Boss Picks

2019: PDP’s Army of Presidential Aspirants

Published

7 years ago

September 8, 2018

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

With all eyes on the October 5 Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Presidential Primaries ahead of the February 2019 elections, the stage is set for not less than 12 heavyweights of the Nigerian political space to slug it in a winner takes all contest to determine the best among the rest. Not only will the best among the rest be determined, also that single individual with the political, social and economic clout to unseat President Muhammadu Buhari, will be expected to emerge.

Already, political intrigues and maneuvers have become the other of the day as aspirants have begun a sensitization tour of all PDP formations across the Federation to canvass for votes as the big day speedily approaches.

Among the presidential hopefuls are four bigwigs who just defected from the ruling All Progressives Party (APC) to pull their weights towards wrestling power from the incumbent president and party – they are a former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, Governor of Sokoto State, Alhaji Aminu Tambuwal, former Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Rabiu Kwankwaso and the Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki. These men, in their respective rights cannot be dismissed as ordinary. They are in the words of late Dr. Ozumba Mbadiwe, ‘men of timbre and calibre’. The list just thinned down however, with the decamping on Friday of one of the aspirants, Alhaji Ibrahim Shekarau to the ruling APC. He had alleged injustice and dissolution of the Kano PDP executive to favour new entrant, Kwankwaso, as his reason for decamping.

The beauty of their campaign so far is that none of them has called the other any names nor engaged in campaign of castigation or calumny against another since they declared their intentions. In fact, the likes of Atiku Abubakar is not limiting his consultations to PDP formations, but to fellow aspirants as well.

With just about 25 days left before the D-day, the identity of the man who will carry the day is still not known or speculated as the aspirants are riding high in the wave of nationwide consultations.

Below is a brief of the aspirants and their individual chances:

.Atiku Abubakar

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar is probably the first of the aspirants who showed serious intention to vie for the number one seat since defecting from the APC in December 2017. He has not hidden his desire to be president for a very long time. He served as former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s deputy from 1999 to 2007.

However, as a result of personality clash with his boss as the build up to the 2015 general elections gained ground, he defected to the APC where he contested the APC presidential ticket but lost to President Muhammadu Buhari, coming a distant third.

Many believed that Atiku’s return to the PDP is as a result of a near impossible chance of getting the APC against Buhari who has declared to run for a second term in office.

It is not known if Obasanjo, touted as one of the kingmakers of Nigerian politics has forgiven him wholeheartedly to give his support, otherwise, Atiku, who has eyed the presidency on four occasions may be heading for another fall at the primaries. Not wonder why he cried bitterly on the day he picked up his nomination forms. Again, his trump card of promising to restructure the country within six months in power may somehow boost his chances. If Atiku fails this time, it may be absolutely difficult for him to get another shot. But nothing is impossible!

Aminu Tambuwal

A former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Aminu Tambuwal is the current governor of Sokoto State, who recently defected from the APC to the PDP. The man, who stakeholders believe has the backing of the Sultanate, is hinging on the support he had while supervising the affairs of the House of Representatives. However, his stand in his home state is divided as not all apparatuses of his government defected with him to the opposition. He is however, so confident of emerging the flag bearer of the party.

Rabiu Kwankwaso

A former governor of Kano State, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso like the previously discussed recently defected back to the PDP after a long-running superiority battle with his successor, Governor Abdullahi Ganduje. He has a cult-like followership as the leader of the popular political movement called Kwankwassiya movement. In his first attempt at a shot to the presidency, he finished behind Buhari.

Kwankwaso’s intention to declare for the presidency on August 29 at the Eagle Square was thwarted and he ended up using the Chiba Hotel on Solomon Lar road.

Ahmed Makarfi

He is also a former two-time governor, but of Kaduna state and has also spent eight years as a senator in the National Assembly. Makarfi is known to have held the PDP together shortly after it lost the 2015 Presidential election, the running battle with Alhaji Modo Sheriff notwithstanding He has said that he is the only one who can dethrone the incumbent president, adding that he has what it takes to rule the nation after successfully governing “a complex state like Kaduna for eight years”.

Sule Lamido

Also a two-time governor of Jigawa state, Lamido is another prominent member of the PDP who did not join the fray of defection when the situation was bad for the party. He has remained with party even when he was prosecuted and jailed. He served as Nigeria’s foreign minister from 1999 to 2003 and was elected Governor of Jigawa state in April 2007 and April 2011. Lamido is 70, and insists he has the qualities needed to move Nigeria forward.

Bukola Saraki

Also a two-time governor of Kwara state, Saraki is Senate President of Nigeria, and has been for three years. His three years as National Assembly leader has been characterized by what he described as government persecution as he had hopped from tribunal to another, answering one case after another. His uhuru came when the Supreme Court declared that he has no case to answer, and afterwards he defected to the PDP, a party he left in 2014.

His three years in the Senate has been described by many as wholesome though the ruling party thinks otherwise. Under his leadership, the Senate has passed more bills than any Senate so far, and he is still not completed a tenure.

Ibrahim Dankwambo

He is the incumbent Governor of Gombe State, the only state controlled by the PDP or any opposition in the North East. Dankwanbo believes his intention to run for the presidency is a response to the call by his people to come and deliver good governance. He said he decided to contest to “consolidate on the gains of democracy and save the country from hunger and starvation”. He had lamented the inability of the Northeast zone to produce a leader since late Abubakar Tafawa Balewa and says its time for the zone to bounce back to reckoning

Attahiru Bafarawa

Anothet two terms governor, Alhaji Attahiru Dalhatu Bafarawa was the governor of Sokoto state from 29 May 1999 to 29 May 2007. He is 64 years, and is bent on having another shot at the presidency after a failed first attempt in 2007 under the platform of the Democratic Peoples Party (DPP) which he formed.

Datti Baba-Ahmed

An experienced lawmaker, Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed was elected a member of House of Representatives in 2003 under the All Nigeria People’s Party (ANPP) representing Zaria federal constituency in Kaduna state. He has boasted that he has the capacity to demystify the power of incumbency with a track record of defeating in 2011, Ahmed Makarfi, the incumbent senator and former governor of Kaduna state, for the Kaduna North senatorial seat. He said with that, he would also demystify the incumbency of President Buhari if he secures the ticket of his party.

Tanimu Turaki Kabiru

Known simply as Tanimu Turaki, the Kebbi State born presidential aspirant is a former Minister of Special Duties and Inter-governmental Affairs during the administration of Goodluck Jonathan. He was also Supervising Minister, Ministry of Labour and Productivity between 2014 and 2015, and current chairman of PDP Former Ministers’ Forum of Nigeria.

Tanimu is one of the earliest aspirants that declared their ambition, and is counting on his wealth of experience in the public sector to put Nigeria back on track. These he said stand him out among the rest. He has also been very vocal as regards his desire to occupy Aso Rock.

Jonah David Jang

A serving Senator and former two terms governor of Plateau State, Jonah Jang is of the opinion that it is time for the Middle Belt to rule Nigeria. Though he is facing a 12-count charge of diverting N6.3 billion alongside a former cashier in the office of the Secretary to the State Government, Yusuf Pam, a charge he believes is politically motivated, Jang is so sure that he has a track record that will deliver the PDP ticket to him.

David Mark

When Senator David Mark threw his hat into the ring of presidential aspirants, he actually took most people by surprise; not many people expected it. The reason according to some stakeholders lies in the fact that since he left the office of the Senate president in 2015, he has contributed little or nothing in national discourse. His silence, they say, was no longer golden, even in the face of much killings in his home state, Benue.

Mark, however, will not be forgotten for his ‘doctrine of necessity’ which conferred acting president status on Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, when a so called ‘cabal’ was alleged to hold the country to ransom. Again, his aspiration is backed a group of retired army officers.

Boss Picks

The Life and Times of Gwogwogwongwo Crooner, Gentleman Mike Ejeagha (1930 – 2025)

Published

1 week ago

June 9, 2025

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

Legend has it that no matter how long it takes, a man’s hardwork will pay him, and so it was with traditional music maestro, Gentleman Mike Ejeagha, who waited decades before he could substantially enjoy the fruits of his labour. The fruits he continued to enjoy even as death caught up with him on Friday, June 6, 2025 at the ripe age of 95.

Before his passing, Ejeagha’s music experienced a powerful resurgence in 2024, when comedian and content creator Brain Jotter, used his 1983 track, Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche, in a viral dance video.

Commending the legendary singer, Brain jotter, whose viral video reintroduced Ejeagha to a new generation, wrote: “39 years ago, he made magic, 39 years later, we dance to it again. Now he rests but his melody lives forever. Rest on, legend.”

This propelled the song to #81 on Apple Music Nigeria, making Ejeagha the oldest Nigerian artist to ever chart.

His 1983 album, Akụkọ N’egwu Original Vol. 1, also re-entered the spotlight, breaking into the Spotify Nigeria Top 100 Albums, four decades after its release. That was a turning point in his many decades of professional music craft.

Following his death, tributes have continued to pour in for the late highlife musician also revered as a cultural icon.

According to a News Agency of Nigeria report, his eldest son, Emma Ejeagha, confirmed that the revered artiste died around 8 p.m. on Friday following a prolonged illness.

Born on April 4, 1930, in Imezi Owa, Enugu State, Ejeagha carved a timeless legacy with his unique blend of traditional Igbo folk music and storytelling.

His musical journey began in the 1960s, and by the 1980s, he had become a household name with classics like Omekagu, Uwa Mgbede Ka Mma, and Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche (Gwo gwo gwo ngwo).

Ejeagha was born to a father-civil servant, who worked with the Ministry of Health in Enugu. He attended St. Patrick’s Primary School, Ogbete, Enugu, and at a young age, played ogene with his friends.

In 1945, he joined Coal Camp Boys, a local music group in Enugu. After completing his primary education in 1948, he continued to pursue his passion for music. In 1949, at the age of 20, he became an apprentice, learning hairdressing with his friend, Cyprain Ozochiawa, who was a barber and musician. He also learnt how to play guitar. Ejeagha was invited by Joseph Ogbu to join his band as a guitarist in 1950.

Following his performance, he was called for an audition by Atu Ona, who was the controller of the Nigerian Broadcasting Service, and was later offered a radio program Guitar Playtime, where he performed on radio and produced musical programs. During this time, he formed Premier Dance Band.

During the Biafran War, Ejeagha disbanded his music group, but continued to perform a radio program Igbo paly on Radio Nigeria. Because of the war, he left Enugu for Umuahia, where he stayed until the war ended. Prior to the war, Ejeagha had released several singles in collaboration with CT Onyekwelu, including: “The unfortunate lady” (1957), “colliery massacre” (1959), and “Ofu nwanne” (1959).

After the war, he was invited by the Nigerian Television Authority as a guest presenter for an Igbo program akuko N egwu in 1972; the program featured folksong lyrically composed by Ejeagha and his group. The program was a success and gave rise to the Igbo expression “Akuko Mike Ejeagha”.

Ejeagha plays his music with guitar and his lyrics were written in Igbo language. He has contributed over three hundred recordings to the National Archives of Nigeria.

In 2018, Nigerian singer Kcee visited him inorder to be permitted to use some of his songs, including: “Ome ka agu” and “Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche”. On 12 September 2022, Pulse NG reported that a documentary film about Ejeagha titled Gentleman was under production. In July 2024, his 1983 song, “Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche”, gained widespread recognition due to a viral dance challenge inspired by comedian Brain Jotter.

On September 2, 2024, Peter Mbah renamed the Abakpa Road after Ejeagha.

Ejeagha had a court case which was finalised in 2013 with his record label Premier Records, as a result of producing a music video without the label’s approval. The case was withdrawn when Enugu State Government intervened in the matter.

Ejeagha married his first wife in 1959, having three children before her death in 1963. He remarried in 1965 and had seven more children.

Leading the roll call of sympathizers, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu extended his condolences to the family, friends and admirers of legendary highlife musician and folklorist.

In a statement on Saturday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu paid tribute to Ejeagha’s towering influence on Nigerian music and cultural heritage, describing him as “one of Nigeria’s greatest folklorists, songwriters, and musicians in the Igbo language.”

The President hailed Ejeagha’s distinctive storytelling through music as a cultural treasure, noting his role in preserving and promoting Igbo traditions across generations.

“May the spirit and values of Gentleman Mike Ejeagha’s music continue to remind us that music has the power to revive, heal and redirect energy towards worthy causes that help build our nation,” Tinubu stated.

In his tribute, a former Governor of Anambra State and 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, wrote on X: “I just read the sad news of the passing of the legendary highlife musician, songwriter, folklorist, and cultural custodian, Pa Mike Ejeagha.

“His transition marks the end of an era, but not the end of his voice — his songs will continue to echo through generations as testaments to wisdom, culture, and truth, “he said.

He praised Ejeagha for using music as a tool for teaching, healing, and preserving the philosophical depth of Igbo culture.

“For over six decades, Pa Ejeagha, popularly known as Gentleman Mike Ejeagha, used music not merely as art, but as a medium for teaching, healing, and preserving the moral and philosophical wealth of the people.

“His lyrics, rich with proverbs and folk wisdom, were moral compasses for both young and old… He immortalised the essence of life—its humour, discipline, spirituality, and resilience,” he said.

Also, Governor of Enugu State, Dr Peter Ndubuisi, on X, expressed deep sorrow: “Mike Ejeagha was a legend, a cultural ambassador, and a revered son of Enugu State. His fan base transcended boundaries, and he was one of the most recognisable voices in music.

“Ejeagha’s immense talent and genius lay in how he took simple indigenous folktales and turned them into unforgettable songs that resonate across cultures,” he said.

Also, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar reflected on the resurgence of Ejeagha’s music, thanks to Brain jotter: “It is heartwarming to note that thanks to Brain Jotter, highlife maestro Mike Ejeagha had his ‘Gwo gwo gwo ngwo’ encore dance before the curtain was drawn.

“Rest in music, Gentleman Mike Ejeagha.”

Gentleman Mike Ejeagha has since been burial in respect to his wishes.

May his soul rest in perfect peace!

Boss Picks

Ozekhome Celebrates the Nigerian Child with Key Nuggets on Children’s Day

Published

3 weeks ago

May 28, 2025

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

Popular Constitutional lawyer and human rights advocate, Prof Mike Ozekhome SAN, has sent a heart warming message to the Nigerian Child in celebration of the 2025 National Children’s Day.

Prof Ozekhome, in a statement made available to The Boss, proffered five cardinal advice to aide the children in the pursuit of their dreams towards impacting the society positively.

Speaking from his perspective as a revered legal luminary, Ozekhome noted that every child’s dream is ‘valid and worth chasing’ just as he admonished that cultivating love for learning goes beyond the classroom among others.

Read the details of Ozekhome’s message in details:

A Special Children’s Day, May 27 message of Hope , from the perspective of Prof. Mike Ozekhome SAN CON OFR: “Happy Children’s Day to all the young minds that are shaping the future of our world!

As a legal luminary and wordsmith, I am honored to share five key pieces of advice with children globally.

Firstly, always remember that your dreams are valid and worth chasing. Never let anyone dull your spark or make you feel like your aspirations are too big or too small. Your potential is limitless, and with hard work and determination, you can achieve anything you set your mind to.

Secondly, cultivate a love for learning that goes beyond the classroom. Read widely, ask questions, and seek knowledge from different sources. This will help you develop a broad perspective and stay curious about the world around you. Thirdly, always be kind and empathetic towards others. Treat people with respect and dignity, regardless of their background or circumstances. Remember, your actions have consequences, and kindness can go a long way in making the world a better place.

Fourthly, believe in yourself and your abilities. You are capable of greatness, and your uniqueness is your strength. Don’t be afraid to take risks and try new things – it’s often the best way to learn and grow.

Finally, always remember that your parents, guardians, and mentors are there to support and guide you. Listen to their advice, learn from their experiences, and cherish the bond you share with them. As you celebrate Children’s Day today, I urge you to hold onto these values and strive to be the best version of yourself.

As you look to the future, remember that the world needs your creativity, energy, and passion. Don’t be limited by what others think you can or cannot do. Instead, focus on developing your talents and pursuing your passions. With hard work, resilience, and a positive attitude, I have no doubt that you will achieve great things and make a lasting impact on the world.

Happy Children’s Day, and may your future be bright and fulfilling!” –

Prof. Mike Ozekhome SAN CON OFR, a constitutional lawyer and human rights advocate, writes from Abuja

Boss Picks

HLF Honours Olufemi Adelowo with Prestigious Leadership Award

Published

1 month ago

May 6, 2025

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

It was a moment of glory when at the Oriental Hotels in Victoria Island, renowned Consultant Rheumatologist, who doubles as a medical professor and consultant physician, Prof Olufemi Oladipo Adelowo, was honoured for excellence in medical practice and public health leadership, by the Hall of Labour Foundation (HLF), during its 28th year anniversary.

In his opening remarks at the awards, the HLF chairman, an international citizen of repute, who is a former Secretary General of the Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, praised Adelowo and other honourees for their lifelong dedication to national development.

Also commending Adelowo and his colleagues, the HLF Executive Secretary Mrs Patricia Otuedon-Arawore described the honourees as “real models” whose legacy would inspire younger generations.

“The more we do this, the more I wonder why people say Nigeria is not a good country,” she said. “Every year, we discover more and more role models across different fields. That should tell us that Nigeria is full of good people doing great things.”

A physician of immense abilities, Adelowo’s recognition is premised on his efforts, and desire to continue to affect humanity, and leave a lasting impact, while maintaining his pedigree as West Africa’s first Rheumatologist.

According to the organizers, in a letter signed by Otuedon-Arawore, Prof Adelowo’s award is predicated on his established track of outstanding contributions in the field of medicine.

The letter further noted that “this has set him apart as a great Nigerian role model”.

Adelowo will be crowned with his honours at the 28th anniversary celebration of the Foundation scheduled for May 28, 2025 at the Oriental Hotel, in Victoria Island, Lagos.

The medical expert is not new to awards and honours, however, as he has constantly amassed recognition every step of the as a result of his timeless researches, innovations and discoveries.

It would be recalled that not too long ago, The Ogbomoso Pivotal Club, a group of astute professionals, academics and entrepreneurs, celebrated the first Rheumatologist in West Africa, in addition to calling on the Federal Government to recognise Prof. Adelowo with National Honour for making the country proud.

Prof. Adelowo was recognised for his exceptional contributions to the field of Rheumatology with the prestigious APLAR Master Award, conferred by the Asia Pacific League of Associations for Rheumatology (APLAR), making him the first African to be so bestowed.

A distinguished Ogbomoso-born scholar, Adelowo received the award fro APLAR in recognition of his remarkable contributions to rheumatology, particularly in teaching, research, and professional service within the APLAR region.

Adelowo is a medical expert of repute, described as a Professor of Medicine, Consultant Physician, and Rheumatologist. He has held numerous academic and leadership roles both locally and internationally.

He served as the President of the African League of Associations for Rheumatology (AFLAR) from 2014 to 2019 and as chairman of the Executive Committee of the International League of Associations for Rheumatology (ILAR) from 2015 to 2016.

Throughout his career, Prof. Adelowo has made a significant impact in Nigeria and beyond, establishing rheumatology clinics at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital, Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), and University of Lagos Teaching Hospital (LUTH). He has supervised over 30 FMCP and FWACP dissertations and trained more than 55 rheumatologists in Nigeria, three of whom are now Professors. Additionally, over 25 of his trainees are consultant rheumatologists in Nigerian teaching and specialist hospitals, while 15 others practise in the USA, Canada, the UK, and Kenya.

The Ogbomoso Pivotal Club, had also at a special event in Lagos, honour and presented Prof Adelowo with a special award in recognition of his achievements and as an inspiration for younger generations to follow in his footsteps.

Describing the Professor at the event, President of the Club, Joel Owoade, said Adelowo was an exemplary leader whose dedication, commitment, and hard work have made him a model for others.

“Professor Adelowo is a shining light, and we are proud to be associated with him. We will continue to celebrate him and others who are making Ogbomoso and Nigeria proud in their careers and service to both the nation and the international community,” Owoade said.

Adelowo’s career path is captured as follows:

Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery, University Ibadan, Nigeria, 1973

FMCP, Nigerian Postgrad. Medical College, 1982

Fellowship of the West African College of Physicians, W. African Postgrad. Medical Coll, 1993

Senior house officer UCH, Idaban, Nigeria, 1975-1978, senior registrar Nigeria, 1979-1982

Honorary registrar St. Bartholomew Hospital, London, 1980-1982

Senior lecturer, consultant physician U.I.T.H., Nigeria, 1983-1985

Medical director Adeola Specialist Hospital, Nigeria, 1985-1992

Professor medicine, consultant Ogun State University, Nigeria, since 1992

Chairman Post Graduate Medical College Board of Rheumatology

Examiner Nigerian Post Graduate Medical College, West African College of Physicians.

Prof Adelowo is presently a Consultant with the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital and Arthrimed Specialist Clinic, Ikeja, and he qualifies by scholarship to be addressed as follows: MD, FMCP, FWACP FRCP Edin FRCP (Lond) FAMedS MACR MAPLAR.

The Prof specialises in many foelds of medicine including Rheumatology Osteoarthritis, Arthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Scleroderma, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, and Autoimmune Disease. He also has 115 Publications, 21,100 RReads as well as 2,144 Citations.

Apart from being a renowned professional, he is also a distinguished family man, and is blessed with children.