Boss Picks

Atiku Most Experienced, Tolerant, Nationalistic Among All Presidential Aspirants – Otunba Gbenga Daniel

Published

8 years ago

July 21, 2018

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

Otunba Gbenga Daniel, The two-term Governor of Ogun State and presently the Director General of Abubakar Atiku Campaign Organisation, is someone who needs no introduction. He is sound, humane, down-to-earth and can easily be referred to as one of the pillars of modern Ogun State.

In this interview, OGD, as he is fondly called brings to the fore his many enviable qualities, his stewardship in governance and entrepreneurship, and why Atiku Abubakar, who is running for the presidency of Nigeria come 2019 is the best candidate for the job. Excerpts:

Since you left office, what has been happening in your political life

Well, I reckon that if you have had an opportunity to serve for all of 8 years, and another person is serving it is important you give room for other people to serve. Since I left office, I have been doing more than just observing and keeping as quiet as possible. But of course, that silence will soon give way to more active participation because of the scenario we have found ourselves in the country today.

It’s rare for politicians to stay quiet, even though their voices are not heard, they are busy underground. What have you been busy doing underground?

Not a lot, but as we move towards 2019, and considering people’s voices; it is clear to me and to discerning minds that our people feel they could do better with the kind of leadership we have in the country at the moment. Our people feel unhappy with what has happened to our economy. Our people have been duly surprised with what is going on in terms of security and many other areas. Therefore, whether we like it or not, we are on a spot. And as people who have participated as some point in time in the governance of this country, we have to come together and jointly find a solution to the crises.

You talked about going to the senate immediately after your 8 years in office as governor, did anything truncate that ambition, and what was it?

Yes I was determined to join the senate. But what was important for me was firstly to sit back and see what was happening in the polity. As a matter of fact, having served for 8 years, it was important for me to take a break. Yes! There are a lot of people who wanted me to go to the senate but it was basically my decision not to go to the senate.

You defeated a sitting governor to become a governor, what is the pedigree that made Ogun people chose you?

The hall mark of my being has always been relating with the masses. We started the Gateway Fund Foundation before I went into government, and it was supposed to be a response to the level of poverty we perceived in Ogun state and other states; that the poorest of the poor are becoming hopeless. What we found out then which is still the same today is that a large number of people do not require a large amount of money to earn subsistence living, and we set out to give them that leverage. It was easy; people found us trustworthy even before the idea of becoming governor was muted. So, when eventually I stood out for the governorship seat, I was already a familiar person in the positive light.

You polled the highest number of votes in the history of Ogun State governorship election in 2003, because the people believed in you? Can you itemize those wonderful things that made your tenure most memorable?

It would look like eulogising myself, but if you ask the people of Ogun state, they will tell you we met Ogun state as a sleeping giant. We met a state with no potential, and our biggest ambition was to open up the state. And quite a good number of people will agree that we did a lot in terms of opening up the state. We opened up the educational sector; we created additional tertiary institutions, secondary schools, primary schools, and all of them are striving today. We feel proud that at the last count, we were able to establish seven tertiary institutions; the polytechnic in Igbesa, the polytechnic in Sapade, the polytechnic in Ewekoro Local Government, the polytechnic in Ijebu-Igbo, the Gateway Petrochemical Institute in Oni, and many others.

Most people thought it was impossible when we were doing these things, but I am happy that all of them are running smoothly today. They are turning out quality products. In the sports sector, we created the Gateway Games in 2006 and that was used to open up the state. Till date, Nigeria has not hosted better games. We did a lot of work in healthcare. In terms of road construction, we introduced innovation; we created Ogun State Road Management Agency, which is in charge of all roads in the state. We did everything we could possibly do. I guess the biggest thing the people give us kudos was industrialising the state and make it attractive for business and industries. Today, the state is known as one of the most industrialised states in the country. And I think I built on the foundation I found, and I guess the man who is there today is building on what I added.

Shortly after your tenure, you left the party that made you the governor. What was the reason sir?

Quite a number of people have misunderstood what happened. I did not leave the party. There was crisis in the party; we had primaries, people won their seats under the Peoples Democratic Party, and through some litigations, all the people who won the primaries became party-less, and all of them happened to be my people. About 40 of them had no party to run from, and there was a party that presented an opportunity, and that was it. But I did not run because I was the South-West coordinator of the Jonathan Campaign Organisation in 2011. My responsibility went beyond party primaries. I have responsibilities that cut across party lines to ensure that even after the primaries, people in other parties vote for the person I was working for, which was President Goodluck Jonathan in PDP. Lo and behold, I spoke to virtually other parties, they voted and we won. I guess that is what people saw and interpreted it to mean that I left for another party. That didn’t happen. Same thing came up in the build-up to 2015 election. Again in 2013, some of my people felt the party was not doing well and they wanted to go to another party to make good their ambition – but we came back, and we told everyone to return to PDP so that we can do our best in the 2015 election, and that was what happened.

Consider his networking ability; he is a Northerner, but he is one vibrant leader who cuts across the East, West and South. He can be described as a true nationalist; he is at home and comfortable anywhere in Nigeria

The story today is that you are the Director General for Atiku Abubakar presidential campaign…

It is not a story; the reality is that I am the Director General of the Atiku Abubakar campaign organization. Yes, I am.

As the DG of that organization, would you be able to run again for political position?

The important thing in our country is not about haggling for positions; we have a challenge in the country at the moment. We have a government that is not doing well to the satisfaction of the people. And under this circumstance, patriotic people must come together and find ways and means of effecting the change. That is what we are doing. It is not about contesting for a position now. The population majorly believes the presidency should go to the North, and we have looked at all the people haggling to become president from the North, and found out that Atiku Abubakar is the most qualified, given the situation of the country presently. Although they are all qualified, we think he is most qualified among all. With this, I am very excited to be the Director General for his campaign organization.

As a DG, you must know what Atiku is bringing to the table. What is he bringing to the table that will convince people to vote for him?

Well, let me start from the party because in the course of my chairmanship bid towards the end of last year, I had the opportunity to visit virtually all the states in the federation including the FCT, and what I found out in all those locations was that the party in the grass roots area is the PDP, and I am quite excited that Atiku Abubakar is back to the PDP, and he came at the right time.

He was one of the founding fathers of the party and if you survey, you will know Atiku Abubakar is the most experienced. He’s had the opportunity to be in governance in this democratic dispensation as Vice President for eight years during which he was virtually the economic manager of the nation. And that was the years of golden economic management in Nigeria, and I am not aware of anyone who has the experience and capacity of Atiku; not even the current president. So, in terms of exposure and experience of people who are in the race; he is the best.

Today, we are faced with loss of confidence in the system; we still have the IPOB challenge. We have challenges in the South-South. We have challenges of South-West talking about restructuring. And even in locations were agitations were not there before, somewhere like the middle belt, we have had large number of people who have become dissatisfied.

It is on record that of all the leaders of this country, one person that has remained consistent toward the issue of restructuring outside the South-West is Atiku Abubakar. I was very surprised when I saw some of his books, his writing, dating as far back as 14 – 15 years ago where he has been consistently talking about restructuring. So, if there is anybody who feels the beat like those of us in the South, it is Atiku Abubakar because of his posture on restructuring.

In addition, that issue also cuts across the length and breadth of the country, and that for me is key. Consider his networking ability; he is a Northerner, but he is one vibrant leader who cuts across the East, West and South. He can be described as a true nationalist; he is at home and comfortable anywhere in Nigeria.

When you look at the challenges we have today in terms of religion, for the first time in the history of our country we are witnessing religious dissatisfaction. He is a Muslim but a liberal one. If you look at his staff you will see Christians and Muslims. The biggest challenge in this country is unity; and one man who has all it takes to unite all the forces in the country is Atiku Abubakar.

The present government also campaigned with restructuring but as at today has not been able to do anything about it. When Atiku comes in, how possible will it be?

First, let’s talk about the incumbent administration and what they have done, or said, which has gone a long way to show the level of credibility they have. Economically, they didn’t do enough research and didn’t attract the right people who can give them the right advice. Part of what they said is that the naira will be equal to the dollar, although some of us who are vast economically knew that was a tall order. We knew they said it without knowing what they were saying and didn’t have the capacity to handle it, and the naira fell to about N500 to a dollar, and now, it is hanging around 360 doubling what it was when they came in. Somebody will tell me that is an achievement, but they messed it up. And that is how it is with virtually all the promises they have made. So, today, what we need is not just the question of people making promises. We have seen politicians making promises they cannot fulfil; you look at people from what they have been able to achieve; not what they say they are going to do. If you look at the profile of Atiku, while he was the number 2 man, he was running the economy. He demonstrated capacity to attract intelligent people to provide advice and a number of those things were duly executed.

I am beginning to see that this race is going to be between Muhammadu Buahri and Atiku. Buhari was once the military head of state, and despite being a dictator, he couldn’t achieve much with such enormous power. It becomes a problem when you are now limited by the legislature, and the rule of law. You will be shocked to note that there was nothing to write home about in terms of achievements when Buhari was a military head of state. People were jailed 200, 300 years; that doesn’t make sense, and that was the tragedy he brought with him. People have spoken about PTF (Petroleum Trust Fund), that there were so many can of worms that were swept under the carpet under his watch. He was Petroleum Minister, and there was nothing he did that was outstanding. When he said he was going to reduce the price of fuel, they didn’t do it. Practically, nothing has happened.

Compare that resume to Atiku Abubakar who is so competent in managing businesses as an entrepreneur. He was very competent in managing government as a Vice President. I was even told that as a customs officer before he came into politics, he voluntarily retired ahead of time to face his business. If you know the compulsion of custom department in those days, nobody resigns from that kind of position because of what comes with such position. Therefore, you can see he is someone who is determined, focused, and that is the kind of person we are looking for in our country today.

There is a general conception that he is corrupt, how is he planning to kill that notion?

There has been no evidence to prove the allegation. The tragedy of our country which I am praying we would not repeat its mistake is that people create a notion of someone without proof. Sometimes, it is what they heard in the bus, street or anywhere that forms their opinion, and consistently we have failed in making rational decisions because of speculations that cannot be substantiated.

Buhari was once the military head of state, and despite being a dictator, he couldn’t achieve much with such enormous power. It becomes a problem when you are now limited by the legislature, and the rule of law. You will be shocked to note that there was nothing to write home about in terms of achievements when Buhari was a military head of state. People were jailed 200, 300 years; that doesn’t make sense, and that was the tragedy he brought with him

It is also based on this kind of notion that the current presidency was fostered on the nation, and barely six months after, people started complaining that they made a mistake. Whereas I accept that there is no human who is infallible, there is no allegation against Atiku that has been substantiated. He has been cleared, up to the Supreme Court. Our country is a very funny place, they can go to the market and declare you as a murderer, and before you know it, people will start running away from you; when you ask, they will say they heard it from someone. We have gone beyond all these political speculations deliberately created to destroy people; this is the reason we have not elected the best leaders. If you recall, at the point Chief Obafemi Awolowo was contesting, everybody knew he was capable. But there were also some things that were said against him. And see what those errors of judgment has cost us over the years.

What if Atiku does not pick the PDP ticket?

I have never started anything in my life that I don’t succeed in. So, it’s not on the card. I am a positive person and I am persuaded he is the best that we have in this circumstance, and I believe I’m rational. And I must assume and believe that people have seen that we have made mistakes in the past, and that in picking in 2019, they won’t want to make another wrong choice. What else are we looking for; if you have seen a better person let’s discuss it.

There is a Markafi, Sule Lamido, Kwakwanso and others that have shown interest…

They are very eminently qualified people, but let’s look at the parameters involved in terms of experience in governance. Who among them have been in government at the Federal level? Which of them has the kind of immense network that we have just discussed? Which of them has the religious and tribal tolerance we are talking about?

Many are saying desperation is pushing Atiku Abubakar. Is he actually desperate to become the president?

I don’t think so. To some extent, he’s fulfilled; he has wealth that can take him a lifetime; his children are doing fine. But I think what is pushing him is the fact that he is unhappy because something he started is going the wrong way. He’s appalled at the level of violence, and the many ills we have in this country today. And he is shocked that things that should be ordinary are turning to a big deal for the present government. We have said it times without number that the biggest problem we have in this country is over centralization of power. If you ask anything that is pushing him, I would say it’s not desperation but an urge to see that our country becomes a better place.

Don’t you think the new Not Too Young To Run law will affect his chances?

The incumbent president is 74. He is older than Atiku. So, when you compare him to Buhari, there is no doubt in my mind that he is a much younger person. Apart from that, when you look at the health status, Atiku is fitter. I can assure you that several young people don’t have the energy he has to do the work. When Yar’dua was the president, he was not as old as Buhari. However, among the political leaders today, the most energetic is Obasanjo (Chief Olusegun).

Officially, people think he is 82 and some said he is older than that. It is not really about age, it is about health status, the capacity to do what is right. Don’t forget that this is a very critical stage in the life of the country, we cannot afford to experiment. For it is an evolution, I became a governor at the age of 47, and at 55 I was no longer a governor. I think the people should just go and do what they have to do, work hard and they will get whatever they want. I don’t really see any effect in that bill.

The President recently signed an executive order, what can you say to this?

Well, according to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, that is totally illegal, and it is unconstitutional. Look at what has happened to the Senate President, who at the end of the day, was declared innocent by the Supreme Court after torturing him for about 3 years as a result of people not doing their investigations properly. That’s one thing that clearly faulted the trial. Why are we in a hurry to demonstrate we are working? For political reasons, you pick somebody up without concrete evidence because of hearsay? We should have gone beyond all of that. I think that Executive Order is against the rule of law, and I would be shocked if people don’t go to court to contest it. The order doesn’t make any sense. It is a vote of no confidence in the judiciary, and I have always said that in a civilized environment, we have the legislature, the Executive and Judiciary sharing power. To the best of my knowledge, the ruling party has the highest number in the Senate and House of Representatives. All they need to do if they are not happy with the existing law, is to go to the legislature and ask for amendment. This is just in line with what he did when he was a military head of state. Where new laws were created, and how do you create a law by violating a law. These kinds of orders should have no place in a democracy. I believe it is the attorney general that is not doing his work properly.

On many occasions, the EFCC has accused you of financial misconduct, and on many occasions amended their charges. What is the present situation?

Legally, when a case is in court, you can’t make public comment on it. But how can they say I misappropriated 58 billion, and later checked the file and said it’s 200 million. They said 200 million or so entered my account, and I was asked to come defend it in court without any investigation. It is strange! This is the eighth year that I have been charged to court.

As I speak, I have gone to court more than 50 times, and prosecution has not closed its case. Just three weeks ago, they came and amended the charges again, and I am aware that the investigation started even when I was a governor, and I tell people that this is persecution. I think someone just said let’s find a way of locking this man up so that he cannot be politically active. I don’t know what else to say, I am persuaded that I ran a good government. I ran one of the most credible governments in the history of governance. I am proud with what I achieved. And I am proud that as I speak to you, nobody has traced any fund that belongs to the government in any account that belongs to me. I don’t know what they are talking about and that is why I am at peace. Now, the executive order has come and they want to seize assets, which asset do they want to seize?

For example, I moved into this place in 1998; even before I became a governor. I have built my office 27 years ago, all of these happened before I went into government. With due respect, I am not a poor man and if all you can say is that 8 years in government; 200 million is missing, this is ridiculous. 200 million will not buy the land my house is built on today. It is a tragedy that some of us that are supposed to be receiving honour in this country are enmeshed in the drama EFCC is performing. I am at peace with myself, and I am not going to beg anybody.

But if you defect to the ruling party, you may have a soft landing…

I am not going to defect, and I won’t stop doing what I am doing. I was told that it is because I am Atiku’s campaign DG that is why they are now looking for more things. And that the reason my name must be on the executive order list and many other charges; eight years after being governor; that’s so ridiculous. Anyway, let the law take its course but God is on the throne.

Photo credit: Koya Adegbite and Ken Ehimen

Boss Picks

In Death, Charles Taylor Jr. Reunites Liberians

Published

4 days ago

February 23, 2026

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

The tears were palpable. The grief was tangible, and emotions ran high as the 41 years old, Philip Neilson Charles Taylor Jr, son of former President of Liberia, Charles Ghankay Taylor, and former Vice President of Liberia, Jewel Howard-Taylor, was laid to rest in Monrovia, Liberia.

The events, which gathered and reunited the best of Liberian elites, spanned an activity-filled four days, creating an atmosphere of united-in-grief.

With two former presidents, Mrs Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and Dr. George Opong Weah, joining the incumbent president, Joseph Nyuma Boakai, in solidarity with the parents of the deceased, who also were top executive members of government at different levels and different times, the atmosphere was quickly charged with the colours of Liberia, and the tears of a nation greatly bereaved.

Born on September 2, 1984, the young Charles Taylor lived till January 20, 2026, when he succumbed to a respiratory ailment at John F. Kennedy Medical Center in Monrovia, Liberia. He was aged 41, and survived by his mum and dad, and five children among brothers and sisters, uncles and aunts, and other relatives. He was the only child of his mum, Mrs. Howard-Taylor.

He was a graduate of Political Science from the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences of the African Methodist Episcopal University, and a recipient of many awards, cutting across orthodox, academic and social cares.

The funeral obsequies kicked off in earnest on Wednesday at the County Administrative Building Gbarnga City, Bong County, Liberia, where dignitaries gathered to eulogise life and times in what appeared to be a Service of Songs and Tributes, in addition to Lying-in-State of the beloved of the son, after the initial removal from A. Stryker Funeral Home. The body three other stops at diverse locations before returning.

Conducted by General Overseer & Founder
Peace Praise Full Gospel Church, Apostle Dr. Lucy C. H. Bulgar, with the theme, “THE GRAVE AWAITS YOU”, the solemn dovetailed into sections of quiet eulogy, praises, songs and special presentations.

Taking his text from II Corinthians 5: 10, which says For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad, and Hebrews 9: 27, which says, And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment, Apostle Bulgar led the congregation through redecorating themselves to God as death is inevitable.

With Life Reflections of deceased read by his son, Charles Ghankay Taylor IV, the floor was opened for high profile tributes by the Liberian President, Vice President, Hon. Jeremiah Kpan Koung, former presidents Sirleaf and Weah, the National 55th Legislature, Chairman, Ovation Media Group and former Presidential Candidate, Chief Dele Momodu, Founder, African Women Leadership Organization, Hon. Elisha Attai.

Tributes were also received from major political parties; The National Patriotic Party of Liberia and The Mighty Congress for Democratic Chang as well as from churches, institutions, organisations, members of the immediate and extended families and his children.

Below are excerpts of the memorial tributes from the deceased’s parents:

A MOTHER’S MEMORIAL TRIBUTE BY JEWEL HOWARD-TAYLOR

My beloved son,

Philip Neilson Charles Taylor

There are no words strong enough to describe the pain of standing here today. No mother is ever prepared to say goodbye to her only child. You were my heart walking outside my body, my greatest blessing, and my deepest love.

Philip, from the moment you came into my life, you changed everything. You gave me purpose beyond measure and a love so pure it reshaped my soul. You were my joy in quiet moments, my pride in your growth, and my comfort in times when life felt overwhelming.

Your smile carried warmth. Your presence brought peace. Your spirit carried gentleness and strength all at once. You were thoughtful, kind, and full of promise. You loved deeply, and you were deeply loved. Losing you has left a space that nothing on this earth can fill.

As your mother, my heart is broken. There are days when the grief feels unbearable, when the silence where your laughter once lived feels too heavy to carry. Yet even in this pain, I remain grateful to God for the gift of you for every moment, every memory, every embrace, and every lesson you unknowingly taught me about love, patience, and faith.

Though your life on this earth was far too short, your impact was lasting. You mattered. You were seen. You were cherished. And you will never be forgotten. Philip, I release you now into God’s eternal arms, trusting that you are at peace, free from pain, resting in divine light. While I must walk this journey without you by my side, I carry you forever in my heart. Sleep on, my precious son.

Rest in eternal peace.

Until the day we meet again.

– Mama –

A FATHER’S TRIBUTE TO HIS SON BY CHARLES GHANKAY TAYLOR I

A TRIBUTE IN PRAYER FROM FORMER PRESIDENT H. E. DAHKPANHAN DR. CHARLES GHANKAY TAYLOR I, ON THE OCCASION OF THE LOST OF HIS BELOVED SON, PHILIP NEILSON CHARLES TAYLOR.

As we gather here today to celebrate the life of my son, Philip Neilsen Charles Taylor, let us begin with thanksgiving and blessing to the Most High God- the King of the Universe – the righteous Judge who is true and perfect in all His works. For all His ways are justice. He is a God of faithfulness, without iniquity, righteous and fair, and we thank Him for the blessings He bestowed upon Philip during his sojourn on this earth.

Now, let us bless the Lord our God. Blessed are You, O Lord my God, King of the Universe.

I thank You, the God of my forefathers, forever and ever. You are the Rock of my life and the Shield of my salvation from generation to generation. You are the Creator and Sustainer of the universe. You give us life, and You uphold us to continue to do Your will and to serve You wholeheartedly. Amen and Amen.

Philip… Philip…

Your father cannot be here today to say goodbye to you personally as you journey onward to your eternal home. But he has sent your sister, Charen Zally, to read these words so that you may know what is in his heart:

“My son, I love you. There were rocky and difficult steps along the way, but life itself is a battle. As you travel on, let not your soul be troubled. Your mother and I now release you into the infinite mercy and perfect will of the Lord God.

We forgive you for any time you may have angered us or sinned against us whether against our property, our honor, or in any way whether accidentally, carelessly, or intentionally; whether through speech, deed, thought, or intention; whether in this life or beyond. We forgive you fully.

May it be the will of the Lord our God and the God of our forefathers that whatever sins you may have committed before Him, may He, in His great mercy, forgive you, cleanse you, and receive your soul in peace.”

O God our Father, we plea that you blot out his transgressions in Your abundant mercies, but not through suffering as he journeys to Your eternal world. Amen.

Philip, our dearly beloved son, was a blessed young man. His father, Dr. Charles Ghankay Taylor, served as President of this glorious and blessed nation. His mother, Honorable Jewel Howard-Taylor, also served as Vice President at a different period, with great honor and distinction.

We bless God that Philip was given to us for a season and has now been summoned home to be with Him.

He is in a better place. And so, we are not here today to mourn without hope. I do not question the quality of the judgment of Almighty God.

Who can say to God, “What are You doing?” No one.

For God alone rules above and below. He gives life and permits death; He brings down to the grave and raises up.

O Most High God, You are righteous. You gave Philip to us, and You have taken him back. Blessed be Your holy name.

With righteousness in Your right hand and correction in Your left, You judge Your creation.

We accept Your judgment for you are the knower of all mysteries and keeper of all secrets.

And now O God our Rock, we plead for mercy. Do not set our iniquities before You.

O God, Relent your anger concerning us, Your servants. Let not our trespasses bring separation between You and us.

Have mercy on the remnant of our family, the flock of Your hand.

And say to the angel of death, “Hold back your hand.”

O God in your infinite mercy, show us your mercy and kindness, and do not erase our memory from before your throne.

To you alone we honor and glorify in Jesus precious name.

Amen.

Brothers and Sisters in Christ, this is not a sight any parent should ever have to see.

It is a very, very bitter pill to swallow.

This pain is deep.

It is personal.

My grief is sharper because of many variables surrounding this loss.

I know that perhaps millions of people-here at home, in the diaspora, and across our world-have experienced this kind of sudden flood of unanticipated emotion and though I am not easily moved to tears, I must admit that I am overcome with deep grief.

It hurts. Yes, it truly hurts.

For Parents are not meant to bury the fruit of their own loins. It should be the other way around.

Yet God understands this mystery. He is just. He knows best.

To our families, I say: let us celebrate his life, because God alone knows the absolute truth about His creation. We, as human beings, understand only relative truth through our finite minds.

And perhaps more importantly, we must realize that Philip is not “dead,” but has been born into a new life with Almighty God.

Death, in its deepest sense, is not the end-even in the relative sense.

He is now journeying to higher planes of existence for ages upon ages. The universe is our home, and before the end of time, we will explore its farthest reaches.

Even now, we dwell within the infinite mind of Almighty God, and our possibilities remain infinite both in time and in space.

And at the end of the grand cycle of the ages, God will gather us unto Himself. Then we shall know the whole truth-the truth of being at one with Him.

Philip will be there. And we will meet again.

And I say to Jewel: we loved Philip deeply, but God loved him more and has called him home. Rest in your faith that it is well.

To Philip’s children, his brothers and sisters, his aunts, cousins, nieces, and all his extended family: I assure you that he is safe and protected with the Almighty – the “Knower of All Mysteries.”

In moments like this, we must examine ourselves in quiet retrospection. Reflection is necessary as we try to understand this great mystery of life and death. As it is often said: the past is a statement; the future is a question.

In closing, on behalf of our bereaved families all of them and in my own name, I extend heartfelt thanks; to the President of our nation, President Joseph Boakai and his family; members of his government; former officials of government, bishops, pastors, deacons, laymen and laywomen; the Imam and members of the Muslim community; our chiefs, elders, zoes, and our ancient ancestors the custodians of the land; and all the people of our unique Liberia, our “coat of many colors.”

We also thank nationals of foreign lands and members of the diplomatic community for their expressions of sympathy and condolences in this time of profound grief.

Shalom.

Rest in peace, Phil.

Rise in glory.

May flights of angels sing you to your rest.

Amen.

A TRIBUTE: WE CELEBRATE A UNIQUE AND EXTRAORDINARY SON – CHIEF DELE MOMODU

Your Excellencies, distinguished ladies and gentlemen. Due to time constraints, please, permit me to stand on already established protocols.

I have come from Nigeria to join families and friends of the TAYLORS OF LIBERIA, not to mourn and inter CHARLES TAYLOR JR., but to celebrate their unique and extraordinary son, an only child of my very dear friend and Sister, former Vice President, DR JEWEL HOWARD-TAYLOR, one of Africa’s most notable leaders of the 21st century.

In our grief, let’s not forget to thank God for this special gift. At 42, Charles has succeeded in reuniting the wonderful people of Liberia. Look around this gathering and see the array of the creme de la creme of society, the rich, the poor, there’s no discrimination. We are all one held together by Almighty God. That is the privilege Charles has granted us on this auspicious day. On a personal note, it has taken Charles to bring me back, the Kiazolu of Grand Cape Mount County, to Monrovia.

Let me leave this congregation with a food for thought. In celebrating Charles, let’s remember the popular Yoruba adage which tells us that the death that takes away our neighbours and contemporaries is only
reminding us that our own will come, sooner or later. The reason we must all make the world a better place…

Thank you and God bless the Republic of Liberia.

SHORTLY before the end of the service, the father of the deceased made a special of a song with the title, “Hold back the Night”, and which was rendered by a A joint assembly of the New Life Mission Choir and, The National Evangelical Mass Choir of Liberia.

The congregation was thereafter permitted to view the remains of Philip Neilson as the service came to an end.

The funeral rites continued the next day at Peace Praise Gospel Ministries, Barnesville Township, Montserrado County, Liberia, where the congregation erupted in more songs and tribute to the memory of the deceased.

On the night of the same day, a Wake Service was organised at the Harvest International Cathedral, Tubman Blvd., Congo Town, Monrovia, Liberia.

The remains of Philip Neilson were finally committed to mother-earth after a funeral service at the Harvest International Cathedral, Tubman Blvd., Congo Town, in Monrovia, Liberia, with close family members and friends in attendance, and conducted by His Eminence Archbishop Nicolas Duncan-Williams, of the African Chapel International, Accra, Ghana, and supported by other eminent spiritual leaders including Archbishop Isaac A. Winker of the Isaac Winker Global Ministeries International.

Philip Neilson was buried at the Shiata Flowers and Vaults Cemetery, Lower Careysburg, Monrovia.

Charles Taylor Jr may have died, and been buried, but his death has become a unifying force for the Liberians as the crème de la crème of the nation were brought together irrespective of political alienation or differences, as one indivisible people.

Boss Picks

Aesthetics, Landscape, Professionalism: You Can’t See ABUAD in One Day!

Published

2 weeks ago

February 15, 2026

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

The idea behind one of Nigeria’s elevated private higher institution of learning, the Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD) is not only humongous, but filled with classy intentions, beautiful landscape, and professionalism in tutelage and character molding.

A visit to this great citadel of learning is not a one day affair, cause no one can see ABUAD in One day; not even in one week, one month or a year, as this reporter can attest to. ABUAD is huge. ABUAD is large. ABUAD is an institution beyond the literary definition. ABUAD is a dream projected to last a lifetime, and it has not failed to live up to billing.

Navigating through the bustling streets of Ado-Ekiti via the centre of Ekiti Parapo Arena, and into the gracious Olusegun Obasanjo Way enroute Aye Ekiti, the institution is situated at an altitude of over 1,500 feet, and located on a 130-hectare piece of land; large enough to birth a kingdom, and accommodate whatever facility dreamt of.

The Boss learnt that the institution was established to address the mismatch between academic programmes and the demands of the labour market in Nigeria.

Established in 2009, in Ado-Ekiti, the capital of Ekiti State, by a distinguished legal icon, academic pillar and seasoned entrepreneur, Prof Afe Babalola, ABUAD has distinguished itself as a force to reckon with in the fields of research and training, developing and churning out creative minds, who have constituting a megaforce in global development.

By the benefit of hindsight, the University offers Academic programmes in seven Colleges: Sciences, Law, Engineering, Social and Management Sciences, Medicine and Health Sciences, Pharmacy and Postgraduate Studies. Beyond the academic ratings, ABUAD boasts of the very best of facilities for health, recreation, environmental, electricity, agriculture and more. It is also a centre of academic discipline with academic and non-academic staff of repute, whose stock-in-trade remain the production of all-round, well-tutored and easy-to-fit personality.

The institution is managed by the Vice Chancellor, Prof Smaranda Olarinde, which academic and administrative catalogue is quiet envious to behold.

By every standard, the institution merits its Time Higher Education (THE) Impact ranking as at 2025 as the 84th in the world, 3rd in Africa and 1st in Nigeria. Great feat!

Other top SDG Africa Rankings of ABUAD include, but not limited to SDG 7 (Affordable & Clean Energy): 1st in Africa, SDG 13 (Climate Action): 1st in Africa, SDG 1 (No Poverty): 2nd in Africa and SDG 17 (Partnership for the Goals): 3rd in Africa.

It is important to observe that these achievements underscore ‘ABUAD’s commitment to quality education and societal impact, marking a major milestone for the institution and Nigeria’s higher education sector’.

The Engineering College, one of the foremost architectural intelligence on the ABUAD land, is built on three and half acres of land, and is reputed to be one of the largest in Africa. The college was inaugurated by former President Goodluck Jonathan.

Campuses

The university has one main campus which is located in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, Nigeria. The campus is situated in the hilly part of the town directly opposite the Federal Polytechnic Ado-Ekiti.The campus houses 6 undergraduate colleges, a postgraduate school, conference halls, a teaching hospital for medical students, student and staff accommodation, a sporting facility, and other auxiliary services such as a cafeteria for staff and students, a laundry, a bakery, and a water processing plant.Afe Babalola University holds a reputation for being one of the few Nigerian universities to begin academic work in the campus permanent site. However, due to the requirement by the National University Commission that the school must possess a functioning teaching hospital, a memorandum of understanding with the Nigerian federal government to make use of the Federal Medical Center (FMC) Ido-Ekiti, Ekiti State as its teaching hospital for a period of ten years beginning from October 2014.

Admission requirement

The admission requirement for the school varies between the different colleges. However, as with all Nigerian universities, for undergraduate programs the candidate is required to have at least 5 credits in subjects such as mathematics, English language and any other three subjects that are relevant to the course of study. The student is required to have passed the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board JAMB Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), after which the candidate is expected to take an oral interview with an academic staff of the prospective college before admission can be given. The university also offers direct entry admission to students who wish to transfer from another university or have undergone either an Advanced Level program or a degree foundation program. The level at which they are admitted into is decided by the college and varies among them.

Undergraduate colleges

The university operates a collegiate system and has six major colleges. They are the College of Engineering, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, College of Sciences, College of Law, College of Social and Management Sciences, and College of Pharmacy. Some of the colleges offer post graduate programme in some departments.

The College of Law

The College of Law is fully accredited by the National University Commission (NUC) of Nigeria. The college consists of fully furnished classrooms, a common room, a library containing law journals and articles, and a moot court for students to have court practice sessions. There are a number of student chambers in the college backed by a staff mentor who battle against each other in moot court sessions. Associate Prof. Elisabeta Smaranda Olarinde (FCAI) is the pioneer provost of the college of Law and is still the current provost of the college; she is also the acting vice chancellor of the university. The College of Law, which is regarded as one of the best law colleges in Nigeria, offers both undergraduate and post-graduate degrees (master’s level) in law.

The College of Engineering

The college of engineering was accredited by both the NUC and COREN during their one-week visit to the college. The main engineering building which houses laboratories, a central engineering library, lecturer rooms, an auditorium, a central engineering workshop and a certified Festo training center. The engineering building is named after the former Nigerian president Dr. Goodluck Jonathan and was commissioned by him on 20 October 2013 during the university’s first convocation ceremony. Prof. Israel Esan Owolabi served as the pioneer provost of the college of engineering; he stepped down from the post in 2015 and he is currently engaged in teaching activities in the electrical/electronics engineering programme.

Academic programs

B.Eng. Mechanical Engineering
B.Eng. Mechatronic Engineering
B.Eng. Electrical/Electronic Engineering
B.Eng. Petroleum Engineering
B.Eng. Civil Engineering
B.Eng. Chemical Engineering
B.Eng. Computer Engineering
B.Eng. Agricultural Engineering
B.Eng. Biomedical Engineering
B.Eng. Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering

The College of Sciences

The College of Sciences is one of the pioneer colleges of the university after the university’s approval by the Nigerian University Commission (NUC). The university admitted students at inception on 4 January 2010.

Academic programs

B.Sc. Microbiology
B.Sc. Human Biology
B.Sc. Biotechnology
B.Sc. Biochemistry
B.Sc. Chemistry
B.Sc. Industrial Chemistry
B.Sc. Computer Science
B.Sc. Geology.
B.Sc. Physics with Electronics
B.Sc. Physics
B.Sc. Petroleum Chemistry
B.Arch Architecture

The College of Social and Management Sciences

At inception, on 4 January 2010 the university admitted students into the College of Social and Management Sciences, being one of the pioneer colleges of the university. The session ran smoothly without hitches from 4 January to August 2010. The second session of the university started on October 4, 2010, with over 1,000 students. So far the, university has maintained strict compliance with its academic calendar which makes it possible for students to pre-determine their possible date of completion of their programmes even before enrolment. It has been the policy of the university to post on-line students’ results within 24hours of approval by the Senate.

Academic programs

B.Sc. Economics
B.Sc. Accounting
B.Sc. Banking and Finance
B.Sc. Business Administration
B.Sc. Tourism and Events Management.
B.Sc. Political Science
B.Sc. International Relations and Diplomacy
B.Sc. Peace and Conflict Studies
B.Sc. Intelligence and Security Studies
B.Sc. Social Justice
B.Sc. Communication and Media Studies
B.Sc. Marketing
B.Sc. Entrepreneurship
B.Sc. Sociology

The College of Medicine and Health Sciences

The college commenced activities in October 2011 having been approved by National Universities Commission.

Academic programs

Medicine and Surgery (M.B.B.S)
B.NSc. Nursing Sciences
B.MLS. Medical Laboratory Science
B.Sc. Anatomy
B.Sc. Physiology
B.Sc. Human Nutrition and Dietetics
B.Sc. Pharmacology
B.Sc. Public Health
Pharm.D Pharmacy
B.DS. Dentistry
OD. Optometry

The College of Arts and Humanities

Academic programs

B. A. Performing Arts
B. A. English
B. A. History and International Studies
B. A. Linguistics

The College of Agriculture

Academic programs

B. Agric. Animal Science
B. Agric. Agricultural Economics
B. Agric. Extension Education
B. Agric. Crop Science
B. Agric. Soil Science

Postgraduate college

The university operates a collegiate system and has five major Postgraduate colleges. They are the College of Engineering, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, College of Sciences, College of Law and College of Social and Management Sciences.

ABUAD INDEPENDENT POWER PROJECT

To harness thorough academic and character building, the institution is operated off the national grid as it is run on its own power project, with a dam that powers its electrical needs.

HEALTH AND AGRICULTURE

ABUAD operates of the best medical schools and facilities in the country as it boasts of almost all equipment, space and atmosphere for sundry medical conditions, with reputable medical personnel to complement the environment.

In the vein, the institution runs a developed farming culture, that accommodates rearing of livestock and production of cash and food crops.

The farm sits on a large expanse of loamy soil, complimented with consistent flow of irrigation and drainage, and maintained with the classic of horticulture. The settlement is run by a team of professionals made up of Agroeconomists, horticulturist and more.

It is also worth knowing that the school has its Cassava Processing Factory just as it operates a self sustaining Carbonated Drink Factory.

ABUAD practically offers everything!

ABUAD’S FOUNDER, AARE AFE BABALOLA

Born in 1929, Aare Afe Babalola SAN is one of the most distinguished legal luminaries of his generation, renowned both in Africa and globally for his profound contributions to the legal profession and the advancement of education. With over five decades of uninterrupted legal practice, Aare Babalola’s career is a testament to exceptional dedication, strategic advocacy, and visionary leadership.

A highly accomplished advocate, he has led some of the most celebrated cases in Nigerian legal history, representing high-profile clients, including government institutions, multinational corporations, and individuals. His advocacy spans domestic and international courts, including contributions as a consultant to the Federal Government of Nigeria, World Bank, and various conglomerates. His extensive experience includes his role in arbitration, both locally and internationally, where he remains a respected authority. Aare Babalola has appeared in numerous landmark cases, shaping Nigerian jurisprudence and establishing himself as one of the nation’s most formidable legal minds.

His influence goes beyond the courtroom. As the Founder of Afe Babalola & Co. (Emmanuel Chambers), one of Nigeria’s leading law firms, Aare Babalola has trained over 300 lawyers, including 14 Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs), judges, and attorneys-general, making his chambers one of the most significant contributors to the legal profession in Nigeria. His exceptional litigation skills and legal acumen earned him the prestigious title of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) in 1987, cementing his place at the pinnacle of legal practice in the country.

A renowned scholar and author, Aare Babalola has authored several authoritative legal texts, including Injunctions and Enforcement of Orders and Law and Practice of Evidence in Nigeria. His contributions to legal education extend to teaching at the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies and delivering lectures at prestigious universities such as the University of Lagos and the University of Ibadan. His popular column, YOU AND THE LAW, published in the Nigerian Tribune, reflects his commitment to educating the public on legal matters.

Beyond his legal practice, Aare Babalola has made extraordinary strides in education. His experience as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the University of Lagos (2001-2007) exposed him to the declining standards of education in Nigeria, spurring him to establish Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD).

ABUAD has quickly become a beacon of academic excellence, setting new standards in Nigeria’s educational system. His efforts in education have been recognized globally, with numerous honorary degrees from universities, including the University of London, University of Lagos, and Ekiti State University.

Aare Babalola’s leadership in academia and law has earned him numerous accolades, including the Officer of the Federal Republic (OFR), Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON), and international recognition such as the Queen Victoria Commemorative Award at the Socrates Awards in Oxford, UK. He was named Africa Man of the Year on Food Security and awarded an Honorary Doctor of Management by the Federal University of Technology, Akure. His groundbreaking achievements continue to inspire generations of lawyers and leaders across Africa and beyond.

In addition to his legal and educational contributions, Aare Babalola remains a committed philanthropist and advocate for reform in various sectors. His vast experience, unmatched expertise, and unwavering commitment to excellence make him not only a legal icon but also a trailblazer in the fight for quality education and justice.

Key Achievements:

Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), 1987.
Officer of the Federal Republic (OFR).
Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON).
Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council, University of Lagos (2001-2007).
Founder and Chancellor, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD).
Queen Victoria Commemorative Award winner, Oxford UK.
Fellow, Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies.
Honorary Doctor of Laws from the University of London, Ekiti State University, University of Lagos, and more

ABUAD is a legacy, just like its Founder, Afe Babalola SAN.

Photos: Ben Osei and Ken Ehimen

Boss Picks

Emmanuel ‘Nuel’ Ojei: The Untold Story of the Unassuming Billionaire

Published

1 month ago

January 26, 2026

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

The name Nuel Ojei rings a bell loud enough for even the deaf to hear. His Exploits were manifold, unprecedented and humongous. He was a man of extreme means, a philanthropist of the superlative degree, famous business man, Chief Executive Officer of Nuel Ojei Holdings Limited, and not forgetting his identity as a power broker of repute. Yes, until he death, he was one of the deciders of political inclinations and power shifts.

But on December 27, 2025, the curtain fell on his extraordinary humanitarian efforts, his life, his activities on the physical earth and his benevolence to his immediate, extended and adopted families across the world. He was 74 years when he breathe his last on that fateful day, five months short of his 75th birthday.

Fondly known as Nuel Ojei, the businessman passed away that Saturday night in his hometown, Issele-Uku, in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State, as confirmed by his son, Chuks Ojei, in a statement issued on Sunday, December 28, 2025, on behalf of the family.

He described the loss as a profound shock and an irreplaceable personal tragedy.

The statement read, “With a heavy heart, I confirm the passing of my beloved father. His death came as a profound shock to our family following a brief illness.

“Words cannot fully capture the depth of our pain at this moment, as we struggle to come to terms with the sudden loss of a man who was not only our father but our strength, teacher, and moral compass.

“My father was more than a businessman; he was a builder of lives and legacies. A distinguished Nigerian industrialist, entrepreneur, and business magnate, he served as the Founder, Executive Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer of Nuel Ojei Holdings Ltd.

“Through discipline, resilience, and uncommon wisdom, he built enterprises that created opportunities, inspired excellence, and contributed meaningfully to national development.

“To many, he was a mentor and leader of rare integrity. To us, he was a loving father whose counsel guided our steps and whose values shaped our lives. He led with humility, strength, and compassion, touching countless lives across generations.

“His absence leaves a void that can never be filled, but his teachings and example will forever remain our guide. Though his passing signals the end of a remarkable chapter, his legacy lives on in the institutions he built, the people he mentored, and the values he upheld.

“He is survived by his children, family members, and a wide community of friends, associates, and admirers who will continue to honour his memory.

“On behalf of the Ojei family, I humbly ask for your prayers, love, and support during this time of deep grief. Funeral arrangements and further details will be communicated in due course. An icon has fallen. A father is gone. His legacy will live forever.”

The story of Nuel Ojei is that of accomplishment, fulfillment and a typical example of I came, I saw, I conquer. He was part of everything he met. He didn’t just mentor folks, he saw them through from.scratch to finish; in business, politics and other aspects of life. He was the dreamers light.

Perhaps Nuel Ojei would still have been alive today as contrary to popularly held view, he was not under the strain of any undisclosed illness, was hail and hearty prior to his traveling to Asaba, then to his hometown, from where he returned to his maker. This is if, according sources, he not insisted on traveling to his hometown to celebrate the Christmas with his wife and family, whom he missed so much, contrary to his German doctor’s instruction.

Sources told The Boss exclusively that Ojei, who left Nigeria for Spain on December 10, returned to Abuja on December 22, and insisted on traveling to Asaba to join his family even when the doctor told him it wasn’t proper considering that he was under serious stress and fatigue. But he insisted, saying he missed his wife, who she has not seen close to a month, and would wish to spend the Christmas with the family. It was during his holidays at his country home that he asked away.

Nuel was one business minded individual, who began his business craft very early in life, hitting limelight in his 20s, becoming a millionaire, and buying his first house at the age of 29. He was already a big boy when he founded Nuel Ojei Limited in 1989, nurtured it in the early stages of vehicle distributorship with Rutam Motors, sole agent for Mazda, and partnership with Mercedes Benz, till it became a conglomerate.

In 1999, as Nuel Holdings was expanded, as he was diverting into many other enterprises, he bought the magnificent edifice at Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way, Ikeja, towards the airport, which was a furniture company. Honestly, the billionaire has a penchant for airport axis as Nuel Ojei Holdings head office in Abuja, sits glistening in the uphill sun, facing the Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport. Report has it that he bought the Ikeja property at a whooping cost of N1.2 billion in 1999 from the Labanese. With about four very gigantic warehouses therein, his furniture business kickstarted, and continued to make waves. Nuel is blessed with the Midas touch, and so every of his businesses has received the growth syndrome.

A cross section of individuals, who spoke to The Boss, confirmed in no few words of how lavishly benevolent the entrepreneur par excellence was.

“His giving was not limited. He gave to all and sundry; whether you already have or not,” a beneficiary confided in The Boss.

Those who know Ojei in his lifetime believe he was richer than any rich man in Nigeria today. “What Nigerian billionaires have is not money compared to Ojei’s solvency. He was very rich, and spends it without a care for the good of humanity,” a source told The Boss.

Among the many properties he has scattered across the world include houses in various capitals in Nigeria vis a vis Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt and more. He also has houses in France, from where his two private jets operate, Germany and other parts of the world. In addition, he boasts of the most expensively and expansively constructed edifice in the world, situated in his Isele Uku, Asaba, Delta State locality.

The sprawling edifice, which took about six years to construct, is a the palace of some sort, fit only for royalty. It is situated on a 35-dunam (roughly 10-acre) plot near the village of Issele-Uku in the Delta state, and covers an area of 12,000 square meters. A brief description of the masion has it that it is divided between a basement, an entrance floor and a residential floor, and among a large number of buildings, including a servants’ house and an entry pavilion used by the security guards.

In addition to all other qualities the gigantic house can boast of are cinema hall, discotheque, hair salon, bowling alley and separate 350-square-meter suites for the couple (Ojei and wife), as well as a selection of guest suites. It also has its own water-purification system and electrical generator.

In his garages are states of the art vehicles including Rolls Royce, Hummer jeeps, Mercedes Benz of various luxurious makes, Range Rovers, G-wagons…just name it. Sources say the number of automobiles in his Lagos home garage alone exceed 50. That’s how super wealthy Ojei was.

Born Emmanuel Isichei Ugochukwu Ojei on May 23, 1951 to military officer, who was during his time in the army superior to a onetime Nigeria’s Head of State, Nuel had both primary and secondary education in the locality of his birth, Lagos before relocating to his hometown attend the Issele Uku Technical College, Issele Uku, between 1970 and 1972. He obtained a National Diploma in Business Administration and Management in the bargain.

It was after the ND education that he concentrated on personal building, business-wise, and returned to Lagos, and took up a job as a Sales Executive at Rutam Motors Ltd, owned by the Ibru Family, known for their super wealth.

In 1976, he left the job after attaining the position of Sales Manager. He thereafter joined Kapital Assurance Ltd in 1977, and rose to become a Director.

With hands in so many pies, Ojei learnt the craft of mastering all endeavours. He was into supplies of military wares during the 1980s, banking, and was reputed to once owned a bank, insurance, construction and telecommunications.

His interest in the oil and gas industry was limitless as he is said to own three oil blocks, and had stakes in solid minerals, telecommunications, safety and security, as well as shipping and ship building. He was a master of all.

The story of Ojei is a case study, a reference point and a research material. He was one Nigeria, who said very little, but recorded and achieved so much. He mentored numerous persons, who are spreading wealth as well across the length and breadth of capacity development and transfer.

The NOH identity is a focused, determined and committed brand that Ojei had used to affect humanity.

As wealthy as he was, he married only one wife, and is blessed with five great children, who are living the dream in its clear 8-letters of positive.

It must be noted as well that Ojei’s must treasured belonging other than his family, is the honorary doctorate honours he received from the Delta State University for his business acumen and impact on humanity. To him, that award is from home, and when your home identifies with you, you have nothing to worry about.

Emmanuel Isichei Ugochukwu Ojei may have bowed out physically from the earth, but the legacies, he systematically created will live for generations and generations to come. He was not consistently in public view, but worked assidously behind the curtains to put laughter on the lips of so many individuals across the world.

May his industrious soul find rest in the bosom of the Lord…Amen!