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Dele Momodu @65: Between Journalism and Politics; Setting the Records Straight

Published

9 months ago

May 18, 2025

Eric

By Bolaji O. Akinyemi.

Recently Lere Olayinka took a swipe at Dele Momodu in bit to stigmatise the reputation of an enigmatic journalist cum author whose works inspired many a writer in the Nigerian space including myself!

Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has made several critical remarks about veteran journalist Dele Momodu, questioning his professional credentials and motivations.

Olayinka has challenged Momodu’s status as a journalist, suggesting that his academic background in Yoruba studies does not align with the formal qualifications typically associated with journalism.

He implied that Momodu’s career trajectory might have been more suited to teaching or traditional practices, given his educational background.

Olayinka did a good job at bullying Momodu away from Wike. When in response to Momodu’s criticisms of Wike’s role in the political crisis in Rivers State, Olayinka admonished Momodu to “criticize with sense” implying that Momodu’s commentary lacked depth and understanding!

These exchanges have sparked a broader discussion about the qualifications necessary to be considered a journalist in Nigeria.

Some commentators argue that formal education and certification are essential for maintaining professional standards in journalism!

Despite the criticisms, Dele Momodu’s contributions to the media in Nigeria, and his advocacy for democracy, remain significant. The debate underscores ongoing conversations about professionalism and ethics in journalism.

I chose to write this not because of Dele Momodu (aka Bob Dee) or Lere Olayinka, but to draw attention to a line of deference that exists between pure journalistic practice and political propaganda that has become a component of the practice of public speaking and writing for political exigencies.

Lere Olayinka knows, like he knows his name, that Bob Dee is a media model even to Lere Olayinka himself in the practice of the journalism. I am neither in the class of either of them: if the contribution of Bob Dee to Journalism by Olayinka’s rating is not optimal enough to qualify as one, then I’m better in contentment with the thoughts of being a speaker and a writer.

That rating is by grace from God who gave the mouth for us to speak and the hands for us to write.

Lere Olayinka therefore needs not worry himself about responding to a roadside journalist dignified by the absence of objective practices that was prevalent in the 1980s and 1990s.

This republic birthed the shift as many frontliners became spokespersons and media aides to political office holders; elected and appointed, paving way for diminishing returns in objective speakings and writings that focuses on Nation Building.

I have become what I have, earning commendations of Bob Dee, who at our first meeting said my writings are doctoral. That was humbling for a man whose only earthly qualification is a farmer, dignified by the honour of God’s calling after the Aaronic order fulfilled in Christ, which no man can take to himself.

A man who is passionate about seeing a better and greater Country, self-equipped himself as a writer of the Apostolic order in nation building, harping on the inspired word; “by the sword of the Scribe the battle shall be won”!

But for the practice of Journalism within a political service focused delivery, Lere’s opinion about Bob Dee would have been different. Lere Olayinka is a seasoned journalist and communications expert with extensive experience in public relations, media management, and political communications. Olayinka has worked as a media aide to prominent politicians, including former governors Segun Oni and Ayo Fayose. His journalistic acumen and ability to analyze facts for media relevance have been notable in his career.

Lere’s effective public communication stands him out!

Olayinka has expertise in data probing, fact analysis, and formulating media content.

He is too informed not to know the contributions of Bob Dee to Journalism in Nigeria.

Lere’s adept crisis/risk communications experience came to bear at selling his principal, necessitating the swipe he took at Bob Dee.
When the job to be done is shaping narratives in the media, particularly on social media, Olayinka is one of the best at it!

Olayinka, within the chamber of his conscience without political inclination knows the crucial role that Bob Dee has played at redefining Journalism, particularly the evolution of the entertainment brand of Journalism!

Have you wondered why Bob Dee never bothered to respond to Olayinka? It is what it is; a man on duty of protecting the bakery where bread is baked for himself and his family.

Dele Momodu is a mogul in the business of Journalism. You have done well for yourself, your family and journalism that brought you to the limelight!

May 16, 2025, marked the 65th birth anniversary of Chief Dele Momodu, a towering figure in Nigerian journalism, whose groundbreaking contributions have left an indelible mark on the media landscape.

As a trailblazer in journalism, Dele Momodu’s journey into the arena began after obtaining a degree in Yoruba and a master’s in English Literature from Obafemi Awolowo University. His career took off at African Concord magazine in 1988, where he quickly rose through the ranks, later becoming the highest-paid editor in Nigeria at Classique magazine!

In 1996, while in exile in the United Kingdom due to political persecution of a military regime, Momodu’s ingenious creative abilities founded Ovation International, a celebrity magazine that showcased African excellence and became the continent’s only bilingual publication, printed in both English and French. What else would anyone need from a photo album that became a continental delight and the pass time read of African Elite class?

The story of those who championed democracy and Free Press can never be complete without erking Bob Dee’s name in gold!

Reading Lere Olayinka’s birthday wishes to Dele Momodu at 65 further exposes him to what is at play; a piper playing the tune his master’s paid for. How do you choose a man’s 65th birthday to say, “happy 65th birthday to trained Babalawo, Egbon Dele Momodu. More years in good health”. Re-echoing an unacceptable conclusion drawn through propaganda finally gave it out.

Momodu’s commitment to democracy was evident during Nigeria’s military era. He was arrested and detained for his pro-democratic views following the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election.

Accused of being associated with the pirate radio station, Radio Kudirat, he fled Nigeria, spending three years in exile before returning after the deaths of Abacha and MKO Abiola!

Dele Momodu’s 65th birthday was celebrated with grandeur at the Federal Palace Hotel in Lagos, attended by dignitaries, family, and friends. The event featured musical performances, heartfelt tributes, and the cutting of a golden-hued birthday cake, symbolizing his achievements and elegance.

At 65, Dele Momodu’s legacy as a journalist, publisher and advocate for democracy continues to inspire many across Africa and beyond!

Veteran journalist and media entrepreneur Dele Momodu, in what is looking like a personal 65 birthday gift recently celebrated the completion of his dream Country home in Ihievbe, Owan East Local Government Area of Edo State!

The unveiling of the residence, named Jacob & Joseph Villa, coincided with his 65th birthday, marking a significant personal milestone.

The grand opening was a festive occasion, attended by family, friends, and dignitaries. The event featured cultural performances and heartfelt tributes, reflecting Momodu’s deep connection to his roots and his commitment to celebrating African heritage.

Momodu shared glimpses of his new home on social media, emphasizing its significance as a symbol of perseverance and vision!

He remarked, “This is not Banana Island Lagos but my country home in Ihievbe, Owan East Local Government, Edo State,” highlighting the pride he takes in his hometown and the fulfillment of a long-held aspiration.

The completion of Jacob & Joseph Villa stands as a testament to Dele Momodu’s enduring legacy and his dedication to honoring his heritage.

In Ihievbe stood, not just in picture, but a distinguishing monument, an attestation to a life of hard work given to Journalism and the faithfulness of God who didn’t deny Dele Momodu’s toils and tills in the practice of Journalism!

Happy birthday Egbon Dele Momodu, may you remain an inspiration to generations yet to come into journalism!
Congratulations!

Dr. Bolaji O. Akinyemi is an Apostle and Nation Builder. He’s also President Voice of His Word Ministries and Convener Apostolic Round Table. BoT Chairman, Project Victory Call Initiative, AKA PVC Naija. He is a strategic Communicator and the C.E.O, Masterbuilder Communications.

Featured

FCCPC Uncovers Patterns of Price Manipulation by Local Airlines

Published

5 hours ago

February 26, 2026

Eric

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has uncovered patterns of price manipulation perpetrated by some local airlines during the last festive season.

The findings are contained in the interim report released on Thursday by the Commission’s department of Surveillance and Investigations, according to a statement signed by the Director, Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, and made available to The Boss.

Recall that the Commission announced an industry-wide investigation earlier in January.

The forensic exercise benefitted from data collated by the Commission from airlines operating local routes in the country.

The report compares domestic airline pricing from the December 2025 festive period with post-peak January 2026 fare levels.

Preliminary analysis indicates that fares recorded during the December peak were materially higher than those observed in the post-peak period across several routes despite relative stability in critical operating variables like fuel price, government taxes and foreign exchange.

The differences observed in fares therefore appear to reflect airlines’ arbitrary pricing decisions, including yield management and capacity allocation, rather than any variation in regulatory fees.

Route-level analysis shows that higher fares coincided with periods of reduced seat availability during predictable seasonal demand peaks. On some high density routes, peak fares were clustered within relatively narrow ranges across several operators.

For instance, on certain corridors like Abuja-Port Harcourt, peak fares were several times higher than corresponding post-peak levels. On selected routes, the difference in the price of a single ticket reached approximately ₦405,000. Median fares across the sampled routes also rose markedly during the festive window when compared with post-peak benchmarks.

However, the interim report recognises that seasonal demand pressures, scheduling constraints and fleet utilisation may also affect pricing during peak travel periods.

These factors remain under consideration as part of the Commission’s ongoing review.

Commenting on the release of the interim report, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the FCCPC, Mr. Tunji Bello, said the review is part of the Commission’s statutory responsibility to promote competitive markets and safeguard consumers.

“This assessment is intended to provide clarity on pricing behaviour during predictable peak travel periods. The Commission’s role is not to disrupt legitimate commercial activity, but to ensure that market outcomes remain consistent with competition and consumer protection principles under the law,” Mr. Bello said.

He noted that the Commission is conducting further structural and route-level analysis before reaching any conclusions.

“It is important to emphasise that this is an interim report. Our next action will be dictated by full facts established at the end of the review exercise. Then, the Commission will decide whether any regulatory guidance, engagement or enforcement steps are necessary, strictly in accordance with the law,” he said.

The report identifies the possible relevance of Sections 59, 72, 107, 108, 124 and 127 of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act 2018, which respectively address the prohibition of agreements in restraint of competition, the prohibition of abuse of a dominant position, the offence of price-fixing, conspiracy to commit offences under the Act, the right to fair dealings, and the prohibition of unfair, unreasonable or unjust contract terms.

Meanwhile, Mr. Bello announced that foreign airlines will come under FCCPC radar after the ongoing review of local airlines in view of widespread complaints of exploitative fares they allegedly charge Nigerians on certain routes compared to fares in neighbouring countries that are of equal distance.

Featured

Many Killled, Houses Torched As Terrorists Unleash Deadly Attacks on Adamawa Communities

Published

11 hours ago

February 26, 2026

Eric

At least 25 ⁠people were killed and several houses torched after gunmen attacked two villages late on Tuesday in Adamawa State, northeast ‌Nigeria, residents and the ‌state governor said on Wednesday.

The attackers struck Kirchinga in Madagali ⁠district ⁠and Garaha in neighbouring Hong, two villages on the edge of the Sambisa Forest where Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) operate.

The twin raids highlight the enduring insecurity in Nigeria’s northeast, the epicentre of a 17-year Islamist insurgency, despite years of ⁠military ⁠campaigns.

Abubakar Lawan Kanuri, the ⁠village head of Kirchinga, told Reuters the attackers arrived on Tuesday evening dressed in military uniforms ⁠that initially led residents to mistake them for soldiers on patrol. He said 18 bodies were recovered after the gunmen swept through the community.

In Garaha, seven people were killed when ⁠gunmen on more than 50 motorcycles stormed the village and attacked ⁠a nearby military base, said resident Musa Isa, who added he “narrowly escaped.”

They advanced from several directions and hit the military base, killing three soldiers. Four fleeing residents were shot, and a school was also burned. Many villagers have since fled to Mubi, the nearest big town, Isa said.

Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri condemned the attacks ⁠as “cowardly acts of terrorism” and vowed not to “let terrorists undermine our efforts to restore peace and stability,” according to a statement from his spokesman.

Source: usnews.com

Featured

Gunmen Attack Edo Palace, Kill Chief, Abduct Two Daughters

Published

14 hours ago

February 26, 2026

Eric

Gunmen have killed a high-ranking palace chief in Iduah Kingdom, Esan West Local Government Area of Edo State, and abducted two of his daughters.

The victim, Chief Jimah Jacob Ogboi, was reportedly attacked at his residence on Monday night.

Sources said the assailants stormed the house and shot the chief at close range. His wife was also attacked with machetes and other dangerous weapons, leaving her seriously injured.

One of the deceased’s sons, Lucky, said he had stepped out to purchase an item when the attack occurred.

“I received a call that my father had been shot. When I returned home, I met my mother in a critical condition, and my two sisters had been taken away,” he said.

A community source disclosed that the incident prompted an emergency meeting of elders to deliberate on possible steps toward securing the release of the abducted daughters and addressing the underlying causes of the attack.

The traditional ruler of the community, HRH Alhaji Amedu Momoh, appealed to the Edo State Government and security agencies to urgently intervene and strengthen security in the area.

“About four armed men went to the house of one of our chiefs. They shot him and abducted two of his daughters. The Nigerian Police and other security agencies have been here since the incident occurred,” he said.

“We need assistance in tackling security issues. The government should come to our aid. There had been relative calm in our land, but it appears the attackers have regrouped.”

The monarch also expressed concern over what he described as increasing attacks on farmlands by suspected herdsmen.

When contacted, the spokesperson for the Edo State Police Command, CSP Eno Ikoedem, confirmed the incident and said investigations had commenced.

She added that the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, was in Ekpoma, Edo Central, alongside other senior officers to address the security situation.

“I can confirm the incident. The Commissioner of Police and other top officers are currently in the area to forestall further attacks. The police have launched an investigation into the killing and abduction,” she said.