Winners Emerge In Maiden Writing Competition of Saint-Olawale Jimoh's Literary Foundation for African Children

The Saint-Olawale Jimoh's Literary Foundation for School Kids, the first of its kind in West Africa has announced the winners of the just concluded writing competition among school kids in Ijebu North East Local Council Area of Ogun State. The competition/award is the maiden edition since the establishment of the Foundation by Saint-Olawale Jimoh, a literary enthusiast, published author and a multiple award-winning writer. Speaking about the award, Olawale says the Foundation is a self-funded project and borne out of his undying passion to encourage writing, reading and ignite the literariness in school children. According to him, the maiden competition is limited to a Local Government Area, out of the 20 Local Government Area in Ogun State because of limited resources available as at the time of birthing the idea, though efforts are already in place to make the subsequent editions spread throughout Ogun State and beyond. The 2021 edition was first announced on 2nd of June, 2021 and the organising committee headed by the Founder, Saint-Olawale Jimoh began receiving entries since the first week of announcing the competition online and on social platforms till the expiration of the deadline on 30th of July, 2021. However, only the selected winners were contacted and rewarded accordingly. The winners are: Ikuerowo Precious Ayomipo from Crystal Model College Ogbogbo-Ijebu who came first. Adelaja Iyanu from Brilliant Edge Elementary School Ilese-Ijebu emerged Second Position while Ashaolu Samuel from Bliss Nursery & Primary School Ilese-Ijebu and Toluwani Olawale Abigae came Third & Fourth respectively. Of the total of 209 entries submitted, 15 were outrightly disqualified based on judges’ decision while the selected best 5 entries emerged from the remaining 194 entries.

ERELU TINUADE MABEL ONANEYE: International Cultures Icon Turns 60. By Saint-Olawale Jimoh

From the continent of Africa came a giant that wax great with each passing season, a veritable torchbearer of African traditional practices, a global custodian of Yoruba cultures, Erelu Tinuade Mabel Onaneye who turns 60 today. Turning 60 is not an unusual occurrence but for a woman variously described as an uncommon philanthropist, an icon of rare kind, a role model, a pathfinder, a woman with the heart of gold and a pillar of African traditional cultures, it's a big deal. Here's a woman whose epithets and stories of her good works could fill a house. Her mantra, centred around making life better for the people, has continued to resonate loudly across her State of origin and indeed beyond. Yes ago, one Ms Comfort Adefulire, one of the beneficiaries of the free health care services carried out by a team of medical experts from Texas, United States flooded social media with posts eulogizing Erelu Tinuade, who brought the team to Ms Adefulire's community in Irele, Ondo State. This and many others best captured the essence of Erelu-Oodua Tinuade Mabel Onaneye The said free medical service was first of it's kind and was fully sponsored by this US-based businesswoman and philanthropist, who decided to take up the challenge of bringing free medical experts to Nigeria with more concentration on Ikale and Ilaje people of Ondo State who have been marginalized for so long and denied the genuine dividends of democracy most especially in the area of health care delivery. She started this in 2012 and it went on successfully till November 2016. Every visit was a huge success with many beneficiaries shedding tears of joys seeing how the wonderful team cured their age-long diseases and sicknesses. It was just too good to be true as everyone witnessed these August events, unlike the fictitious ones Nigerian government only announced in newspapers but were never carried out. Asides the free medical services, there are several philanthropic gestures credited to this woman of virtue and substance. During Covid-19 lickdown, her relief packages for the aged and needies reached every home in her beloved Ode-Aye town and immediate communities. The Federation of Aye Students will remain eternally grateful to her for cash gifts to all indigenous students of higher institutions belonging to the association. We have equally heard of how she had consistently stood to render finacial assistance to other students at all levels who for one reason or the other couldn't pay their tuition bills. Sources close to Erelu have repeatedly maintained she usually frown at the idea of making her activities in this regard public. Her private life guiding principle lies in words of renowned English Author and Philosopher, Albert Pine which says, 'what we do for ourselves dies with us, but what we do for others and the world remains and it's immortal Her tenacity of purpose coupled with unquenchable thirst to leave the Nigerian society, most particularly her beloved Ondo people better than she met them is the reasosn her people would never stop seeking for her intervention anytime government failed them. It's a known fact that many whose paths have crossed that of Erelu may have cringed, recoiled or cried inside at one time or another when it suddenly would have hit them that this great philanthropist will not be around forever. Yes, nobody lives forever but footprints are forever. Her indellible legacies would never be forgotten. I wish more leaders and politicians will learn from this rare being, the beauty of selfless services and the imperatives of transcendental leadership. Dear Ma, you sacrificed so much, you have blessed so many lives, you have lived for others and haven't depised anyone. The world is watching you. Many have been inspired by you to live and to dare. To stand and to stand firm. To give and to give even more. To uphold lofty ideals and observe the priceless principles. On behalf of my family, my team at Observers' Reflection International and Metropolitan Mirror, I wish you a happy 60th birthday celebration. May God spare your life to do even more for humanity.

INELG 2021: Folusho Badejo, The Long-Awaited Answer.. By Saint-Olawale Jimoh

In the last few weeks, I have read reactions from different quarters about how the two frontline political parties chose their chairmanship candidates for the on-coming Local Council election for Ijebu North East Local Government (INELG) from Ilese. Of all the reactions, the commentary from our towering patriot and a contributing stakeholder to INELG project, Otunba Kunle Kalejaye SAN stood out. Otunba demanded for the one who would push the interest of our immediate community better if the two candidates are placed side by side. But on a grander scale, I want a legacy builder, who will not only better our immediate community but set a standard in terms of economic growth and infrastructural development in Ogun East, whose records will become benchmark. This golden opportunity given to Ilese must not be taken for granted and that's why it's pertinent for us to support a competent candidate for the task ahead. One with hopeful insight into developmental issues. Who can inject new ideas and knows how to source finance to execute them. Foluso Badejo (BF) is a widely acknowledged private sector expert and capacity builder, focusing on private and public companies' financing, SME administration, project development and management, auditing of multinational establishments and financial institutions with experience that spanned over 27 years. Fact is, to set a standard means it won't be 'business as usual'. While anyone can boast of excellent delivery if given chance, we must also put on our thinking caps to evaluate situations based on the candidates presented. This article is not intended to bring anybody down but no matter how many years of experience one gathered in his local communities, he is still a local champion. Exposure count! BF is one Nigerian with multiple competencies. A well-travelled finance guru who has consulted for all many institutions and offered professional advice and recommendations that revived formerly dead companies. And to crown it all, he's humble to a fault, kindhearted and a good listener. He discards no opinion, but respects individual differences and love to be around his people. A vote for Foluso Badejo is indeed a YES to better, greater and quality representation and genuine governance.

Like Dele Momodu, Like Kunle Oduah.. By Saint-Olawale Jimoh

I love people who relate and mingle effortlessly. They make life easier and unify the world. This generation has a whole lot to contend with but proud people would only add to the problem. Having a good human relations is indeed a huge asset and that's why those with this trait travel through all classes of the society without issues. This is the singular reason why the likes of Bashorun Dele Momodu will continue to soar higher. Someone once twitted, 'People can debate Dele Momodu's choices but for me, I admire his uncommon ability to keep friends and access to every level of society intact.' Fact is, no journalist has more access than Bashorun Dele Momodu. He's a king in the game. Almost all African leaders and Presidents are his close friends. He feels completely at home at almost all Presidential Villas all over Africa. He knows and have access to all the who's who in Nigeria and beyond. From Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, Late Anthonio Fernandez, Adenuga, Otedola, Elumelu, Atiku to Tony Blair, Kuffor, George Bush, Clinton,Rabbi Aryeh Deri and many others. Closely following Momodu's footsteps is Lagos socialite and media personality, Adekunle Oduah. A proud Lagosian and untiring advocate of better Lagos. I first saw him at a function in Lagos where I covered for a new digital magazine. An event attended by the Lagos Governor and his deputy, our big brother from Ijebu Ode, Chief Lekan Osifeso, K1 De Ultimate and many others. Judging from his activities in the gathering, it was obvious he is one of K1's allies. Later I paid close attention to his online activities and found he's one of the very few media personalities who pays meticulous attention to all that has to do with Lagos. That he's gifted with a magic wand is an understament. He knows his onions when it comes to Lagos social circle. He has unrestricted access to many Lagos bigwigs. He is a respected visitor to the palaces of Oniru of Iruland, Oba Wasiu Lawal Omogbolahann, Elegushi of Ikateland, Oba Saheed Ademola Elegushi and Eleko himself. He gets along easily with the company of the Akinshiku of Lagos, Chief Olamilekan Dosunmu, the highly revered Canadian-based Lagos socialite, Chief Ajani Bolaji Basia and the King of Fuji music, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal. By every standard, he's a classy man, sociable and polished. Well-known for his brilliance, admirable comportment and professionalism. Over the years, he has grown in leaps and bounds from small beginnings, toiling and rising in Lagos inner circle to become a Senior Legislative Aide to The Speaker of House of Representatives, Federal Republic of Nigeria, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila. In few years to come, Kunle Oduah might just become another Dele Momodu traveling through world social circle, winning and conquering.

Governor Dapo Abiodun, Hon. Ladi Adebutu And The Machinations Of The 'Arijenimadarus'. By Saint-Olawale Jimoh

For the benefit of my non-Yoruba readers, 'Arijenimadaru' is a Yoruba sobriquet and philosophical concept, used to describe a perfidious person who benefits from causing rancour and discord in any system. His gains and significance is directly proportional to the magnitude of trouble he is able to orchestrate. We have them all around and like I wrote earlier, we seem to have them in large number in Ogun than anywhere else. The magnitude of falsehood being dished out on daily basis by these attention seekers can ressurect the dead.

     

    A good example of such characters is the fellow who started the recent Ladi-Dapo greetings imbroglio and his co-travellers. The fellow, who claimed to be a national leader of National Association of Ogun state Students' (NAOSS) went as far as giving Hon. Ladi Adebutu stern warning and ultimatum to tender an apology for his 'rude' attitude. I followed the drama and ranting of those who shared his position on Facebook and I almost wept for them. When did a particular manner of greeting between two politicians become an issue in our dear State?

   Thank God for for the intervention of the above named association ably led by Comr. Saka Azeez Abidemi, who issued a press release, dissociating the association from the mess and stating in clear terms the association has always been at the fore front of putting the welfare of Ogun state first and that the body does not have any dealings with the impostor.
     

    By now, except our amiable Governor is not paying attention, he would have noticed a good number of these people who make noise over non-issue all in a bid to be noticed. They are quick to attack you as long as your view about the present government doesn't tally with theirs. But instead of attracting undue attention, why not come up with an idea that can move the State forward and you would be surprised how the Governor will like to see you. I have seen it happening all around us. During the regime of former President Jonathan, one Finland-based Nigerian student, Dipo Daramola and his friends made suggestions to GEJ on ways to fight insecurity and kidnapping using technology. Their ideas were plausible and genuine  and were promptly invited for consultation.

    Let's stop these distractions and focus on developing our dear Gateway State. Personally, I'm beginning to like Governor Dapo Abiodun for his silent works on areas I never expected and Hon. Ladi Adebutu on the other hand, has succeeded in setting a standard that may be too difficult for any unserious politician to meet up with. We therefore need the co-operation of these two giants and several others to make Ogun great.

Ogun oni baje o!

The Culture Of Decadent Opulence And The Future Of Nigeria. By Saint-Olawale Jimoh

    In the past few days, I have followed and watched with disdain, the online competition of pasting #Thelist of Nigerian criminals convicted for various offences in United States and Dubai respectively. Those of Igbo extractions were pasting the list of the 23 convicted Nigerians facing execution in Dubai for drug related offences and who are majorly Yorubas. On the other hand, my Yoruba Facebook friends are equally sharing the list of 88 Nigerians convicted for internet fraud offences in the United States who are majorly Igbos. It was a clear show of shame and it has become so intellectual annoying seeing widely acknowledged bright minds home and abroad joining the bandwagon. I had to inbox one of them to pull the rubbish down.

  Fact is, what the world knows is Nigeria and not Igbos or Hausas. We all made this country what it is today. The North made the international community tagged Nigeria a 'Terrorist Nation', the Yorubas according to #Thelist, made us 'Drug Peddlers' while the Igbos made us to be labelled, 'Internet Fraudsters!'. So we all are collectively bad and have contributed to the defamation of Nigeria's image abroad. Let's give up tribalism and accept our fate.

  Regrettably, I blame the government and our leaders for all of these. So they didnt know it would get to this when they built a society that rewards incompetence? A system where people with integrity don't amount to anything yet celebrate men and women who rose to the top through crooked and dishonest means. A society that allow the worst to emerge to the top in many respects; a society where all issues are swept under the carpet depending on who holds the broom and where all things can be covered depending on where the umbrella tilts..
 A former Governor left office with 26 months of unpaid salaries, 38 months pension arrears, plunging the civil servants into abject poverty and excruciating hardship yet appointed a Minister of the Federal Republic. Another has a #108billion fraud case against him by EFCC, yet appointed a Minister. What about the one who allegedly laundered #15billion State funds and is said to be under EFCC investigation, but has already been appointed the Chairman of a Senate Committee? With all these, the government is passing a direct message to the youths on where lies our values

So long as the system is flawed, whatever evil you fight will grow. Sending these Yahoo boys to prison or authorising SARS to go after the youths isn't the solution, it wont stop the practice. Rather there's need for value re-orientation. The National Orientation Agency need to educate the youths about the danger venturing into illegal practices that may put Nigeria's image in jeopardy abroad. Take it or leave it, it will eventually affect them one way or the other. I had read the lamentations of many Nigerian youths, on how they lost opportunities abroad based on the battered Nigeria's image

Secondly, the present government should create REAL jobs and not the ones we only read in papers. It would shock the government  to see how much this youths would prefer to work rather than engaging in illegal activities.

Lastly, government should endeavour to create an enabling environment for business to thrive. It should review its policies and see how it could be of help to businesses especially the small and medium businesses.

Tribute To A Quintessential Colossus, Otunba Kunle Kalejaye SAN @60. By Saint-Olawale Jimoh

 "As far as we can discern, the purpose of human existence is to kindle a light in the darkness of mere
beings" - C.J Cung

 

 'Colossus' according to Oxford dictionary refers to 'a person or thing that is extremely important or large in size'. The emphasis under this context doesn't have anything to do physical body frame or structure. It's about the importance or worth of the individual. Walt Whitman captures it better when he says, 'I am large, I contain multitude!'

 All over the globe, history has given us many of such people- Mandela, Ghandi, Mother Theresa, Martin Luther, Lincoln and a host of others including our own Obafemi Awolowo. They are not big because they have lots of money though some of them are financially accomplished. Afterall, wealth is what they say is the fruit of labour. But they understand being rich doesn't fill up one's life. They are not big because they bully or have our commonwealth trapped in their custody. They belong to the class of people Max Weber describes as 'Charismatic Figures'. They draw their strength from
moral examples, intellectual power and courage. These are essential ingredients for selfless service and leadership.

 

One foremost personality who has translated into a colossus by virtue of his tremendous capacity, goodwill and more importantly, his unquenchable thirst to leave anyone who crosses his path better than he met them is no other person than Otunba Kunle Kalejaiye SAN.
His recent victory at the Supreme Court is a pointer to the fact that he enjoys some uncommon favour from God. The Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LDPC) had on May 21, 2015 disbarred him under circumstances believed to be controversial and was stripped of his Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) title. Barely four years after, March 15, 2019 the Supreme Court overturned his disbarment and restored his wig and gown.

 

 To many, within Nigeria's judicial landscapes, it's still a mystery. I'm still not sure if we've ever had any case similar to this in history but I am certain there's always one person in every generation, blessed with exceptional favour and attributes such that even nature obeys his biddings.
A man of uncommon grace, rare breed, distinguished legal icon, friend of the cheated and deprived, an outstanding achiever, a role model, tireless giver and philanthropist per excellence. Considering his personality and all he represents, it's expected that he will mean different things to different people. But the one undisputable fact that remains unequivocally constant like a Northern Star that defines OTUNBA is a very essence that encapsulates humanity at its finest.
He's blessed with three outstanding attributes that distinguish him from every successful Nigerian I know.

 One. He remains one of the most humble towering personalities I've ever come across. In spite of his
successes and numerous achievements, he has remained himself, humble, respectful, no airs..
 Few years ago, I began paying close attention to a certain Facebook User whose posts (on a Facebook page associated with own hometown) are way ahead of our time. His cerebral leverages are always a source of inspiration to me. Out of curiousity, I made my findings about the owner of the account and discovered he was same person masquerading under such unknown name. His reason, I gathered was to enable people relate freely without reverence or fear. He wanted to be appreciated, scolded or abused like ordinary Facebook user.

 Two. He is a tireless dreams' supporter. His keen interest in developing the potentials in others is one of the reasons he would continue to earn my respect. It is an usual gift from God, given to a few men for the benefit of all and this is the reason why many youths hover around him all the time.
 

Three. He's a stupendous giver! A generous giver to whom service to humanity remains his heritage has with his God-given resources executed various philanthropic acts within and outside his community over the years. As it stands today, there's no way you would live in any town or village under Ijebu North East Local Government Area of Ogun State and its environs and say уσυ haven't tasted his water. He sunk boreholes with a standby power generator sets in all nooks and cranies of the area.

 This in addition to so many other gestures credited to him, like the monthly and yearly relief packages for the aged. Here's a man whose private residence has been likened to the Biblical Galilee where the needy thronged into and get comforted. In fact, as I write this, a friend hinted about those he's quietly funding their educational expenses and loads of other commendable acts. History, therefore, beckons on him to continue to use his unique and uncommon gifts and wizardry to seek the best and the brightest for both his community and state.

 Few years ago, I authored a lengthy article published in The Sun and National Life Newspapers respectively, where I captured in details, his giant strides in his immediate communities. In the piece, I concluded by recommending that he vies for an elective position in order to do more. Interestingly, I learn't the then governor of Osun State, Olagunsoye Oyinlola saw the article first before anybody else. Thereafter, others began to call Otunba's attention to it. Fact is, Otunba is the kind of person we need at the seat of governance. Plato, one of the greatest philosophers who ever lived, said 'the price good men pay for indifference to public affairs is to be ruled by evil men!'

 Unfortunately, he has repeatedly been quoted to have said he has no interest in politics. But if he decides to heed his people's voice in future, a vote or support for him is a yes for a greater, better and quality representation at whatever level of government.

The Agidigbo Concept of "To Ba Koju Sie" (A Message To Ogun State Governor-Elect, Prince Dapo Abiodun) Written By Saint-Olawale Jimoh

 

Sir, I congratulate уσυ for emerging victoriously in the last hotly contested governorship election and I pray уσυr reign will take our own Gateway State to greater heights. Clearly, the majority spoke loudly with their votes and like I have repeatedly argued, what we had last time (judging from Ogun State INEC results) wasn't just the regular elections we have always had but a clear referendum on the people's wishes and values. This is basically the reason I have been a bit skeptical in adding my voice to those clamouring the last elections were largely rigged all over the nation.
Let me quickly state here that my intent in writing this piece is not to eulogize уσυ or say уσυ're the best when уσυ have not even resumed office, rather it is intended to alert уσυ, so уσυ can avoid some mistakes of the last administration, point areas needing urgent attention and more importantly, to be careful of those уσυ include or assign responsibility in уσυr government.
Few weeks ago, someone shared on Facebook the story about how a certain character, who claimed to be NANS leader and Dapo Abiodun's Youths & Students Representative harassed and threatened the Provost of Abraham Adesanya Polytechnic, Professor J.B Bilesanmi Awoderu on phone over none issue and boasting to be strongly connected to the Governor-Elect. The author of the story, Comrade Adebamiro Damilola who happened to know this shady element said the fellow is a thug and has never completed any academic programme anywhere for about 15 years that he has been parading himself as National NANS leader. I brought this story up because I had seen cases where such people got recommended for political appointments and ended up being assigned sensitive roles in the State.
One past Governor of our dear State whose achievements I'll continue to make reference to is Otunba Gbenga Daniel. This progressive arrowhead and bridge builder toiled hard to earn the title, 'Architect of Modern Ogun State' yet part of the reasons his administration lost it in the court of public opinion in spite of his unbeatable records was largely due to the activities of such miscreants. Give a former cultist a political appointment, he'll end up building a killer squad to hunt down and murder anyone who opposes him or his principal. Yet, the innocent principal ends up taking all the blames and facing the fire alone after the expiration of his tenure. 'TOBA KOJU SIE..'
It's a pity the shortsightedness of the outgoing administration did more harm than good to the State. Wherever уσυ turn, уσυ'd find misplaced priorities. The outrageous amount the outgoing administration spent building each model school in the bushes will renovate over 100 dilapidated school buildings in the State. Same Amosun's administration believes starting 10-lane Siun-Abeokuta road is better than fixing the numerous deplorable roads in other parts of the State. These mistakes must not be repeated.
I know pressures are being mounted on уσυ to first begin transforming Ijebu/Remo axis, in retaliation for how Amosun-led government senselessly concentrated developmental projects in Egba axis to the detriment of other parts of the State but Yewaland too needs уσυr urgent intervention as well. 'TOBA KOJU SIE..'
Ogun State is richly blessed and has produced two Heads of State- Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Chief Ernest Shonekan, the current Vice President, Professor Yemi Oshibajo, nobel laureate, Wole Soyinka, late Chief MKO Abiola, Tai Solarin and several other great minds. We have always been a pacesetter in governance at all levels of government and we hope уσυr government will restore the lost glory of our dear Gateway State. Whatever late minute appointments and establishments carried out by the outgoing administration in a bid to create additional financial burden for уσυ can be reversed and cancelled including the senseless unsustainable bureaucracy called LCDA. It's a duplication of efforts and sheer waste of our scarce resources. 'TOBA KOJU SIE..'

SAINT-OLAWALE JIMOH
saintolawalejimoh@gmail.com
©2019

Ogede Nbaje.. By Saint-Olawale Jimoh

  Repeatedly I have argued that a nation that prioritize sympathy in lieu of competency will suffer in terms of economic and social development. Everything we are witnessing today- the thriving of abnormality, the shutting down of common sense, the justification of all things in the name of politics and unjustified rewards for incompetence are all indicators of the sickness of this society. If the system is not sick, NEPA Bill wouldn't have been substituted for WAEC certificate. Regrettably the President has no fault in all of these, it's we the people that made the obscenities possible. We have tolerated abnormality for so long that we now deem it normal.
    
    Few days ago, at APC campaign rally in Ikeja Lagos, three journalists were shot including the Political Editor of The Nation newspaper. A leader of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, Musiliu Akinsanya (aka MC Oluomo) was reportedly stabbed with knife at same venue. Of all the people affected by this sad incident, only MC Oluomo got people and government attention while nothing was heard about the health status of the affected journalists.
At Eko Hospital where MC Oluomo obtained quality treatment before he eventually traveled abroad, armed policemen with patrol vans were on stand with many top politicians trooping in and out to register their solidarity and presence.
     
     I witnessed a similar situation in Lagos Garage, Ijebu Ode late last year. I arrived there around 6pm and the entire environment was volatile. Everyone looked terrified as they gathered in groups discussing. Suddenly, a team of heavily armed mobile policemen that stood in front of a security patrol van parked near the Oando Filling Station by Ondo Road axis of Lagos Garage began shooting into the air..
Later, I gathered the mobile policemen were those attached to a popular Chairman of the garage transport union and that the shooting was because the Chairman was in the neighbourhood for a meeting. Never have I witnessed an open display of obscenity like this. A garage Chairman guided and escorted by federal security men! This is sickening.
    After the Lagos incident, I realised it's now a normal practice but the question I have been asking is when did we get to this stage of depravity?

     Until we challenge this scourge, we'll end up building a society where thugs and miscreants will not only have a say but decide for intellectuals and credible Nigerians. Our politicians need to have a rethink and realize we cannot achieve greater Nigeria by their myopic and selfish attitude. This practice cannot elevate any society to anything significant other than raising people with nuisance value. Credible individuals with integrity and legitimate work no longer have any value yet we say we are making progress. Our banana is rotting but we say it's ripening.

A New Dawn Beckons At Odogbolu State Constituency. By Saint-Olawale Jimoh

 

 

 

   Quite an incredibly lots could be achieved if young ones are allowed to use their dynamic and agile ability to bring positive change to a system and looking at profiles and capacity of young Nigerians running for various elective positions these days, one is left in no doubts that the future will be great.
  Today, I'm taking a break to showcase my very good friend and brother, a combination of abilities, pure genius, consummate politician, dependable ally and a complete democrat with the IQ of Einstein, OLALEKAN LUKMAN ADELEYE (also known as Senato), who is aspiring to represent the good people of Odogbolu LG in the Ogun State House of Assembly next year. I have resolved to do this piece based on the fact that I know his worth, what he stands for, his hopeful insight into community issues, craviness for new ideas, ability to weigh alternatives before adopting a reasonable option and several other qualities that set him apart from other candidates vying for same position all over Ogun State.
   This tireless campaigner of a truly democratic society has been in the business of defending the interest of his people for years and I personally admire his selfless devotion to volunteer works as we have had cause to collaborate on few political assignments just like we are both involved in #Lado2019 project.
During his days at Tai Solarin College of Education, he was a well known vocal and active student leader with enviable records of co-ordinating struggles that ended in victory. This he has also demonstrated with his involvement in grassroots politics where he had opportunity to prove himself at various positions he was picked to occupy in the past.
  In 2007, he was appointed as Legislative Aide to the erstwhile member of Ogun State House of Assembly, Hon Remmy Hazzan and based on his performance and recommendations he got, the former Executive Chairman of Odogbolu Local Government, Chief Tope Tokoya immediately appointed him as a Special Adviser between 2008-2009. Again, he was made a Supervisor for Community Development, Women Affair and Employment Generation from May till December 2010 in same Local Government.
    Few weeks ago, he was nominated for the 2018 Most Ambitious Youth Award organised by 'Ogun Peers In Town' where he was singled out from the entire Ogun East Senatorial District.
   OLALEKAN LUKMAN ADELEYE was born about 40 years ago at Ibefun, in Odogbolu Local Government Area of Ogun State. He started his primary education at Holy Trinity Anglican Primary School Ibefun in 1987 and proceeded to Agbowa Baptist Grammar School, Agbowa-Ikosi for his secondary education.
In 1998, he was admitted into Tai Solarin College of Education for his National Certificate of Educate (NCE) programme. He was among the best students that bagged UI-affiliated degree (B.Ed) programme in same Tai Solarin College of Education. In 2017, he completed his Master's degree (Msc) in Analytical/Environmental Chemistry from Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye. He is a christian; happily married to a delectable Mrs Olamide Adeleye and the marriage is blessed with beautiful kids.
     Olalekan is a dedicated community development advocate who has served in various committees of Ibefun Community Development Association, the most recent role was his membership of the 25th Coronation Anniversary and 70th birthday ceremony of Oba Gideon Adetoye Adesina, the Liken of Ibefun.
  He is humble, approachable, respectful and genuinely ready to support any right cause. A vote for him is a YES for a greater, responsive and quality representation in Odogbolu State Constituency.

2019: The One Good Thing PMB Government Has Done To Us. By Saint-Olawale Jimoh

 

Without mincing words, Buhari-led government has disappointed Nigerian masses and like never before, we have achieved an overwhelming statistics, indicating his monumental failure. His inefficiencies and incompetencies have reduced the Office of the President so much that every Tom, Dick and Harry wants to be the next President because they believe they can run this government better than him. Interestingly, the situation has equally helped to unveil several bright minds with impressive CVs.
If not for PMB inactions and weakness, we wouldn't have acknowledged Kingsley Moghalu, the Presidential aspirant of Young Peoples Party? A Professor of International Business and Public Policy at Tufts University, President of the Governance and Economic Transformation, former United Nations official and former CBN deputy governor. What amazes me the most about Moghalu is his sound and revolutionary ideas.
What about Fela Durotoye? An OAU, Harvard and Yale trained leadership expert, business strategist and motivational speaker. This excellent communicator always has a way with words. Someone once said 'you can't be in any of his sessions and not take down a few notes.'
Earlier this year, at NuStream Events Centre in Ibadan, during one of Durotoye's campaign tours, someone in the crowd, moved by his speech donated the sum of One Million Naira to support his campaign!
Omoyele Sowore, is the founder and publisher of Sahara Reporters. He holds Degrees from the University of Lagos and Columbia University, Lecturer at the City University of New York. This renowned writer, public speaker and human rights activist has the advantage of owning a known media brand with extensive reach which he can leverage on for publicity and propaganda.
We equally have Atuejide Eunice, a 39 years old founder of National Interest Party. Holds Law Degrees from BPP University, London and Msc in Business Administration from University of Siegen, Germany. She owns EB Consults Limited, a consultancy company operating out of the UK and Nigeria.
Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies is also interested in the Office of the President. This 55years old Professor of Language and Communication Arts at the RSUE hold Degrees from the Universities of Ilorin, Port Harcourt and Northwestern University. She founded the Agape Bible Church.
Donald Ike Igwegbu, Jaye Gaskia, Thomas Wilson, Ibrahim Abubakar Lajada, Emiola Ojajuni, Miss Godstime Iroabuchi Sidney, Chris Emejuru and many other distinguished Nigerians have so far indicated interest in the contest.
Honestly, I admire the courage and efforts of these young and great Nigerians. However, it's doubtful if any of them can win an election in a complex society like Nigeria but collectively, they have made a statement. We now have a political reawakening atmosphere. They have succeeded in introducing the standard to the masses. They have helped to sensitize, re-introduce and re-define what genuine governance entails. I can assure you that we will get there, may be not 2019.
Part of why it may not be 2019 is the problem of building sustainable structures in all the 36 states and their late entry into the business. They ought to have been working across all regions for at least 2 years. Nobody wins a presidential election 6 months to the race without being in the system for so long.
Still, I give kudos to them and more importantly to PMB whose actions and inactions paved way for these guys to be known.

SOON, IT WOULD BE A CRIME TO BE FREE! By Saint-Olawale Jimoh

Your land or your death statement credited to the Special Adviser to the President on Media, Femi Adeshina, in which he was quoted to have said that all communities opposed to ranches should choose between their lands or lives is a further pointer to the fact that the Presidency has greater alliance to the herdsmen than to the country. Don't be deceived by the prepared speech he delivered to the representatives of CAN from the 19 Northern States yesterday. We know where his priority lies.
The killings in Maiduguri during Goodluck Jonathan's administration was the reason one renowned activist said Nigeria doesn't look like a nation anymore. Today, the unimaginable is happening and everyone is terrified. There's virtually no part of Nigeria that is safe. There's virtually no individual that is not living in fear in Nigeria except the Fulanis.
The murderous herdsmen first unleashed hell in Enugu and nothing happened because the victims are Biafrans who didn't support the government. Then they executed a massacre in Benue and nothing happened as well. Admittedly, they have succeeded in fishing out non-Fulani suspects as the perpetrators of the recent killings in Plateau State but over 300 people, comprising of women and children, were killed in 11 different communities.
In fact, according to US Council on Foreign Relations, a total of about 19,890 documented deaths have been recorded in Nigeria since June 2015.
Just this morning, about 8 persons were killed in separate fresh attacks in Adamawa and Benue again.
As it stands today, Fulani herdsmen can kill уσυ at the slightest excitement and get away with it (because almost all the Heads of national security are from same tribe) and when уσυ gear up to defend уσυrself because security will not help, then уσυ are caught by the same security who will lecture уσυ on how to be peaceful and law abiding. And if уσυ dare stage a peaceful protest, security will shoot уσυ for disturbing the peace of the area and inciting violence.
Regrettably, those who openly hounded and derided Goodluck Jonathan whenever any killings happened, calling him clueless in those days are today silent when we're witnessing the worst under PMB and despite their inability to openly condemn the killings, they still have strongest irritation for the slightest dissenting voice. That's why when уσυ complain today, уσυ are either called a wailer, thieve or supporter of thieves.
There's nothing wrong in loving or supporting a leader but where is уσυr conscience when уσυr fellow citizens are being slaughtered daily and уσυ don't seem to be bothered because you're benefitting from the government or the President is from your party?
Like a friend will always say, when the plague in Aso Rock is gone, we shall count and celebrate with real hearts. Not the hypocritical demons!
But come to think of it, as the killings continue and уσυ're forbidden to criticize PMB's inaction, soon, it would also be a crime to be free! 

INDEED THERE WAS A COUNTRY.. By Saint-Olawale Jimoh

It's difficult imagining this is the same Nigeria Chief Obafemi Awolowo lived in and made free education possible. General Yakubu Gowon (Rtrd) is of Northern extraction yet established NYSC to unify and integrate the ethnic divisions through the youths. It's entirely a different story today. The labour of our past heroes and forefathers is being rubbished by today's government for selfish gains. No respect for the laws, no regard for human rights, no interest of the nation at heart. We pervert justice for selfish reasons and have no regard for human lives. 

Our forefathers would be weeping in their graves seeing what our leaders in the 21st century have turned governance to. No conscience. No legacy. We build fake and padded rice pyramid to deceive the world that we have excelled in rice production. We build substandard roads, schools and hospitals all for profit at the expense of human life. The new Ijebu Ode pedestrian bridges constructed less than 3 years ago had undergone series of repairs and we say we are better than our forefathers? 

Concerned organizations would donate food items and other relief materials for Nigerian orphans, widows and displaced people, but some well-known and rich government officials would divert the items for private use and sell the remaining ones for profit. Yet some credible Nigerians in the media, would give awards of excellence to such criminals. 

Today, many little children are plagued with unknown diseases and illness because our market places are littered with imported substandard products, fake drugs and expired baby food unfit for human consumption yet we have security operatives at our various borders. 

Nigeria has never been this unsecured in history. At the slightest excitement Fulani herdsmen can kill уσυ and get away with it  even when security operatives are present and when уσυ make effort  to defend уσυrself, уσυ are caught by the same securities who will lecture уσυ on how to be civil and law abiding. As it stands today, cattle have freedom of movement and food security than Nigerian citizens.

The likes of late Yakubu Gowon, Nnamdi  Aziikwe, Tafawa Balewa are de-tribalized and selfless leaders who had genuine interest of the nation at heart. Chief Obafemi Awolowo built Cocoa House not in his hometown nor considered Unife (OAU) better situated in his community. Today, we have a national head who wants all juicy and key sectors headed by people from his hometown regardless of their experience and educational background. Indeed there was a country!

WHEN IN DOUBT, LEAVE OUT! By Saint-Olawale Jimoh

    I'm still researching if there's anywhere in Nigeria the youths have been hired to do untold damages to the names of political opponents than Ogun State. The magnitude of falsehood being dished out on daily basis by some hired youths especially on the social media is sickening. The reputation уσυ struggled to build for years can be pulled down in one ∂αy by someone who didn't have the faintest idea of all уσυ went through to achieve the height.

     I have seen damages done to the image of Hon Oladipupo Adebutu despite his unparalleled strides in grassroots politics and tireless efforts in putting smile on the faces of Ogun people through his many life-enriching programmes.

      Few years ago, I authored a lengthy article to counter a post in which the immediate past governor of Ogun State, His Excellency Otunba Justus Daniel was alleged to have ordered the killings of over 200 students of Olabisi Onabanjo University. It was intellectually annoying and I was compelled to react based on the fact that I was still in same institution the period they claimed the killings took place. I had equally read a post where a governorship candidate of Labour Party in the last election, Mr Sina Kawonise, a successful journalist and former Commissioner of Information, was accused of stealing 50 litres of diesel oil from a parked truck.

These havocs were done by some hired youths and each time I read such posts, I asked myself, "for how much?"

    Otunba Gbenga Daniel for instance, toiled hard to earn the title, 'Architect of Modern Ogun State' yet part of the reasons his administration lost it in the court of public opinion in spite of his unbeatable records was largely due to the activities of these hired miscreants.

Thank God for the likes of Baaroyin Dayo Rufai,who managed to investigate the recent rumour of Amosun suspending the Olu of Ilaro and found it to be untrue. I'm not a fan of Governor Ibikunle Amosun but the allegation is a height of political insanity and it has got to stop. Unfortunately, majority of those in the business don't understand the implications of these unholy practices.

 I know a few persons who went behind bars for helping to share unconfirmed and untrue informations on the social media. Уσυ necessarily don't need to be the author of such posts, by mere re-sharing, уσυ deserve same punishment as the original writer.

To the amateurs in this business, I beseech them to check their facts and confirm from their information source before sharing any information online and as for the professionals, please don't join to spread lie. Remember the creed: if in doubt, leave out!

Attachments area

The 2017 JOHN BUNYAN Award for Creative Writing

Тhanк уσυ Nigerians!
It's a great honour to be announced the winner of an award named after a legend and genius. JOHN BUNYAN wrote the most read novel of all time and second most read book in history. The Bible being the most read. 
His book, The Pilgrim's Progress, has been translated into more languages than any other book apart from the Bible. Now I believe Richard Bash who said, 'a professional writer is an amateur who didn't quit!'
http://www.tribuneonlineng.com/winners-emerge-synw-writing-com
petition/
http://rcgreene.com/index.php/2017/10/26/winners-emerge-in-synw-
writing-competition/
http://www.latestnigeriannews.com/news/5084828/winners-emerge-i
n-synw-writing-competition.html
http://press.com.ng/news/winners-emerge-in-synw-writing-
competition/

TEN KINGS, TEN ERAS (A Message To People In Power At The Moment) By Saint-Olawale Jimoh

 This article is not intended to bring anybody's name to disrepute, especially my subject who is a former lawmaker in Ogun State, rather it's meant to re-orientate those in power at the moment who think they'll reign forever. The incident that prompted this piece sticks so vividly to mind as if it happened yesterday and I'm more compelled to share it because I know there are lessons to be learnt. 
 In life, we are made for others. Nothing in nature lives for itself. River doesn't drink its own water; trees don't eat their own fruits, the sun shines for the earth and flowers don't spread fragrance for themselves. Living for others is a divine arrangement and therein lies the secret of successful living. The responsibility becomes higher when уσυ are occupying an elective position. But over the years, the reverse has always been the case for man. I know a good number of exceptionally gifted young ones out there who lost traction because the privileged persons who God put around them failed to offer helping hands when needed.  
  In 2007, I obtained Ogun State Civil Service (OGSCSC) Employment form and upon returning the properly filled form, the woman at the desk called me aside and hinted that except I attached a letter or note from a prominent politician or any important person who is relevant to the ruling government, my form will be left untreated and eventually discarded like thousands of others.
  When I shared my experience after arriving home it was suggested I visit the only State House of Assembly member from my consistuency. Under the scorching sun of that Thursday afternoon, I arrived at his hometown and I was shown his place, a palatable and sprawling edifice. The security at the gate told me Honourable only came home on weekends and that I needed to file an appointment first. If my request to see him is considered and approved then I will be given an appointment date. I filled the necessary papers and determined to check back in two days time. I arrived the second time only to be told at the gate Honourable has not started attending to the pending appointment requests and my case was even different because I only applied two days ago. I told the security my reason for wanting to see him and how urgent it was but he told me he was following instruction, so I kept my calm. For about five weeks, I was always present at his place but the security told same story. Yet, he was the best person I needed for the task considering the fact that he had just been made the Deputy Speaker.
   Few days after, the OGCSC Employment interviews were conducted and I attended, though uninvited. Nothing happened thereafter and I wasn't expecting any miracle because I was never even invited.
  Weeks after, at the old HAT Cybercafe, opposite Ijebu-Ode Central Mosque, I bumped into an old friend who claimed he has the Honourable's link. What he had was only the e-mail address and I gladly took it. It wasn't useful anymore, but I needed to get in touch with him and let him realised how unkind he had been to the people he's representing. I poured out my mind in the mail I sent him. Of course, I didn't get any response from him and I wasn't expecting any. 
     In 2015, something happened. Shortly before the last general election, myself, Comrade Olalekan Adeleye, AfricaWee Tunde, Da Silva, Comrade Kayode Okeowo (Ikenga), Mr Jamiu Olododo, Gbobaniyi Femi Davies and few others were in a meeting with Otunba Gbenga Daniel (OGD), the immediate former Governor of Ogun State at his Sagamu residence, suddenly, a lady walked-in to inform OGD that a visitor was standing outside at the corridor, waiting to see him. His name was mentioned and it turned out to be the Honourable I begged to see because of recommendation letter many years ago. The lady went back to inform him OGD was in the middle of an important meeting and that he could wait if he wanted. 
    We spent about two hours after the message came and as we dispersed from the meeting into the corridor, I found the man still waiting. He looked terrified and exhausted. He was simply the image of former self. I didn't have information about what he came for, but it was obvious he needed help. I never imagined he could hang around the corridor for that hours and I reckoned it would shock him to discover we were the reason he waited outside. Fact is, he wasn't relevant anymore. At first, I wanted to go introduce myself to him and remind him of his sins but I realised it would be uncalled-for to add to his problem.
     As I journeyed back home that evening, I pondered on the days one had to fill forms to see this man. Nobody reigns forever and that's why ten era is for ten kings and as our people in the Northern Nigeria would put it, "Seriki Ngoma, Sanmani Ngoma!"  

ON THE #NOTTOOYOUNGTORUN PROJECT By Saint-Olawale Jimoh

  The youths of my generation have been taken for granted for too long by our 'Retired-But-Not-Tired set of leaders. They have exhausted their times and are already using part of ours. Regrettably, a good number of widely acknowledged bright minds amongst us don't see anything wrong in that. A well respected Facebook friend of mine has started propagating 'Atiku Abubakar 2019 Project' and I asked him via email, 'when will it be our turn?' The major problems facing our youths today is the unwillingness to think critically and independently and the lust for peanuts from those ruling us. 
  The is one of the reasons the likes of IBB believe Nigerian youth cannot rule this nation. But the overwhelming statistical evidence is there that we have made much of our progress while under the leadership of young Nigerians. Most of our landmark progress was made while we were led by young people who used their dynamic and agile ability to bring positive changes to Nigeria. Gen Yakubu Gowon kept nigeria one and built a National Electricity Grid (which we are still making efforts to improve on till date), many Federal Universities and NYSC as a young man in his 30s. General Muritala Muhammed gave his famous 'Africa Has Come Of Age' speech as well as envisioned the need for a new and befitting Federal Capital for Nigeria in his 30s and our own General Olusegun Obasanjo became the first military ruler in Africa to voluntarily hand over power to a democratically elected civilian administration as a young man. 
    We deserve and desire greater participation in how our political 'leaders' plan our future. It's working in Canada; it has started in France and we cannot to be left behind!

TRAVAILS OF THE MENTALLY COLONIZED QUISLINGS
By Saint-Olawale Jimoh

 One African adage says the eyes of the frogs cannot prevent sheep from drinking water from the river. We cannot because of the vituperations of the disappointed progressives close our eyes to abnormalities and allow it continue unaddressed. A good number of right and forward-thinking Nigerians have succeeded in making enemies for themselves for hitting the nails on the head especially on issues that widely acknowledged bright minds shied away from meddling into.
 I know a couple of disgruntled facebook friends who quietly unfriend me based on my posts and quite vividly, I remember a former classmate whom we both attended Olabisi Onabanjo University and Gateway Petro-Gas Institute who told me he hated me after I authored an article titled, `THE TRUTH THESE PROGRESSIVES NEVER TOLD BUHARI` shortly after the general elections. Today, the company he works for is closing down already because it depends largely on importation for its raw materials which the government he tirelessly fought for practically made impossible.
  Up till now only the unrepentant Buharists, majority of whom are here in the Southwest  believe a he-goat can be milked. They sold him to us. They promised us what Buhari himself never assured them. With massive deployment of propaganda mercenaries, they forced their candidate down our throat and it worked. When the story of how we got here would be written, they will not be forgotten. Regrettably, they haven't given up. They are still bragging..
   Few months ago, someone shared a story on this medium about how his neighbour, a die-hard supporter of this APC-led government was ready to fight anyone who dare criticize this regime. He lived in Ogun State. First, he lost his job because the company he worked for couldn't survive under this harsh economic condition.
Again, his first son who wrote the last WAEC couldn't get his result because Amosun was owing WAEC at the tιмє and as such forfeited his admission into the higher institution of his choice for that period and to make matter worse, his two other children who he withdrew from private schools to public schools were sent back home because of school fees which were a little lesser than what they paid in private schools. Interestingly, this man still fought a neighbour while defending Buhari in the evening of same ∂αy his children were sent back home.
   All around us, there are people like this and if уσυ are unfortunate enough to engage them intellectually, уσυ will begin to imagine at what point in tιмe did their God-given, well wired brain cells get replaced with sawdust. While we daily struggle to adapt to the changes this government has got to offer us, some of our leaders from Southwest have again started campaigning and promoting another Northern candidate (a former national leader whose tenure in office was characterised with imbalances and corruption) to continue from 2019. This is democracy, they're free to make their choices but today's action is tomorrow's history and as I earlier mentioned, when the story of how we got into this mess would be written, their names shall be remembered!

OTUNBA GBENGA DANIEL'S ANNUAL THANKSGIVING AT ABRAHAM TABERNACLE: THE LESSON I LEARNT. By Saint-Olawale Jimoh

OTUNBA GBENGA DANIEL'S ANNUAL THANKSGIVING AT ABRAHAM TABERNACLE: THE LESSON I LEARNT
By Saint-Olawale Jimoh

 The recent annual thanksgiving service hosted by Otunba Gbenga Daniel (OGD), the Asiwaju Onigbagbo of Remo Christians and former Governor of Ogun State at The Baptist International Worship Centre (Abraham Tabernacle) in Sagamu further reinforced in me that whatever God planted cannot be uprooted. I remember Dr (Mrs) Tomi Soboyejo once wrote that, 'the meanings of OGD's name is the key to understanding the man and his driving force'. She mentioned OGD's name is deeply rooted in God and God’s values and this was again corroborated in a sermon delivered by one of the invited guest speakers, Pastor Femi Emmanuel who equally mentioned he had been OGD's admirer for many years and commended his effort in building such a gigantic edifice as a place of worship.

   This prodigiously talented former Governor of Ogun State, Otunba Gbenga Daniel was for more than five times in the news in 2016 for various issues. One of such was when he was mentioned as one of those in the race for PDP national chairmanship seat with the likes of Chief Bode George, Raymond Dokpesi and Jimi Agbaje, the PDP Governorship Candidate for Lagos State in the last elections. Of all these people, OGD was more discussed especially on the social media and throughout the period, I took tιмe to follow the reactions and comments of the antagonists who in their comments indirectly posited OGD was no longer relevant politically, yet they managed to be concerned with all that has to do with him.

  Some of these people still made it to the venue of the thanksgiving in order to use the programme as a barometer for assessing whatever was left of OGD's crowd-pulling capacity but they were disappointed. The programmed was billed to start by 11am and I arrived at the venue a little earlier but I could hardly find a seat. By 11:30pm, the entire church auditorium was completely filled up. I saw great and magnificent personalities who arrived at about midday and couldn't find where to seat. I had to vacate my seat for Colonel MKO Awokoya (Rtd), a prominent member of OGD's age group (Egbe Bobakeye) and a former Rector of Gateway Petro-Gas Institute.

   In attendance were prominent traditional rulers from Southwest and beyond, Pastors and many church leaders. There were also in attendance Senator Musiliu Obanikoro, Senator Lekan Mustapha, Chief Biyi Otegbeye, Senatorial candidate, Ogun West 2015, Hon Kayode Amusan, former House of Rep member, Alhaji Sarafa Tunji Ishola, former Minister of Mines and Steel, Chief Gboyega Isiaka, former Managing Director, Gateway Holdings, Hon Ladi Adebutu, Chairman, House Committee on Rural Development, Dr Remi Bakare, Hon Eddy Olafeso, Chairman, PDP Southwest and many others.
    It was a glorious and colourful event which witnessed the gathering of those who stood with him over the years; those who ran away and those who stood on the fringe. All were there to celebrate with this Nigeria's Apostle of grassroots politics. Truly a house built with spittle gets destroyed by the dews ONLY the one planted by GOD stands the test of tιмe!

L-A-D-O: The Tallest Of All. By Saint-Olawale Jimoh

 

 I have read so much about rich and successful people, Carlos Hefu, Imeida Marcus, Warren Buffet, Mark Rich, Harry Akande and other financial giant tribes tagged 'self-made' in Brett & Kate McKay's book, '25 of the Greatest Self-Made Men in American History'.
Then I bumped into late Oluwo Deinde Fernandez Anthonio's story. He was obsessionally rich, yet less publicized and the fact that Dele Momodu had to queue for ten years before having access to this late billionaire was the reason I was more interested in his story. I read he funded and sponsored two past American presidents. He had nine private jets and a large parcel of land full of diamond in Angola. His yacht named 'Yemoja' on the sea, used to be a tourist centre and meeting point for world leaders. He was a good friend of former American Presidents, John Fitzgerald Kennedy and George Bush; a close ally of late Mobutu Seseko, late Nelson Mandela and many others.
    I lost interest in his stories when I didn't read of any significant effort he made to assist the less privilege. This magnificent being had no tangible contribution to his immediate environment and humanity in general. Those who took pain to impact on their immediate communities and society at large needs our commendation to encourage them do more. Regrettably, those who read stories that put such people in good light would label the author 'paid agent' for writing about them.
     I got several messages in my facebook inbox after my first article about Hon. Oladipupo Adebutu (LADO) where I was commended for a job well done. Sadly enough, there was someone  who saw things differently. He sent me a lengthy but hate-filled epistle about LADO. The critic offerred selfish reasons why I shouldn't support Hon. Adebutu for whatever reason. His baseless points made me researched more about the person of Hon. Oladipupo Adebutu and to be perfectly honest, my findings made me fall in love with the sterling qualities of this distinguished Remo son.
    I then concluded hate is a nothing but a sickness. People hate out of envy. The dedicated hater wants to do what the object of their hate is doing. They want to be the person they hate but they simply and traditionally can't be him. Those attacking LADO on social media are being sponsored by those who couldn't do what the Adebutus are known for.
    Let me quickly reiterate here that this is not a campaign. This piece is simply based on what I gathered and observed and my findings made me rate him the best. One could write a book about the countless number of community-based developmental projects he started and completed single-handedly. The Civic Centre at Ikenne, the Sport Pavilion at Federal Government Girls College Sagamu and the ICT Centre at Ilishan were built by this Remo-born philanthropist. I equally gathered he's the brain behind the Nupe Community Mosque in Sagamu. He alone acquired a land and built a community primary school in Imuti-Ogijo. In conjunction with SMEDAN, he distributed vehicles, tricycles and motorcycles to many youths around Remo axis so much that wherever уσυ turn today in the entire Remo area, there would always be exotic cars and tricycles with the inscription 'Lado Empowerment'.
    Over 50 communities in Remo alone were provided with transformers courtesy of this lawmaker. The other ∂αy, following complaints he got from people, he mobilized graders to fix some roads in Sagamu town. One of such roads is in Ayegbami area of the town. While the repair was going on, the APC-controlled Sagamu Local Government considered it an insult seeing a private citizen doing what government termed 'a huge challenge' ordered that the work be stopped. All these happened when he wasn't even in public office. As at last month, I scooped more than 200 students across Remo zone are on his scholarship.
  Today, of all those arrogantly parading themselves as political giants and aspirants in Ogun today none has the parallel records. If tomorrow he chooses to contest for governorship seat, it would make a whole lots of sense afterall, of all the known aspirants for same seat, he's standing
tallest in all ramifications. Watson said 'he who constantly remembers the needy is on his own a nation builder'.