celebrity radar - gossips

Real Reasons Why Ambode Sacked Commissioners

Published

9 years ago

October 28, 2016

Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, last Wednesday, caused a rumble within the state Executive Council when he relieved Commissioners for Tourism, Mr. Folorunsho Folarin-Coker, Finance, Dr. Mustapha Akinkunmi, and Transportation, Dr. Ekundayo Mobereola of their appointments in a minor cabinet reshuffle.

The reshuffle came exactly a year after Governor Ambode constituted his Executive Council, precisely on October 19, 2015. The sack, according to sources, could not be unconnected with poor performance, misdemeanour and inability to key into the goals, vision and mission of the present administration.

However, the Governor, in a statement by the Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Mr. Tunji Bello, directed the Special Adviser, Arts and Culture to take over as the Acting Commissioner for Ministry of Tourism and Culture, Special Adviser on Transportation will take over as Acting Commissioner for Transportation, while the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Finance takes over as the Acting Commissioner for Finance pending appointment of new Commissioners in the respective ministries.

Acting capacity

It will be recalled that on September 19, 2016, Ambode sacked quite a number of heads of parastatals and agencies. Notable among them was General Manager, Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, LASEMA, Mr. Michael Akindele who was replaced him immediately with Mr. Tiamiyu Muyiwa Adesina in an acting capacity.

Also, on March 14, 2016, following the collapse of a five storey building under construction at Lekki Gardens, Kusenla Road, Ikate Elegushi, in Eti-Osa Local Government, Ambode sacked the General Manager of the state Building Control Agency, LASBCA, Engr. Adeigbe Olushola.

The governor also sacked the Head of Inspection and Quality Control in the Agency, Adeoye Thomas Adeyemi, the Zonal District Officer in the Agency, Dosunmu Gbadebo, while the Zonal Head of Eti-Osa West of the Agency, Mrs. Akinde Adenike Sherifat was compulsorily retired from the civil service.

Ambode, in a statement through the state Head of Service, Mrs. Olabowale Ademola, said the affected officers were dismissed having been indicted of negligence, which according to the governor is an act of misconduct under the Public Service Rule 040401.

According to the governor, Rule 040401 of the Public Service act of misconduct states inter alia: “A willful act of omission or general misconduct to the scandal of the public or to the prejudice of discipline and proper administration of the State Government,” should be visited with dismissal from the Public Service in line with the Public Service Rule 040503.

All these sackings, it was gathered, received the blessings of former governor of the state and National Leader All Progressives Congress, APC, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, who is known to be the main backer of the governor.

Reasons for the sack

Sequel to the eventual sack, facts emerged that the affected commissioners were recently reprimanded by Ambode on the need to raise their game on performance or face exit. According to the source, the affected commissioners were sacked based on issues ranging from lack of capacity to deliver, disloyalty and flagrant disobedience of the Governor’s directives on several occasions and lackadaisical attitude towards government’s goals

Some of the commissioners were also said to be indifferent to the governor’s directive on some major issues, believing they owe their allegiance to their godfather, Tinubu. The source said like any other Governor or President, Ambode relieved the cabinet members of their appointments based on political expediency, capacity to do the job, among others.

He recalled that many of the cabinet members were appointed a year ago based on merit and the need to put round peg in round hole, but in the last 15 months, it had become apparent that some of them cannot cope with the pace of the Governor, while some have demonstrated utter disloyalty to the office of the Governor.

They were also accused of flagrant disrespect to the office of the Governor with impunity, thereby undermining his authority coupled with unresolved disputes with some cabinet members.

The source said: “You see, one of them for instance, (names withheld) falls in this category.

“Having been in government for the past 16 years, his carriage was that of a man who believed that he cannot be touched. So, it was not a surprise to close observers that he was among those sacked by the Governor.”

Yet another one was dropped on account of being arrogant and unable to work as a team player and above all, he was allegedly approving money without the governor’s consent.

Oversight function

In addition, he was also accused of treating lawmakers in the state with disdain. Sometimes ago, members of the relevant Committee of the state House of Assembly were stranded and embarrassed during an oversight visit to the office of the commissioner, who was not on hand to receive the committee members without a word or excuse for the action after being duly notified of the visit.

He was also accused of often delegating officials to represent him at key events without cogent reasons for doing so.

Hence, the decision of the Governor to wield the big stick to serve as deterrent to others in order to fall in line and key to his vision of making Lagos great and transforming the state massively.

It was gathered that the other casualty- Akinkunmi, was said to be found wanting.

Being a finance expert himself, Governor Ambode, according to another reliable source, was uncomfortable with his style of operation to the extent that he had to be tongue-lashed at cabinet meetings by the Governor on issues that bordered on abysmal performance.

Commissioner reacts

Meantime, Folarin-Coker, in a swift reaction to the development, denied being removed for poor performance but said it was in the interest of moving Lagos forward.

His words: “Governor Akinwunmi Ambode is my leader and boss. He is a visionary leader and understands well what Lagos needs best. He is also a close personal friend. There was no clash between us whatsoever. Lagos needs to move at an accelerating pace and my time to depart just happened to be today.

“I remain totally loyal to him and the party. Change is always good thing and I am grateful to God to have been able to serve my state for 18 years.”

A text message sent to Moberola and Akinkunmi’s mobile phone lines were yet to be responded to at press time.

celebrity radar - gossips

Adron Homes Celebrates Visionary Chairman, Aare Adetola Emmanuel King, at 51

Published

2 days ago

April 2, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Adron Homes Celebrates Visionary Chairman, Aare Adetola Emmanuel King, at 51

The management and staff of Adron Homes and Properties Limited have joined family, friends, associates, and well-wishers across the globe to celebrate their Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing, as he marks his 51st birthday.

In a statement released by the company, the milestone was described as a celebration of an exceptional leader whose vision, resilience, and entrepreneurial brilliance have not only transformed Adron Homes into a household name in Nigeria’s real estate sector but have also redefined affordable housing across the country.

Under his dynamic leadership, Adron Homes has continued to expand its footprint, delivering value-driven residential solutions while empowering thousands of Nigerians with opportunities for home ownership. His commitment to excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction has remained the driving force behind the company’s sustained growth and industry leadership.

The statement further highlighted Aare EmmanuelKing’s passion for nation-building and community development, noting his significant contributions to job creation, youth empowerment, and the promotion of socio-economic development through real estate investments.

“As a leader, mentor, and visionary, Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing has consistently inspired a culture of excellence, integrity, and dedication within the organization. His ability to turn bold ideas into reality continues to position Adron Homes as a trailblazer in the industry,” the statement read.

The company expressed profound gratitude for his steadfast leadership and prayed for continued wisdom, strength, and sound health as he embarks on another year of impactful achievements.

As he celebrates his 51st birthday, the entire Adron Homes family proudly honours a man whose legacy continues to shape the future of real estate in Nigeria.

Happy 51st Birthday, Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing!

celebrity radar - gossips

Oba Ara Releases Emotional Tribute to Late Taiwo Adegbodu

Published

4 days ago

March 30, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Oba Ara Releases Emotional Tribute to Late Taiwo Adegbodu

Taofik Afolabi

The gospel music community continues to grieve the painful loss of Taiwo Adegbodu, a beloved figure whose sudden departure left a deep void among fans, colleagues, and loved ones. In response to this loss, renowned gospel minister Rotimi Onimole, popularly known as Oba Ara, has released a moving tribute song that captures both the sorrow of the moment and the enduring legacy of the late singer.

Oba Ara, a proud son of Isale Eko, channels raw emotion throughout the song, using heartfelt lyrics and soul-stirring melodies to reflect on his personal connection with Taiwo Adegbodu. In the tribute, he openly expresses how deeply the news of Adegbodu’s passing shook him, describing it as a painful and unexpected loss that is difficult to come to terms with.

The song goes beyond mourning, it celebrates the life, ministry, and impact of Taiwo Adegbodu. Oba Ara highlights the late artist’s dedication to spreading the gospel through music, his inspiring voice, and the spiritual influence he had on many within and beyond Nigeria. Through powerful verses, he paints a picture of a man who lived for God and touched countless lives through his ministry.

Listeners have described the tribute as both comforting and deeply emotional, as it resonates with the collective grief of the gospel music community. It serves as a reminder that although Taiwo Adegbodu is no longer physically present, his music, message, and legacy will continue to live on.

In honoring his late colleague, Oba Ara not only pays his respects but also offers a source of healing for fans and fellow ministers, using music as a tool to process grief and celebrate a life well lived.

celebrity radar - gossips

Buratai, Fagbemi , Shagaya, Olofa, Others Eulogise Olowu Kuta’s Olori On 60th Birthday, Foundation Launch

Published

5 days ago

March 30, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Buratai, Fagbemi , Shagaya, Olofa, Others Eulogise Olowu Kuta’s Olori On 60th Birthday, Foundation Launch

Eminent personalities across the Nigeria stormed the TFK Event Centre, Bala Mohammed Way, Guzape, Abuja, to celebrate the 60th birthday of Olowu Kuta’s Olori, Queen Jumai Amoke and her Foundation Launch on Saturday 28, March 2026.

From former Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen TY Buratai rtd, to the Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation, Prince Lateef Fagbemi; Olofa of Offa, HRM Oba Mufutau Gbadamosi. Even top businesswoman and socialite, Chief (Mrs) Bola Shagaya, was in attendance.

Other dignitaries were newly promoted Deputy Inspector-General of Police and former AIG Zone 2 , Lagos , Adegoke Fayoade, Major General Abdumalik, Major General Samuel Adebayo rtd (Fmr CDI);

Major General Anthony Omozoje rtd (Fmr Copp);

Alhaji Tajudeen Owoyemi (Asiwaju of Offa and CEO Radisson Hotel Nigeria;

Dr Waheed Olagunju, former managing director of Bank of Industry, Oniba of Iba, Lagos State, HRM Oba Dr Suleiman Raji ;

Justice Falola, Olu of Ile-Ogbo , Oba Adetoyese amongst many traditional rulers and captains of industry too numerous to mention.

Speaking at the occasion, the Chief Host, Olowu of Kuta, HRM Oba Dr Adekunle Oyelude Makama, CON , Tegbosun iii, who is also the husband of the celebrant commended Queen Jumai for ‘ her slender arms full of kindness’ to establish such humanitarian Foundation, ‘Amoke Children and mother in Need Foundation’ at a time Nigerians are going through economic crisis occassioned by the global meltdown.

Olowu also commended her steadfastness and love for the less privileged and downtrodden.

The monarch refrenced the task before his wife’s humanitarian gesture said her best is yet to come.

” Olori Amoke Jumai, I celebrate you. You will celebrate 70, 80, 90 and continue to shine as you continue to put a smile on people’s faces. I love you, “Olowu Kuta added.

To Lt Gen Buratai, a former army chief and former Nigerian Ambassador to Benin Republic, the reward of hard work is more work.

Buratai, who also doubles as Balogun Agba of Owu Kuta, a chieftaincy title reserved for a generalismo congratulated Queen Jumai for attaining the age of 60 in good health.

The retired army General said he’s not surprised by the turn out of eminent personalities across the country to celebrate the Olowu Kuta’s Olori because she merited it through her hospitality to all, adding that Allah the most merciful, most beneficial would accept all her act of ibadah.

The minister of Justice, Prince Fagbemi, was full of praises for Queen Jumai for deeming it fit to have a place in her heart to accommodate the needy and less privileged in ‘our society.’

Prince Fagbemi urged the guests to contribute generously to support the Foundation in order to continue to alleviate poverty and put a smile on the faces of the people.

” I congratulate you on your 60th birthday and Foundation Launch. I wish you many happy returns of the day and many more fruitful services to the country and motherland”, Prince Fagbemi added.

The celebrant, Queen Jumai who was grining from ear to ear thankfully said she was excited by the turn out and the response of the people to her foundation.

Queen Jumai, however, promised to continue to use her resources and donations received for the good of the needy and less privileged in the society.

” I want to appreciate my own Kabiesi Olofa of Offa , for his presence and im I’m using him as a point of contact to all other Kabiesis present here, the minister of justice and Attorney-General, you’re welcome, sir; Mrs Bola Shagaya, I salute your enterprise, Lt Gen Buratai, I’m grateful, sir; DIG Fayoade, Justice Falola and other dignitaries too numerous to mention, I thank you, all. To my darling husband, Kabiesi Olowu , I thank you immensely for your support. And to my family and friends, I thank you , all. E se pupo!”, she said.