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Yahaya Bello: End of an unnecessary drama, caging the “White Lion” BY TUNDE NASIRU

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Yahaya Bello: End of an unnecessary drama, caging the “White Lion” BY TUNDE NASIRU

Yahaya Bello: End of an unnecessary drama, caging the “White Lion”

BY TUNDE NASIRU

And it came to pass that on the day of Our Lord, Tuesday, November 26, 2024 the former Governor of Kogi State, Alhaji Yahaya Belo, earlier declared wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), was arrested and detained by the Commission at its headquarters in Abuja.

The EFCC and Bello have engaged in a cat and mouse game in which the former Governor could be rightly described as the “drama king”. Several count sittings were shunned by Bello and all efforts to bring him to answer questions about the allegations of fraudulent activities during his eight years spell as the Governor of Kogi State proved abortive. He was constantly under the protection of his successor and cousin, Governor Usman Ododo of Kogi State.

On September 18, 2024, the dramatic Bello arrived the headquarters of the EFCC alongside Usman Ododo for what could be described as photo-ops. Ododo came in with the full complements of his security aides and convoy. The EFCC, sensing that Ododo was using his constitutional immunity to cover Bello, helplessly refrained from arresting him. On that day, Bello was like groundnuts in a glass bottle and EFCC watched without being able to pick him.

Before and after the September 18 “executive visitation” by Bello, the EFCC has gone to courts to express its inability to bring or drag Bello to court and this has led to two separate courts issuing summons for his arrest; the basis on which he was declared wanted.

It was indeed a serious battle between the EFCC and Bello in the court of law, court of public opinion and on the streets. Understandably, Yahaya had a huge war chest to prosecute the ‘war’. The media was repleted with emergency commentators, analysts and opinion writers, opinionated features and slanted editorials; while so-called activists took to the streets of Abuja and Lagos to protest in condemnation of EFCC and in support of Yahaya Bello. In fact, there was a time that it was reported in the media that “five thousand lawyers protested”in support of Bello. No one knew who did the enumeration. Though some senior lawyers said those protesters were not lawyers!

Not done yet, the Kogi State government instituted a suit at the Supreme Court challenging the constitutionality of the EFCC and other agencies saddled with investigating corruption cases.

Not a few believed that the EFCC was actually the target of the suit initiated by Kogi State and later joined by about 17 other state governments; and that it was in the interest of Yahaya Bello.
While many states later hurriedly withdrew from the controversial case at the Supreme Court, Bello’s Kogi and others stuck to their guns until the Supreme Court finally threw out the case ignominiously as lacking in merit .

What has left people bewildered was why Yahaya Bello will have to go through this unnecessary route, which is nothing more than time buying. Or did he need the delay tactics to be able to perfect some, if not all, of his records of defence?

While Yahaya Bello was evading the court and boxing the air on who and who was responsible for his ordeal with the EFCC, other former governors like Yahaya and former Ministers of the Federal Republic were invited or arrested by the EFCC. The concerned politically exposed persons honoured the EFCC and were interrogated and granted administrative bails. Some of them are currently facing trials at the law courts.

However, it was noticeable that after the Supreme Court judgement, which did not favour Yahaya Bello and his ilks, the attacks on the EFCC in the media reduced drastically. However, people still asked: “Where was Yahaya Bello?” “How many Heads had Yahaya Bello?” “Why will a man who prided himself as “white lion” be so scared stiff on an ordinary invitation by an Eagle?” “For how long will the “white lion” be able to hide?” One of the judges handling one of the cases against Yahaya Bello by the EFCC was once reported to have said: “EFCC’s invitation was not death sentence”. After all, the accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Another drama like part two of the Nigerian home video, was going to be staged earlier today at the same EFCC Car Park at the headquarters of the Commission when Yahaya Bello drove in with some vehicles. However, the drama did not pass the opening scene when it was instantly cut short as the Chief Security Officer of the EFFC, perhaps sensing that Governor Usman Ododo who has been shielding Bello with his immunity was, this time around, not in the entourage, quickly arrested the wanted former Governor and took him into custody.

Now that the “White Lion” has been caught and caged, his counsel along with the 5,000 lawyers that reportedly protested in his support in Abuja should dust their books and meet Bello as he finally and inevitably keeps his date at the court.

Tunde Nasiru, an Abuja based social policy advocate, sent this piece via [email protected]

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Inside the Success of Yoruba Cinema’s Biggest Stars

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Inside the Success of Yoruba Cinema’s Biggest Stars

King of the Screen: Why Odunlade, Muyiwa, Femi Adebayo Remain Yoruba Movie Giants

 

The Yoruba movie industry has continued to produce legendary talents whose influence stretches beyond Nigeria to global audiences. Over the years, some actors have distinguished themselves through consistency, versatility, box office success, and cultural impact.

 

Among the numerous stars in Nollywood’s Yoruba sector, three actors have remained dominant figures whose names constantly resonate with fans and filmmakers alike — Odunlade Adekola, Muyiwa Ademola, and Femi Adebayo.

Inside the Success of Yoruba Cinema’s Biggest Stars

Odunlade Adekola: The Street King of Yoruba Cinema

 

Popularly regarded as one of the most entertaining actors in Nollywood, Odunlade Adekola has built a unique reputation through his energetic delivery, comic timing, emotional depth, and strong connection with grassroots audiences.

From comedy to action and emotional family dramas, the actor has consistently proven his versatility in blockbuster productions. His ability to interpret diverse roles effortlessly has made him a household name across Nigeria.

Industry observers believe his dominance on social media platforms, where his movie clips frequently go viral, has further strengthened his popularity among younger audiences.

Beyond acting, Odunlade has also contributed immensely to mentoring upcoming talents and expanding the commercial value of Yoruba films.

 

Muyiwa Ademola: The Master Storyteller

 

For many lovers of indigenous movies, Muyiwa Ademola remains one of the finest storytellers the Yoruba film industry has produced.

Widely respected for producing emotional and morally driven movies, the actor earned massive recognition through classic productions that focused on family values, culture, betrayal, perseverance, and societal lessons.

His calm delivery, deep scripts, and originality have kept him relevant despite changing trends in the entertainment industry.

Film critics often describe Muyiwa Ademola as one of the few actors whose productions combine entertainment with strong cultural education, making his movies timeless among older and younger viewers alike.

 

 

Femi Adebayo: The Modern-Day Box Office Force

 

Femi Adebayo Unveils Cultural and Romantic Inspirations Behind New Film, ‘Seven Doors’

Femi Adebayo has successfully combined traditional Yoruba storytelling with modern cinematic excellence, helping to project indigenous films to international audiences.

The actor, filmmaker, and producer has recorded major successes with high-budget productions that gained attention on streaming platforms and cinemas.

Known for his professionalism and attention to detail, Femi Adebayo has continued to push Yoruba movies beyond local boundaries while preserving cultural identity.

Entertainment analysts say his ability to blend culture, technology, and quality production has positioned him among the leading faces shaping the future of Yoruba cinema.

Growing Global Influence

The success of these actors reflects the increasing acceptance of indigenous Nigerian content globally. With streaming platforms creating wider access to local movies, Yoruba actors are now gaining international recognition and attracting new audiences.

Fans and stakeholders in the entertainment industry believe the contributions of Odunlade Adekola, Muyiwa Ademola, and Femi Adebayo have not only sustained Yoruba culture through film but have also elevated Nollywood’s global reputation.

 

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Eid-el-Kabir: Olowu of Kuta Urges Peace, Unity, Selflessness Among Nigerians

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Olowu Kuta To Yoruba Obas: Uplift Culture And Tradition Of Our Forebears

Eid-el-Kabir: Olowu of Kuta Urges Peace, Unity, Selflessness Among Nigerians

 

The Olowu of Kuta, HRM Oba Dr. Hammed Makama Oyelude, CON, Tegbosun III, has called on the Muslim Ummah and all Nigerians to make peace, unity, and selflessness their guiding principles as the world marks this year’s Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

 

 

In his Sallah message, the revered monarch described Eid-el-Kabir as a “highly spiritual occasion that demands dedication, commitment, and selflessness.”

 

 

Oba Makama said the period should be used to reflect on societal happenings and promote messages of hope and unity without inciting provocation.

 

 

He urged Nigerians to live together harmoniously, irrespective of religious, political, or tribal affiliations, stressing that politicians should exercise restraint and avoid inflammatory rhetoric ahead of the 2027 general elections.

 

 

“What should be uppermost in the mind of every patriotic Nigerian is **‘Country first,’” he said.

 

 

The monarch also appealed to citizens to remain vigilant in the face of insecurity, reassuring that the armed forces and paramilitary agencies are working round the clock to ensure a smooth and peaceful celebration.

 

 

“The price wise men pay for eternal liberty is vigilance. I urge everyone to celebrate moderately and extend a helping hand to the less privileged, widows, and orphans, embracing them as our brothers and sisters,” Olowu Makama added.

 

 

He concluded by wishing all Nigerians a peaceful and fulfilling Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

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Oba Babatunde Saliu Elebo II Felicitates Muslims on Eid-el-Kabir Celebration

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Oba Babatunde Saliu Elebo II Felicitates Muslims on Eid-el-Kabir Celebration

By Adeyemi Obadimu Veron

The Oloworo of Oworosoki Kingdom, Oba Babatunde Saliu Elebo II, has extended warm greetings and heartfelt felicitations to Muslims across Nigeria and the world at large on the joyous occasion of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

In a statement made available to Newsmen, the revered monarch urged Muslims to embrace the true teachings of Islam by promoting peace, love, unity, sacrifice, and compassion during and after the festive period.

Oba Babatunde Saliu Elebo II noted that Eid-el-Kabir, also known as Salah, remains one of the most significant celebrations in Islam as it symbolizes total obedience, faith, and devotion to Almighty Allah, drawing inspiration from the unwavering sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), who demonstrated complete submission to the will of God.

According to the monarch, the Holy Qur’an teaches believers the importance of righteousness, kindness to humanity, tolerance, and support for the less privileged in society. He emphasized that the season should serve as a reminder for all Nigerians to live in harmony irrespective of religion, ethnicity, or political differences.

The royal father further called on Muslims to use the sacred period to pray fervently for peace, stability, economic growth, and sustainable development in Nigeria, stressing that national progress can only thrive in an atmosphere of unity and mutual understanding.

Oba Saliu also encouraged the faithful to extend hands of generosity to widows, orphans, and vulnerable members of society, noting that the essence of Eid-el-Kabir goes beyond celebration and feasting, but also reflects the spirit of sharing and caring for humanity as instructed in the Qur’an.

While wishing Muslims a peaceful and memorable Eid celebration, the Oloworo of Oworosoki prayed for divine blessings, prosperity, good health, and continued harmony in homes and communities.

“May this year’s Eid-el-Kabir strengthen our faith, deepen our love for one another, and bring renewed hope and abundant blessings to our nation,” the monarch stated.

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