society
Wale Adedayo: Living up to his dark antecedents
Wale Adedayo: Living up to his dark antecedents
By Eniolorunda Michael
CHARACTER, say the Yoruba, is a flame. It cannot be hidden. Because appearances can be deceptive, the Yoruba say you cannot determine a person’s character from his looks (oju o se fi m’owa eda), the same thought that the Bard of Avon expressed in Macbeth, where King Duncan, enquiring about the execution of a thane, says “there’s no art to find the mind’s construction in the face.”
If you have ever had to engage questions of the darkness of the human mind, like the British Nobel Laureate William does in the epochal novel Lord of the Flies, you cannot help but see how certain persons, in placing themselves on a pedestal above their peers, actually only succeed in hastening their own tragic fall. Which brings us to the ongoing drama of the absurd in Ogun State where a serial blackmailer and turncoat, Wale Adedayo, is being hailed as a hero by certain pernicious individuals.
Adedayo, the chairman of Ijebu East Local Government and member of the governing All Progressives Congress (APC), pointedly accused the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, of diverting the funds meant for the running of local councils in the state without providing any evidence to back up his claims. As it turned out, Adedayo only acted a script for which he has been known since the onset of the current Republic in 1999. His stories made the front pages of the nation’s newspapers given its salacious nature, but then, barely 12 hours later, he quickly rallied his colleague chairmen on a pleading mission to the same governor he had just branded a thief before the whole world. He quickly recanted, apparently knowing that the governor had legal options to defend his name and image. Now, contrary to Adedayo’s claims, local governments in the state had actually been receiving their allocations, and in fact had shared N5.2bn in the month of August, the same month during which he made his unsubstantiated allegations.
During the meeting, held at the Governor’s office at. Oke-Mosan in Abeokuta and attended by 18 out of the 20 Chairmen, the Chairman of Ijebu-Ode Local Government, who also doubles as the chairman of the Association of Local Government of Nigeria, ALGON, Mr Babatunde Gazal, acknowledged that in May, N4.5 billion was shared by the 20 council areas.First line charges, including primary school teachers salaries and check –off dues, came to about N2bn; payment of retired primary school teachers (about 1bn), retired local government teachers and chairmen’s imprest, which is N60m per month, among others. In June, N4.4 billion was shared, while July also saw the sharing of N4.4 billion. In August, N5.2bn was shared, out of which over N2bn was devoted to the payment of teachers. Coming to Ijebu East Local Government specifically, a total sum of N1.547bn was released to it in 2021. In 2021, the figure rose steadily 1. 955bn, a difference of N408million. In the current year, as of August ending, the council has received a total of 1.257bn. This is quite apart from the gratuities of local government workers that the state government paid on their behalf. Given these figures, how could Adedayo have made such transparently bogus claims?
In unpacking the ongoing macabre drama, a bit of context is necessary. Going by his antecedents, Adedayo is no stranger to character assassination and blatant falsehood. Just like the metaphorical leopard that never changes its spots, he is just living up to his history and image. While working at The Punch, Adedayo was on several occasions accused of character assassination, blackmail and manipulation, and his unceremonious exit from the reputable media house was only a matter of time. For purely political reasons, the then Governor Gbenga Daniel accepted him, rehabilitated him and made him Chief Press Secretary, giving him all the freedom in the world, and an imprest far larger than a commissioner’s. But what did our man do? He allowed all those things to get to his head and came to see himself as being bigger than his boss.
And when he realized that he had played himself out of favour by squandering/diverting the money his boss gave him to do media work, he went on a character assassination overdrive, declaring that his boss was after his life. He would later go on to write a controversial book where he maligned his boss and so many people. In the book, Micro-seconds away from death, Adedayo wrote: “On 10 January 2009, six assassins engaged me in a shoot-out. I managed to kill three of them and barely escaped from the scene. Being Chief Press Secretary to the Governor at the time, I knew it was my immediate boss, who arranged the failed assassination bid, given information at my disposal.” In this fantastic narration, the super hero was driving with one hand and gunning down the two OPC assailants allegedly sent after him by Governor Daniel with the other. He also claimed to have used the car to jump over the median along the expressway.
While pointedly accusing Governor Daniel of maintaining a killer squad, he volunteered the unsolicited information that in his family, people usually died at a very young age, and that his father never attained the age of 40. He went on to add that his (Adedayo’s) attaining that milestone was due to the sacrifices he had offered to the gods. The people he maligned in the book also include the current Aare Onakakanfo, Iba Gani Adams, a man at whose wedding he had served as best man. He claimed that Adams was collecting money across the South-West, and was one of the assassins sent against him. He said his friend a former Editor, failed a security test when he wanted to get him a job with the then Oyo State governor, Chief Adebayo Alao-Akala, and that his former boss, Chief Abiola Ogundoyin, must have slept with his wife when he was in detention! The book, Micro-seconds away from death, painted everyone else as a devil, providing ample evidence of a troubled soul, a man under heavy spell, and with a penchant for blackmailing anyone who tries to help him.
Is it any wonder, then, that the governor who chose to be magnanimous and made him consultant on media and later caretaker chairman of Ijebu LG, at his own request, is now the target of his latest attacks? As caretaker chairman, Adedayo contested and won election with the support of the structure that Governor Abiodun had built. Curiously, however, even in his local government, information emerged that he had begun hobnobbing with the opposition and working against his own party. Given his political prostitution, it was no wonder that during the March 18 governorship election, the governor lost woefully in his local government.
When you look at Adedayo’s trajectory and character, the fact emerges that he is not somebody that can be trusted, or that you can say has a stable mind. He is only consistent with blackmail, with no trace of omoluabi qualities, and the lesson for people like Governor Abiodun is that choosing to magnanimous in politics can have terrible drawbacks. Interestingly, though, the professional accuser is now being accused by his own council legislators of perpetrating monumental fraud, and has been handed a three-month suspension. The council says the disgraced chairman withdrew millions from the local government account for empowerment in 2022, but no empowerment was done to date; wasted N2million on August 20, 2022, on Isese festival; and N250,000 duty tour allowance in June 2023 and another N250,000 duty tour allowance for the chairman and other top officials engagement. The list of allegations is long, and he is definitely entitled to the fair hearing he grants no one, but the fact is that people who try to set a state on fire with false allegations ought to be made to have their day in court.
Anywhere Wale Adedayo goes, a dark cloud follows him, and one can only hope it does not push him to an ignoble end.
Banwo Questions Bwala’s Credibility After Al Jazeera Interview
Public commentator, Dr. Ope Banwo, has criticised Daniel Bwala, the Presidential Spokesperson on Policy Communication for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, following a contentious interview on Al Jazeera, describing the appearance as damaging to the credibility of Nigeria’s public communication.
Bwala had appeared on a programme hosted by journalist Mehdi Hasan, where he faced a series of questions about past statements attributed to him. During the exchange, Hasan presented video clips of previous remarks by the government spokesman and asked him to reconcile them with his responses during the interview.
The exchange, which has since circulated widely online, drew attention after Bwala appeared to dispute statements that were subsequently played back during the programme.
Reacting to the development, Banwo said the episode reflected poorly on Nigeria’s representation on international media platforms.
According to him, the availability of digital records and online archives means public officials must be prepared to defend their past statements whenever they appear on global television.
“In the era of instant fact-checking, any public figure going on international television must assume that every previous statement can be easily retrieved,” Banwo said.
He added that the controversy surrounding the interview was particularly troubling because the contradictions presented during the programme were supported with video evidence.
Banwo noted that while political interviews can be confrontational, government representatives should expect tough questioning when appearing before international audiences.
The founder of Naija Lives Matters also expressed concern over Bwala’s reaction during the interview, especially his claim that he was not informed he would be required to defend his personal record.
“A government spokesman should never be surprised by questions about his own public statements,” Banwo said.
During the programme, Bwala also responded to criticism of Nigeria’s governance challenges by arguing that similar problems exist in other parts of the world.
However, Banwo argued that such comparisons do not address the specific issues raised about Nigeria.
According to him, the episode should serve as a reminder of the importance of preparation and credibility when Nigerian officials appear before international media platforms.
The interview has continued to generate reactions across social media and political commentary circles, with observers debating both the conduct of the interview and the implications for Nigeria’s global image.
society
THE IMPERIAL GOLD COIN OF THE UNITED KINGDOM OF ATLANTIS UNVEILED AS SYMBOL OF SOVEREIGNTY AND HERITAGE
THE IMPERIAL GOLD COIN OF THE UNITED KINGDOM OF ATLANTIS UNVEILED AS SYMBOL OF SOVEREIGNTY AND HERITAGE
_[Atlantis City, United Kingdom of Atlantis – March 2026]_ – The United Kingdom of Atlantis proudly announces the introduction of its *Imperial Gold Coin*, a magnificent emblem of sovereignty, authority, and imperial heritage. The exquisite gold coin has been crafted to represent the nation’s regal tradition, economic strength, and the visionary leadership of its monarch.
The centerpiece of the coin features the dignified portrait of *His Imperial Majesty, Professor Solomon Wining*, depicted in full royal regalia. Crowned with a majestic golden crown and adorned with intricately crafted ornaments, the portrait embodies honor, wisdom, and noble leadership befitting a sovereign ruler. The depiction celebrates the monarch’s reign, which is associated with wisdom, development, and the pursuit of justice.
The golden coin itself signifies *prosperity, stability, and the enduring legacy* of the Atlantis Kingdom. Gold, historically a universal symbol of power, wealth, and permanence, reflects the strength and vision of the kingdom’s leadership and its aspirations for lasting greatness.
Encircling the royal portrait is the carefully engraved inscription *“United Kingdom of Atlantis”*, reinforcing the state’s identity any the authority of its sovereign ruler. The lower rim of the coin prominently displays the name *Solomon Wining*, commemorating the monarch whose leadership is linked to noble governance and national advancement.
The phrase *“Gold Coin”* highlights not only the currency’s intrinsic value but also its symbolic significance as a representation of the kingdom’s economic structure and royal treasury. Beyond its aesthetic elegance, the coin serves as a *mark of sovereignty*, a seal of authority, and a reminder of the royal institution governing the United Kingdom of Atlantis.
The Imperial Gold Coin represents:
– *Unity* among citizens,
– *Loyalty* to the crown,
– A vision of a kingdom built upon *justice, prosperity, and noble leadership*.
Every detail—from the engraved crown to the polished golden surface—makes the coin a timeless emblem of imperial prestige and national pride. It stands as both a symbol of wealth and a monument to the legacy of royal leadership, reminding all who behold it of the enduring power and majesty of the United Kingdom of Atlantis.
The United Kingdom of Atlantis is a sovereign nation dedicated to upholding traditions of regal governance, cultural heritage, and economic prosperity, guided by the wisdom of its imperial leadership.
_Notes to Editors_:
The Imperial Gold Coin is intended for commemorative and symbolic purposes, representing the nation’s imperial heritage and royal authority.
Ajadi Visits Ibadan Chief Imam, Receives Blessings
The leading gubernatorial aspirant in Oyo State on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, on Wednesday paid a courtesy visit to the Grand Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheikh Imam Abdul Ganiy Abubakir Agbotomokekere, at his Oja’ba residence in Ibadan, where discussions centred on leadership, integrity, and the role of prayers in governance.
Ajadi, who described the revered Islamic cleric as a spiritual pillar in Oyo State, said his visit was to seek prayers and wise counsel as he continues consultations ahead of the 2027 governorship race.
While addressing the Chief Imam, Ajadi commended his consistent prayers for Ibadanland, Oyo State and Nigeria, noting that religious leaders remain critical stakeholders in nation building.
“I have come to seek your prayers and spiritual blessings because of your important role in promoting peace, unity and moral guidance in our society,” Ajadi said.
“I also want to appreciate your continuous prayers for the progress of Ibadanland, Oyo State and Nigeria as a whole. My prayer is that Almighty Allah will continue to grant you sound health and long life to witness many more Ramadan seasons on earth.”
Speaking further, the PDP gubernatorial aspirant emphasised the need for leadership driven by compassion, fairness and accountability, stressing that his political aspiration is rooted in service to the people.
“My ambition is not just about occupying an office but about serving the people with sincerity and fear of God. We must continue to encourage politics that will bring development and improve the welfare of our people,” he added.
While speaking with journalists after the visit, Ajadi also assured the people of Oyo State and Nigerians at large that the internal crisis and political tensions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have been brought under control by the grace of God. He expressed optimism that the party would emerge victorious in all elective positions in the 2027 general elections.
In his response, Sheikh Agbotomokekere advised the governorship hopeful to remain focused on the principles of good governance, warning against corrupt practices often associated with politics.
The respected Islamic scholar noted that while politics is practised differently by individuals, only leaders with integrity and fear of God can truly deliver the dividends of democracy.
“Politics is practised by different kinds of people. Some play politics in a corrupt way, while others practise it with sincerity. My prayer is that you will be among those who will practise democracy in the right way if you become governor,” the Chief Imam said.
He reminded the aspirant that human ambition can only be fulfilled by divine approval, stressing that ultimate power belongs to God.
“Whoever is seeking a position should know that only Allah can make such an ambition come true. Whether a person becomes famous or remains unknown is also by the will of Allah,” he said.
Offering prayers for the politician, the cleric added: “Many people may be struggling for a position meant for one person, and it is only God who knows the rightful person. I pray that Almighty Allah will make you the chosen one among all the contenders.”
Using a football analogy to further illustrate his point, the cleric advised Ajadi to be wary of political distractions and misleading influences.
“On the football field, sometimes spectators believe they understand the game more than the players themselves. I pray that you will not be misled by so-called political gurus and that God will guide your steps aright,” he said.
Sheikh Agbotomokekere, the 18th Chief Imam of Ibadanland, is widely respected across South-Western Nigeria for his scholarship, spiritual leadership and advocacy for peaceful coexistence among religious and political groups.
Observers say the visit forms part of Ajadi’s ongoing consultations with key stakeholders, traditional rulers and religious leaders as political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the next electoral cycle in Oyo State.
The cleric offered special prayers for peace in Oyo State, successful leadership, and continued unity among the people despite political and religious differences.
-
society6 months agoReligion: Africa’s Oldest Weapon of Enslavement and the Forgotten Truth
-
news3 months agoWHO REALLY OWNS MONIEPOINT? The $290 Million Deal That Sold Nigeria’s Top Fintech to Foreign Interests
-
society6 months ago“You Are Never Without Help” – Pastor Gebhardt Berndt Inspires Hope Through Empower Church (Video)
-
Business7 months agoGTCO increases GTBank’s Paid-Up Capital to ₦504 Billion