Politics
ADP Candidate Gbadamosi Steals Show As Lagos Governorship Candidates Debate
The candidate of the Action Democratic Party (ADP), Babatunde Gbadamosi, was the dark horse that wowed members of the audience in Saturday’s Lagos gubernatorial election debate, as he spoke confidently of his plans if elected governor of the country’s commercial capital.
Mr Gbadamosi, who was a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) before defecting to the ADP, received rave reviews of his performance in the debate, which was organised by The Platform, a civic discussion initiative of the Covenant Christian Centre.
The interview which was moderated by British-Nigerian Christian broadcaster, Victor Oladokun, had in attendance alongside Mr Gbadamosi, the candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the PDP candidate, Jimi Agbaje, and the candidate of the Alliance for Democracy (AD), Owolabi Salis.
Mr Gbadamosi started off on a somewhat shaky note when he was asked about what he would do in his first hundred days in office if elected. He explained that he would try increasing the salaries of civil servants in the state, but he did not explain how he would raise the additional fund needed to do this.
He, however, bounced back from the initial flutter, arguing that his priority will be to boost the infrastructural shortfall of the state by building rail lines to all the exit points of the state, opening up water transportation and the movement of container by barges instead of through the roads to cut the infamous Lagos traffic.
The ADP candidate, who berated the ruling party in the state for lack of prudence in running the state finances, said he would bring his experience from the private sector in handling the spending of state funds.
According to him, he would be able to do this because he “does not have a godfather”, which was a snide remark on the candidate of the ruling APC, Mr Sanwo-Olu, who enjoys the backing of a former governor of the state, Bola Tinubu, generally believed to be the de facto political leader of the state.
Mr Gbadamosi also correctly fact-checked the APC candidate after he falsely stated that the state government was transparent and publishes its budgets. Mr Gbadamosi pointed out that the state budget website no longer existed stating that the government is known for being opaque rather than open. He said if elected into office he would operate an open government.
He berated the current government for being unable to complete its light rail project in 10 years and wondered why the state was paying for it from its purse when it could have welcomed the private sector to finance the project. He also said at a cost of almost $1 billion, the light rail project was too expensive.
He said he would open up the state waterways and improve tourism as a means of growing the state tax revenue if elected into office.
In all, he was the most eloquent of the candidate on display. The figures and data he quoted were mostly correct. He also cited examples of what was being done in other places with similar demographics like Lagos such as Singapore and Ethiopia.
Score 8/10
Sanwo-Olu
Mr Sanwo-Olu, as the candidate of the ruling party, which has been in power for 20 years in the state, unsurprisingly was put on the defensive throughout the debate. But he did a fairly good job of shaking off the attacks from other candidates and in fact, on a couple of occasions, was on the offensive.
He spoke about his experience as a banker and public officer. He said he would bring the experience garnered from being a three-time commissioner in the state in running the state effectively.
He promised to tackle the traffic gridlock in the city and especially promised to solve the perennial gridlock in the Apapa area of the state.
The APC candidate said he would be a listening governor and regularly hold town hall meetings across the state to discuss some of the pressing problems of the state.
Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Photo Credit: Twitter handle)
He said the problems with funds in the state would be solved if more people pay taxes. According to him, out of the possible 16 million taxable people in the state, only 800,000 actually pay taxes. He said he would work towards capturing more people into the tax bracket.
Mr Sanwo-Olu promised to double the state’s health budget from its present 9 per cent to 18-20 per cent. He said he would focus on health insurance for all inhabitants of the states and his priority will be improving primary healthcare.
Mr Sanwo-Olu, however, spent a lot of time talking about his educational qualifications and his experience as a commissioner. Though he put a spirited fight especially when other candidates suggested he was a stooge of Mr Tinubu; but like flies feeding off the wounded ears of a dog, hard as he tried, he was unable to shake off the attack.
He lied that Lagos was transparent and received several rebuttals from other debaters over the claim. Also, some of his responses sounded like he was berating the manner his party has run the state.
Score 6/10
Agbaje
Perhaps the most disappointing candidate of the night was the PDP candidate. His disappointment may not have come from the weakness of his responses as it did from the fact that they were usually below par from what was expected of him. He stammered several times and his responses cross the time given each candidate to respond.
Also, the unexpected brilliance of Mr Gbadamosi appeared to have stolen Mr Agbaje’s thunder. The candidate who was running for the third time may have been hurt by the familiarity of his responses.
On solving the traffic problems of the state, he said he would fix potholes, and innovate the traffic control by installing radar-controlled traffic lights in the state. He said he would strengthen the state traffic control agency, LASTMA, to be more efficient.
Mr Agbaje said he would provide leadership as he is not a stooge. He said rather than ask people to pay more taxes he would open up the state for more businesses in order to capture new taxpayers.
Jimi Agbaje (Centre) is a during the Lagos Governorship debate (Photo Credit: Twitter handle)
He promised to improve the school system with technology and more internet broadband in the state would encourage more students to learn to code and become tech savvy.
He said he would make local governments more efficient by making them independent of the state government. He also promised to expand the road and extend the railway system to other parts of the state to reduce vehicular traffic on the road.
Score 5/10
Salis
The AD candidate, who is no stranger to running for the position of governor, having run three previous times, promised to cut the state from the control of Mr Tinubu. He said he would work to eradicate violence by purging the pockets of gangs across the state.
He, no doubt, provided comic relief during the debate with his somewhat awkward mannerism. And he welcomed a lot of jeers from the audience and criticism from those commenting on social media when he said he was going to build a subway in the city. His said he would appoint 50 special assistants that will help him see to the development of local governments in the state. His response here left many people wondering what would happen to the appointed local government officials.
He promised to take back the wealth of the people of Lagos from those he said have hijacked it and use it to develop the state.
Score: 4/10
Politics
A Visionary Leader of Purpose and Compassion: Hon. Ekos Akpokabayen’s Impact Across Continents
A Visionary Leader of Purpose and Compassion: Hon. Ekos Akpokabayen’s Impact Across Continents
By George Omagbemi Sylvester
In a world where influence is often measured by wealth, power, and political might, it is rare to find individuals who combine these attributes with genuine humility, an unwavering commitment to service, and a heart dedicated to giving back to society. One such rare gem is Hon. Ekos Akpokabayen—a seasoned business mogul, Chief Investment Officer at Ovid Capital, Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) South Africa Chapter, and an ardent philanthropist whose work spans both Nigeria and South Africa.
Hon. Akpokabayen’s story is not merely about professional success but about purposeful living. From his stronghold in the financial sector to his leadership in political and community spaces, he has consistently leveraged his influence and resources to uplift others. As an individual who believes in the transformative power of education, health, and community development, his ongoing philanthropic initiatives in 2024 and 2025 reflect his deep understanding of the needs of the people and his relentless desire to address them.
The Business Leader with Vision
As Chief Investment Officer at Ovid Capital, Hon. Akpokabayen has played a significant role in shaping investment strategies and financial growth in key sectors. His professional background in finance, bolstered by his academic foundation (MSc in Finance), places him at the forefront of strategic investment in Africa. Ovid Capital, under his leadership, continues to explore viable investment opportunities with a keen focus on sustainable development, job creation, and innovation.
Yet, despite his corporate achievements, Hon. Akpokabayen remains grounded in community service—a trait that distinguishes him as a leader of both influence and integrity.
Political Leadership Rooted in Service
Hon. Akpokabayen’s role as Chairman of the PDP South Africa Chapter is a testament to his commitment to political advocacy and diaspora engagement. In this capacity, he has provided a platform for Nigerians in South Africa to remain politically connected and empowered, while also advocating for better policies and representation of the Nigerian diaspora. His political journey reflects a belief in democracy, inclusiveness, and collective progress.
More than just occupying political office, he embodies the values of grassroots mobilization and participatory leadership. By ensuring the voices of Nigerians abroad are heard, he strengthens the bridge between the homeland and its global citizens.
Philanthropy That Transcends Borders
Hon. Akpokabayen’s philanthropic footprint is both wide and impactful, with initiatives that cut across educational development, healthcare, empowerment, and social welfare. His most recent and ongoing projects underscore a consistent pattern of giving and transformative outreach.
1. The UDU Essay Competition and Medical Outreach (Delta State, Nigeria)
One of his notable interventions in Nigeria is the UDU Essay Competition targeting secondary school students in Udu Local Government Area of Delta State. This initiative aims to encourage academic excellence, critical thinking, and intellectual engagement among youth. By offering students a platform to express themselves and win prizes, he not only invests in education but also inspires the next generation of leaders.
Complementing this academic initiative is a robust medical outreach program in Udu. Which being organized in early 2025, the outreach provided free medical care to hundreds of residents, many of whom lack access to basic healthcare. Medical professionals, volunteers, and logistical support teams came together under his leadership to deliver services ranging from general checkups to more specialized treatments. For a community long neglected in terms of health infrastructure, this program was nothing short of lifesaving.
2. Back-to-School Program (Johannesburg, South Africa)
Understanding the challenges many immigrant families face in South Africa, Hon. Akpokabayen extended his philanthropy to students in Johannesburg through his “Back-to-School” program. Held in January 2025, the initiative targeted disadvantaged children in Barnato Park High School and Berea Primary School—both institutions located in inner-city Johannesburg where many African immigrant children study.
The program distributed school supplies, uniforms, and educational materials, ensuring that students began the school year with dignity and the tools they need to succeed. It was a direct response to the financial hardships faced by many families and a reaffirmation of his commitment to education as a tool of empowerment.
3. Empowerment Program for Warri Community in South Africa (WCSA)
In a significant gesture of economic upliftment, Hon. Akpokabayen launched an empowerment program tailored specifically for members of the Warri Community in South Africa (WCSA). Seven individuals were each granted R15,000.00—funds intended to support their small businesses and entrepreneurial ventures. This initiative illustrates his focus on sustainable impact, as it seeks to provide beneficiaries with the means to achieve financial independence and contribute positively to society.
By channeling resources into community development, he not only addresses immediate needs but also fosters a culture of self-reliance and enterprise.
Leadership Through Humility
Perhaps what most endears Hon. Akpokabayen to the people is not just what he does, but how he does it. Despite his stature, he remains remarkably humble and accessible. Whether attending community events, mentoring youths, or visiting project sites, he engages with sincerity and compassion. His presence inspires trust and his words, often filled with encouragement, reflect deep empathy.
This humility, combined with a results-oriented approach, has earned him admiration across political divides and professional circles. It is also why his projects enjoy local participation and long-term sustainability—people believe in his vision because he walks the talk.
A Call to Support and Emulate
In times when leadership is often marred by self-interest and disconnection from the grassroots, Hon. Akpokabayen stands as a shining example of how power can be used for good. His actions speak to a larger philosophy: that true leadership is about service, that progress begins with people, and that greatness lies in giving back.
As he continues to chart paths across business, politics, and philanthropy, there is a growing call for others to emulate his model. Governments, private individuals, and the Nigerian diaspora must come together to support initiatives that uplift communities, especially in underprivileged and marginalized areas.
Legacy in the Making
Hon. Ekos Akpokabayen is not just a man of the moment; he is a man of legacy. His work in 2024 and 2025 affirms a lifelong mission to transform lives through vision, action, and love for humanity. Whether in Delta State or Johannesburg, in boardrooms or community halls, his impact resonates deeply with those he serves.
As Africa—and indeed the world—searches for leaders with integrity, compassion, and courage, Hon. Akpokabayen’s journey reminds us that greatness is not just about titles, but about how many lives are touched for the better.
Lagos PDP Kicks As Epe Council Boss Gets Enmeshed In Alleged Certificates Forgery
The Youth wing of the Lagos State chapter of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), under the leadership of Comrade Agboola Akinpelu Dare is calling for an investigation into allegations of certificate forgery against Princess Surah Olayemi Animashaun, the chairperson of Epe Local Government Area.
This isn’t the first time Animashaun has faced these allegations, which initially surfaced ahead of the last council election in Epe local government ¹.
According to a video shared on social media by Nifemi Vibrant, Animashaun is accused of forging her certificates, which would disqualify her from holding public office under the 2022 Electoral Act.
Another prominent figure from Epe, Olanrewaju Babatunde, also known as Bob Tarner, has come forward to accuse Animashaun of forging her certificates from primary to university level ¹.
The PDP is urging the Department of State Security Services (DSS) and other relevant government agencies to invite Animashaun for questioning and to scrutinize her credentials.
They argue that Epe is known for academic excellence and deserves better representation ¹.
Politics
Pro-democracy group tells Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in Zamfara over insecurity, political repression
Pro-democracy group tells Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in Zamfara over insecurity, political repression
The United Democratic Coalition (UDC) has called on President Bola Tinubu to immediately declare a state of emergency in Zamfara, citing worsening insecurity and a breakdown of democratic order in the state.
The demand was contained in a statement on Friday signed by Abdulrahman Danladi, president of the coalition.
Danladi described Zamfara as “a state under siege,” accusing the state government of abandoning its constitutional duty to protect lives and uphold democratic principles.
“The situation in Zamfara has gone from troubling to terrifying. Armed groups operate freely, citizens are at the mercy of bandits, and yet those elected to speak up are being silenced,” the statement read.
He was referring to the recent suspension of 10 lawmakers in the Zamfara State House of Assembly, whom he said were punished for raising concerns about insecurity and illegal mining in their constituencies.
“What we are witnessing is not just lawlessness — it is executive tyranny. These lawmakers were elected by the people and have a duty to speak out. Instead of listening to them, the state assembly, clearly acting on orders, has shut them down,” Danladi said.
He likened the political tension in Zamfara to the recent situation in Rivers state, where Governor Siminalayi Fubara governed with just four lawmakers after a split in the House of Assembly — a scenario that prompted calls for federal intervention.
“If Rivers with four lawmakers sparked talks of emergency rule, how is Zamfara with 10 suspended lawmakers and spiraling violence, not a national concern?” Danladi asked.
“The same standard must apply. Democracy is being murdered in Zamfara in broad daylight. If the federal government could consider intervening in Rivers, it must not turn a blind eye to the breakdown in Zamfara.”
“We are calling for a six-month state of emergency in Zamfara to allow security forces to take control, restore peace, and return the state to constitutional order.”
The group also demanded the immediate reinstatement of the suspended lawmakers and an investigation into what it called “executive interference” in the legislature.
“This is not the time for political correctness. It is the time for leadership. The people of Zamfara are under siege — both by bandits and by those who should be protecting them,” the statement added.
Zamfara, one of Nigeria’s most troubled states, continues to face persistent attacks from armed groups, with thousands displaced and dozens killed in the past year alone.
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