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Dele Momodu to Unveil Three Books in Honour of MKO Abiola in Lagos

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Veteran journalist and former Presidential candidate, Chief Dele Momodu is set to launch three separate books in commemoration of twenty-five years of annulment of the June 12, 1993 Presidential elections and the twenty-year anniversary of Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola’s passing on July 7, 1998.

A statement issued by the celebrated publisher of Ovation International on Wednesday disclosed that the launch of the books will take place on Wednesday July 11, 2018 at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Lagos.

The first two books, authored by Chief Momodu document his quintessential journalistic works over the past three decades. The first book titled, “PENDULUM: The Writings of Dele Momodu Vol I” is edited by seasoned journalist, Dr. Reuben Abati. The second book titled “PENDULUM: The Writings of Dele Momodu Vol II” is edited by Prince Damola Aderemi. The manuscript for the first book was ready in 1997 and the introduction written by Dr. Abati in the same year. The foreword to the second book was written by Lt. General Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma, GCON FSS psc (Rtd).

The third book titled “FIGHTING LIONS” is the untold story of the Dele Momodu Presidential campaign. The book is authored by Ohimai Godwin Amaize who was appointed Chief Momodu’s Presidential campaign manager in 2010 at the very young age of 26.

In his introduction to “PENDULUM: The Writings of Dele Momodu Vol I”, Abati gives a compelling narrative on Momodu’s exit from Nigeria to exile in the United Kingdom in the dark days of the Abacha regime. “He had to flee Nigeria in 1995, when the rumours and charges became insistent that he was one of the brains behind Radio Freedom International (later Radio Kudirat), the pro-democracy, underground radio which continues to challenge the annulment of the Presidential elections of June 12 1993, and the detention of its undeclared winner, Bashorun M.K.O. Abiola. One of the charges against Momodu was that he was too close to Abiola and too involved in the struggle for June 12. Momodu moved several steps ahead of the intelligence service, and escaped through neighbouring Ghana. The truth, as he later confessed, is that a friendly security agent had advised him to flee. In Nigeria, anything is possible. How Momodu got to this stage in his career is in part the content of this book. How Nigeria became in the 90s a country where the best and the brightest head for the border to escape imprisonment, or frustration or poverty: How the best and the brightest, not wanting this option choose the alternatives of fraud, deception by all means, abandonment of principles, cynicism and anger: How Nigeria in the 90s became a playfield of hate, assassination, murder, power-rage, an atomistic society, adrift, lost, and depleted: that is the focus of this book”, Abati wrote.

On his part, Lt. General Theophilus Danjuma (Rtd) recognized Momodu’s exceptional contributions to the Nigerian media in his foreword to “PENDULUM: The Writings of Dele Momodu Vol II”. He wrote: “WHEN the story of the revolution that ushered in a new political day in Nigeria is eventually told, none of the main dramatis personae would forget the sterling roles played by the ever-vibrant Nigerian media. But among the largely fair and patriotic reportage and analyses that really made a huge difference, the efforts of few journalists stood out. Dele Momodu’s column, Pendulum, published every Saturday by ThisDay, is among these outstanding few. Not only has this column over the years helped set many a national socio-political agenda, it has become the virtual weekend tonic for millions of Nigerians for its forthright, often unabashed opinions about varied national and international issues.”

The foreword to FIGHTING LIONS was written by Dr. Doyinsola Abiola, Chief Abiola’s wife and Momodu’s former boss. In the foreword, Dr. Abiola wrote; “FIGHTING LIONS, the compendium of DELE MOMODU’s unique presidential campaign brings back memories of another, closer to home, presidential campaign of MOSHOOD KASHIMAWO ABIOLA’s titanic HOPE ’93 presidential campaign. The major difference is that Dele lives to fight another day while KASHIMAWO, the 13th, AARE ONAKAKANFO of Yorubaland, who, true to his chieftaincy legend, died in the fray. But history will treat both friends kindly because they dared to fight lions even in their dens. They will not be classified as “those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat”. They fought a good battle, with the help of equally unsung campaign teams which gave their all to their respective campaigns.”

Celebrated author and Chairman of the Editorial Board of Thisday Newspapers, Olusegun Adeniyi will deliver a review of “PENDULUM: The Writings of Dele Momodu Vol I” at the book launch in July. Respected columnist and Publisher of TheCable, Simon Kolawole will review the second volume of the book while the Managing Director of Arise News Channel, Mrs. Ijeoma Nwogwugwu will review FIGHTING LIONS.

The celebrated vocal preacher and Serving Overseer of Latter Rain Assembly, Pastor Tunde Bakare, will deliver the key note address at the occasion.

The event is expected to be attended by notable individuals in the country including serving and former governors, state and Federal legislators, first class industrialists, academics, bankers and financial experts, influential politicians, members of the fourth realm and the general public.

The books are publications of Ovation Books Publishing.

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Dominican University Hails Peter Obi on 65th Birthday

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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

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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

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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

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