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Back to School Initiative by Hon. Ekos Akpokabayen Enters Second Phase

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Back to School Initiative by Hon. Ekos Akpokabayen Enters Second Phase "Bringing Hope to Inner-City Families in Johannesburg." By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG

Back to School Initiative by Hon. Ekos Akpokabayen Enters Second Phase

“Bringing Hope to Inner-City Families in Johannesburg.”

By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG

The annual “Back to School” Giveaway has once again reaffirmed its place as a vital lifeline for vulnerable families in Johannesburg’s inner-city communities, as the second phase of the 2026 edition was successfully carried out on Wednesday, 5 February. The program, which covered Yeoville, Berea, Hillbrow and surrounding areas, continues to stand as a powerful example of grassroots leadership driven by compassion, consistency and a deep sense of community responsibility.

 

Now in its fourth consecutive year, the initiative was founded by Hon. Ekos Akpokabayen with the core objective of easing the burden on struggling households and ensuring that children begin the academic year with dignity, confidence and the basic tools required for learning. In neighborhoods where economic hardship, unemployment and social pressures often threaten access to quality education, the program has become a beacon of hope and a reliable support system for many families.

 

The second phase of the 2026 edition expanded the reach of the initiative, delivering school materials to more children and households. The distribution included essential learning items such as school bags, exercise books, writing materials and other educational supplies designed to give pupils a strong start to the school year. For many families, these items represent not just material support but also a renewed sense of encouragement and belonging.

 

Speaking during the distribution, community leaders emphasized that education remains one of the most powerful tools for breaking the cycle of poverty and social exclusion. They noted that when children begin the school year without the necessary materials, it often leads to embarrassment, low self-esteem and, in some cases, absenteeism. The “Back to School” initiative seeks to address this challenge by restoring dignity and creating a more equal starting point for all learners.

 

Hon. Ekos Akpokabayen, the founder of the program, was accompanied by fellow community leaders including Hon. Angel Monalisa, Hon. George O. Sylvester and Hon. Otono Osiaima. Their presence reflected a shared commitment to service, unity and the collective responsibility of leaders to uplift their communities. The program was not presented as a political event but as a humanitarian intervention aimed at empowering the next generation.

 

Over the years, the initiative has grown from a modest distribution effort into a widely recognized symbol of unity, inclusion and social responsibility within the inner city. It has consistently attracted support from volunteers, community stakeholders and concerned individuals who believe in the transformative power of education.

 

One of the most remarkable features of the program is its inclusive, pan-African character. This year’s beneficiaries were not limited to any single nationality. Children from Nigeria, South Africa, Zimbabwe, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, Mozambique and several other African countries received support. This diversity reflects the true identity of Johannesburg’s inner city, where people from across the continent live, work and raise families together.

 

Community members praised the initiative for promoting unity and peaceful coexistence among African nationals. In a city often affected by economic competition and social tensions, the “Back to School” program offers a different narrative with one that highlights cooperation, solidarity and the shared responsibility of building a better future for the continent’s children.

 

Parents who attended the distribution expressed gratitude for the initiative, noting that the rising cost of living has made it increasingly difficult to provide basic school supplies for their children. Many described the program as timely and impactful, especially at a period when households are under significant financial pressure at the start of the school year.

For the children themselves, the event was more than just a distribution exercise. It was a moment of excitement, encouragement and affirmation. Receiving new school materials in a supportive and celebratory environment gave them a sense of pride and readiness for the academic challenges ahead.

 

Observers have noted that the consistency of the program over four years has helped build trust and credibility within the community. Unlike one-off charity events, the “Back to School” initiative has become an expected and dependable intervention that families look forward to each year. This consistency has reinforced the idea that genuine leadership is measured not by words, but by sustained actions that improve lives.

 

The second phase of the 2026 edition also highlighted the importance of collaborative leadership. By bringing together multiple community figures, the program demonstrated that collective efforts can produce stronger and more lasting results. It sent a clear message that community development is not the responsibility of one individual alone, but a shared mission that requires cooperation and unity.

As the program continues to grow, organizers have expressed their commitment to expanding its reach and impact in the coming years. Plans are already being considered to involve more partners, attract additional support and reach even more children across the inner city.

 

Ultimately, the “Back to School” initiative is more than a seasonal act of charity. It is a long-term investment in education, dignity and social stability. By ensuring that children begin the academic year equipped and confident, the program contributes to better learning outcomes, improved self-esteem and stronger community cohesion.

 

The successful completion of the second phase on 5 February 2026 stands as another milestone in the program’s journey. It reinforces the enduring belief that when leadership is guided by compassion and service, communities can rise together without borders, without barriers and with renewed hope for the next generation.

 

Back to School Initiative by Hon. Ekos Akpokabayen Enters Second Phase "Bringing Hope to Inner-City Families in Johannesburg." By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG

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Sahara weekly online is published by First Sahara weekly international. contact [email protected]

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Court Summons Doris Ogala Over False Allegations Against Dr. Chris Okafor  

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April 15, 2026

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Court Summons Doris Ogala Over False Allegations Against Dr. Chris Okafor

 

Contrary to the narrative actress Doris Ogala has sought to project on social media, the General Overseer of Greater Liberation City, Dr. Chris Okafor, is not behind her recent invitation or attempted arrest by law enforcement authorities.

 

Rather, sources indicate that the actress is being sought in connection with a pending criminal suit instituted against her by the Federal Government of Nigeria before the Federal High Court, Lagos Judicial Division, over allegations linked to her social media publications concerning the cleric.

The case, filed as Charge No. FHC/L/2/220C/2026 – Federal Republic of Nigeria v. Doris Ogala, is said to be before Honourable Justice Aluko.

 

According to sources familiar with the matter, officers of the Nigerian Police Force, Zone 2 Headquarters, Onikan, Lagos, attempted to reach Ogala because she was scheduled for arraignment on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, and remains on administrative bail.

“The officers only sought to serve the defendant with the charge and ensure her appearance before the court,” a source disclosed.

 

Court documents reveal that the Federal Government has filed a four-count charge against Ogala bordering on alleged cyberstalking, dissemination of false information, harassment, and attempted extortion under the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Amendment Act, 2024.

The charges include allegations that she:

Published nude and intimate photographs of Dr. Chris Okafor without consent;

Made and disseminated allegations accusing the pastor of rape, ritual practices, and involvement in a death;

Published videos and electronic messages allegedly intended to harass, bully, and intimidate him;

Allegedly threatened continued publication of damaging materials unless compensated or provided with a house.

 

A source close to the matter insisted that Dr. Chris Okafor is not orchestrating the legal action and has no direct involvement in the prosecution beyond being the nominal complainant.

“Sadly, rather than addressing the issues before the court, Doris continues to drag Pastor Chris Okafor into the matter publicly,” the source said.

 

“The simple position is that whoever makes allegations must be prepared to substantiate them in court. That is all the court requires. Pastor Chris Okafor has moved on and is not pursuing any personal vendetta. She is the one who must answer to the law.”

 

The development underscores what insiders describe as a legal process driven by the state and not by personal influence, despite attempts to portray the matter otherwise online.

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SHOCKER IN ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY: Jaiye Kuti & Pasuma Take Love to the Next Level

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3 days ago

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April 13, 2026

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SHOCKER IN ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY: Jaiye Kuti & Pasuma Take Love to the Next Level

 

What started as mere whispers in entertainment circles has now exploded into a full-blown headline story shaking both Nollywood and the Fuji music scene!

After weeks of speculation, multiple insider sources have finally confirmed that veteran actress Jaiye Kuti and Fuji icon Wasiu Alabi Pasuma are set to take their relationship to the next level — MARRIAGE!

The duo, who have long been linked in what many dismissed as mere friendship or industry camaraderie, are now reportedly preparing for a private but glamorous wedding ceremony that promises to be one of the most talked-about celebrity unions of the year.
For months, social media has buzzed with sightings, subtle hints, and cryptic posts suggesting a deeper bond between the two stars. While both camps maintained silence, insiders now reveal that the relationship has been years in the making — far from the sudden development many assumed.

As expected, the news has sparked mixed reactions across Nigeria’s entertainment landscape:
Some fans are thrilled, calling it a “perfect blend of class and culture.”
Others remain skeptical, questioning whether this is love or a strategic publicity move.
A section of observers insist, “In Nigeria’s entertainment industry, anything is possible!”

If confirmed officially, this union could mark the coming together of two powerful brands:
A respected Nollywood figure known for her elegance and strong screen presence
A Fuji legend with decades of musical dominance and loyal fan base
Together, they could redefine celebrity partnerships in Nigeria.

Will there be an official announcement?
Are wedding preparations already underway?
Or is there more to this story than meets the eye?
One thing is certain — all eyes are now on Jaiye Kuti and Wasiu Alabi Pasuma.
Stay tuned… because this story is far from over!

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Opposition Smearing INEC Chairman Out of Desperation — Ajulo Declares Tinubu’s Victory Inevitable

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3 days ago

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April 12, 2026

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Opposition Smearing INEC Chairman Out of Desperation — Ajulo Declares Tinubu’s Victory Inevitable

 

 

 

 

ABUJA — The Ondo State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Kayode Ajulo (SAN), has accused opposition elements of orchestrating a calculated smear campaign against the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Joash Amupitan (SAN), insisting that such actions stem from their acceptance of imminent electoral defeat.

 

 

 

In a strongly worded press statement issued on Sunday, Ajulo argued that the opposition has abandoned genuine political engagement and has instead resorted to “the politics of discredit,” targeting the electoral umpire in a bid to undermine public confidence.

 

 

 

 

According to him, the attacks on the INEC chairman are deliberate attempts to weaken the credibility of the electoral process ahead of the next presidential election, which he claimed has already been “decisively won” by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

 

 

 

“The opposition knows the battle is lost. What they now implement is not resistance, but the politics of discredit,” Ajulo stated.

He described Prof. Amupitan as a “steadfast guardian of Nigeria’s democratic process,” warning that efforts to discredit him would ultimately fail as Nigerians “see through the smoke.”

 

 

 

Ajulo further anchored his argument on Nigeria’s political history, recalling a period when the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) dominated the political landscape with a majority of state governors, while Tinubu, then leading the Alliance for Democracy (AD), controlled only Lagos State.

 

 

 

He said the political evolution that led to the rise of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its current dominance across many states reflects what he described as “a profound feat of strategy, resilience, and leadership.”

 

 

 

 

The attorney-general also noted that, unlike previous political realignments, the APC under Tinubu has not experienced defections of governors, but has instead attracted members from opposition parties.

 

 

 

 

He maintained that the current wave of criticism against INEC leadership is rooted in fear of electoral loss rather than legitimate concerns about the commission’s integrity.

 

Ajulo concluded by urging Nigerians to remain vigilant and resist attempts to erode trust in democratic institutions, emphasizing that “the mandate of the people will stand.”

 

 

 

 

 

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