Boss Picks

Atiku/Peter Obi: The Emergence of Buhari’s Nemesis

Published

7 years ago

October 13, 2018

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

Finally, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Presidential Primaries have come and gone. Finally, the ever irrepressible and consistent Alhaji Atiku Abubakar got the much desired presidential ticket after four horrendous life time attempts. He beat 12 formidable, experienced and equally time tested opponents to pick the ticket. Finally, the last lap of Atiku’s quest to become President of Nigeria has just kick started.

Like The Boss has constantly and exclusively reported, Atiku, whose quest to claim the exalted seat of the presidency needs only one more hurdle in the incumbent President, Muhammadu Buhari to scale, has finally made good the permutation by picking a seasoned banking guru and first class business technocrat, Peter Obi, as his running mate. A combination that seems to give the ruling All Progressives Congress a sleepless night, as well as poised to become President Buhari’s nemesis as the countdown to February 2019 gets more interesting.

The tension in the ruling party’s camp is heightened by the never imagined ‘forgiveness’ of Chief Olusegun Obasanjo to Atiku after what seemed like eternity. Obasanjo broke his promise of being Atiku’s anathema when he received him in his house at Abeokuta, and publicly forgave him, calling him ‘president to be’.

A former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar has not hidden his intention to be president since since 1993 when he lost out to Chief MKO Abiola. He ressurected his intention in 2003, seeking to run against his boss, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, who was running for a second term. Ever since, Atiku has remained a permanent feature in presidential primaries, and has lost all except for the 2018 edition where Port Harcourt smiled on him and compensated him for the all those years of failure. His hopes of becoming the landlord of the Aso Rock Presidential Villa, Abuja, is just one more step away.

Alhaji Atiku Abubakar is reputed as the most formidable of all the current Presidential candidates in terms of clout and connection, and has over the years proved it by physically connecting to all and sundry including showing uncommon love for the people of all regions by picking in virtually all of them. His scheming and negotiating abilities have helped him to corner all reputable kingmakers in the country to his side even as the incumbent administration has lost favour with both party men and the generality of the public.

A former Customs boss, who retired from the service at the peak of his career to face private practice, Atiku, as he is popularly called, has shown that it takes determination, commitment and can-do-attitude to turn around almost anything, and that according to him, is the spirit he is bringing to governance in Nigeria if and when elected.

He has remained a force driven and propelled by the desire to achieve whatever he sets out to do, and consequently has a retinue of incredible credential trailing his illustrious civil and political career.

Atiku is not hiding the fact that he is the only candidate who can, not only give Buhari a good run for his money, but thoroughly defeat him at the polls when they come face to face in 2019. He is therefore seen as that one man who has what it takes to send Buhari packing from Aso Rock Villa, and he declared emphatically that ‘I will beat him (Buhari)’.

He has against all odds created a cultlike followership in his trail, and looks unstoppable. it is believed that baring unforseen criminal occurrences, the presidency is as good as his come 2019.

Born November 25, 1946, Atiku GCON, is a prolific and successful businessman. He served as the second elected vice-president of Nigeria from 1999 to 2007, on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), with President Olusegun Obasanjo.

Atiku started school Jada Primary School at the age of eight. In 1960, he was admitted to Adamawa Provincial Secondary School in Yola where he graduated with a Grade Three WASC/GCE Certificate in 1965.

Following secondary school, Abubakar studied a short while at the Nigeria Police College in Kaduna. He worked briefly as a Tax Officer in the regional Ministry of Finance, from where he gained admission to the school of Hygiene in Kano in 1966.

He graduated with a Diploma in 1967, having served as Interim Student Union President at the school. In 1967 he enrolled for a Law Diploma at the Ahmadu Bello University Institute of Administration, on a scholarship from regional government. After graduation in 1969, during the Nigerian Civil War, he was employed by the Nigeria Customs Service.

Atiku worked in the Nigeria Customs Service for twenty years, rising to become the Deputy Director, as the second highest position in the Service was then known. He retired in April 1989 and took up full-time business and politics. He ran for the office of governor in the then Gongola State (now Adamawa and Taraba States) in 1991, and for the Presidency in 1993, placing third after MKO Abiola and Babagana Kingibe in the Social Democratic Party (SDP) primaries.

In 1998 he was elected Governor of Adamawa State. While still Governor-Elect he was selected by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Presidential candidate Olusegun Obasanjo as as the suitable choice of a running mate, and together they won the presidency.

Abubakar is a co-founder of Intels, an oil servicing business with extensive operations in Nigeria and abroad. He is also the founder of Adama Beverages Limited, and the American University of Nigeria (AUN), both in Yola, Adamawa.

Atiku’s sincere intentions to set the country’s economy back on track neccessitated that selection of yet another indefatigable technocrat anf former two terms governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, better known as ‘Okwute’ (Rock)

Peter Obi is highly unassuming, and boasts of a track record of prudence, performance and achievement.

Evidence of his shrewd administrative skills is the claim that when he was leaving office as Governor of Anambra State, a whopping $230 billion was sitting in the treasury and consequently inherited by his successor, Willie Obiano. The amount was broken down as follows: $156 million in bank, N25 billion cash and N25 billion in local investment.

The soft-spoken businessman born in 1961, is the Chairman of Nigeria Security and Exchange Commission. Obi is known to have swam in the murky waters of Nigerian politics and came out smelling like roses. He fought the godfathers of Anambra politics and dealt decisively with rogue elements who have been feeding fat on government.

A 1980 Philosophy graduate of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Obi is an all-rounder, having his hand in as many pies as there are available including trading, real estate and financial services.

A corporate titan, he has held such positions as Chairman of Next International Nigeria Ltd, Chairman and Director of Guardian Express Mortgage Bank Ltd, Guardian Express Bank Plc, Future View Securities Ltd, Paymaster Nigeria Ltd, Chams Nigeria Ltd, Data Corp Ltd and Card Centre Ltd.

At the twilight of his professional financial career, he became the youngest Chairman of Fidelity Bank Plc.

Atiku’s consideration of Obi is hinged on his very amiable disposition, uncanny acumen for stopping unnecessary spending, never-say-die spirit and ability to connect effortlessly with the youths.

The general belief, which Alhaji Atiku also shares, is the fact that it is time again for an Igbo man to occupy the Vice Presidency as compensation for their perceived marginalization.

With a combination of political sagacity and sterling achievements as businessmen and economy minded fellows, both men are fully prepared to hit the ground running from day one as President and Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

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.