celebrity radar - gossips
MRS. AKEREDOLU-PORTRAIT OF A PILLAR OF SUPPORT
By Idowu Ajanaku
Quote:
‘’ The tests we face in life’s journey are not to
reveal our weaknesses but to
help us discover our inner strengths’’
-Kemi Sogunle
In branding principles and concepts, some words aptly describe the existential essence of a product, with regards to its compelling qualities of usefulness to mankind. This could be via its taste, flavour, nutrition (as with food items). Others include availability, affordability, accessibility and its enduring values to the public. As it is with prime products of top-range companies so it goes for the human persona. The critical question therefore, is what comes to the people’s mind once a name is mentioned, especially so if one is a public figure and commands frequent attention.
That brings us to the rare breed in the person of Her Excellency, Mrs. Betty Anyanwu Akeredolu, incidentally the current First Lady of the ‘Sunshine State’, Ondo. Inspiring words such as “a passionate humanist”, “ care-giver”, “simple- at –heart”, “bridge-builder” and of course, “pillar of support” keep reverberating from the smiling lips of her teeming admirers-from both within and outside the political cycle. One cannot therefore, but wonder if these are mere attention-seeking accolades or they ring true for the person in question.
Interestingly, abundant empirical evidences are there to support each of the descriptions of who she really is. Looking at her inspiring life trajectory the words of the Zimbabwean-born and Canada-based philosopher, entrepreneur and author, Matshona Dhiwayo come to mind. Said he: ‘’Beautiful souls are shaped by ugly experiences’’. Indeed so. For instance, she was diagnosed with breast cancer back in 1997. She went through all the anguish and rigours of treatment and happily she survived it all. For some other survivors like her, all they would do is to give testimonies and recoil to their shells, to live a quiet life. But not her! She saw it as an opportunity to be a solution-provider, to make the difference in the lives of others going through similar travails she had experienced. As Ana Antunes rightly noted: ‘’Life always gives a Second Chance: It is called: ‘To Move On’.
So, to move on and feeling truly concerned about the critical health challenge, gave her the inspiration to start the non-profit organization, Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria (BRECAN). Note that this was long before fortune smiled on her to become the First Lady of Ondo state. The noble aim of the NGO of course, is to raise the needed public awareness of the deadly disease and institute the preventive measures amongst the womenfolk. In addition, it assists in cancer-related researches.
It goes as a glowing tribute to her patriotic efforts therefore, that several women across the length and breadth of the country have given moving testimonies of how BRECAN came in to save their sad and sordid situations when it mattered most. One unforgettable instance was that of a middle-aged, Owo- born woman who goes by the name, Mrs. Elizabeth Akande. She was abandoned by her husband immediately he realized that she had fallen a victim of breast cancer! But the timely intervention of BRECAN through moral and financial support changed her story for good.
As she rightly noted during the inauguration of BRECAN in Kogi state in August 2017: ‘’We want you to make breast cancer awareness and treatment a priority so that women will not continue dying needlessly’’. She highlighted the fact that it is cost intensive as mammographic machine is needed for early detection. And awareness is a necessity to prevent women who detect lumps in their breasts from considering it a spiritual attack and heading to the mountain for prayers, instead of taking timely action.
As reflected in her thought-provoking lecture delivered as the 7th Distinguished Guest Lecturer at the University of Medical Services, UNIMED in Ondo state there is the increasing need for adoption of a population-based screening for breast cancer. The lecture was titled: ‘’A stitch in time saves lives; breast cancer realities in Nigeria and actionable steps’’. So profound her actions have proved that BRECAN has become a model for the frontal battle against breast cancer as supported by the United Nations Organization (UNO).
Furthermore, as one who is always exhibiting the humanist in her, she was there for Ondo state home makers, especially widows distributing palliatives across the state during the lockdown due to the Coronavirus pandemic. In addition to the determined fight against breast cancer, she been consistent in her battle against rape, her contributions to Girl-Child education delivery and the welfare of the womenfolk. In fact, she is also a supporter of the Bring Back the Girls Initiative, NGO aimed at the safe return of the long-abducted Chibok girls. All these and more interventions must have earned her the prestigious Distinguished Community Award by the Oyo state Chapter of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) back in July, 2018. She is a true care giver, isn’t she? Of course, she is. But that is not all about her.
As an intriguing act of immanent fate, Mrs. Akeredolu happens to be of Ibo extraction but married to a Yoruba man, who is both a renowned lawyer and politician. As expected this interesting social scenario must have raised some questions and sometimes untoward reactions that trail her every talk and walk. ‘’We know the husband is always dancing to her tunes’’, some would have said. Or, ‘’is she not an outsider? Does she really know where the shoe pinches us?’’ Some others must have nursed their grudges. But they have missed the point of the inner workings of Mrs. Akeredolu. As those close to her would readily admit she is an open-minded woman. Yes, she has the apparatchiks and goodies that her exalted office guarantees but good enough she has not lost the common touch. Instead, she knows, like Lailah Akita once stated that ‘’the victory of our inner self is a daily struggle and one must be strong and never give up’’.
Indeed, she has been able to use all such bricks thrown at her to build a strong bridge of trust with her several admirers who are Yorubas. And naturally with her Ibo people and the Niger-Deltans, many of who ply their trades in Akure, Ore, Ikare and other parts of Ondo state. Such bond she has deployed to garner the much-needed political support for the Aketi Project in Ondo state. As it was during the First Term, even stronger it is currently playing out for her husband’s Second Term ambition. The effect is that what some of the opponents of the governor thought would be his high hurdles, the unflinching support of his wife has turned into his launch pad to greater political heights.
Besides, because of the simple, down-to-earth nature she exudes, she is amassing support even from the owners of small and medium scale enterprises, artisans and of course, the market women led by the Iyalojas. For instance, in July of this year the representatives of the Iyalogas of the APC drawn from the 18 LGAs gathered at the Babafunke Ajasin Hall of the Ministry of Women Affairs to pledge their unflinching resolve; to see the governor back to Government House for his Second Term.
They used the opportunity to appreciate the governor for his administration’s giant strides in various sectors-from health, education, agriculture through massive infrastructural development across the state. Similarly, they commended his wife for her laudable initiatives, including the battle against breast cancer and OndoWidows Care. And on her part, she pledged to do more for them. ‘’You Iyalojas deserve every support and assistance…and I am available, with more, underway’’.
Going by all the noble values she stands for and her life’s varied experiences she remains as an enduring inspiration to men and women alike. There is much to learn and emulate from her desire to gain access to quality healthcare delivery, including support for victims of breast cancer, as well as her fight for gender equality when it comes to education and politico-economic empowerment.
Indeed, her massive grassroots support and more so, her pan-Nigerian disposition added to her husband’s outstanding achievements are sure guarantee that Governor Akeredolu’s Second Term ambition is a done deal. In fact, he is going to coast to landslide victory. As Eric Bates, the editor at large of ‘The New Republic’ succinctly noted: ‘’There are no negatives in life, only challenges to overcome that will make you stronger’’
celebrity radar - gossips
Spiritual Reality: Wicked People Are Possessed by Wicked Spirits — Dr. Christian Okafor
Spiritual Reality: Wicked People Are
Possessed by Wicked Spirits — Dr. Christian Okafor
…..“You don’t need to offend them before they attack you.”
…..“Your only true help comes from God.”
Demons are strategic and calculating. They detect threats quickly and position themselves to resist any power that may expose or overpower them.
According to the Generational Prophet and Senior Pastor of Grace Nation Global, Christian Okafor, spiritual intelligence operates both in light and in darkness—and believers must understand this reality.
Dr. Okafor delivered this message on Thursday, February 19, 2026, during the midweek Prophetic, Healing, Deliverance and Solutions Service (PHDS) held at the international headquarters of Grace Nation Worldwide in Ojodu Berger, Lagos, Nigeria.
The Operations of Demons
Teaching on the subject “Spiritual Reality” with the subtitle “Operations of Demons,” the Man of God explained that when demons possess individuals, their behavior changes. Such people may attack, bully, or resist those sent by God to help them, unknowingly rejecting divine assistance and prolonging their struggles.
“You don’t need to offend a demon before it attacks you,” he said. “What you carry is enough to provoke opposition. The greater your potential, the greater the battle.”
Dr. Okafor noted that many believers misinterpret battles as signs that God has abandoned them. However, he explained that some battles are permitted for growth, training, and divine glorification.
According to him, God may allow certain confrontations so that believers understand spiritual warfare and emerge stronger.
“Some battles are necessary,” he emphasized. “They push you into your turning point.”
He further stated that God does not respond to lies, blackmail, or bullying. He responds to His Word. Therefore, opposition is not proof of God’s absence, but often evidence of destiny at work.
The Weapon Against Demonic Attacks
Addressing solutions, Dr. Okafor described prayer as the strongest weapon against satanic operations.
“Prayer is the license that invites God into your battles,” he declared. “God does not intrude—He responds to invitation.”
According to the Apostle of Altars, understanding the principles and discipline of prayer enables believers to receive divine strategies for overcoming demonic resistance. Without prayer, he warned, spiritual help cannot be activated.
“You cannot receive help without God,” he concluded. “And you cannot engage God without prayer.”
Manifestations at the Service
The midweek gathering was marked by a strong move of the Spirit, with testimonies of deliverance, miracles, restoration, and solutions to various challenges presented before God. Several individuals reportedly committed their lives to Christ during the service.
celebrity radar - gossips
Kingdom Advancement: God Does Not Confirm Lies or Gossip — He Confirms His Word .” — Dr. Chris Okafor
Kingdom Advancement: God Does Not Confirm Lies or Gossip—He Confirms His Word
“When Doing Business with God,
People’s Opinions Do Not Count.”
— Dr. Christian Okafor
The greatest investment any Christian can make is partnering with God. According to the Generational Prophet of God and Senior Pastor of Grace Nation Global, Christopher Okafor, when a believer commits to serving and advancing God’s kingdom, no barrier, lie, gossip, or blackmail can prevail against them.
This message was delivered during the Prophetic Financial Sunday Service held on February 15, 2026, at the international headquarters of Grace Nation Worldwide in Ojodu Berger, Lagos, Nigeria.
Doing Business with God
Teaching on the theme “Kingdom Advancement” with the subtitle “Doing Business with God,” Dr. Okafor emphasized that when a believer enters into covenant partnership with God, divine backing becomes inevitable.
“God is still in the business of covenant,” he declared. “When you make a covenant with Him, He honors the terms. When you win souls into the kingdom and remain committed to His work, He rewards you with what you could never achieve by your own strength.”
The Man of God stressed that God does not confirm lies, gossip, or negative narratives—He confirms His Word. Therefore, anyone genuinely committed to kingdom business should not be distracted by public opinion.
“No matter the blackmail or falsehood circulating around you, if you are focused on God’s assignment, those attacks will only strengthen you,” he stated.
He further noted that a believer’s understanding of God’s covenant determines their experience. “Your mentality about God’s covenant becomes your reality. When you truly know the God you serve, no devil can move you.”
Biblical Examples of Kingdom Partnership
Dr. Okafor cited several biblical figures who prospered through their partnership with God:
Abel
Abel served God with sincerity and offered his very best. His sacrifice pleased God, demonstrating that when a master is honored, he responds with favor.
David
David’s heart was fully devoted to God, and in return, God’s presence and favor rested upon him throughout his life.
Hannah
Hannah made a covenant with God, promising that if He blessed her with a child, she would dedicate him to His service. After fulfilling her vow, God rewarded her abundantly, blessing her with additional children.
Peter
Peter, a professional fisherman, surrendered his boat at Jesus’ request for kingdom work. Through that act of partnership and obedience, he experienced supernatural provision and divine elevation.
Conclusion
In closing, Dr. Okafor emphasized that one’s approach to God’s covenant determines the level of success and prosperity experienced. Commitment to kingdom advancement secures divine confirmation and supernatural results.
The Prophetic Financial Sunday Service was marked by prophetic declarations, deliverance, healings, miracles, restoration, and solutions to diverse cases presented before Elohim.
At 55, Omoyele Sowore Remains a Defiant Voice of Conscience
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG
“SaharaWeeklyNG Management and Staff Salute a Relentless Campaigner for Justice and Democratic Accountability.”
As activist, journalist and politician Omoyele Sowore marks his 55th birthday, the management and staff of SaharaWeeklyNG join millions of Nigerians at home and in the diaspora to celebrate a man widely regarded as one of the most persistent and fearless voices for democratic accountability in modern Nigeria.
Born on February 16, 1971, in Ondo State, Sowore rose from student activism at the University of Lagos to become one of the country’s most recognisable pro-democracy figures. His early involvement in the student movement during the military era of the 1990s placed him at the forefront of protests against dictatorship and repression, a role that would shape the course of his life and career.
He later founded Sahara Reporters in 2006, an online investigative platform that quickly gained prominence for exposing corruption, abuse of power and human rights violations. Operating initially from the United States, the outlet became a symbol of citizen journalism and digital activism, publishing stories often ignored or suppressed by mainstream media. Over the years, the platform has reported on high-level corruption cases, electoral malpractices and security failures, earning both praise and fierce criticism from political authorities.
Sowore’s activism took a dramatic turn in 2019 when he contested Nigeria’s presidential election under the African Action Congress (AAC). Although he did not win, the campaign amplified his calls for systemic reform. Months later, he launched the #RevolutionNow movement, a nationwide protest demanding an end to corruption, economic hardship and insecurity.
In August 2019, he was arrested by Nigeria’s Department of State Services (DSS) on charges of treasonable felony. His detention, which lasted several months despite court orders for his release, sparked international condemnation from human rights groups, civil society organisations and foreign observers. The case turned him into a global symbol of resistance against state repression.
Over the years, Sowore has faced multiple arrests, court trials and travel restrictions. Yet he has remained resolute, insisting that his activism is rooted in the constitutional right to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. Supporters describe him as a principled crusader against injustice, while critics accuse him of political extremism. Regardless of the perspective, his impact on Nigeria’s political discourse is undeniable.
His life’s work echoes the enduring words of Nelson Mandela, who once said, “Freedom is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.” For many of Sowore’s followers, his sacrifices represent precisely that spirit, an unyielding struggle for a more accountable and equitable society.
Similarly, the philosophy of Martin Luther King Jr. (that “injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere”) resonates deeply with the trajectory of Sowore’s activism. Whether confronting police brutality, electoral irregularities or economic injustice, he has consistently framed his struggle as one for the collective dignity of Nigerians.
Nigerian Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka once observed that “the man dies in all who keep silent in the face of tyranny.” That sentiment captures the essence of Sowore’s public life. For over three decades, he has refused silence, even when it meant imprisonment, harassment and personal sacrifice.
At 55, Sowore’s journey is far from over. He remains active in political advocacy, civil rights campaigns and public commentary, continuing to challenge what he describes as systemic failures in governance and leadership. His career reflects both the promise and the peril of dissent in a fragile democracy; where the line between patriotism and confrontation is often fiercely contested.
On this milestone birthday, SaharaWeeklyNG management and staff recognise Sowore not merely as an individual, but as a symbol of the enduring struggle for transparency, justice, and democratic renewal. His story is one of conviction under pressure, a reminder that the quest for a better society often demands courage, resilience and a willingness to stand alone.
As Nigeria navigates its complex political and economic realities, figures like Sowore continue to shape the national conversation. Whether praised or criticised, his voice remains a constant in the country’s democratic journey; loud, uncompromising and impossible to ignore.
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