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Sanwo-olu: The Philosopher Icon of Lagos Leadership By IDOWU AJANAKU:Quote
Sanwo-olu: The Philosopher Icon of Lagos Leadership
By IDOWU AJANAKU:
“Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference”
-Winston Churchill
More like a fine artist, life presents before each and every one of us with different canvasses to paint our vast and varied daily experiences, personal principles, philosophies, ambitions, values, dreams and desires on. And of course, we are free to paint them in our chosen colours. At the end of the day, each of us presents a brand-either negative, to be rebuffed and disdained by many, or positive to be an attractive factor facilitating good character, competence, confidence and candour to be admired by all and sundry.
As it is with the image maker and marketing guru, so it plays out in the tricky, murky and effervescent political landscape, more so the intrigue-fuelled Nigerian variant. That brings us to the subject of our interest here, who is none other than the affable, meek, and goal-getting Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos state. There the questions arise.
Up until now, many Nigerians still wonder how someone, hitherto not an attention-seeker though a politician suddenly came up to take over the baton of political leadership as the successor to erstwhile Governor Akinwunmi Ambode. That was back in 2018. What marks him out as a person? What defines his persona, out of the hundreds of those, who back then thought they stood a better chance of clinching the much coveted political platform than his humble self?
One does not need rocket science to ponder a while and proffer the answer to this question. All it shows is that you might be the most hardworking, creative, resourceful person, all of which attributes act as steps up the ladder to success but the most dependable facilitating factor of them all is none other than character. Yes, good character! That is what takes you to the pinnacle of your chosen career. That perhaps, explains why John Hammond aptly puts it that: “Character is the real foundation of all worthwhile success”.
A close perspective at the life trajectory of Sanwo-Olu therefore, shows that it is character and a good one at that which assists you to be at the right place and at the right time for your destiny to be fulfilled. Even then, a righteous man and a sinner both located at the wrong place are but the same.
For him, right from the basics he was connected to the former Deputy Governor of the state in the person of Mr. Olufemi Pedro. He was the Destiny Helper who brought him into the political landscape as a Personal Assistant a post from which he rose to become a Special Assistant on Commerce and Industry. But then something drastic happened. That was when Pedro decided to carpet cross away from the Alliance for Democrcay,AD to the Labour Party,LP which was the brain-child of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu
That defection of Pedro became a veritable opportunity for Sanwo-Olu to exhibit the sterling character of a peace maker in him. He acted as a mediator, doing al, he could to broker peace. But when he did not succeed, he decided to stay with Tinubu instead of pitching his tent with Pedro. And he strengthened the bond of affection between him and Tinubu by giving all his support to Barrister Babatunde Raji Fashola.(SAN). That was in 2007 when in 2007 when he emerged as the party’s gubernatorial flag bearer. Subsequently, he became the Commissioner for Training and Establishment during the first tenure of Fashola.
Ever since then Sanwo-Olu became constant catalyst, image maker and always making himself available as a solution-provider to various political challenges, and beaming brightly in the state’s political firmament like the northern star. It was not a surprise therefore, when he rose to become the Managing Director, Lagos State Property Development Corporation, LSPD. Building on his wealth of experience he deployed dynamism, innovation bringing to bear more effectiveness in the area of economic development.
As fate would have it, and in recognition of his support as a party faithful and a dependable shoulder to lean on he eventually became the successor to the then Governor Ambode. And in spite of all the mud-slinging, aspersion casting against his person he remained unfazed as a man of peace and a dependable shoulder to lean on in times of trouble.
Worthy of note is that the exalted office of the state governorship has not changed his person.He remains humble, insightful and accessible to all. That brings to bear the wise saying that: “People are interested by talent. But God is impressed by character” as Rick Warren. He is also the one who advised that: “We should not be impressed by charisma but we should look out for character”. That is one great and profound lesson for us all to glean from.
By his simplistic approach to life and as one who never allowed the paraphernalia and apparatchiks of office to lose the common touch he has brought in a new philosophy to the art of governance. He has keyed into the servant-leadership mantra of late president, Umar’ Yar Ardua of blessed memory and remains therefore, a beacon bearer of selflessness, openness, compassion and altruism all shown in the sphere of governance.
For instance, Sanwo-Olu’s kindness was shown to all civil servants in year 2020 as they worked from home for over five months yet they were paid their full salaries all through the duration of the COVID-19 lockdown. Also, the governor approved the payment of a 30% tax-free End-of-the Year bonus for the state’s workforce, paid with the December salaries to every staff.
It remains remarkable when out of his milk of human kindness he compensated families of six police officers killed in the Lagos state during the EndSARS violence with N10 million each.
The governor presented cheques to the wives and children of the slain officers at the 14th Town Hall meeting on security held at Civic Centre, Victoria Island, describing the slain officers as “heroes”.
Similarly, Sanwo-Olu approved the release of funds from the equity of Lagos State Health Scheme (LSHS). It was meant to provide free healthcare for 50,000 orphans, elderly and the vulnerable in the State.
Also, parents of two set of quadruplets, Mrs. Ibeh Maureen Anayo (Nee Anyaegbu) and Mrs. Abosede Akinola, were presented with undisclosed sums of money to assist in giving adequate care to their newborn babies. They disclosed that the governor stood by her and offered assistance from the 6th of August, 2020 when the babies were born at the Federal Medical Centre, Ebute- Metta. On her part, Mrs. Abosede Akinola, mother of the second set of quadruplets appreciated the governor’s gesture of reaching out to them.
Not left out of his generous spirit was his reaching out to a robbery victim by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of the Ogudu Police Station in Lagos, Mrs. Celestina Kalu. She was invited by Sanwo-Olu, who handed her a cheque containing undisclosed sums of money. That reminds us of the minspiring words of Lou Holtz that: “Ability is what you’re capable of doing. Motivation determines what you do. Attitude determines how well you do it”.
All said, whenever the history of Lagos state governance is written there is little doubt that the uncommon act of giving to the needy will be copiously mentioned, as performed selflessly by Governor Sanwo-Olu, the man who has redefined the science of leading by example, with the golden heart.
AJANAKU, was a former Special Adviser on information and strategy to Lagos State Government
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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