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Primate Omolaja Olorunwo: Family Announces Death of Eminent Cleric, Sets September 17 for Burial

Published

4 years ago

September 8, 2021

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

The death has been announced of the Primate and Founder of Olorunwo Cathedral Church of Cherubim and Seraphim (Inc), His Eminence, Archbishop Emmanuel Omolaja Aremu Olorunwo, who divinely slept in the Lord on Thursday, September 2, 2021 in his Lagos residence. He was 85 years old.

Making the death announcement and releasing the burial plans and dates during a world press conference at the headquarter church, Ifako, Gbagada, the children of the deceased, extolled the qualities of their octogenarian patriarch, saying he was a great man, who lived a life worthy of emulation.

Led by one of Baba’s children, who is also the Provost of the church, Venerable Olulayo Olorunwo, the children maintained that in line with his directives, the burial will commence on Wednesday, September 15 and terminate on Friday, September 17, 2021 with the interment.

In their words, the children noted as follows:

“The Board of Trustees, the entire members of Olorunwo Cathedral Church, and the Olorunwo family announces the exit to glory of our Father and spiritual father, His Eminence Primate Emmanuel Omolaja Aremu Olorunwo, who slept in the lord on Thursday, the 2nd day of September 2021.

The celebration of life, legacy and glorious exit service of His Eminence Archbishop Emmanuel Omolaja Aremu Olorunwo – THE GRAND COMMANDER OF CHRISTIAN FAITH OF THE AFRICAN CHURCH OF NIGERIA, will be as follows: 1. Date: WEDNESDAY, 15th September, 2021. Service of Songs/All- Night Praise: Time – 4pm. Candle Light Procession: Time – 6:30pm.

2. Date: THURSDAY, 16th September, 2021. LYING-IN-STATE: Time – 12 noon – 3pm. Christian Wake-Keeping: Time 4pm.

3. Date: FRIDAY, 17th September, 2021. Exit to Glory Service and Interment: Time 10am.

VENUE FOR ALL THE SERVICES: OLORUNWO CATHEDRAL CHURCH: NO.11, BAKARE DAWODU STREET, IFAKO GBAGADA, LAGOS.

In their responses from reactions from members of the press, the family hinted that contrary to speculations as obtainable in most places when the leader passes away, the process of succession will be hitch free as it will technically follow the spiritual process and according to the Will of God.

They noted as well that the appearance of all the children at the conference with the consent of the elders and board of trustees of the church is a clear testimony that all is well with the church, adding that the pervading peace in the church and family is the reason behind the hitch free planning of the burial, happening within a space of two weeks between death and burial.

Primate Olorunwo was an architect by profession before the divine call by God to the Vineyard in full service to work for God. Until his exit to glory, he was the General Head of the Olorunwo Cathedral Church worldwide with several branches in Nigeria.

The Primate, who only last month celebrated his 85th birthday, led the Olorunwo Cathedral Church of Cherubim & Seraphim for over 55 years.

Primate Omolaja Olorunwo was born on Monday August 27, 1936 in Yobo, Ifo District Council, Abeokuta South Local Government Area to Pa Taiwo Atanda Opalola Olorunwo of Fadubi Compund, Owu-Totoro, Abeokuta (Olowu Oduru) and Mrs. A. ldowu Olorunwo (nee Opeagbe) of Igbin Ojo, lgbeyin, Abeokuta (Omosikiti Omo Arogba).

A detailed biography on the deceased disclosed as follows:

“His Eminence, whose divine call into God’s Ministry started as far back as 1946 at the tender age of 10. He had a miraculous encounter with nature in the form of a snake wrapping itself round his right hand while trying to dig for cricket at night near his father’s house, as it was usual for the children of those days. In this scary and frightening circumstance, Prophet Sunday Akintobi, Head of C & S, Agbala Imole, Ifo (Alias Bobanowo Olorun Ha), who was living close to Primate’s compound came out upon being called by the Paternal Grandmother to assist them. The Prophet then prayed for him. After the prayer, the snake disentangled from his wrist and crawled away without inflicting any injury on him.

“The Prophet thereafter saw a vision and told the gathering that the young Omolaja would become a great Prophet of God in the C & S Church and he was beckoned to join the church immediately. The Prophet also gave prophecies that he was going to be his parent’s only male child. The grandmother later corroborated this prediction that she was told something similar by a soothsayer when Primate’s father was a young man that he would have only one male child who should be properly cared for as the child would be a special child of destiny who will do mighty works of healing and through whom God would perform lots of miracles. To confirm this, a particular mark would be on a certain part of his body – However this has been kept secret since then.

“In submission to the prophecy, he joined the C & S Church in the same year 1946 under the renowned Late Prophet Akintobi. He progressed as a very active member of the C & S Church. Eight years later, he was ordained an Aladura and subsequently elevated to the position of a leader. Between 1945 and 1958, he attended African Primary School, Yobo and the Secondary School, Ifo, for his Primary and Secondary Education. He later moved to Lagos to continue his education. He attended Yaba Trade Centre to study Architecture and Yaba College of Technology between 1959 and 1965. He was ordained a Prophet in 1963. He started working with Shell Company, Shell Installation Apapa in 1966. He grew in spiritual power and wisdom and was directed by the Holy Spirit to establish a C & S Church (Aladura) which he did on the 26th November, 1966 at 30, Hughes Avenue, Alagomeji, Yaba in one big sitting room.

“The Church was named Oke-Igbala C & S Church. He was also directed by the Holy Spirit to stop working with Shell Company, Shell Installation Apapa which he did in 1968.

“Thereafter, he became a Full Time Prophet of God. Though, he had lots of tribulations as the first Church he erected was pulled down after two years of existence. He was later to find the church on ground after he returned from a seven day prayer from Olorunkole Mountain in Ibadan. He was undaunted and later moved to another site at 146, Clifford Street, Alagomeji, Yaba in 1968. After this feat, he was ordained in Apostle in 1970, he became a Senior Apostle in 1975, a Most Senior Apostle in 1976 and untimately a Special Apostle in 1979. The church eventually had to vacate the new site at Clifford Street for a swampy area at Abule-Ijesha, Basua Estate, off Fola – Agoro Road. During this time, the Church lost many members due to the incessant relocation of the church from one location to another. However, there are a few steadfast and loyal members who remained with the Church through thick and thin till date.

“The name of the church was later changed to Olorunwo Cathedral Church of C & S (lnc) in 1970 after a Church General Meeting with Late Gen. Kehinde Sho-Silver. Eventually, the present abode was developed while church activities were held at Fola Agoro, Abule Ijesha, throughout the period of construction. Since then, the church has witnessed an era of stability and progress till it came to the “Promised Land”. T

“The present church was completed through the Grace of God and was dedicated to the Glory of God on the 26th November, 1983. The occasion was chaired by late Bashorun M.K.O Abiola with Late Dele Giwa. The church has grown with branches. On the same day, the founder was enthroned and ordained as Archbishop, Primate, Spiritual Father and Head of the Church by the C & S Council at a most solemn ceremony which was presided over by Most Gen. Superintendent C.O.S Benson on behalf of the United C & S Council.

“The Primate lived a happily married life with Rev. Mother K. B. Olorunwo and blessed with children and grand children.”

Among the deceased children who were present at the briefing were Venerable Olulayo Olorunwo, Pastor Ilemobayo Olorunwo, Prof (Mrs) Yewande Otusanya, Pastor Oketola Olorunwo Obaleye, Prophetess Omotinuoluwa Olorunwo, Barrister Matemilola Adesina Salawu and Chief Christian Ipoola Olaniyan.

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Ozekhome, Wife Josephine, Celebrate 34 Years of Marital Bliss

Published

3 hours ago

December 7, 2025

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

Popular Constitution lawyer and renowned human rights activist, Prof Mike Ozekhome, and wife, Lady Josephine Ozekhome, has celebrated 34 years of living together as husband and wife.

The couple took time out to shower love, encomium and affection on each other, celebrating the goodness of Godd upon their lives and home in the last 34 years.

Speaking exclusively to The Boss, Ozekhome noted that on a day like this “I remember how we started; how we weathered the storm together, and conquered together. She is the best companion anyone can have, and I’m very proud of her, and to be her husband.”

Ozekhome once stated that his wife is “a great woman of uncommon virtues and humanity; my jewel of inestimable value, soulmate, sister, best friend and mother.”

While the wife is identified as Lady (Dr) (Senior High Chief) Josephine Mike Ozekhome LL.M, LSM, LL.D. D.Sc., the renowned constitution lawyer, a dotting and loving husband, and firebrand pro-masses Advocate, os identified as Prof Mike Ozekhome SAN, CON, OFR, Ph.D, LL.D, D.Litt,D.Sc., among a host of other watering achievements.

Mike and Josephine have built a family of lawyers, producing wonderful children, who are also lawyers, and doctors.

Happy 34th anniversary, Mike and Josephine!

Featured

Akpabio, Natasha Renew Roforofo Fight

Published

5 hours ago

December 7, 2025

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

The war of words and legal fireworks between the senate president, Godswill Akpabio and Senator represent Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, seems to have been rekindled following reported slamming of N200 billion suit on the Kogi senator.

Akpabio is asking the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory to award him damages over what he described as false, malicious and injurious allegations of sexual harassment levelled against him by the Kogi Central senator in media interviews and public statements.

The court filings quoted the Senate President as saying that the lawmaker’s claims subjected him to “public hatred, contempt and ridicule,” portraying him as a “sexual predator” and a leader who abused his office.

He argues that millions of Nigerians consumed the interviews and online content, causing him emotional distress and inflicting grave damage on his political and social standing.

As the reports of the court filings hit public space, Natasha swiftly responded, hinting that the action is a welcome development as it gives her the much awaited opportunity to finally present her the evidence of sexual harassment she accused Akpabio of.

“Today, being the 5th day of December 2025, I am in receipt of the newly instituted ₦200 billion suit against me.

“I am glad that Senator Akpabio has brought this up because the Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges refused to grant me an audience, claiming the matter was already in court.

“I now have a chance to prove how I was sexually harassed and how my refusal to give into his demands unleashed a series of unprecedented attacks on my person. See you in court, Godswill Akpabio,” the Senator threatened.

Responding, the Senate President again challenged Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan to present credible evidence of her sexual harassment allegations in court rather than resorting to what he described as “staged outrage” and online theatrics.

Akpabio’s response is contained in a statement issued in Abuja by his Special Assistant on Media, Jackson Udom, where he insisted the defamation suit against Natasha was not newly filed as she claimed, but had been pending in court for three months.

The statement, titled, ‘Setting the record straight on the defamation case involving Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’, accused the Kogi Central lawmaker of deliberately misleading the public.

He said, “Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan again resorted to social media to claim incorrectly and misleadingly that Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, had only just filed a multi-billion-naira defamation suit against her over her unfounded allegations of sexual misconduct.

“These allegations, as the public is well aware, have never been supported by a single shred of evidence before the Senate Committee or before any competent authority.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the facts are clear, verifiable, and already before the court. The suit was filed over three months ago. Its progress was temporarily delayed by routine administrative processes and the normal judicial procedures.”

The Senate President further stated that attempts by court bailiffs to serve the senator were repeatedly frustrated.

Akpabio also accused her of a pattern of public posturing.

He said, “We reiterate that legal disputes are resolved in courtrooms, not through orchestrated narratives and staged outrage on social-media platforms. The online applause Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan habitually seeks cannot replace credible evidence, legal procedure, or judicial scrutiny.

“This behaviour is consistent with her pattern during her six-month Senate suspension, an entirely lawful disciplinary measure she sought to delegitimise through digital agitation, only to ultimately serve the suspension in full.”

The former Akwa Ibom governor also challenged her to finally present her evidence before a judge.

“It is time for Akpoti-Uduaghan to present the ‘evidence’ she claims to possess before a court of competent jurisdiction, rather than relying on sensationalised commentary designed solely to attract sympathy and obscure the facts.

“The law is guided by proof, procedure, and due process, not sentiment, not emotion, and certainly not social-media theatrics. She is advised to properly instruct her lawyers, file her defence, and finally provide the evidence she purports to have for the baseless allegations she has peddled over this matter,” he noted.

Akpabio’s statement came a day after the Kogi legislator vowed to defend herself “vigorously” in court following the filing of the ₦200bn defamation suit against her — the latest escalation in a bitter standoff that has gripped the 10th Senate for months.

The Senate President accused her before the FCT High Court of making “false, malicious, and injurious” claims that portrayed him as a “sexual predator” and subjected him to public ridicule.

Akpoti-Uduaghan, confirming receipt of the suit, said she welcomed the legal battle because it would allow her to tender the evidence she was allegedly denied the opportunity to present before the Senate Ethics Committee.

Her post immediately reignited debate within political circles, with analysts describing the lawsuit as one of the most consequential confrontations between a Senate President and a sitting senator in recent years.

Natasha was suspended for six months in March 2025 after protesting the relocation of her seat during plenary. She repeatedly accused Akpabio of targeting her and once labelled him a “dictator.”

Although the suspension lapsed in September, her return was delayed by legal and administrative hurdles before her sealed office was eventually reopened by the Sergeant-at-Arms.

Upon returning, she insisted she had “no apology to tender,” accusing Senate leadership of attempting to muzzle dissent within the chamber.

Additional infor: The Punch, ThisDay

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Full Text of Gen Chris Musa’s Speech on Assumption of Office As Defence Minister

Published

8 hours ago

December 7, 2025

Eric

It is with profound humility and a deep sense of responsibility that I address you today in my new capacity as the Minister of Defence of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Six weeks ago, I was in Kaki. Now, I am coming as the Minister. It can only be God. I thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for the trust and confidence you have shown in me.

I take that very seriously. For me, it is indeed a privilege and an honour, after serving 39 years in service, to come in and now be the Minister of Defence of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The love Nigerians have shown us reflects that people believe we can turn the tide.

But it is not rhetoric. It is by action. We must, firstly as Nigerians, take ownership of the responsibilities and challenges we face in our country.

It is only us who can solve the problem. It is when we agree within ourselves that we can deal with this, that we will succeed. God is with us, and He has always given us the responsibility to succeed.

This responsibility is one I accept with solemn reverence and unwavering commitment to the safety and security of our great nation, Nigeria. Let me also acknowledge the dedicated leadership of my predecessor and the relentless efforts of every one of you in this room.

When I was the Chief of Defence Staff, you gave me all the support, and I truly appreciate it. I want to assure you that coming back as Minister, we want to do more for your welfare, well-being, and the administration of the Ministry. I strongly believe in reward and accountability. You do well, you are rewarded. We take corrective measures to ensure we succeed. I don’t believe in “na so we dey do am.”

We must assess everything that we are doing and see whether we can improve it. I believe in fostering a positive workforce. We are going to listen to your challenges, and whatever we can do to address them, we will. But I count on you also to put in your best. You know your task ahead. You don’t have to wait until somebody calls you or asks you a question. Do what you are supposed to do, and that will make it easier for us as a nation.

The task of securing the nation is continuous, and I am aware that you have been holding the line with dedication. I commend you all. For decades, my life has been defined by uniform, by the ethos of service, and by sacred covenants to defend the territorial integrity and citizens of Nigeria. I therefore come to this role not as a stranger to our security challenges, but as a comrade who has been in the trenches both literally and figuratively. I’ve seen firsthand the bravery of our troops, the complexity of our threats, and the role of strategic coordination. Like I always say, no single individual can achieve this alone. No single service operator can do it. We must work as Nigerians, making Nigeria better.

Consequently, my core philosophy in ensuring the affairs of this ministry is simple: operational effectiveness through unified action and strategic foresight. Ladies and gentlemen, we cannot afford to operate in silos.

We cannot tolerate gaps between policy and execution, or between the ministry and the services. This ministry will be a powerhouse of strategic direction, enabling support, and relentless accountability. We must provide that support for our troops to continue to succeed. They are sacrificing their lives out there in the field—day and night, thunderstorm or windstorm—whatever the situation, to ensure that we, Nigerians, can go to bed and sleep well. We must continue to pray for them. We must continue to provide the necessary support.

Working as a team with other MDAs, Mr. President has made it very clear he will give us all the support we require and demands that we achieve success, which we have promised him. Within the first few weeks, we must show that we are committed: the ministry working inside, the troops working outside.

To translate this philosophy into action, my initial focus will rest on three interconnected pillars: enhancing joint operational strategy synergy. We will immediately begin a rigorous review of all theatre commands and inter-service operations. My door will be open, as always, to the Chief of Defence Staff and Service Chiefs for frank discussions on equipment, training, welfare, and strategy. Mr. President wants us to present our challenges, with the promise that they will be addressed. So it is left for us to do the needful.
Our goal is to overwhelm the adversaries with seamless jointness, not just cognition.

Welfare and Morale as a Force Multiplier

We all understand the importance of morale to our personnel and staff. We must therefore prioritise the timely provision of all necessary kits, ensure prompt payment of operational allowances, and vigorously address accommodation and medical care for our personnel and their families. Those not injured are watching how we treat the injured. If they are not taken care of properly, they will not give their best, because they will be apprehensive. Especially those who have lost their loved ones—the families want to know what will happen.

It is our responsibility to take care of them. The aspect of actions that impugn their integrity is not acceptable. We must make payments seamless. We must treat them with respect. Anybody who is laying down their life for their country deserves the highest respect, and that is what we offer. I will be very critical about that.

Intelligence-Driven and Technology-Enabled Defence

The Ministry of Defence is the strategic brain of our national defence architecture. We must therefore leverage technology for intelligence, surveillance, and recurring service. We have partners and allies ready to support us. We will reach out to them to work as a team. We will also collaborate with other security agencies. Every Nigerian is vital to the success of Nigeria. We will foster a culture where data and intelligence drive our decisions, not just experience alone. I charge the Ministry to be a catalyst for innovation and efficient resource management.

Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, I expect the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and urgency from all of us. We do not have time to waste. We will continue to hit the ground running. We must respect the human rights of Nigerians. If we make mistakes, we must take necessary action to make amends. I will always encourage candid advice and robust debates. But once a decision is taken, we must move as one united team.

There will be zero tolerance for corruption, indiscipline, or indolence. Our loyalty is to Nigeria and the Nigerian people. The President is the Commander-in-Chief; the bulk stops on his table. We must provide the support required to make Nigeria peaceful.

Shedding of innocent blood is over. Our children should go back to school. Our farmers should go back to their farms. Most of the challenges we face are not military solutions—they are issues of good governance, justice, equity, and fairness, which we will encourage. Both non-kinetic and kinetic solutions must work hand in hand. We cannot afford to fail Nigerians. Charity begins at home; if we have the mindset that we will succeed, we will.

To the Service Chiefs, I offer my full support and expect your utmost cooperation to move the Armed Forces to greater heights. To the Department Secretary and the Civil Service cadre, you are the institutional memory and the framework for our sustainability. I value your expertise and count on your diligence to translate our military objectives into actionable administrative and budgetary policies.

The road ahead is demanding and will be tough. Let us not take it for granted. But because we are Nigerians, we shall overcome. The threats we face are adaptive and complex, but I have absolute faith in the indomitable spirit of our Armed Forces and the capable minds within the Ministry. With the support and prayers we are receiving from all Nigerians, we cannot fail.

In closing, let me once again reaffirm my commitment to lead with fairness, firmness, and loyalty to our Constitution. The President is doing everything possible to ensure our success. We must play our part. The task ahead is enormous, but surmountable. We can win. We will win. The good people of Nigeria are looking up to us for results, and we must deliver immediately. I am not here to preside; I am here to lead, to walk, and to deliver alongside you. I cannot do it alone. I thank you all as I look forward to our detailed work and the tasks ahead.

God bless you all, and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Thank you.

— General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd)
Minister of Defence, Federal Republic of Nigeria