Boss Picks

Can Jimi Agbaje Ever Win Lagos State Guber Election?

Published

7 years ago

December 8, 2018

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

If the number of times one expresses desire for a particular thing is anything to go by, then the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the governorship election in Lagos State, Mr. Olujimi Kolawale Agbaje, will sure win the 2019 Lagos governorship election, having contested and failed in two previous editions (2007 and 2015). But wishes are not horses, and so Agbaje has to work even harder.

In another angle, if we consider that the likes of American Abraham Lincoln and even our own President Muhammadu Buhari had to go through turbulent electoral periods before hitting the presidential bull’s eye, then there is hope for the man popularly known as JK.

With a campaign slogan rooted in ‘freedom, democracy, Lagos’, Jimi Agbaje seems to have finally found an inroad as against his 2015 slogan which was simply titled ‘Jay Kay is Okay’. That outlook did not in anyway suggests serious electoral inclination, and much as public opinion said he was the preferred candidate, he still lost.

Stakeholders believe the the 2015 election happens to be the closest he had ever come, and if he could lose it, it may be impossible for him to come that close again, or even win the Lagos governorship election. Put succintly, Agbaje’s slogan is a suggestion that Lagos is in bondage.

In the camp of the PDP, they believe hinging his campaign on the fact that former Governor and APC National Leader, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu has single-handledly ran Lagos for almost 19 years will resonate among the swing voters who form the silent majority.

Mr. Jimi Agbaje (m)

But whether Jimi Agbaje has the pedigree or not to win the governorship, it must be noted that lines somehow are falling for him in pleasant places. In the first place, he deemed it necessary to chose a true born of Lagos State as his running mate, Mrs. Haleemat Oluwayemisi Busari. Fifty five years old Mrs Busari is a lawyer, and hails from Epe in Lagos East Senatorial District of the state.

The choice of a female running mate is very strategic according to.sources. Epe has been a good hunting ground for the PDP in years past and the calculation is that disenchantment at the way their son, Governor Ambode was treated may just return Epe to the PDP column.

Again for the first time in a long time, Lagos has not had a two men on a top ticket as the APC has done in this election circle and so the PDP are banking on playing the gender card with their Deputy Gubernatorial candidate.

Again, Agbaje’s campaign has been boosted by the defection of Governor Akinwunmi Ambode’s former Commissioner for Energy, Mr. Olawale Oluwo.

The former commissioner alleged that the manner APC handled the last governorship primaries where Ambode was shortchanged formed the reason behind his dumping the party

In separate statements, the PDP and Agbaje said the decision of the commissioner to resign his position and his membership of the All Progressives Congress was due to the failure of the ruling party.

In a statement titled, ‘Babylon is Falling’, Agbaje said the APC would continue to fail and crumble.

He said, “Babylon is falling! APC is crumbling. The commissioner has displayed uncommon courage by the decision. He is a good example for others to follow as this empire begins to fall to pieces.

“I am gladdened by the news of my brother’s defection to the PDP. Indeed, it is a welcome development which must be lauded and applauded by all lovers of freedom and democracy. By this singular gesture, Oluwo has counted himself worthy as a man of integrity.

“I look forward to teaming up with him to liberate our dear state from the shackles of bad governance and corruption.”

Agbaje further urged all stakeholders in the state to join him in the task of liberating the state from the stranglehold of predatory vested interests who had in the last 19 years held the state to ransom.

“I am using this opportunity to call on all stakeholders in the state, particularly my brothers and sisters in the APC to toe the path of honour, and join us to rescue our state from the vice grips of a vested cabal that has arrested its development in the last 20 years,” he said.

Just like Buhari at the very last attempt at the age of 72 finally grabbed the presidency, this may be the time of Jimi Agbaje, who is 61.

Nobody knows where he gets his confidence from but Agbaje said he has never been as certain of victory as he is now, pledging to ‘restore the lost glory of Lagos and deliver it from the hold of one man’, describing the 2019 poll as a watershed already.

Agbaje’s promise to also grant the local governments autonomy to administer their budgets and allocations and manage their funds to enable them build drainage system, markets, and primary healthcare so the citizens could feel the impact of government at the grassroots could be another strong pivot of his campaign strategy.

This is because of the alleged emasculation of the local government leading to its inability to carry out projects of certain amount and magnitude in many states across Nigeria.

According to him “We also intend to fully liberate the local governments to mind their own business. Today we have a situation where, in order to continue unbridled corruption and mismanagement, the ruling clique deliberately emasculated the local governments to make them lack the wherewithal to tackle their primary functions constitutionally placed within their purview,” he said.

He is also quoted as saying “This election is not just another popularity contest; rather, it is a clear choice between two ideologies: one that enslaves and puts the interest of one man over many or another that, at its core, seeks to meet the yearnings of the greater good of the people of Lagos.”

Agbaje was born in Lagos on March 2, 1957 to late Chief Julius Kosebinu Agbaja, a Banker, and his teacher-wife, Mrs. Margaret Olabisi Agbaje. He is the second born and first male child of five children (two female and two male siblings) including Segun Agbaje, CEO of Guaranty Trust Bank. He attended two of the best schools in the country for his secondary and university education, that is Saint Gregory’s College and Obafemi Awolowo University, Ife respectively.

A pharmacist by training, Agbaje in 1982, founded his own company, JAYKAY Pharmaceutical and Chemical Company Limited and was Managing Director until 2005 when he decided to venture into politics.

Not giving anything to chance in his chosen profession, he was a member of the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (1999–2006); National Secretary of the Nigerian Association of General Practice Pharmacists (NAGPP) from 1987 to 1990; National Chairman NAGPP (1990–1993) and Chairman Pharmaceutical society of Nigeria Lagos State (1994–1997).

He was a member, Lagos State Task force on Fake and Adulterated Drugs (1989–1993), National Drug Formulary and Essential Drugs List (1986–1993) and Lagos Hospitals Management Board (1994–1997).

The guber hopeful also sits on the Board of other organizations including Oakwood Park Ltd, Atlantic Hall Secondary School Epe, Jimi Agbaje Outreach (a project dedicated to helping the less fortunate) and has served as business mentor at Fate Foundation.

Based on his affiliation with Afenifere, Jimi Agbaje joined the Action Congress (AC) – his first political party. In 2007, Agbaje who had initially aspired to contest for the Governor of Lagos State on the platform of the Action Congress (AC) left the party to join the Democratic People’s Alliance (DPA. He was among the 11 aspirants that turned their back on the Action Congress (AC) when it was alleged that Governor Bola Tinubu had already anointed someone else to succeed him even before the party primaries.

Widely believed to have conducted the best campaign in 2007, Agbaje contested the gubernatorial election on the Democratic People’s Alliance (DPA) platform, but eventually, alongside other major contenders – Musiliu Obanikoro of PDP, Femi Pedro of Labour Party, lost to Babatunde Raji Fashola of the Action Congress (AC).

He left DPA in 2011 and joined the ruling party, the Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP) following the de-registration of DPA by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). On October 29, 2014, he officially indicated his interest in giving the Lagos State gubernatorial elections another shot by picking up the PDP nomination form.

On 8 December 2014, it was reported that he emerged as the candidate of the PDP for the 2015 Lagos State gubernatorial election, having defeated a former Minister of State for Defence, Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, in the primary.

In October 2018, Jimi Agbaje secured the PDP’s ticket to run for the office of the governor of Lagos state again. This time he defeated Adedeji Doherty to secure the ticket.

He is married to a lawyer, Abiola Agbaje (née Bankole), and both are blessed with three children; two boys and a girl.

March 2, 2019, which incidentally is his birthday, when the election will be held, will determine if Jimi Agbaje can shock the status quo, swim against the tide to win the governorship election in Lagos State.

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.