Connect with us

Featured

Glamour, Fanfare As Veteran Journalist, Dele Momodu, Launches Three Books in Honour of MKO Abiola

Published

on

By Eric Elezuo

The multi-purpose hall of the Nigeria Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) Victoria Island Lagos, was a beehive of activities Wednesday as the accomplished journalist and social commentator, Bashorun Dele Momodu, presented three great books in honour of the acclaimed winner of the June 12, 1993 Presidential Election, Chief Moshood Abiola.  The books are Pendulum: The Writings of Dele Momodu 1, Pendulum: The Writings of Dele Momodu 2 and Fighting Lions: The Untold Story Story of Dele Momodu’s Presidential Campaign authored by his campaign manager in 2011, Ohimai Godwin Amaize.

Hajia Bola Shagaya and Mr. Femi Otedola

With the who is who in Nigerian’s political, social and industrial platforms present, the thorough written books hit the public domain, cheered by a large crowd of audience that besieged the arena.

The event, which took off at the exact time promoted, kick-started with the introduction of highly influential personalities presented as the national anthem chimed the air afterwards.

Senator Tokunboh Afikuyomi paying homage to the keynote speaker, Pastor Tunde Bakare

With the stage set for the real event, the Keynote Speaker, who is the Serving Overseer of the Latter Rain Assembly, Pastor Tunde Bakare, took centre stage, heaping one term of endearment on the Ovation Magazine Publisher after another. He stated that Momodu has intensified his contributions so that Nigeria can rise up potential of a great nation regardless of whoever is in government. And that  dogged in the Nigerian dream has brought us together today at at time when the countdown clock to the 2019 election and the Nigerian dream is yet addressed, and the structural defect glaringly acute,” he said.

Mr. Jimi Agbaje (m)

He described the present dispensation as a critical period in the Nigerian national life, and quoting a former French warrior, Napoleon Bonaparte, he described the journalist thus a “journalist is a grumbler, a censorer, a giver of advice, a regent of sovereigns and a tutor of nations; four hostile newspapers are more to be feared than a thousand bayonets,” he said.

A cross section of the audience

He maintained the at “the writings of Dele Momodu has over the years addressed the fundamental issues facing our nation, stating that he was confident that the likes of Momodu will intensify efforts to ensure that the welfare and security of the people as well as the overall development of our people becomes the main discourse at this pivotal moment.”

Reverend Mother Esther Ajayi, Chief Dele Momodu, Pastor Tunde Bakare, Hajia Bola Shagaya

Bakare’s heartwarming speech set the stage for short interview with the man of the moment, Dele Momodu, conducted by veteran broadcaster and founder of the first women radio station, Toun Okewale.

Chief Dele Momodu flanked by members of MKO Abiola family

While fielding Okewale’s questions, Momodu took time out to explain the person behind MKO Abiola, his vision for the Nigerian people and everything he stood for, thanking as many that stood behind the enigma as the June 12 crisis lasted.

Afterwards, seasoned broadcasters programmed to review the three books took their turns to give a critical analysis of the work most people described as superlative.

Taking his turn first was the Chairman, Editorial Board, ThisDay Newspapers, Mr. Olusegun Adeniyi, who went down memory lane the life and times of the Dele Momodu.

He was followed by Mr. Simon Kolawole, Publisher, TheCable, who reviewed the second book, Pendulum: The Writings of Dele Momodu 2 while the Managing Director, Arise News Channel, Ms Ijeoma Nwaogwugwu did a thorough job in the dissertation of the third book, Fighting Lions: The Untold Story of Dele Momodu’s Presidential Campaign.

Dele Momodu and Auodele Adewale

Nwaogwugwu revealed the frustrations, as represented by the author, which Momodu suffered while attempting to become the president of Nigeria in 2011. Some of which include the part played his primary constituency, the media, who wrote him out of contention.

The highlight of the event was the short speech presentation by the Chairman of Forte Oil, Mr. Femi Otedola, where he highlighted the sure steady steps that brought Dele Momodu to his present status.

Princess Toyin Kolade exchanges pleasantries with distinguished guests

With speeches done, the compere, Gbenga Adeyinka, the First, supervised the unveiling of the books to the applause of the teeming supporters of Momodu and Ovation Group.

The book launch proper was another exercise in professionalism as personality after personality stepped out boldly, took a good number and make generous donations.

Dayo Adeneye, Chief Donatus Okonkwo, Siji Ogundele, Representative of the Alafin of Oyo and Chief Dele Momodu

The event paraded the best Nigerian society could offer including Mr. Jimi Agbaje, who represented a former Vice President of Nigeria, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar; Mr. Dayo Adeneye, who represented the Governor of Ogun State, Senator Ibikunle Amosun; Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru;  Hajia Bola Shagaya, Chairman of Forte Oil, Mr. Femi Otedola; former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi; Ambassador Akin Osuntokun, Amb. Toyin Okanlawon, Chief of Staff to the Lagos Speaker House of Assembly, Hon. Wale Jafojo, former Vice Presidential Candidate, Tanko Yanusa; Chairman of Eleganza Group, Chief Razaq Akanni Okoya; Mr. Ajanaku, Special Adviser to Governor Akinwumi Ambode, Lagos Commissioner for Information, Mr. Kehinde Bamigbetan, Mr. Bisoye Fagade, Dare Babarinsa, Biodun Ponle, Oluwatoyin Seriki, Founder of Esther Ajayi Foundation, Reverend Mother Esther Ajay; CEO, BISCOM, Prince Bisi Olatilo, and Princess Toyin Kolade.

Chief Dele Momodu with Mr. Ade Adebajo (r)

Others were Mrs. Falake Ani-Mumuney, former Chairman of Amuwo Odofin LGA, Comrade Ayo Adewale; Gboyega Okegbenro, Funmi Odunsi, A. U. Mustapha (SAN), Senator Tokunboh Afikuyomi, Princess Aderemi Ogunsanya, Mrs. Modupe Oguntade, Olori Ladun Sijuade, Dr. Kayode Are, CEO, UT Group, Mr. Ayo Adebajo; Richard Mofe Damijo, Sir Tony Chiejine who represented Alhaji Aliko Dangote; CEO, Tetrazzini, Chief Donatus Okonkwo, Mr. Siji Ogundele, Senator Solomon Adeola, Chief Tony Okoroji among others.

 

Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Featured

Dominican University Hails Peter Obi on 65th Birthday

Published

on

By

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.

Continue Reading

Featured

Ooni of Ife Loses Elder Brother Prince Adetunji

Published

on

By

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.

Continue Reading

Featured

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

Published

on

By

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

Continue Reading

Trending