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Meet Top Three PDP Governorship Aspirants in Ekiti State

Published

8 years ago

April 21, 2018

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

With the declaration by Governor Ayodele Fayose of Ekiti State that he is giving his support to his Deputy as the next governor, notable divisions has erupted within the party’s rank and file.

With the likes Sikiru Lawal and Abiodun Aluko quitting the party, stakeholders believe that trouble is lurking behind. However, while many of the aspirants have gone low key, a good many others are still breathing fire and brimstone. Here is a compilation of the strength and weaknesses of three more prominent contenders from the lot.

Kolapo Olusola

The man famously known as Ekede is without doubt the most favoured of all Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) aspirants for the Ekiti governorship seat. This is because he has the mandate of the present Governor, Mr. Ayodele Fayose. He is without mincing words, the ‘anointed one’.

Fayose’s open support for Olusola, who is presently the Deputy Governor of the state, is the biggest assurance that he is going to grab the ticket to represent the PDP at the polls.

The 49 years old Prof. Kolapo Olubunmi Olusola was born to the family of Elder and Deaconess Olusola Ojo Eleka of Eleka’s compound in Ikere-Ekiti.

He started his education at St. Matthew’s Primary School, Ikere-Ekiti in 1972 and completed it in 1978 when he proceeded to Annunciation School, Ikere-Ekiti for his Secondary School Education, which he completed in 1983. He performed exceptionally while in school, and was constantly winning the best student award.

Between 1984 and 1989, he attended the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, and obtained his first degree in Building. Again, he graduated as the best student in his set. Prof Kolapo Olusola also holds a Master’s Degree in Construction Technology from the University of Lagos in 1993 and Ph.D. in Building Structures from Obafemi Awolowo University in 2005.

Prof Kolapo Olusola started his career in 1990 as a Graduate Assistant from where he rose through the ranks to become an Associate Professor in 2009.

Until his election as Deputy Governor in 2014, Prof Olusola was enjoying a career in the Department of Building, Obafemi Awolowo University as a classroom teacher. His lecturing career spanned 24 years with over 50 academic research publications in local and international journals and conference proceedings to his credit.

Apart from age being on his side, he is known to be very diligent, hardworking and principled. As an epitome of humility, he radiates love and affection towards people around him. Again, his unflinching loyalty to his boss, the Executive Governor of Ekiti State is notable and has made both the young and old people of Ekiti adjudge him as “Stabilizing Factor” and a special gift not only to his boss but to the entire people of Ekiti State. This also earned him the anointed status as the next governor.

Abiodun Olujinmi

Biodun Christine Olujimi is a serving lawmaker in the upper legislative house, representing Ekiti South Senatorial District. Just about the only woman in the race presently, Olujimi was born to a Photographer father and Seamstress mother on Christmas day of 1958. She hails from Omuo-Ekiti in Ekiti South Local Government Area of Ekiti State Nigeria.

Biodun Olujimi had her early education at our Lady of Apostles, Ibadan, Oyo State, and went ahead to obtain a Diploma in Journalism from the Nigerian Institute of Journalism. She obtained a degree in Political Science and a postgraduate degree in Public Relations and Marketing from the University of Abuja and holds a certificate in IT with emphasis on web Development from the Michigan State University.

Biodun Olujimi had been a hard nut to crack in her political sojourn, remaining a vocal voice on the floor of the Senate, especially on matters relating to women and children. Her desire to care for others is borne out of the fact that she is a product of a hard-working lower class family that did not create opportunities for children like her. She therefore, made it her life’s work to ‘fight’ for lower class families.

Biodun cut her career teeth at the age of fourteen when she became a shop assistant in a fabric shop in Lagos. From the proceeds, she assisted her large family of seven siblings, and still saved for her education. Her story is a typical example of grass to grace.

She also had stints with the Nigerian Tribune, Nigerian Posts and Telecommunication, Nigerian Television Authority, the Delta Steel Company Ovwian Aladja, Reflex Concept and DBN Television before delving into politics in 1997 as the National Publicity Secretary of the now defunct NCPN.

Upon the dissolution of NCPN, Biodun joined the All Peoples Congress and eventually became the National Publicity Secretary.

She later joined the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2002 and has attained great heights in her political Career. She was appointed Special Assistant to the Executive Governor of Ekiti State in 2003 and was later elected to the Federal house of Assembly. In 2005, she became the Deputy Governor of Ekiti State under Governor Ayo Fayose.

Later, Mrs. Olujimi became Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure in Ekiti State under Governor Segun Oni as well as Director of Women Affairs, Goodluck-Sambo Campaign Organisation at the 2011 General Election. She is one aspirant that has seen the in and out of politics. Her experience is overwhelming. If the women could rally round her as one of their own, then other aspirants should beware.

Biodun and her husband Chief Ariyo Olujimi, have been married for 32 years and their marriage is blessed with Children and Grand-children.

Adebisi Omoyeni

Popularly known as the true emblem of Ekiti people, Jeremiah Bisi Omoyeni was born January 16, 1958 in Ikere-Ekiti to Late Chief Omotayo Gabriel Omoyeni and Mrs. Bosede Beatrice Omoyeni under the tutelage of his biological parents. He reportedly found himself in the midst of a family already devoted to the tenets of Christianity and continued to grow with the fear of the God.

He started his primary school education in 1964, at the Holy Trinity primary School, Odo Oja, Ikere-Ekiti and completed it in 1969. Between 1970 and 71, he attended St. Benedict Modern School, Ikere-Ekiti before proceeding to Amoye Grammar School, Ikere-Ekiti where he completed his secondary education 1975.

He later trained as a teacher at the St. John Mary’s Teachers Training College, Owo between 1976 and 1977, and in 1979, he was admitted into the then University of Ife, (now Obafemi Awolowo, Ile-Ife) to study Demography but after a session he moved over to the University of Lagos, Akoka, Yaba, Lagos where he graduated with a B.Sc. (Hons) degree in Insurance in 1983. His brilliance earned him a Federal Government Merit/Scholarship as the best student in Insurance and Actuarial Sciences Department in 1981. He is also a holder two additional postgraduate degrees which he obtained from the University of Lagos. They are Masters in Banking and Finance (MBF) and International Law and Relation in 1991 and 1993 respectively.

Omoyeni is a thoroughbred professional, rising steadily in his chosen career to become the Managing Director of Wema Bank.

In 2014, he tried his hands at the governorship seat, but was unsuccessful as the incumbent governor, Ayodele Fayose, was declared winner.

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Dominican University Hails Peter Obi on 65th Birthday

Published

1 day ago

July 20, 2026

Eric

The Dominican University, Ibadan, has paid glowing tribute to its Pro-Chancellor and former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, on his 65th birthday, describing him as a visionary leader whose commitment to education, youth development and national progress continues to inspire generations of Nigerians.

In a goodwill message issued on Sunday, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Jacinta Opara, lauded Obi’s enduring passion for quality education, noting that his consistent investments in human capital and advocacy for educational excellence have strengthened institutions and offered hope to young people across the country.

According to Opara, Obi has, through his public service and private engagements, remained a steadfast champion of education, making it a cornerstone of his vision for national development.

She said his words, actions and unwavering support for learning had reinforced the conviction that education remains the most effective instrument for building a prosperous, inclusive and sustainable society.

The university also expressed appreciation for Obi’s contributions to the institution as Pro-Chancellor, describing his leadership, generosity and guidance as instrumental to its growth and development.

The statement noted that under his stewardship, Dominican University has continued to pursue academic excellence while remaining committed to its mission of producing morally upright and globally competitive graduates.

It read in part: “As a university founded a decade ago on the rich 800-year educational heritage of the Order of Preachers (Dominicans), we remain profoundly grateful for your visionary leadership, generous support and invaluable contributions as our Pro-Chancellor.”

The institution joined family members, associates and well-wishers in celebrating Obi’s milestone, praying for continued good health, wisdom, strength and divine guidance as he continues to advocate good governance, human dignity, hope and national development.

The message, signed by the Vice-Chancellor, reaffirmed the university’s pride in its association with Obi, whose dedication to education, integrity and selfless service, it said, continues to leave a lasting impact on the nation and inspire future generations.

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Ooni of Ife Loses Elder Brother Prince Adetunji

Published

1 day ago

July 20, 2026

Eric

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has announced the passing of his immediate elder brother, Prince Adetunji Ogunwusi.

The monarch made the announcement in a statement released on Sunday through the Director of Media and Public Affairs at the Ooni’s Palace, Sodiq Lawal.

Describing the late prince as a respected businessman and compassionate leader, the Ooni said Prince Adetunji lived a life dedicated to service, humility and the wellbeing of others.

According to the statement, the death of Prince Adetunji has left a deep void in the Ogunwusi family, the Ojaja Royal Dynasty and the entire Ile-Ife Kingdom.

Prince Adetunji, who was born on December 8, 1967, was a member of the Ojaja lineage of the Giesi Ruling House in Ile-Ife. He was also the Group Chairman of Primewaterview Holdings, where he earned recognition for his contributions to business development and entrepreneurship.

The Ooni noted that his late brother built a reputation as an innovative entrepreneur and visionary leader. Through his business activities, he created opportunities for many people and contributed to economic growth in different sectors.

The monarch further stated that beyond his achievements in business, Prince Adetunji was known for his generosity, kindness and commitment to humanitarian causes. He was said to have quietly supported many individuals and families, offering assistance, guidance and encouragement whenever needed.

The statement added that Prince Adetunji’s influence extended beyond the corporate world, as he remained deeply connected to his roots and maintained a strong interest in the progress and development of Ile-Ife and its people.

The Ooni described his late brother as a dependable adviser, a loving family member and a man whose legacy would continue to inspire future generations.

Family members, friends, associates and well wishers have continued to pay tribute to the late prince, remembering him for his humility, wisdom and positive impact on society.

The palace said further details regarding funeral arrangements and other ceremonies would be announced by the family in due course.

Prince Adetunji’s death marks a significant loss to the royal family and the people of Ile-Ife, who will remember him for his service, leadership and dedication to humanity.

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Harakati Za Holds Pan-African Conference on Economic Restructuring, Political Reforms, Regional Integration in Accra

Published

2 days ago

July 19, 2026

Eric

More than 200 delegates from across Africa are expected to converge in Accra on July 24, 2026, for an international conference on “Economic Restructuring, Political Reforms and Integration for Sustainable Development in Africa.”

The conference, organised by Harakati Za Muungano, will take place at the GNAT Hall and will bring together policymakers, academics, business leaders, traditional authorities, civil society organisations, youth leaders and development partners to explore practical solutions for accelerating Africa’s development through deeper regional integration.

Harakati Za Muungano, a Swahili phrase meaning “Union Movement,” is a pan-African movement committed to promoting African unity, economic transformation and governance reforms that support sustainable development.

The organisation believes that Africa’s vast human and natural resources can only be fully harnessed through stronger regional cooperation, enhanced intra-African trade and governance systems that place the continent’s long-term development at the centre of public policy.

Since its establishment in November 2023, the movement has expanded its operations to 17 African countries, engaging governments, regional institutions, traditional leaders, professionals, youth groups and community organisations.

Its work focuses on policy advocacy, research, civic engagement and humanitarian initiatives aimed at fostering inclusive development, strengthening regional cooperation and encouraging reforms that improve the quality of life of Africans.

The conference will provide a platform for participants to deliberate on critical issues affecting the continent, including constitutional reforms, economic restructuring, regional market integration, industrialisation, governance continuity and sustainable financing models for development.

Organisers expect the discussions to produce practical recommendations that can inform policy decisions at both national and regional levels.

A major focus of the conference will be the movement’s vision of a more integrated Sub-Saharan Africa where barriers to trade and movement are reduced, economic collaboration is strengthened and governments adopt policies that encourage long-term planning, investment and shared prosperity.

The organisation believes that greater integration will unlock new opportunities for businesses, create jobs, promote industrial growth and enhance Africa’s global competitiveness.

Organisers say the conference represents an important opportunity for African leaders and stakeholders to collectively examine bold and innovative approaches to the continent’s future.

With over 200 delegates expected from across the continent, the event is anticipated to foster meaningful dialogue, strengthen partnerships and advance a shared vision of an economically resilient, politically stable and fully integrated Africa.

-Overseeronline.com