celebrity radar - gossips

Ambode, the consolidator in time of famine by Idowu Ajanaku

Published

8 years ago

May 22, 2017

Idowu Ajanaku

His defining moment came when he was sworn in as the 4th democratically elected governor of Nigeria’s Centre of Excellence and Africa’s ever ebullient commercial hub, Lagos State.

That was precisely on May 29, 2015 after the two-horse, riveting race between him, the governorship flag bearer of the All Progressives Congress, and Jimi Agbaje of the Peoples Democratic Party. A lot of water, as the wise ones say, has gone under the bridge ever since. But this piece is not all about his modest achievements within a short span of two years across the spectrum of security, massive infrastructural outlay, agriculture, education, transportation, health care delivery, human capacity development and of course, entertainment and tourism.

Rather, it is a personal perception about the distinguished gentleman who fate brought me in contact with at Glover Home back in 2014. What was my first impression about him? It was that of a well-groomed, complete gentleman whose alluring persona radiates a cool, composed and calculating ambience. It was that of a man with a touch of finesse reflected in his carefully chosen clothes, wristwatch and shoes! Has that first impression dimmed?

Of course not, if not bolstered by getting closer to him at work and more significantly discovering that Governor Akinwunmi Ambode’s taste and touch for perfection has been extrapolated to all the solid structures his administration has brought to bear, so far. If in doubt, check out the roads, bridges, school buildings, that dot the landscape of the fast-developing megalopolis. But before then there was another enigmatic bearing about him that raised some dust.

That was when he decided to throw his Epe-grown ‘cap’ into the governorship ring back in 2014.Not a few observers then had some reservation about his capacity to deliver in the intricate art of political governance. Here was a man, who though as an accomplished auditor, has traversed 13 out of the 21 local government councils and written his name in gold as an Accountant-General. But he was no politician. He may have even become the youngest and an achieving Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance. Yet, that was a different kettle of fish. What did he know about managing erratic and ever ambitious politicians with their idiosyncrasies?

Besides, his looks and demeanour were that of a top technocrat, not carved out for the gadabout gamble of poll-i-tricks. He was too meek, too simple, too gentlemanly. He could not even shout to browbeat opponents. Simply put, he did not have the guts to delve into the murky waters of Nigerian politics and swim with the sharks! One could not blame those who held on tenaciously to this line of argument. But how wrong could they be, as one was to discover on closer observations and events over the past two years have since unveiled.

With more intimate interaction, I discovered and felt both impressed and intrigued by his deep knowledge of the city called Lagos. Throw questions on the nitty-gritty of governance and one is awed by his full and firm grasp of what it takes to run the ever ebullient city that has become home to all. He does not believe in rhetoric or beating about the bush with wishful words. He is a down-to-earth, man of action. And even before such actions are taken he must be convinced that he has had the right background information with thorough thinking through.

All these came to the fore and eventually manifested during the first governorship debate held at the Church at Ikeja. It was between him, Agbaje and other governorship hopefuls. At the end of it, the Bishop in charge confessed that if the good people of Lagos were looking for someone with a clear vision; someone who knew his onions on how to pilot the affairs of Lagos and take it to the next level, Ambode was the man to choose.

On the flip side however, he observed that if they were out for a sweet talker, one who could convince Lagosians to toe his political path, Agbaje fit that bill. To him therefore, Ambode stood head and shoulders above his competitors. But it was left for the electorate to make a wise choice. So, looking back today one is grateful to Lagos people for taking their destiny in their own hands. Thank God for that!

Indeed, Ambode never ceased to tell those close to him that his political ambition was directed by the ‘hand of God.’ It was a divine project. It was not too surprising therefore, to listen to him sing two of his favourite gospel songs. One is the popular line that says that: “I have a father who will never fail me. Jesus is my father and he will never fail me, rock of ages, never, never fail.”

The other, popular as well is: “Olore mi.” He would sometimes break the silence, after a hard day’s campaign with: “Olore mi, olore mi o, kini ma fi san fu en o.” He was grateful to a benefactor that he was short of words on what he could do to repay Him for his divine grace and favour.

Perhaps, it is that grateful spirit that has imbued him with the uncommon virtue of patience. Evident during the planning and take-off for the campaigns were the attributes of a patient soul, a good listener as well as a good team leader. He never for once betrayed the trait of a bossy person; of one who rams his views down the throat of others. Ideas for programmes and projects were thrown open for thoughtful debate. At the end, the decision of the majority always held sway. One admires him much for such sterling qualities of a visionary leader.

Without sentiments therefore, one is not surprised by Governor Ambode’s astounding achievements over the past two years. Name them: the veritable vision of Lagos as a destination of choice for far-sighted entrepreneurs from all over the world. And why not? There is the assurance of all-round, tight security network, courtesy of his donation of top-of-the range security gadgets to the police and all-inclusive community surveillance, across the state. The fast growing mega-city was in 2016 ranked as the 5th most robust economy on the African continent. With a population of 21 million people it accounts for 80 per cent of the maritime trade conservatively put at some N3 trillion.

In addition, the Internally Generated Revenue, which rose from N20bn in 2013 to N23bn in 2014 has under Ambode achieved a feat of N380bn in 2016-the highest ever. These are properly utilised in the massive infrastructural development of roads, bridges and clearing of waterways to facilitate journeys by sea. There is the increasing focus on the triple projects of Eko Atlantic City, the $300 Elegushi Kingdom Imperial City as well as the history-making Smart City, coming up in conjunction with Smart City LLC, Dubai being the first of its kind in Africa.

On food security, there is the adoption of all-season farming and establishment of green-houses across the state, including the recent one established at Iyaafin Vegetable Estate in Badagry. The LAKE Rice project is to be boosted with the 16 mmt per hour rice mill in the state as an upgrade on the Imota Rice Mill set up with a 20, 000 metric ton rice processing and milling plant.

On fish farming and aquaculture, the government has optimised the use of the natural endowments to develop industrial fisheries, artisanal fisheries and aquaculture facilities across Lagos. So much more can be added in other sectors of the economy.

Interestingly, the man who was not given a chance to succeed back in 2015 has surpassed the expectations of millions of Lagos people. Just like the biblical Joseph who was not thought of as a credible leader in the time of famine, he has truly confounded his critics even in the nation’s trying period .That is why many in Lagos today sing that two is greater than eight.

It is again a tribute to the political sagacity of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu that when a credible successor was being sought for, to replace Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN), he pitched his tent with a financial expert, knowing that an economic recession was looming. Now, we applaud that choice.

Like the phoenix, Ambode has risen from the ashes of political backwaters to become a reference point in Nigeria’s economic development. This indeed, should be an inspiration to all.

Ajanaku, is a senior special assistant (media and strategy) to Governor Akinwunmi Ambode.

celebrity radar - gossips

Pastor Tobi Adegboyega Explains Lavish Lifestyle Amid Deportation Ruling

Published

9 hours ago

December 7, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Pastor Tobi Adegboyega Explains Lavish Lifestyle Amid Deportation Ruling

Embattled Nigerian pastor and founder of the Salvation Proclaimers Anointed Church (SPAC Nation), Tobi Adegboyega, has defended his luxurious lifestyle amidst an ongoing deportation ruling in the United Kingdom.

The UK’s immigration upper tribunal recently ruled that the 44-year-old pastor should be deported, citing his overstayed visitor’s visa, which expired after his arrival in the UK in 2005. Adegboyega had sought to remain in the country on human rights grounds.

Defense of Extravagance

Addressing concerns about his opulent lifestyle during the tribunal, Adegboyega explained that his wife, Mary Olubukola Alade, who earns £100,000 annually working for the insurance firm AON, funds his expenses. He stated that his lifestyle serves as an inspiration to young people, the primary audience of his ministry, encouraging them to pursue legitimate ways of making money.

The controversial pastor told the court:

“I live with my partner, Mary Olubukola Alade, who earns £100,000 per year working for AON. I spend my time working for the church, for which I am unpaid. I am entirely supported by Mary. I have a first-class law degree from Nigeria but have ‘sacrificed’ my legal career to help those who cannot help themselves.”

The tribunal also heard:

“People have pointed to the fact that he wears designer clothing and drives expensive cars. He was adamant that all his possessions were paid for by Mary. He has never taken a penny from the church. He believes it is important to dress the way he does to inspire young people, showing them that legitimate means, such as entrepreneurship, can lead to success.”

Reaction to Deportation Ruling

Responding to the ruling, Adegboyega dismissed the deportation claims and affirmed his resilience despite numerous challenges.

“I’m right here at home, no cause for alarm. Naturally, I dismiss anything that suggests retrogression. Every Nigerian should be proud of me. Living in the UK, a city known for pulling people down, I have survived all sorts of challenges. This matter they’re propagating is the smallest of them.

“I love London, it’s my city, and nobody can do anything. Of all the people of colour you know here—pastors and leaders—I have survived everything. I’m here at home, and nobody should panic for me. I have succeeded despite all odds and remain someone to look up to. Nothing has changed, and nothing will.”

celebrity radar - gossips

Farotimi Must Prove Allegations to Be Free, Say Afe Babalola’s Lawyers

Published

17 hours ago

December 6, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Farotimi Must Prove Allegations to Be Free, Say Afe Babalola’s Lawyers

The legal team representing Afe Babalola, SAN, founder of Afe Babalola University, has stated that human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi must substantiate his allegations against the elder statesman to secure his freedom.

Speaking at a press conference in Ado Ekiti on Friday, Babalola’s lawyers—Owoseni Ajayi, Olakanmi Falade, and Lawrence Fasanmi, all former chairmen of the Nigerian Bar Association, Ado Ekiti Branch—addressed the ongoing controversy. They emphasized that Farotimi’s claims in his book Nigeria and Its Criminal Justice System constituted defamation, prompting Babalola to petition the police for a thorough investigation.

The lawyers asserted that Farotimi’s allegations were an attempt to damage Babalola’s reputation, built over decades of hard work. They noted that the subsequent legal action was necessary to allow the law to address the matter appropriately.

Legal Proceedings

Following Babalola’s petition, Ekiti State Police arrested Farotimi in Lagos on Tuesday. He was arraigned on Wednesday at the Ekiti State Magistrates Court in Ado Ekiti, facing charges of defamation. While Farotimi’s lawyer sought bail, Chief Magistrate Abayomi Adeosun ordered his remand and adjourned the case to December 10, 2024.

Call for Accountability

Speaking at the press conference, Owoseni Ajayi, Babalola’s lead lawyer and a former Ekiti State Commissioner for Justice, refuted claims of bias or irregularities. He urged the public to verify facts before forming opinions, stating:

“Aare Afe Babalola, in his petition, requested the police to invite Mr. Dele Farotimi to provide evidence supporting his publication. Failing this, he should be prosecuted for criminal defamation as per Nigerian law. The defamatory materials must also be confiscated pending investigation.”

Ajayi defended Babalola’s right to seek redress, asking, “Is it wrong for Aare Afe Babalola to demand justice for these false allegations? Should justice favor Mr. Farotimi simply because Aare Babalola is a global icon?”

He added, “If Mr. Farotimi can prove the truth of his claims, he will be free. While free speech is a right, it must not harm the reputation of another.”

Jurisdiction and Allegations

Ajayi clarified that the case was well within Ekiti State’s jurisdiction, as the book was distributed there, making defamation a prosecutable offense under local law.

He also pointed out that the accusations in the book violated Section 59 of the Criminal Code, which prohibits the publication of false information intended to incite public fear. This offense carries a potential three-year prison sentence.

“The statements in the book are baseless and malicious, designed to tarnish the reputation of Aare Afe Babalola and his law firm. Such defamatory remarks cannot simply be compensated with damages,” Ajayi stated.

Advice to Farotimi’s Supporters

Ajayi advised Farotimi’s family and supporters to reconsider their stance, suggesting they apologize to Babalola. He warned that those encouraging Farotimi might not have his best interests at heart.

“Aare Babalola is a builder, not a destroyer. He does not seek to ruin Mr. Farotimi but to clear his own name,” he said.

Meanwhile, Ekiti State Police have announced a ban on unauthorized gatherings and protests as tensions surrounding the case escalate.

celebrity radar - gossips

Feud to Main Event Mayhem: The Deji Bakare vs. Akpororo Celebrity Global Mega Fight Story

Published

1 day ago

December 6, 2024

Sahara Weekly

Feud to Main Event Mayhem: The Deji Bakare vs. Akpororo Celebrity Global Mega Fight Story

In the dynamic world of entertainment, few things spark as much excitement and passion as a celebrity feud, especially one that unfolds in the public eye. The rivalry between Deji Bakare, former Mr. Nigeria, and renowned comedian Akpororo, began as a verbal clash on social media, quickly escalating into a high-profile saga that captured the attention of fans worldwide.

It all began when Deji Bakare tweeted a critique of Akpororo’s comedy shows, calling them “boring” and suggesting it was time for the comedian to retire his mic. Akpororo, never one to shy away from a challenge, fired back with a fiery Instagram video, branding Deji as “irrelevant” and claiming nobody knew who he was. Not one to let the matter slide, Deji responded with a video of his own, asserting that Akpororo wasn’t on his level and alluding to a secret that could potentially ruin Akpororo’s career. The back-and-forth intensified, and fans eagerly sided with their chosen celebrity, fueling the feud.

As the digital spat continued to stir the public, Diamond Superstars Promotions saw an opportunity to turn the rivalry into a full-blown spectacle. The promoters stepped in, offering both celebrities the chance to settle their differences in the ring. The stage was set for what would become one of the most anticipated celebrity events of the year: the Deji Bakare vs. Akpororo Celebrity Global Mega Fight.

Originally slated for an earlier date, the event was postponed to ensure a larger, more electrifying venue. Now, on December 28th, the Teslim Balogun Stadium in Surulere, Lagos, will be the site of this epic showdown. The “Celebrity Global Mega Fight” promises to be a night of unparalleled drama, as both Deji Bakare and Akpororo are determined to prove themselves in the ring.

But the fight itself is just part of the experience. The event will be packed with side attractions and special performances, ensuring there’s never a dull moment. Expect live music, dance performances, comedy skits, and surprise celebrity appearances, all designed to keep the crowd on the edge of their seats.

Mark your calendars for December 28th, because the National Stadium Surulere (NIS Hall) will be the place to be. With a thrilling blend of sports, entertainment, and drama, this event is poised to be the talk of the town for weeks to come.

Don’t miss out on the most anticipated celebrity boxing match of the year. Secure your tickets now for the “Celebrity Global Mega Fight” and be part of the action!