hotel, Ado-Ekiti on behalf of the members of the committee.
Ekiti people now look forward to the inauguration of the government of restoration on October 16, 2018.
GOVERNORSHIP TRANSITION COMMITTEE CONSTITUTED
Senator Olubunmi Adetunmbi, Chairman of JKF/APC Transition Committee presented the report to the Governor-Elect, Dr. John Kayode Fayemi at AB Hotel, Ado-Ekiti on behalf of the members of the committee.
Ekiti people now look forward to the inauguration of the government of restoration on October 16, 2018.
Fayemi unveils members of transition committee
Ekiti State Governor-elect, Dr Kayode Fayemi, has released a list of eminent citizens of the state that will serve in the Governorship Transition Committee, charged with the responsibility of liaising with the outgoing administration for a smooth transition ahead of the October 16th take off date of the new government in the state.
The 32-member committee is headed by a former member of the National Assembly, Senator Olubunmi Adetunmbi as chairman, while a former Chairman of Ijero Local Government Council, Hon Abiodun Omoleye will serve as deputy Chair. A former Permanent Secretary in the state’s civil service, Mr Ayodeji Ajayi, is the secretary of the committee.
The Committee is to be known as the Ekiti State 2018 JKF/APC Governorship Transition Committee.
According to a statement signed by the Special Adviser on Media to the Governor-elect, Mr Yinka Oyebode, the inauguration of the Governorship Transition Committee will hold at the Conference Hall, AB Hotels, Ado-Ekiti, on Wednesday, July 25th, by 12 noon.
Members of the Governorship Transition Committee, Ekiti State are:
1. Senator Olubunmi Adetunmbi - Chairman
2. Hon. Abiodun Omoleye - Deputy Chairman
3. Dr. (Mrs) Moji Yaya Kolade - Member
4. Prof. Eddy Olanipekun -Member
5. Chief Ropo Adesanya- Member
6. Dr. Dare Ojo - Member
7. Prof. Tale Omole - Member
8. Hon. Olubunmi Oriniowo- Member
9. Mr. Tunde Olatunde - Member
10. Mr. Debo Ranti Ajayi- Member
11. Mr. Ade Omonijo- Member
12. Alhaji Afolabi Ogunlayi- Member
13. Barrister Wale Fapohunda- Member
14. Mr. Dapo Kolawole- Member
15. Chief Kola Akosile -Member
16. Mr. Phillip Amujo- Member
17. Barrister Paul Omotosho -Member
18. Chief Taiwo Olatunbosun -Member
19. Engr. Tunde Alabi-Member
20. Mr. Abiodun Oyebanji -Member
21. Prof. (Mrs.) Francesca Aladejana -Member
22. Mr. Seyi Aiyeleso -Member
23. Dr. (Mrs.) Ayeni Agbaje -Member
24. Mr. Ayo Owolabi -Member
25. Mrs. Folusho Olaniyan -Member
26. Alhaja S. Badmus -Member
27. Mrs. Sola Salako-Ajulo -Member
28. Mr. Eyitayo Fabunmi -Member
29. Mrs. Toyosi Omope -Member
30. Hon. Bunmi Akinniyi -Member
31. Hon. Seyi Shittu -Member
32. Mr. Ayodeji Ajayi -Member/Secretary
The Terms of Reference of the committee members include:
* Develop a clear framework for liaison and establish clear channels of formal communications with the outgoing administration for the purposes of a smooth transition.
* Review and make preliminary assessment of the fiscal position of government with particular emphasis on:
- Status of assets and liabilities of government.
- Status of implementation of the 2018 Appropriation
- Revenue & cash flow position of government.
- Public debt profile of government and their deployment.
- Salary arrears due to all public-sector workers and pensioners.
* Determine the status of public procurement of government with particular emphasis on:
-. Government’s on-going and outstanding contractual obligations.
* To receive handover documents from Ministries, Departments and Agencies of government, with a view to understanding the most important operational, regulatory and/or urgent issues confronting the incoming administration, in order to guide the fine-tuning and prioritisation of programmes and policies in the incoming administration’s governance agenda.
* Interface with various stakeholders’ groups such as Labour Unions, Traditional Rulers; Academia; Religious Bodies; Transport Workers; Market Men and Women; Artisans; Professionals; Farmers CDAs; etc; with a view to ascertaining their expectations of the incoming administration.
* The committee shall submit its final report by Friday, September 7, 2018.
Signed:
Yinka Oyebode
Special Adviser (Media) to Governor Elect, Ekiti State.
ERG COMMENDS INEC ON EKITI GOVERNORSHIP ELECTION..... Congratulates Governor-Elect Kayode Fayemi
JULY 18, 2018
Ekiti Resolution Group (ERG) commends INEC for a well-conducted governorship election in Ekiti State on July 14, 2018, and applauds the choice of Ekiti people of the Governor-elect Dr. Kayode Fayemi and his Deputy-elect Chief Bisi Egbeyemi. The election result is undoubtedly a reflection of the will of the people.
We also commend all the other governorship contestants for contributing to the democratic process in Ekiti. We implore them to join hands with other well-meaning Ekiti indigenes to constructively engage the new administration after inauguration on October 16, 2018, towards ensuring that sustainable government policies and development outcomes are entrenched in our dear Ekiti-State.
We note the deplorable socioeconomic reality on the ground in our State, which poses a daunting challenge to the incoming administration. It is therefore imperative for the Governor-elect to engage the outgoing administration quickly and comprehensively, and then be frank with the people of Ekiti on the monumental tasks ahead that will require every constituency to make sacrifices in order to take the state literally and figuratively out of the woods.
The Governor-elect is charged to focus on the legacy he would be remembered for by future generations, by utilizing the best of the abundant human resources in Ekiti, elected officials, appointees and ordinary citizens, that can add value towards attaining the desired goals of the State . We appeal to the new administration when inaugurated to tolerate critics.
ERG tasks Ekiti intellectuals to purposefully interrogate the new era and put inconsequential lingering past issues behind them for the benefit of Ekiti-State.
In conclusion, on this day when he received his Certificate of Return from INEC, we look forward expectantly to Governor-elect Fayemi's return to the saddle of Ekiti-State government, and wish him all the best in his fresh determination to make a difference in the governance of the state towards transforming the lives of Ekiti people for posterity.
God bless Ekiti. Ure Ekiti a s'oju kete ra o!
Signed
Prof Mobolaji Aluko
Dr Laofe Ogundipe
Prof Anthony Kila
Okan Seye Adetunmbi
July 18, 2018
CONGRATULATIONS TO DR J. K. FAYEMI
L-R: Messrs Seye Adetunmbi, Adesokan, Lekan Faromika, Senator Olubunmi Adetunmbi, Dr Oluyede, Dayo Adetunmbi and Seriki at Ifaki today July 15th 2018
Friends and well wishers celebrate victory of APC at the polls and emergence of Dr J.K. Fayemi as the Governor-elect. Ekiti-State is set to open new chapter in purposeful governance for the benefit of all.
EKITI 2018 GOVERNORSHIP ELECTION UPDATE
The governorship election recorded a good turnout and predominantly, the exercise was orderly, free and fair.
A polling unit in Ilupeju-Ekiti
A polling unit in Ado-Ekiti
VICTORY IMMINENT FOR FAYEMI...THINGS LOOK UP FOR APC IN IFAKI-EKITI
Chief Segun Oni and Senator Olubunmi Adetunmbi hosted the nine traditional age grades of Ifaki people from Egbe Owere to Efosan,today the eve of July 14, 2018 Governorship election. This is in continuation of yesterday rally when they campaigned round the town in support of Dr Kayode Fayemi and earlier meetings held with the native age group (Egbe Are). Rational Ifaki indigenes are committed to deliver the votes of the community for Dr Kayode Fayemi tomorrow God willing.
July 13, 2018
July 12, 2018
Earlier Meeting
THERE GOES A MAN, TRUE AND PROUD
(For Gabriel Akindele Akinola, 1934
By
Prof Niyi Osundare
I used to call him Alagidi Ekiti (the stubborn man from Ekiti) – an appellation which brought fraternal smiles to the lips of both of us. My dearly beloved Egbon was simply that: stubborn, principled, consistent, blunt, trustworthy and dependable. He was firm but fair, strict but compassionate, frugal but generous. A private, sometimes self-effacing person with a deep passion for accountability and good governance, Egbon invested a tremendous amount of his physical energy and intellectual acumen in the struggle for a sane, humane socio-economic and political order. A believer in the efficacy of public discourse in the molding of public opinion and actualization of social change, he was a frequent contributor to op-ed articles in various Nigerian newspapers and an avid patron and analyst of the mass media. We remember his pungent, elegantly articulated contributions to the discourse against military dictatorship in Nigeria as well as his expression of unequivocal disenchantment with the ‘nascent democracy’ that came in its wake. Equally relevant and consistent was his relentless exposition and criticism of the role of religion in the seemingly perpetual underdevelopment of Nigeria. Egbon’s cerebral and essentially scientific attitude and approach constantly railed against the mulish ease with which Nigerians have substituted science withsuperstition and surrendered their reasoning faculty to the devious theologies of self-proclaimed ‘evangelists’, predatory ‘pastors’ and mumbo-jumbo mullahs. A half-completed book on this spiritual anomy sits on his writing desk as we celebrate the passing of this supremely rational man and his unmistakably renaissance propensity.
Yes, Alagidi Ekiti was also ecumenical in taste, tendency, and training: at home with the deep, enlightening cosmology of Ifaas he was with the rigorous agnosticism of Bertrand Russell;enamoured of the lyrical choreography of Sunny Ade as he was of the magical symphonies of Beethoven, Bach, and Handel. A historian with special expertise in historiography, he spent most of his days researching and teaching the science and politics of remembrance, the tendentious velocity of “time’s winged chariot” ( in Andrew Marvell’s metaphysical phraseology) , the attitudinal peculiarities which often influence the recording, calibration, and valuation of events in spatio-temporal terms, and the ineluctable ontology (and capacity) of History as Artand Science. Many times, Egbon and I reached the agonizing conclusion that a country (such as Nigeria) that banishes History from its natural niche as the core of humanistic studies, is only courting death by way of amnesia.
In countless ways, Egbon was not just a Buroda and friend; he was also my intellectual sparring partner and confidant, a caring, dependable man who endowed friendship with a new meaning and poignant significance in this age of fitful friendships and dissembling affiliations.
But Alagidi Ekiti was no angel. There were times when that stubbornness bottomed out as rigidity, when impatience flared up as temperamentality, when the sheer force of his conviction aroused a feeling of inadequacy in the diffident interlocutor. But with Egbon, the passion was the person, the person was the passion. He felt passionately and thought profoundly. Between his heart and his mind, there was not much of a distance. He was a quintessential man of ideas never tired of decrying the catastrophic decline in Nigeria’s educational standard and the resultant ascendancy of mediocrity and allied mendacities. This was why he never concealed his belief in the capacity of a conscientious ASUU (Academic Staff Union of Universities) for addressing this malaise and mapping out an enlightened strategy for national development. Hence his loyal and critical participation in that Union’s activities, especially the long strike of 1996 which nearly cost him his job at a point when he was just a few years from formal retirement.
Here was a man who grew old without aging, a scholar with an astounding capacity for intellectual renewal and replenishment. No wonder he was always at his best in the midst of young intellectual minds among whom he tried out his ideas with a healthy dose of doubt and no iota of fear. Curious scholar and demanding teacher, he was an intellectual pugilist with sensitive gloves, who regarded feisty argumentation as his trade, and was never one to settle for half measures. Never known for prevarication or resort to disingenuous euphemism, Egbon said it as it was, and was forever averse to the kind of compromise that shares the same border with complicity. He was a fighter, a doughty, dogged, fighter, a tireless petitioner for justice at the personal and public levels, a clarion spirit who saw certain kinds of silence as nothing short of foul collaboration and sabotage of the commonweal.
So, there goes a man, true and proud, modest in his means, but never in his visions; a man whose just anger neither age nor appeasement could touch. Bold and blunt, firm and fair, he kept Truth’s company for 84 years without faltering, and passed on one week ago with a marching song on his lips. There goes the man, true and proud.
Alagidi Ekiti, Akin-Omo, Egbon mi lukaluka, rest easy, restwell.
Niyi Osundare
May 16, 2018
Buhari hosted Osinbajo, Oyegun, Tinubu, Akande, Fayemi, Prof Bolaji Aluko, others
A picture of virtually all the Ekiti guber Aspirants with President Buhari etc at a State Dinner in Abuja this evening.
President Muhammadu Buhari, on Wednesday night, hosted South-West caucus of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to a dinner at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
The event, which started about 8.30 p.m at the new Banquet Hall, was attended by APC chieftains from the region.
Among those at the dinner included Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo, National Leader of the APC and former Lagos State Governor, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, Chief Bisi Akande, and the National Chairman of APC, John Odigie-Oyegun.
Some national issues deliberated upon included the forthcoming governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun states.
Other stakeholders at the meeting included Prof Bolaji Aluko, Segun Oni, Minister of Mines and Steel Development and APC flag-bearer in the forthcoming Ekiti governorship race, Kayode Fayemi.
Governors at the meeting included Ibikunle Amosun (Ogun), Abiola Ajimobi (Oyo) and the Nasarawa State Governor, Tanko Al-Makura, who was the chairman of APC Ekiti Guber primaries committee.
Some members of the National Assembly, Ministers and stakeholders from the South-West were also in attendance.
CHIEF M. OLA AJAYI 1926-2018
When I saw the missed call of Yemi on May 5th 2018, it was unsettling for me until we spoke and he mentioned to me that Daddy Ola Ajayi had answered the final call. I received the news of his transition with mixed feelings. It is painful that we won't see such a beautiful soul and elder statesman again, at the same time we thank God for the gift of 92 years he spent on earth before bowing out. Yes, Baba M. O. Ajayi has gone home to rest, the inevitable for all mortals.It was quite refreshing seeing him after almost 30 years when I paid him a courtesy call in Igogo-Ekiti when he marked 90th birthday in May 2016. It was when he called to sympathize with Adetunmbi family on the transition of our matriarch in October 2017 that I heard his very pleasant voice last. The quintessential retired teacher of repute, Chief Ola Ajayi was among the reliable lieutenants and fruitful friends of my beloved father, Chief D.O. Adetunmbi (1919-1990) in his days as the national leader of the Nigeria Union of Teachers. The fine gentleman was a father-figure for me in my undergraduate days at University of Ilorin when he came for a special course the faculty of Education.
Right Reverend Dr Felix Ajakaiye, Ekiti Catholic Bishop, Chief & Mrs M. O. Ajayi and Seye Adetunmbi during his 90th birthday celebration in 2017
Chief M. Ola Ajayi was the Asiwaju of Igogo-Ekiti. A disciplined family man, always sparkling clean in his sharp dressing. He has gone with all his virtues while thanking God for the successful children he left behind. God will console mummy and provide soothing company for her, through Jesus Christ the family serves and worships. I commit to God's care the final rites that will commence with lying-in-state on the 31/5/18 at his residence H22, Oke-Okin Street, Igogo- Ekiti. His body is scheduled to be laid to rest on 1/6/18 after funeral service at St Joseph Catholic Cathedral Church, Igogo-Ekiti.
May the gentle soul of Chief M.O. Ajayi rest in peace, amen.
Fare thee well sir.
Seye Adetunmbi, 16/5/18
Ekiti Resolution Group - PRESS RELEASE #3
ERG COMMENDS APC, CONGRATULATES FAYEMI
...Calls for a Free & Fair July 14 Gubernatorial Election in Ekiti-State
May 14, 2018
Ekiti Resolution Group commends the All Progressives Congress APC party, and in particular its Al-Makura-led Election Committee, for the successful re-run of the governorship primary election in Ekiti State on Saturday May 12, 2018, exactly one week after the botched one. That the outcome of the election is now acceptable to all parties concerned is a testament to a well-executed event.
We congratulate the winner and now designated APC flag bearer, Dr. John 'Kayode Fayemi, on his hard-earned victory. Kudos also to all the other aspirants and their supporters for enabling a peaceful and conclusive primary election process. We now urge a speedy closing of ranks.
As we approach the July 14 gubernatorial election, we once again enjoin all political party candidates to work assiduously towards picking capable and reliable running mates in the interest of Ekiti people. All party flag bearers are urged to personally commit themselves to leading peaceful, civil and issue-based political campaigns.
ERG remains committed to advocating a safe, productive and conducive environment to socio-economic development of Ekiti-State. Therefore, we hope and trust that whoever emerges Governor makes serving the larger interests of Ekiti people paramount.
Ure Ekiti a s’oju kete ra o! (Amin.)
Signed
1. Prof. Mobolaji E. Aluko, Ode-Ekiti
2. Prof. Anthony Kila, Efon-Alaaye
3. Dr. Laofe Ogundipe, Ijesa-Isu
4. Okan Seye Adetunmbi, Ifaki
FAYEMI MAGNANIMOUS IN VICTORY
As he emerges as the flag bearer of APC, Dr Kayode Fayemi has extended invitation to all contestants to join hands with him to see the project through in July 2018. He went ahead to counsel his supporters to treat his co-contestants with respect. For his acceptance speech and latest on his well earned victory click on this link or visit JKF
COMMISSIONING OF NUMBER 9 FILM STUDIO
Congratulations to Dr Rotimi Adelola, onetime Secretary to Ondo-State Government on the commissioning of Number 9 Film Studio on Ikorodu road Lagos.
Also the private screening of KEDERE at NUMBER 9 FILM STUDIO LAGOS. KEDERE is an action-packed movie produced by Dr Rótìmí Adelola
EKITI RESOLUTION GROUP (ERG) COMMENDS EKITI PDP PRIMARY GOVERNORSHIP ELECTION
....Urges APC to follow suit
May 9, 2019
ERG hereby commends the way the Ekiti PDP Governorship Primary election was conducted and concluded at Ado-Ekiti on Tuesday, May 8, 2018.
Its honorable and dignified manner has made the outcome of the result acceptable to all parties concerned. On this note, we also congratulate current Deputy Governor Prof Olusola Eleka who emerged as the winner and undisputed flagbearer of the Party.
The group urges the PDP flag bearer and candidates of other political parties to personally commit to leading peaceful, civil and democratic campaigns that have the Ekiti people at heart and make them proud.
While awaiting the new APC schedule and process for their party flag bearer to emerge, its party leadership may wish to note the following in implementing their next line of action:
(1) The narrow limit of the number of candidates in PDP - two compared with APC's thirty-three.
(2) The separation, confined spaces and security of the venues for accreditation and voting which made for better monitoring of events.
(3) The active and seemingly impartial participation of the Election Committee members, particularly its Chairman.
We also use this opportunity to wish all political parties' flag bearers the very best at the upcoming July 14 governorship election while trusting that INEC will conduct a free and fair election that would appeal to the senses of all well meaning Ekiti people and Nigeria as a whole, and make the result acceptable to all.
Signed
1. Prof Bolaji Aluko, Ode-Ekiti
2. Prof Anthony Kila, Efon-Alaaye
3. Dr. Laofe Ogundipe, Ijesa-Isu
4. Okan Seye Adetunmbi, Ifaki-Ekiti
EKITI RESOLUTION GROUP PROFFERS SOLUTION FOR EKITI APC AND CALLS FOR MATURE AND GENEROUS LEADERSHIP
1. We the undersigned are not members of the APC, but are stakeholders in the Ekiti Development Project. Our humble intervention is a call to mature and generous leadership
2. We view the aborted outcome of the APC governor's primaries of May 5, 2018, at the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium at Ado-Ekiti
totally disgraceful, shameful and abhorrent.
3. We find it astounding that two clearly identifiable miscreants can upturn ballot boxes in the full glare of security forces and national TV, and thereby attempt to bring to naught years of preparation by many individuals and institutions, and billions of naira. These miscreants should be arrested and prosecuted both criminally (for destruction of property and incitement to violence in public space, etc) and civilly (for waste of private money, personal disrepute, etc).
4. Going forward, we call on all aspirants to understand that more than ever, this is a time to display mature and generous leadership. We therefore present two options for the timely, democratic and constitutional emergence of the APC gubernatorial candidate.
5. Option A: Strict Continuation of the Primaries
(i). Since accreditation had been completed, only re-accreditation of those who have not voted needs to be done.
(ii) All ballot papers in scattered ballot boxes should be retrieved, counted and the partial results announced for full transparency. Any soiled ones should be counted and set aside as Rejected.
(iii). Only one agent and one observer per aspirant should be allowed into the arena for voting continuation.
(iv). Only re-certified delegates should be allowed into the arena one at a time, searched for artefacts (e.g. cameras, phones, writing paper, etc.) that might compromise secret balloting or one-person-one-vote, led to the polling booth by security officials to fill in ballot paper, led to the ballot box to drop it in, and then led out of the arena pronto. Under no circumstances should there be more than (say) 20 delegates at the same time waiting to vote in the arena.
(v). After all re-certified delegates have voted, the votes should be counted in the presence of all the aspirants and their agents, announced, and then added to the disrupted votes for final results.
6. Option B: Narrowing the Aspirant Pool to arrive at a Consensus Candidate.
(i). Each of the thirty--three Aspirants - a number that we have always considered too large - is asked to write their own top four choices from among themselves, and the results tallied as now outlined below.
(ii). Round 1: The top candidate is the one with the highest No 1 + No. 2 choices, the second highest is with No. 2 + No. 3, and the third is highest No. 3 + No. 4 choices.
(iii). Round 2: All aspirants vote for a consensus candidate from the three topmost aspirants.
(iv). In case of a tie, a further round is done.
(v). The consensus candidate will be ratified in a Delegate Convention within a few days after a Consensus candidate emerges.
7. We consider Option A to be the more democratic and fair, but more expensive and time consuming. Option B, the quicker and less expensive, however leaves room for undemocratic ganging up - or horsetrading.
8. We appeal to all aspirants and their supporters to understand that the governorship election is not about themselves only but also about all the ward delegates and the electorate at large. In essence, it cannot be my way or no other way. They must be ready to accommodate other interests and stakeholders in the matter.
9. We urge that reason should prevail.
10. We hope and trust that the Peoples Democratic Party PDP will learn from this experience, and organize violence-free gubernatorial primaries in Ekiti State on Tuesday May 8.
Signed
Professor Mobolaji Aluko (Ode-Ekiti)
Professor Anthony Kila (Efon-Alaaye)
Dr Laofe Ogundipe (Ijesa-Isu)
Okan Seye Adetunmbi (Ifaki-Ekiti)
2. We view the aborted outcome of the APC governor's primaries of May 5, 2018, at the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium at Ado-Ekiti
totally disgraceful, shameful and abhorrent.
3. We find it astounding that two clearly identifiable miscreants can upturn ballot boxes in the full glare of security forces and national TV, and thereby attempt to bring to naught years of preparation by many individuals and institutions, and billions of naira. These miscreants should be arrested and prosecuted both criminally (for destruction of property and incitement to violence in public space, etc) and civilly (for waste of private money, personal disrepute, etc).
4. Going forward, we call on all aspirants to understand that more than ever, this is a time to display mature and generous leadership. We therefore present two options for the timely, democratic and constitutional emergence of the APC gubernatorial candidate.
5. Option A: Strict Continuation of the Primaries
(i). Since accreditation had been completed, only re-accreditation of those who have not voted needs to be done.
(ii) All ballot papers in scattered ballot boxes should be retrieved, counted and the partial results announced for full transparency. Any soiled ones should be counted and set aside as Rejected.
(iii). Only one agent and one observer per aspirant should be allowed into the arena for voting continuation.
(iv). Only re-certified delegates should be allowed into the arena one at a time, searched for artefacts (e.g. cameras, phones, writing paper, etc.) that might compromise secret balloting or one-person-one-vote, led to the polling booth by security officials to fill in ballot paper, led to the ballot box to drop it in, and then led out of the arena pronto. Under no circumstances should there be more than (say) 20 delegates at the same time waiting to vote in the arena.
(v). After all re-certified delegates have voted, the votes should be counted in the presence of all the aspirants and their agents, announced, and then added to the disrupted votes for final results.
6. Option B: Narrowing the Aspirant Pool to arrive at a Consensus Candidate.
(i). Each of the thirty--three Aspirants - a number that we have always considered too large - is asked to write their own top four choices from among themselves, and the results tallied as now outlined below.
(ii). Round 1: The top candidate is the one with the highest No 1 + No. 2 choices, the second highest is with No. 2 + No. 3, and the third is highest No. 3 + No. 4 choices.
(iii). Round 2: All aspirants vote for a consensus candidate from the three topmost aspirants.
(iv). In case of a tie, a further round is done.
(v). The consensus candidate will be ratified in a Delegate Convention within a few days after a Consensus candidate emerges.
7. We consider Option A to be the more democratic and fair, but more expensive and time consuming. Option B, the quicker and less expensive, however leaves room for undemocratic ganging up - or horsetrading.
8. We appeal to all aspirants and their supporters to understand that the governorship election is not about themselves only but also about all the ward delegates and the electorate at large. In essence, it cannot be my way or no other way. They must be ready to accommodate other interests and stakeholders in the matter.
9. We urge that reason should prevail.
10. We hope and trust that the Peoples Democratic Party PDP will learn from this experience, and organize violence-free gubernatorial primaries in Ekiti State on Tuesday May 8.
Signed
Professor Mobolaji Aluko (Ode-Ekiti)
Professor Anthony Kila (Efon-Alaaye)
Dr Laofe Ogundipe (Ijesa-Isu)
Okan Seye Adetunmbi (Ifaki-Ekiti)
FAYEMI CONDEMNS DISRUPTION OF APC GOVERNORSHIP PRIMARY BY HOODLUMS
….Says Ojudu, Bimbo Daramola becoming too desperate
The Minister of Mines and Steel Development and Governorship aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr Kayode Fayemi, has condemned the disruption of the party’s governorship primary election, yesterday, in Ado Ekiti, by thugs believed to be working for some aspirants in the race.
The leading governorship aspirant says the party does not deserve the type of ridicule which the shameful act of the hoodlums had subjected it to.
The Minister, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode, said the disruption of the primary election was the height of desperation on the part of some aspirants, who having seen defeat staring them in the face, conspired together to ensure that the exercise was not concluded.
Dr Fayemi said the aspirants resorted to violence and destruction, having realised that he was already in a clear lead in the five local governments that had cast their votes.
Dr Fayemi, who said he was not surprised by the disruption of the exercise, revealed that the security agencies had, a few days to the primary, been notified of plans by some aspirants to deploy hoodlums to disrupt the voting exercise.
He, however said that the security agencies took note of the information and promised to beef up security at the venue.
“It is quite painful seeing some desperate elements trying so much to rubbish the party we all laboured to build to national reckoning, out of share lust for power.
“If the quest for political position is to serve, then one wonders why the desperation being displayed by the likes of Femi Ojudu and Bimbo Daramola.
“Certainly the conduct of these desperate aspirants falls short of the minimum standards expected of anyone that professes progressive ideals.
“We urge our teeming supporters and loyal party members not to be discouraged by this despicable act. This surely shall pass, and better days are ahead. Our collective rescue mission has indeed begun.”
Signed
Yinka Oyebode
Special Adviser (Media) to the Minister
A new edition of THE NIGERIAN CENTURY, edited by DARE BABARINSA, is out.
The price is N10,000.00. Contact Dare Babarinsa on 08036260002 or through email, babalekeleke@yahoo.com.
Afe Babalola Proffers Solutions to Falling Education Quality in Africa
Posted By: Tunde Olofintila On: May 2, 2018
In his book titled: “A Paradise for Maggots: The story of a Nigerian Anti-graft Czar”, Wale Adebanwi, a Rhodes professor of Race Relations and Director, African Studies Centre in Oxford University, painted a lucid but agonizing picture of how corruption has robbed Nigeria of its best in virtually all facets of human endeavor.
Likewise, legal juggernaut and Founder, Afe BabalolaUniversity, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, yesterday recalled how the quantum and quality of education in the colonial era up to 1966 when the Military made an incursion into governance in Nigeria, was a lot better than what it is today.
In his usual brutally frank, firm, fair but friendly persona, the frontline legal icon and educationist painted a picture of how a combination of lack of true federalism among the states created at the 1884 Berlin Conference having regard to amalgamation of many incompatible tribes, failure of successive African governments to invest adequately in education, failure of African governments to sensitise their citizens that no government alone can fund quality and functional education and poor leadership as well as over bloated population have over several decades combined to render the search for sustainable education in post-colonial Africa illusory and utopian.
In a lecture titled: “The Search for Sustainable Education in Post-colonial era in African States” in Oxford University, United Kingdom (UK), yesterday, Babalola recalled that in terms of quality, composition and structure, the educational institutions established during the colonial era in many parts of Africa enjoyed the three essential trappings of being autonomous, collegial and self-governing as they were meticulously planned and patterned after elite UK universities.
Unfortunately, the elite classical model of university education in such model institutions like the Fourah Bay College in Sierra Leone (established in 1877), Achimota College in Gold Coast and Yaba Higher College (both established in 1934), and Liberia College in Monrovia (1833) and the University College, Ibadan, Nigeria among several others, started dwindling at an escalated rate with the takeover of government by military dictatorships in many parts of Africa with the attendant insufficient funding of education and over-concentration of political and financial power at the centre in most African states.
He said: “With military leadership in Nigeria came the absolute concentration of powers in the central government. The military constitutions in Nigeria, Ghana, Uganda and Libya, amongst others, accumulated several executive powers to the central government, thereby strangulating the capacity of the regions and states to independently finance and execute education expansion programmes.
“The added impetus for military authorities to curtail students’ demands and protests as well as checkmate university staff unions led to the rise of governmental control and influence over key decisions in the education sector.”
Like Steven Kumalo, the main character of “Cry, The Beloved Country” once remarked that “the tragedy is not that things are broken, the tragedy is that things are not be mended again’”, Babalola, a sure footed authority in educational matters, feels that it will be grossly unfair to continue to blame the dwindling fortunes and quality of education on the colonial masters when African states should rather look inwards and ask salient questions about what successive African governments have done to build and improve upon what the colonial masters bequeathed to them at independence.
Illustrating with Nigeria, Babalola recalled how Nigerian university system became increasingly less autonomous, less collegiate and highly dependent on government for funding and decision making in the period between 1966 and 1999 when Nigeria was under Military rule with the attendant over concentration of political and financial powers at the centre.
It was during this period that government became a major stakeholder in education and started meddling in such routine educational matters like the constitution and membership of the governing councils of universities and appointment of key administrative officers of universities.
He lamented that lack of adequate funding has forced African universities to become local institutions, attended mainly by local residents from the immediate state or region where such universities are located, unlike the practice in those days where the likes of the University of Ibadan, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife and the University of Lagos were like mini United Nations with students and lecturers from all over Africa, Europe and America.
In his view, Africa can only build world class universities for a world class economy by deploying significant portion of their yearly budgets to revitalizing and supporting their universities, both private and public, stressing that education that does not equip graduates to become independent thinkers, employers of labour, captains of industries and agents of economic change in the key sectors of the economy is unsustainable and irrelevant.
By investing in entrepreneurial education, African universities can also diversify their income to become more self-sustaining and this is what he has been doing since he established his own university, Afe BabalolaUniversity, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), in 2009, after his seven-year stint as the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Lagos. Today, ABUAD’s ventures, according to him, contribute significantly to the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) of the university.
Undoubtedly, his experience as a former Pro-Chancellor & Chairman of Council of the University of Lagos where he was voted Best Pro-Chancellor twice by the NUC and subsequent establishment of his increasingly famous ABUAD, where he has deployed over N80 billion for investments on state-of-the-art infrastructure and ICT expansion since it commenced academic activities on Monday, January 4, 2010, today stands him out as an authority on how a university should be run and how a university should not be run.
To get out this quagmire, Babalola, canvassed for national restructuring, which would end “the brand of federalism practiced across post-colonial Africa that has stifled innovation and has made it difficult for states, private sector and even universities to attain the required level of financial and structural autonomy needed to drive sustainability”.
Worried by the quality of leadership in the post-colonial African states, he quipped: “Africa needs a new crop of leaders who are prepared to provide a vision for true federalism. We need leaders who will not sink back to pre-mordial ethnic attachments nor be moored or covert bigotry.
“We need leaders who will invest their personal fortunes to develop their country. We need leaders who are prepared to make sacrifices and make personal contributions to higher education which cannot be met by government alone as I did in UNILAG.
“We need more Nigerians particularly the rich ones to invest in education by establishing not-for-profit first class institutions of learning similar to ABUAD.”
He concluded by canvassing for national restructuring and constitutional reform to correct the arbitrariness that occasioned the 1884 Berlin Conference where incompatible people were amalgamated as nations and the frail and structurally defective federal structures put in place by the colonial leadership. Perhaps the 1884 Berlin Conference and the resultant lopsided partitioning of Africa viz-a-viz the amalgamation of incongruous people as nations must have inspired Walter Rodney in writing his enthralling masterpiece titled: “How Europe underdeveloped Africa”.
In Babalola’s view, “our current claims to being a federation is not only comical and deceitful, it indeed requires urgent surgical operation. Restructuring is not a call for disunity or conflict; it is a well-informed call for a speedy return to the confederation principles contained in the Independence Constitution which our Regional Leaders negotiated with the British between 1957 and 1959”.
He equally canvassed for a National Education Fund (NEF) and the commitment of a minimum of 25 per cent of the national budget to education in order to be able to rapidly catch up with the rest of the world in terms of quality education.
He wondered why ABUAD, like all other private universities, has been excluded from accessing the multi-billion TETfund University Research Funds. TETfund is made up of five per cent levy on public and private companies to support education. Worse still, government also collects custom duties on education and hospital equipment freely donated by foreign philanthropists.
Besides, Babalola admonished African leaders to promptly address the peculiar African factor of geometric rise in population through reckless procreation which impacts negatively on the yearly revenue of government with regard to government expenditure on other sectors.
Recalling the story of a 93-year-old Bello Abubakar in Nigeria who had 97 wives and 185 children, Babalolaadded: “It is unfortunate that while other countries are curtailing population growth, Africans revel in producing children without caution. When China woke up to the reality of population explosion starring it in the face, it pegged the number of children in a family to one. On the contrary, we continue to revel in the unwholesome habit of giving birth to a multitude of children.”
He therefore called on the governments of African states to make it abundantly clear that there is a limit to the amount of money they can provide for education in the midst of competing areas of needs.
They should equally stop deceiving the populace that if elected, they will provide free education. This, in his view, is how Nigeria came about establishing several state universities which are nothing but glorified secondary schools.
•Olofintila wrote from London
EMERITUS PROFESSOR MATTHEW AKINYEMI ARAOYE: A DISTINGUISHED ACADEMIC AND AN HONORABLE GENTLEMAN
By
Seye Adetunmbi
After I received the sad news of the transition of Professor M. A. Araoye, my memory raced back to around 35 years ago when I saw how he took interest my beloved father and was always looking out for him medically. I noticed that most of the times he drove through Ifaki either on is way to University of Ilorin where he was based or on his way to Ekiti from Ilorin, he would make out time to check Baba to see how he was fairing. He would ask after his medications and sometimes prof came with some the prescribed medicine for my beloved father, Chief D. O. Adetunmbi. It was after I asked my father that I got to know that he was a brother of Chief Ademola Araoye who held Baba in high esteem as his senior colleague in the Nigeria Union of Teachers activism. Apparently, prof met Baba, Chief Adetunmbi through prof's brother, Chief Araoye and thereafter they bonded with one another until the transition of Baba in 1990.
Professor Araoye was a nice kindhearted person and a disciplined gentleman. I remember going to his office in at University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, to complain about an ailment to him after introducing myself to him. My surname was my passport. He went where he kept medicines and gave me the drugs that healed the ailment. He said as a son of Baba I must be well behaved on the campus and this I appreciated a great deal.
I was very happy to see him at the Bishop's Court Ado-Ekiti on the 25th of April, 2016. It was during the inauguration of the Board of Governors of Ile-Abiye College of Health Technology on invitation of Chief S. B. Falegan, the Chairman of which Prof Araoye was a member. I made sure a I got him a copy of the special publication of Ekitipanupo Legacy book which he commended after going through it. And that was the last time I saw him though I called to speak with him after we met in Ado-Ekiti.
The emeritus professor indeed lived a remarkable life of service to God and humanity. He was a product of Christ's School, Ado-Ekiti where belonged to the 1956 set with the school number 54/010. In 1979, he was appointed Lecturer and Consultant Physician at the University of Ilorin. He later served at University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital as a Professor of Medicine and Dean of the College of Medicine. He was the pioneer Provost of the College of Medicine, Benue State University and also the Provost at the College of Medicine in the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital. Emeritus Professor Araoye rested in the Lord on Sunday 1st of April, 2018 at the age of 78 years. May his gentle soul rest in peace, amen.
Professor Sam Ade Ojo
A lecture delivered to Ipade Egbe OmoYoruba ti Europe in April 2018
The Yoruba, who are majorly from Nigeria, are one of the largest ethnic groups in Africa. They make up 21% of Nigeria's population and constitute 40.9 million of its population. They are the third largest Nigerian ethnic group and demographically dominate 8 states, of whose 46 million, 39.8 million, were, as of 2006, Yoruba (National Population Commission, 2006).
They are also found in the northern-central Nigerian states of Kogi and Kwara, of whose population, the Yoruba constitute 34%. In the South- South of Nigeria, such ethnic groups as the Edo, Esan, Afemai and Itsekiri, who are ancestrally and culturally related to the Yoruba, share convivial affinities with the Yoruba and most of them proudly present themselves as Yorubas.
The Yoruba are also found in other African countries. They are in Benin, where they are known as the Nago and also in Togo. They are in Burkina Faso and in Cote d'Ivoire. In Sierra Leone, they are known as the Aku. They are in Liberia and the Gambia. While they are among the dominant ethnic groups in Benin and Togo, where they are prominent in every facet of their lives, they are predominantly conspicuous in the retail business at major markets in the other West African countries. Beyond Africa are those generally referred to as the Yoruba diaspora, which consists of three groups.
The first and most significant group is made of those who are the offspring of those uprooted from Nigeria by the Atlantic slave trade from August 1619, who constituted 69.1% of all slaves whose ethnic origins were identified as coming from the Bight of Benin and who are now in the South American countries of Brazil, particularly in Bahia, where the religion of Candomble has striking resemblances to some Yoruba religious practices. They are in Venezuela, the Dominica Republic and the West Indian islands of Haiti and Cuba, where they are known as Lukumi. They are in Jamaica, St Lucia, Grenada, Belize, British Guyana, Barbados, and Trinidad and Tobago. In Surinam, they are known as Yoruba.
The second group is made of the offspring of the slaves brought to North America who are found in large numbers in almost all American States, where they are today making significant impacts on the academic, economic, political and entertainment landscapes of America. The effect of Yoruba religious practices is, for example, strongly recorded in Miami where the syncretistic religion known as Santeria is practised as a Yoruba religion and in Oyotunji African Village in Beaufort County in South Carolina that operates like a mini version of the great Oyo Empire
The third group is made of relatively recent migrants, majority of whom moved to the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada and Germany as a result of the economic meltdowns, political upheavals and social unrests that have become prevalent in Nigeria since the 1980s.
IS DRA CONTESTING AGAINST JKF?
Debo Ajayi Speaks
This question has been coming up frequently in the past few days and well meaning Ekiti Sons and Daughters have reached out to me for clarifications. It therefore warrants some response from me before someone else answers it incorrectly for me.
First, please consider the following salient facts:
1. It is public knowledge that I started consultations and activities about the gubernatorial race in May 2017. It is now April 2018 and less than 4 weeks to the Party primaries.
2. As is expected of someone who served under JKF and is also his friend, I consulted with him from the very start and secured his blessings and encouragement.
3. Likewise, I consulted with our able leader, former Governor Niyi Adebayo who gave me favorable reviews and encouragement.
4. Even though he was already far into his ambition, I also consulted with Former Governor Segun Oni, who felt that if my aspiration is of God no one can stop it.
5. Beyond these I consulted with party elders throughout the state with very positive feedback and with several other leaders.
6. On Dec. 20 2017, I formally declared for the race at the party secretariat in Ado-Ekiti.
7. I have carried JKF along throughout the entire process and this has continued up to the present moment.
8. As I write, JKF is yet to confirm any definite ambition to me even though we spoke as recently as few weeks ago before I travelled abroad briefly, with plans to speak again on my return.
9. So far, the rumored JKF ambition has been in the news and as we have done in the past on other issues, JKF and I have an understanding not to rely on rumors in public domain. The relationship between JKF and I remains cordial and is based on mutual respect and shared passion for Ekiti's development and the pursuit of excellence in service.
10. I am the Visioner of the Ekiti South for Governor forum, a Cause that goes beyond any one person's individual ambition and seeks to redress the long-standing imbalance in the gubernatorial representation within our State.
With the foregoing facts, I leave the political commentators to draw their own conclusions regarding ill-conceived questions about disloyalty. I hope those who innocently questioned my loyalty are now better informed. On the contrary I have indeed been loyal to fully carry JKF along every step of the way. I have no hidden agenda but to heed the call on me to serve. It was never an issue of loyalty to a person or otherwise as mischief makers will like to posit the narratives
To reiterate, I have no hidden agenda, instead I have carefully worked to be open and forthright from the beginning, fulfilling all righteousness in the matter of heeding the call on me to serve Ekiti people. My primary pursuit is to seek the pleasure of He who called me and fulfill His divine purpose for my life.
Thankfully, JKF is not susceptible to mischief makers trying to wedge walls between us. They have tried and failed before.
By divine arrangement, JKF was used of God to bring me back to Ekiti to serve and while doing that I became aware of the plight of our people which God has now translated into a burden for me to lead the emancipation of our people from poverty and the restoration of dignity and self respect to Ekiti people.
JKF will forever get adequate and positive mention wherever the DRA story is told for breakthrough in the development of Ekiti. By extension, I thank God for the privilege of serving and learning under such a distinguished personality as JKF. Our relationship goes way back to our University days when we were both active in student unionism.
The experience gained under JKF combined with my global corporate experience have been invaluable in helping me conceptualize innovative solutions to the needs of our people, how to treat others and get the best out of our people.
JKF knows that I'm capable of continuing all the great work we started in that regime while addressing the gaps and weaknesses.
In conclusion, my aspiration is not about persons but about the people of Ekiti.
As to the ill-framed question of whether DRA is contesting against JKF, the agitators should really be wondering about whether JKF should indeed contest against DRA who's already in the field with his blessing.
Once again, I wish to assure my supporters that this race is a divine mandate in which victory is assured both at the primaries and the general elections.
14 ASPIRANTS PICKED APC GOVERNORSHIP NOMINATION FORM.....FAYEMI JOINS THE RACE
As at April 12th 2018, 14 of over 40 aspirants jostling to be next governor of Ekiti State have picked up APC nomination form and their Senatorial. The breakdown of the list indicating their senatorial districts are stated below.
1. Senator Gbenga Aluko (SGA) - South
2. Senator. Ayo Arise - North
3. Rt. Hon. Femi Bamisile (BAFEM) - South
4. Senator Babafemi Ojudu (SBO) - Central
5. Hon. Bamidele Faparusi (FAPPY) - South
6. Dr. Wole Oluyede - South
7. Mr. Debo Ranti Ajayi (DRA) - South
8. Hon. Michael Opeyemi Bamidele (MOB) - Central
9. Barrister Victor Oladele Kolade (VOK) - Central
10. Chief Oladiran Barnabas Adesua (OBA) - South
11. Hon. Bimbo Daramola - North
12. Mr. Kola Alabi (KA) - South
13. Dr. Makanjuola Akindele Owolabi (MAO) - South
14. Captain Sunday Adebomi - South
15. Mr. Muyiwa Coker - North
16. Mrs. Yaya Kolade - North
17. Otunba Yinka Akerele - North
18. Chief Dele Okeya - South
THE SECOND TERM BID OF DR KAYODE FAYEMI
Dr Kayode Fayemi is set to contest for second term, the large turnout of the party EXCO members at wards, senatorial and state levels in Isan-Ekiti where he hosted them attest to his popularity in Ekiti APC. Apparently, the Federal Minister is on top of his party politics.
CONFERENCE ON AFRICAN ORIGINS
The well attended conference on African origins held as cheduled on February 21st 2018 at Muson Centre, Lagos Island and it was a commendable success. The journey to create an effective awareness program to enlighten and empower the Black Man has started. The new scientific evidence presented by Prince Justice Faloye in his book and outstanding audio-visual documentary informed the holding of the maiden conference to formally bring it to the public domain. Let me use this opportunity to congratulate Justice, his co-organizers and sponsors of the resourceful outing.
Baba Oluwatoyin
Owolabi Ajayi of Iyin-Ekiti passed-on at the age of 98 years in the morning of January 2018 in his home town.
Pa O.O. Ajayi was a trained teacher and teaching was his profession throughout his working career. He was born on May 23rd
2013 in Iyin-Ekiti. Baba was one of the early teachers at Ekiti Parapo College, Ido-Ekiti and among the cherished teachers in Christ's School, Ado-Ekiti.
One of his children, Her Excellency, Ambassador Eniola Ajayi wrote about her father thus:
"He was a great father. A father in every sense of the word. He taught me self esteem, self confidence and selfless giving. He taught me the value of honesty, hard work and having a goal. He taught me commitment to my fellow men and community service. He taught me to respect my fellow men irrespective of class or creed. He taught me how to stand up for myself and others. He taught me how to love by his exemplary life. You paved the way for me to accept Christ by converting to Christianity early in life. You loved and respected us and our Mum. I will be forever grateful for having you as my father. Rest In Peace our father. We shall surely miss you especially your sense of humour."
With the gift of long life God granted him, he was able to read very well in his old age.
FEDERAL GOVERNMENT APPROVED CONSTRUCTION OF IJEGU YALA DAM
The Federal Government has approved the Award of contract for the construction of the Ijegu Yala Dam in Yala local government area of Cross River State.
The construction of the Dam which is to be done in phases with the first phase amounting to #497.000,000 is expected to be completed in a years time. The Dam is primarily for Water supply, erosion, flood control as well as the provision of irrigation facility to aid large scale farming.
The Managing Director of Cross River Basin Development Authority Engineer Bassey Nkposong who disclosed this in Calabar during a Retreat organized for staff of the Authority said the take off of the Dam Project was a dream come true for the Authority and for the people of Cross River State.
Engr. Nkposong said in addition, The Authority was planning to establish integrated farm settlement in the six senatorial districts of the catchment.
He said already over 30 hectares of lands from each of the senatorial districts have been freely given out for the proposed project which will be used as a pilot schemes for large scale farmers in Cross River and Akwa Ibom States.
Engr. Nkposong said the Authority has taken over the full Management of the Songhai Farms in Abi Local Government Area; He hinted that the project would soon regain its glories.
He said the recent signing of a memorandum of understanding with Gab-Umoh, Agricultural Services was aimed at mass production of Rice for the catchment as well as providing a pilot scheme which will serve as reference point for Rice farmers in the catchment.
Engr. Nkposong said the Authority would attend the 2018 water day celebration with Rice produced from its farm.
With the appointment of a new board of Directors for the Authority, the Managing Director said, the organization's organogram was complete and that the Authority was poised to deliver on its Mandate.
TECHNOCRATS PROFFER SOLUTIONS TO THE PERENNIAL LIVESTOCK FARMING PROBLEMS IN NIGERIA
Tope Ojo wrote to Ekitipanupo Forum:
Agricultural and security experts can provide the necessary solutions to the problems associated with nomadic livestock farming.
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| Tope Ojo |
Scenarios:
1. A technical and investigative study of the immediate and remote causes of the problems associated with livestock farming in Nigeria should be carried out by government, particularly that of nomadic herdsmen. Recommendations should be made on how to mitigate all the failures in that sector and redevelop the sector. A crime free society is desirable.
2. Currently,farmers are being encouraged by agricultural experts to cultivate a particular type of plant that is repoignant to cattle,round the farm. This will keep the animals off.
3. The herdsmen should be encouraged to feed their livestock with forage crops.
Forage crops are crop cultivated for feeding livestock. Nomadic herdsmen for now,prefer zero cost feeding.
4. Modernisation of livestock farming in Nigeria.
5. Establishment of meat processing factories in the North and the middle belt. After all,we eat imported frozen fish,frozen turkey and frozen fish in Nigeria. Farmers,state government and NAFDAC can work together and standardise meat processing business.
We don't need too many heads of cattle down south. What we need is animal protein. The animals are no pets,why must we flood the south with them.
6. Irrigation practices in the North will provide lush vegetation for feeding animals up North.
7. The political dimensions of the activities of herdsmen should be addressed. Apparently, some of them are involved in communal clashes. Some are land grabbers.
8. Government should address the issue of proliferation of light and small arms in West Africa.
9. Education,both formal and informal should be widespread in terms of capacity and quality,nationwide. We need to make our citizens appreciate the value of life and the essence of living.
10. Elimination of the culture of impunity in our land. The rule of law must be established in Nigeria.
11. Strict state control laws on illegal activities of herdsmen and appropriate sanctions should be meted out to those who violate the laws of the land.
12. Government should disarm all herdsmen and ensure their bio-metric registration. The state and federal government can collaborate on this.
13. Job creation nationwide will reduce all crimes.
14. Export of meat products like corned beef will create an external market.
15. There is possibility of a boycott of meat products,if the herdsmen remain unlawful.
16. The agricultural sector in the North needs to be well structured and repositioned for Northern state governments to tax the players and enhance their IGR.
17. There is need for rapid intelligence gathering and proactive steps on the part of government and all intelligence agencies.
Also, we need to employ modern technology in the area of security management in our clime.
We have said it severally that we need to build strong social institutions and strong people. It is therefore very necessary that as a nation,we must embark on a cultural revolution. The time to up our value system is now. For long we have been with poor values. Our nation is deficient in moral capital.
I strongly believe that with a clear focus, government can tackle all the problems associated with nomadic livestock farming in Nigeria. We did not have crisis of this magnitude in the 1960s to 1980s.
Bolaji Balogun wrote to Capital Market Roundtable:
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| Bolaji Balogun |
Like so many of our economic and social problems in Nigeria, the challenges of nomadic livestock farming in Nigeria among other things are an infrastructure problem. Fundamentally, all agrarian nations until they make the necessary investments in power, transportation and water networks witness these challenges. Nigeria’s lack of power and equally, significant cold chain and water infrastructure means that we are always moving livestock rather than meat and we are always moving it in search of water and fodder. Brazil, as an example has 300 million plus heads of cattle. If you have travelled around urban and rural Brazil, you do not see livestock moving, rather what is moving is meat through a cold chain, by rail and road to major cities, ports and airports to all kitchens, restaurants and tables around the world.
The transformative potential of infrastructural development for Nigeria cannot be overemphasized. Major infrastructure development projects create hundreds of thousands of low to mid-skill jobs on a sustained, long-term basis across the entire project value chain, from design, construction to operation, as well as maintenance. In 2013, the Africa Development Bank (“AfDB”) estimated that Nigeria’s GDP could have grown by an additional 2 percentage points (vs. 5.4% actually recorded) if we had greater infrastructure stock. Furthermore, access to infrastructure greatly influences the productivity of private investment and improves a country’s competitiveness. Every $1 investment on infrastructure has an estimated multiplier effect of 6-8x on economic activity. Sustained infrastructural investment will be key to realizing Nigeria’s twin economic objectives of diversification and industrialization. Inadequate power and transportation networks currently hamper the agricultural industry by limiting processing capabilities and the efficient movement of produce from farms to domestic and export markets. Inadequate transportation networks especially rail is a significant constraint if mining output is to be moved to ports for export to other markets. It will be impossible to improve our currently thin industrial and manufacturing base without reliable and efficient power supply. Power generation, back-up and other self-generation costs imposes a significant cost burden on business, accounting for an estimated 15-40% of operating expenses across industries and a significant portion of capital expenditure for large industrial businesses. Improvements in infrastructure attract further domestic and foreign investments and it is these investments, which are critical to job creation, perhaps Nigeria’s most important demography related challenge for a country that will have 500 million people in 30 years. Improved infrastructure will also lead to better social outcomes, including education, health and life expectancy. Strong economic growth in all emerging markets has always been premised on a consistent and rapid infrastructure development programme. No country globally has succeeded in developing its economy, in diversifying its economy and in lifting its people out of poverty without a substantial programme of rapid and diversified investment in its infrastructure stock.
Through the recession, one part of Nigeria’s government and economy continued to grow – Lagos State. Lagos has built a disciplined approach to financing infrastructure through the capital markets, raising bonds which are applied 100% to infrastructure. On average 75% to physical infrastructure (roads, power, rail etc) – and 25% to social infrastructure (education, healthcare, stadia and parks). Compare this to the sovereign, which raises bonds and utilizes a majority to finance recurrent expenditure and a minority for capital expenditure including infrastructure. I always remember a speech by late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, from 1963 I believe, where he remarks that the Western region government’s greatest achievement was keeping recurrent expenditure in the prior year to under 25%.
There is so much in our history that remains relevant and applicable today and as a nation, there is an urgent imperative for us to commit to a massive public and private investment over the next 30 years into building the infrastructure to support what will be the third most populous nation on earth. Over 200,000 megawatts of power, up to 10,000 kms of rail, up to 100,000 kms of roads, up to 5,000 kms of gas networks, water, waste management, broadband and further telecoms infrastructure, educational and healthcare infrastructure, student housing etc, need to be developed, financed and built. We must also do this with a focus on low carbon infrastructure.
I wish us all a most exciting journey.
ASPIRATION OF BIMBO DARAMOLA TO GOVERN EKITI IS FOR REAL
So I got this call from Folabi, a youth leader(this makes him a delegate that will vote at the Ekiti 2018 Gubernatorial Primary election coming up in April), a young ekiti man who lives in Ekiti, I will mask the name of his ward.
After saying some nice things about me, expreesed kind words about my issue based campaign, about how our reassuring méssage resonates well with a broad spectrum of delegates and party faithfuls,Elders and non party people, regular Ekiti persons on the streets.
He talked about how enamoured he is by the hope that I seem to represent to the young ones, how unbelievable it is that we are committing so much to ensuring that 2000 young kids of Ekiti extraction will have their feet in the door of their future because of our FREE J.AM.B FORMS in a space of 11months, 1000 in February 2017 and another 1000 in February 2018 not minding that there is cash based primary election just by April 2018.
How he fears that the primaries may be twisted in his words because of “fears of agbara oke”(which I quickly dispelled by telling him all powers belongs to God) and many more things he said, how I am believable because I have track record and reputation from the things we did as Member House if Representatives claiming that his sister in law gave birth in the hospital that I built, equipped and handed over to government, but his biggest worry more than "Agbara Oke", which he said can be resisted if delegates are united is a rumour he keeps hearing.
But Folabi's biggest fear according to him is that "there is the "#rumor" that seems to be rife that I will #step #down and #disappoint my followers at some point". I could sense his palpable fears, and the need for reassurance.
For Folabi to call me at after midnight, I need no prophet to tell me how worried he is.
I heaved another sigh after thanking him properly for his kind words and taking it upon himself to call me.
Well I told Folabi that I was not hearing that for the first time and have chosen not to dignify this comment with a response or to openly address it because it has not arisen and I don’t think it will.
I said to Folabi that this is not just another aspiration for me, neither is this another case of another dye in the wool politician who does not have anything to do but politics of seeking power and influence in perpetuity or ad infinitum. I am different.
I told Folabi that Indeed after my losses at the elections of my Oga and Egbon Dr John #Kayode #Fayemi, i.e his re-election bid which I had the privilege of being the Director General, and shortly after that was my re-election bid to the House of Representatives (which was lost inevitably having just lost the gubernatorial election in the circumstances that we did about 5 months earlier.
In spite of that, everyone knows how my own election was won and lost anyway).
Before i made up my mind to run , I narrated to Folabi, that i was convinced after i had consulted widely, from my leaders, elders, my family (biological, personal, political, and ultimately God).
To eliminate being cast in the mould of a rebel, or an over-ambitious person.
I got the conviction to proceed based on facts of the matter.
So this response to contest is conviction based and backed, and this has formed why i have taken it seriously like all my human endeavours and any enterprise that I have commit myself to, and this by all means is no exemption.
On the personal plane, I have gone too far to pull back, by the Grace of God, I will go the whole hog.
History will have her judgment of my effort at the end of the day.
I reminded Folabi how far I have gone in over 16 months telling him all that needs to be done, that we have, e.g I have met delegates in 12 LGAS from 133 wards out of 177 wards, campaigned very hard, deployed huge resources, other inherent physically, physiologically and psychologically exerting processes.
So on a personal estimation, I have given this important endeavour my best shot for over 16 months, and in these closing days, my personal reward and self justification can not come by quitting. I would eternally feel hollow.
Now this is certainly beyond me! I let it be known clearly to Folabi.
In these sixteen months, I have not been pounding the towns of Ekiti, and obviously traversing the length and breadth of Nigeria doing all that I consider needful and necessary towards the realization of this aspiration to come and step down. And I have traversed a bit.
Far and most importantly, this aspiration has gone beyond just another aspiration, in this period I have met and made new friends and bonded with new families, who I humbly can say, believe in me and what I represent, United by one reason that this is not the best of times in our state or the best we can get even at the worst of times and consequently had got them to voluntarily commit themselves to this campaign for the ticket of the party and the ultimate victory at General election by the Grace of God.
What then do I tell them? What will be the reason to quit.
Also the aspiration has given me the opportunity to discover the strength, vigour, determination, commitment, zeal, focus and clear headedness of the Ekiti youth if well directed and guided.
Oh what an amazing band! Undervalued, Underappreciated and Underated.
I have never been so engraced and privileged of God to have such a team led by dedicated and dependable elders from 45 to 80 among other most resourceful human beings on the planet, of course my ubiquitous young brothers and sisters who now see me as a #mentor, #advocate, #liberator and above all as blood brothers!
Every where its Uncle bimbo, Brother bimbo etc, they have come to own the #nitori ojo ola wa theme, philosophy and vision because they understand what it means and also realize that #bimboekiti is more than sloganeering or a personal political identity, rather a corporate recovery signature philosophy about the kind of ekiti we had and that we should have.
Having been able to access our present realities and I provided them the opportunity to match today's realities with the Ekiti where I grew up.
They now understand the real issues and I have completely brought then into the vision.Now they have taken ownership. They have a sneak preview into their future and our future as a people and state.
How do I now pull away or step down for anybody when the vision of a #greater#Ekiti that is #possible is mutually shared and believed as I espoused and conviced them to adopt over the past sixteen months and is yet to be birthed?
How do I tell my mentees who have pushed our campaign thus far, #JasperOgunkuade taking campaigns to Ekameta by himself or #Ibitola #Temitope I.e #Shuggar in Usi Ekiti and #Valentine#Tosin in Ikole? having come to accept what i daily teach them, that if you have a vision, you can only accomplish it if you are committed and dedicated and that quitters have lost the moment they quit and never wins. How do I rationalise that I cannot live what I preached?
I must be seen to practice what I preach otherwise I cease to lay claims to moral high ground to lead and mentor.
How do I fully convey my appreciation to all who have supported me in one form or the other from identification with me tangibly in many forms from material to long intercession PRAYERS , that they have done for me night and day, through thick and thin, how do I sustain their zeal and my preaching that the young persons must believe in themselves against all odds, which they have now imbibed and taken as gospel?
How do I remain a believable leader? And sustain the reality that I am not another stereotype, driven by come chop ideology.
Too many questions that I will NEVER be able to answer if I ever contemplate, backing down.
Well I have thought through all these and more, and I told Folabi my friend and I have come to that decision, super conviction driven position , irretrievably that #sail #we #must, and sail we will regardless of the tide that may assail our voyage, courage prescribes that #sail #we #must, and #sail #we #will.
So tonight, I reassured Folabi and many others who still feel like him that I am in this for a long run, it’s a marathon and not a sprint dash, regardless of what happens, History will judge.
Posterity will reserve a dignifying place for us all by #standing #sure, #firm; #focussed and #strong to the #finishing tape.
At the end of the day, it will be clear that this is not another personal political expedition for pecuniary motives or selfish, egoistic or wildcatting aspiration or about me, rather the ##EKITI APC primary and ultimately the EKITI STATE 2018 #general #election will be a #referendum about the present and future well being of Ekiti state and the roles that posterity is calling all well meaning man or woman, boy or girl who desire and deserve a better state and life as against today’s void and emptiness.
Certainly no retreat, no surrender, Aluta Continua Victoria Ascerta. Not just another aspiration I told Folabi urging him to take this gospel to the nooks and crannies of Ekiti.
He sounded charged and revved up. As I thanked him and was to hang up, I heard him say excitedly and fired up that "Oga ise sese beere ni"I.e We 've only just began.
PLEASE join us, we can make this happen, once we are determined. We all have a stake. Let's do it.
My name is Congressman Bimbo Daramola
#bimboekiti
8thJanuary, 2018
12.27am
8thJanuary, 2018
12.27am
ALUKO'S BOOK UNVEILED
The publisher wrote:
Olu Aluko wrote:
QUOTE
In response to requests from all quarters, the e-copy of the book, STREAM OF CONSCIOUSNESS is out for interested buyers to procure.
The price is N5,000 per copy. Interested buyers will send mail to mindscopeafrica@gmail.com after paying into the publisher’s account as provided thus:
Account Name: Mindscope Africa
Number: 1963006994
Ecobank PLC
The pdf copy will be forwarded to the provided email address by the buyer.
The price is £9.99 and $12.99 for those who prefer this medium of payment. The publisher shall provide the designated domiciliary account on request through mail sent to mindscopeafrica@gmail.com.
10% of the sale proceeds shall be dedicated to charity for child victims of strife in Africa.
Hard copy of the book is scheduled to be out before the end of 1st quarter of 2018.
Olu Aluko
Author
UNQUOTE
It is a riveting musing and chronicled stream of consciousness of an innocent young mind in Nsukka, a gripping story of Biafra and thoughts on contemporary issues in Nigeria
Olu Aluko wrote:
QUOTE
In response to requests from all quarters, the e-copy of the book, STREAM OF CONSCIOUSNESS is out for interested buyers to procure.
The price is N5,000 per copy. Interested buyers will send mail to mindscopeafrica@gmail.com after paying into the publisher’s account as provided thus:
Account Name: Mindscope Africa
Number: 1963006994
Ecobank PLC
The pdf copy will be forwarded to the provided email address by the buyer.
The price is £9.99 and $12.99 for those who prefer this medium of payment. The publisher shall provide the designated domiciliary account on request through mail sent to mindscopeafrica@gmail.com.
10% of the sale proceeds shall be dedicated to charity for child victims of strife in Africa.
Hard copy of the book is scheduled to be out before the end of 1st quarter of 2018.
Olu Aluko
Author
UNQUOTE
Extracts from the Blurb:
A riveting, MUST READ story by Olu. Mummy will be very amused, but certainly more impressed by Olu's wonderful power of recall, even as a boy. I look forward to the book its – Dr Femi Orebe, 12/8/17
This is a beautiful recollection of a difficult period in the life of our nation. He is a great storyteller. Thanks for making my day - Kayode Afolabi, 11/8/17
....Apart from the very interesting nature of your stories, the fluidity of the prose is most compelling - Soji Olowolafe
WOW! Primary account witness... Olu Aluko, this is pretty deep….Yours was even different and not in any textbook that we have read - Tayo Adedeji-Phillips
Very inspiring, the language is simple and easy to read - Awotedu Oladunni Adeluwoye
Epical...highly emotional...deeply sensational...strong in valuable suggestions.......indicting on bad decisions...a roller-coaster tale...a kaleidoscope of interesting events...a vivid painting of involved characters...seen from the eyes of a child…but told in retrospect by a seasoned adult. I doff my hat for your power of recollection and wordsmith capability. – Olaitan Okedeji
Indeed you are Plutarch the chronicler.….You got me entertained, come on, don't stop… - Olumide Bamgboye
I like your way of writing, the suspense made me to look forward to the next episode - Awotedu Oladunni Adeluwoye
Interesting reading, another perspective about the war; couldn't take my eyes off it until I finished reading. Nice piece –Olawale Jegede
What a great story - Victor Tafo Buzugbe
You should write a book….it would make a very interesting reading - Femi J. Banjo
Oluuu.., Nick Carter, James Hadley Chase, Ian Fleming...I don't know why you didn't end up a bestselling novelist -Olufunmi Odunsi
Indeed Afico is the spellbinder.... - Anifowose Lanre
Please publish this book; it will enrich many of us - Femi Ogunsanwo
We need to read this firsthand account of the civil war in a book. This is very refreshing - Olusola Taiwo Oladele Adesola
Sir, we are waiting for the book, if read by young youths of our time I believe it will help us to use the understanding and knowledge of the mistakes of the past to correct our present and build a better future for ourselves and the next generation. - Esangbedo Eromose
Olu, this should be in a book. I did not have this experience; we need to have it archived from your prism of childhood innocence.......... I did not know that my dear friend had a narrow escape from the East until, I heard from parental reliable sources about aba Sam. – Prof Adesuyi Leslie Ajayi
Congratulations to Barrister Olu Aluko
Mindscope Africa
EKITI 2018
WINNING/LOSING EKITI 2018
APC is certainly capable of losing Ekiti 2018, and so also is the PDP. We now have a motley crowd of aspirants in the APC making the picture cloudy and chaotic. This compels a bit of organized and proactive politicking on the part of APC aspirants. The gubernatorial sweepstakes are high and in the PDP, the odds are clearly in favor of the current Deputy Governor after the decisive PDP Convention victory of the Wike/Fayose alliance. The heavy monetization of the politics of the elective PDP Convention is a pointer to what will happen in the forthcoming gubernatorial contest in Ekiti State (and Osun State). It is going to be a battle royale requiring the expenditure of billions of naira (and possibly millions of dollars). The electioneering campaign is going to be heavily money intensive
Proactive politicking, in this context, is alliance formation, a process of examination and consideration of alliances capable of winning the party nomination and the general election for the Office of Ekiti State Governor. Aspirants who cannot afford a huge campaign outlay should actively start the process of alliance formation.
For both the primary and the general elections, aspirants should consider the following winning combinations/tickets:
A) Ekiti South/ Ekiti Central
B) Ekiti South/Ekiti North
C) Ekiti Central/ Ekiti South
D) Ekiti North/Ekiti South
In an unwieldy field of aspirants, discussions on alliances have become imperative. Aspirants need to form alliances, harmonize their positions on various issues and pool their resources together to wage vigorous and credible campaigns.
In an unwieldy field of aspirants, discussions on alliances have become imperative. Aspirants need to form alliances, harmonize their positions on various issues and pool their resources together to wage vigorous and credible campaigns.
However, there will be a need for some sincerity and seriousness of purpose on the part of aspirants for alliance formation and negotiations to succeed and be wholeheartedly embraced by those who have already expended huge amounts of resources in the pursuit of their aspirations.
Nevertheless, it is in the interest of the aspirants themselves and the APC, as a party, to explore this strategy to avoid losing Ekiti 2018.
The initiative for alliance formation belongs to the aspirants as the party leadership seems to prefer maintaining a posture of non-interference and neutrality in order to ensure an easy reconciliation among the aspirants for the post-primary battle with the opposition in the general election for Oke Ayoba.
Good luck to all the aspirants.
K. A. Familoni, PhD.
Up Nigeria 🇳🇬
SERVICE OF SONGS: CHIEF MRS MODUPE ADETUNMBI 1931-2017
CHIEF MRS COMFORT MODUPE ADETUNMBI 1931-2017: FINAL RITES
AARE AFE BABALOLA CELEBRATES ALHAJI ABDULRAZAQ AT 90
The funeral ceremonies for Chief Mrs Comfort Modupe Adetunmbi will begin with the Service of Songs on Thursday November 23rd, 2017 in Ifaki-Ekiti at Adetunmbi
Family House, Ido-Ekiti Road, Ifaki-Ekiti. On Friday November 24th 2017, the body of Mama arrives in the morning for Lying-in-State at 10 a.m. in Adetunmbi Family House, Ido-Ekiti Road, Ifaki-Ekiti. Christian Wake-keep starts from 5 p.m. at
Adetunmbi Family House. On Saturday November 25th 2017, the Funeral
Service holds at St Michael’s Anglican Church, Ifaki-Ekiti at 11 a.m. Internment is at Anglican Church Cemetery while reception for guests at Ifaki Campus of Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti road, Ifaki-Ekiti. The family thanksgiving will be done on Sunday November 26th 2017 at St Michael’s Anglican Church, Ifaki-Ekiti during 10 a.m. service.
She was survived by: Mrs Yetunde Makinde, Senator Olubunmi Adetunmbi, Engineer Adedayo Adetunmbi, Mrs Adenike Adetunmbi, Okan Seye Adetunmbi & Mrs Bimbo Afolabi
http://thenationonlineng.net/heaven-home-modupe-adetunmbi/
The first northerner Lawyer in Nigeria, Alhaji Folorunso Ganiyu Abdulrazaq SAN is celebrated at 90 to the glory of God. I join Aare Afe Babalola to celebrate the legal icon, his published statement in the news which is quoted below underscores the fact Alhaji Abdulrazaq is an exemplary elder statesman.
Alhaji Abdurazaq is set to mark 90th birthday on Monday, November 13, 2017. The first lawyer from the Northern part of Nigeria was called to the Inner Temple, London in 1955. He was also the first Northerner to be gazetted, a substantive appointment as a High Court Judge in 1968, an appointment which he politely declined. The Ilorin born legal luminary was a graduate of Trinity College, University of Dublin, he holds a B.A. Hons, LLB, MA and H.Dip-Educ. He is a product of the Kalabari National College, Buguma, and the Africa College, Onitsha. He is the founder and proprietor of the first private secondary school in Kwara State, Ilorin College, Ilorin (ICI).
The eminent jurist has been a Life Bencher since 1971, and was the Chairman of the Body of Benchers in 1984. A nationalist who served as the Legal Adviser to the Northern Peoples Congress (NPC) and participated in all the Constitutional Conferences leading up to Nigeria’s Independence in 1960. He was a member of the House of Representatives in 1964 to 1966; Nigeria’s Ambassador to Cote D’Ivoire in 1962 to 1964, Federal Minister of State for Railways in 1965 to 1966; the first Kwara State Commissioner for Finance, and later, Health & Social Welfare in 1967 to 1972 and had been serving as a member of the Disciplinary Committee of the NBA since 1995. He holds the titles, Tafida of Zaria and Mutawali of Ilorin, as well as Grande Officer De La Ordre National De Cote D’Ivoire and Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR). Alhaji Abdulrazaq was the President of the Nigerian Stock Exchange in 2000 to 2003.
Apart from being the father of my friends, some of his children, I had a brief encounter with him as a Stockbroker in respect of dealing firm many years ago. Alhaji is gentle, suave, cosmopolitan, decent and an uncommon pleasant personality. I am happy for the Abdulrazaq dynasty for the grace of having such a distinguished Nigerian as an nonagenarian patriarch. May God grant him more years in good health.
Seye Adetunmbi, 1/11/17
A Bright and Brilliant Star of the Nigerian Bar – Aare Afe Babalola
I consider it a great honour, to be invited to reminisce on Alhaji Abdul Ganiyu Folorunso Abdul-Razaq, OFR, SAN, eminently one of the bright and shining stars of the Inner Bar in Nigeria, who turns 90 on November 13, 2017, having been born on November 13, 1927, in the ever boisterous city of Onitsha, in the present Anambra State of Nigeria. His exploits in the Bar and Politics, Business and Education, are not surprising bearing in mind that he enjoys this enviable record of being the first Lawyer of Northern Nigerian extraction, and the accolade of being father of legal practice in Northern Nigeria.
I have known AGF Abdul-Razaq at close quarters, in the course of my legal practice, and I have always appreciated him as a gentle man in every sense of the word. He is profoundly religious, and a good family man. This charming, knowledgeable and honourable man, with a warm disposition, is a Bar man to the core. That he is considerate and humble, can be at any point in time, taken for granted. He is utterly dependable and unrepentantly reliable.
I am happy about his achievements at the Bar, which include his being the first Lawyer from the North and the First Senior Advocate of Nigeria, SAN, from Ilorin. His brilliance and the very professional way he conducts himself both at the Bar and outside of it, will remain indelible in our psyche. As a practicing Lawyer, he believes fervently in the Rules, and keeps such Rules to the letter. He has mentored not a few, who are today, clear leaders and high flyers in various callings, no wonder the Mutawali of Ilorin, is loved by many.
A foundation student at the then University College, Ibadan in 1948, who later registered at the Inner Temple London from 1951 to 1954, was called to the Bar as a Barrister-at -Law on February 8, 1955 at the prestigious Inner Temple. No wonder he has always been a lover of quality education, as a result of which he later founded Ilorin College, now Government High School, Ilorin and became its first Principal upon take-off in 1967.
This is one of the things we share in common: Lawyers who became proprietors of schools, for whereas AGF is the Founder and Proprietor of Government of High School, Ilorin, God has imbued me with the grace to establish the increasingly popular Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD).
Your turning 90, a well-deserved grace from the Almighty Allah, does not come to me as a surprise. Rather, I see and acknowledge it, as a veritable opportunity for you to do more in your service to the Bar, your primary constituency, and the nation which you love so much, and indeed to humanity, the fulcrum of your dream.
While congratulating you most heartily on this momentous occasion, which in any case is a clarion call to further service, one can only wish you good health and peace of heart, as well as divine wisdom to continue the good works, to continually be relevant in the scheme of things in Nigeria, and even beyond. Congratulations and Happy Birthday, my Learned Silk.
Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, Founder and Chancellor, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti.
DAY OUT WITH AN AESTHETE AND ART COLLECTOR – APA TIROKO (DAYO ADETUNMBI) - Simpson
Is art really for art’s sake? Should art simply be for life’s sake? What is the essence of beauty? Should art concern itself with social, moral or political guidance? Can art really be separated from reality? As artists, we all ask these questions. As artists, can we or should we answer these questions? Shouldn’t we leave the works to speak for themselves? Their cryptic nature and mystery deepen the appreciation, don’t you think? These questions always crop up each time I visit Adetunmbi House, Head Office of August Group of Companies. I am no wiser now than I then was.
My recent visit to Dayo Adetunmbi’s art gallery which he calls an office was as fulfilling as it was educative. Although I had been there countless times, I had seen taken photographs of, and discussed the treasure trove of artworks, paintings and sculptures spanning over a hundred years, I had as fulfilling a visit as I did a few days ago. An engineering firm, August Group’s Adetunmbi House is an Arts Gallery in its own right. You are at once awe-struck by the exquisite beauty of the place even before you enter the foyer. Standing to your left, like a mammoth, like the Colossus of Rome, like Ozymandias in its glory – all rolled into one – is the twelve by ten foot “Peak of the Pack” iron and steel masterpiece by Muraina Akeem. As you step into the foyer, you are greeted by works of the Masters – Bruce Onabrakpeya, Ben Ewonwu, Oyerinde Olotu, Joe Amaechi and many more.
The plethora of artworks and artefacts are a photographer’s delight; the art buff and aficionado’s joy. Apa was in his elements as he talked about each piece. The discussion was animated, robust and insightful as he conducted me, like a tour guide, round the premises for the umpteenth time. The aesthetics of the cluster of artworks was breathtaking. It was a throwback to forty years ago. A reminiscence of the F.G.C. Kano H.S.C. days’ discussions on “Art for art’s sake” which I constantly had with my friends Jimi Bankole, Awam Amkpa, Sesan Sokoya and our teacher Mr Obi. Though we differed on a number of issues, I could hardly fault Apa’s sometimes crude but oftentimes alluring philosophy on a variety of subjects, especially the visual arts. We discussed aestheticism at length and the views Immanuel Kant, Benjamin Constant and Oscar Wilde and the concept of "art for art’s sake".
Included in this post are photographs which I took of the works of various artists from the private collections and gallery of Dayo Adetunmbi (Apa Tiroko). During my unscheduled visit to Apa a few days ago (because of time constraints and the sheer volume of the collection) it was impossible for me to document, acknowledge and give credit to all artists whose works are included in this post. I also would have loved to give the titles of the various works herein but I do not know all the titles nor requisite details – neither does Apa anyway! For this, I crave your indulgence for any mistakes of commission or omission. In this post are works of Prof. Bruce Onabrakpeya - “Ashiribo”, “Spirit of the Niger”; Muraina Akeem’s “The Peak of the Pack”, “The Miner”,”Ise L’ogun Ise”; Oyerinde Olotu’s “Isale Eko”, “Old Ikoyi”, “Old Marina” and “Idanre”. Other works in Apa’s collection include those of Ben Enwonwu, Joe Amenechi, Jimoh Braimoh, David Dale and Dele Akinlade. The variety of the art forms and media is impressive – drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking and crafts. These were done in a variety of media - metal foil relief prints, ceramics, bas-relief, bronze busts, plastocast plates, crayons, pastels and raffia (the Fulani Herdsman's hat from Kokwe Yebovi's Enye, Freedom Park.
My camera and I, as witnesses, will try to share these moments which we froze in time, with you. Please forgive my shortcomings if and where my angles, perspective and composition are faulty or asymmetrical. This could be because most of the paintings and works were either hanging on the wall or in queer positions and places in Apa’s office. I tried not to move or touch the said works. This post, after all, is just a peep into Apa’s collection.
A man for all seasons, Apa Tiroko needs no introduction. When I told him that I was not going to post a particular photograph that I shot in his office, he paused looked at me with a wry smile, as if I was trying to teach an old dog new tricks. “Zoka, I beg post am if you wan post am. Na wetin everybody know!” I haven’t (as I type) decided whether I would post the photograph I took of the vintage photograph or not. For lobbers like me (and an old one at that), odas is not odas and anything I post, say, write, suggest or insinuate cannot be held against me. I claim not only the 5th but all applicable amendments! (That was in a lighter mood)).
I have known Tiroko for forty years. People know Dayo Adetunmbi for different things. Most know him for his large heart, his philanthropy, generosity and zest to promote the welfare of others for a common good. Others know him for his brilliance, industry and his love for his trademark shorts and the ever-present high quality leather bag which he slings round his neck and across his chest like “Iko Laba”, the Olopa Eyo’s bag of charms and amulets. Unlike Laba’s bag of “jazz” however, Apa’s bag contains a lot of goodies, I guess.
The intriguing thing about the enigma called Apa Tiroko is that very few people know about Apa’s deep passion for the arts in general and the visual arts in particular. Asked what kindled the love of art, how and when he got into art collection, he retorted “I was born into the arts; into an “ayan” family. My father was a drummer, an artist and a musicologist.” Over cup after cup of steaming cappuccino and other things, our discussion progressed from the history of art in the Byzantine and Medieval period to Baroque, Romanticism, Art noveau and Cubism. We were both surprised that we remembered the bits and ends which we had read from God-knows-where about art and art forms – from Formalism to Modernism and the avant-garde. We delved into and discussed the little we knew about the history of art and discussed ceramics, drawing, painting, sculpture, architecture, filmmaking, video, photography and crafts. Inspired by Bruce Onabrakpeya’s works, we also discussed design and print making. We had, at different times, had the honour of discussions with Prof. Bruce Onabrakpeya (Baba, as Apa calls him) on art forms. Apa Tiroko is one of the greatest art collectors that I have had the privilege of meeting.
Tiroko could not readily remember which work was his first major work he acquired but believes that it was the bronze bust of “The Mating German Shepherds” by Dadk (patented in 1909) which he bought at an auction in Utrecht in the Netherlands in 1989. He lamented the fact that there was not enough patronage for artists in the country. He didn’t, he said, foresee an immediate boost in patronage because of the economic situation in the country. We discussed the works and talents of our mutual friends while we were in Ife – especially those of Whotera Kagho, Kunle Kotun, Taiwo Ogunlaiye, Abimbola Kujore (Bee Kay), Ladi Laseinde (Waka), Biodun Olaku and Edward Thompson.
Someday soon, I hope to do a reminiscence of the Ife days … and more! Here are photographs of a few of the works in Apa’s treasure trove of visual delights.
Femi Simpson
Lagos
Nigeria.
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