Don't forget the ladder that took you up, Showunmi tells Fubara

Segun Showunmi 

A former Peoples Democratic Party governorship candidate in Ogun State, Otunba Segun Showunmi, has urged Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State not to forget the ladder that took him to the top, urging him to be wary of the antics of hypocrites as he clocks 50.

Showunmi said that while he would never support anyone playing God in the life of another person, Fubara should, however, not forget those who held the ladder for him while climbing up and must therefore prioritise good governance above every other consideration.

The PDP leader disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday, issued to rejoice with the Rivers governor on the occasion of his 50th birthday. 

Showunmi urged Fubara to "Beware of friends who scream your praises, and never forget to always find space to reconnect with yourself, within yourself.

"It is the nature of people to praise today and curse immediately when the tides turn and you have fewer favours to dispense. It is especially so in that environment where you operate. 

"I have been around long enough to see them for the hypocrites they are, nevertheless, I trust that you will take things in your strides."

The PDP leader disclosed that Fubara must always remember that he is governor today by the efforts of men and the grace of God, he must therefore use the enviable position to impact his space and do as much good as he can to all that comes his way.

Showunmi said, "Amongst the words of Gen. Ibrahim Babangida that have stayed with me and will stay with me forever is what I wish to gift you on the occasion of your Golden jubilee. 

"He is said to have said that when climbing onto the top of the leadership ladder, someone or some people own the ladder you use to climb and that as you climb they become smaller in one's eyes for you are elevated by the ascension.

"They will keep their ladder, the top will get very hot for you at some point as it has for all at the top sometimes, if you treat the owners of the ladder mindfully, they will produce the ladder for your climb down otherwise they will leave you to jump down with its attendant consequences."

Showunmi added that Fubara must therefore put in his best in leadership, and create new leaders for the greatness of Rivers State while the Almighty God who is a mighty man of battle will continue to uphold his government and family.

Amosun a positively stubborn politician — Gbenga Adeoye

A financial expert, Gbenga Adeoye, has congratulated Senator Ibikunle Amosun, describing him as a positively stubborn politician.

In a statement, Adeoye said Amosun has remained positively stubborn as he moves closer to age 70.

Adeoye likened Amosun to former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who he said he never shifted focus.

“As Senator Ibikunle Amosun move closer to age 70; he has remained positively stubborn as a politician. A few times I interacted with him; he showed a high level of courage and a strong stand for whatever he believes in. I can then describe him as a POSITIVELY STUBBORN POLITICIAN.

“Anyway; we have Baba OBJ also as a father in Egbaland who does not shift his focus, and he is never afraid to be the only one with a different view. Perhaps; for OBJ; I can understand him as a Soldier, but for Amosun; a civilian; it took special study for me to understand his philosophy,” Adeoye said.

He added that Amosun does not shift ground if he believes in something, stressing that he does not pretend about his choice in any matter.

Adeoye spoke further: “He does not act like a chameleon. If Amosun tells you he is going to Sapon, go to Sapon; you will meet him there, even if that Sapon appears dangerous in terms of what you think is achievable there.

“When he was embarking on the Landmark projects in Ogun State; he once visited my mentor; Dr. Onaolapo Soleye among other consultations or what could be called notifications to explain why he must demolish some houses to make sure Abeokuta wore the right look of a state capital.

“The elders were worried about his demolition plans, but he convinced them and he succeeded. He did the same at Sagamu and Ijebu Ode. Those roads and bridges are still standing today.

“What baffled me at a time was his support for a candidate for a governorship and I kept wondering how a man could be so determined to go in a particular direction and invest time and money yet some of us felt that candidate may not win, but he does not shake by your views or assumptions.

I now went further to do research into what was his motivation for any goal he wants to pursue; then I discovered he has a slogan that pushes him in anything he does- ’EYI OWU AWI, TOLUWA LASE'. (No matter what men say God's will shall be the final reality") What a high level of faith.

“I pray that as he celebrates his 67th birthday; May God honour his faith and trust in all his pursuits both in business and politics. 

“May God give him the good health required to support his age while I charge him to now behave as Baba 70 since he is 3 years to 70, meaning he cannot walk from his house to Ita Eko or to Ijaye and to Ake Palace like before.

“He should also become soft and flexible just like I told one of our Babas like him to slow down and be soft towards anyone he feels is not doing well by advising them on what to do and leave the rest.

Happy birthday Senator Omolaja Ibikunle Amosun, wishing him peace and daily joy.

Let's review Egba politics in 2027, Showunmi tells Amosun at 67

An Egba chief, Segun Showunmi, has congratulated the former Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, on his 67th birthday, calling for the review of Ogun Central politics as 2027 approaches.

While appreciating Amosun for the arcade ground under construction in Ake palace, Showunmi, said it is time for Amosun to encourage a political review of Ogun Central, especially with 2027 in view. 

The PDP chieftain noted that Egba's legislative representation right now is very weak compared to its peers in Ogun East and especially Ogun West. 

According to him, the zone must work hard to correct this going forward.

He said it is expedient to put forward better materials to get the best representation.

His words: 

Happy Birthday Sen Ibikunle Amosun. On the occasion of this particular birthday of yours, I find my mind in deep reflection on your trajectory in politics especially your immense contributions to our homestead Ogun Central.

I want to thank you for the huge financial support to the ongoing project in the arcade of the Ake Palace Ground. It becomes more needing of mention for I am aware that even after office the project has continued to enjoy your generosity. 

As we proceed I believe it is time for you to encourage a political review of Ogun Central relative to how we play with 2027 in view. 

There is no begging the issue that our legislative representation right now is very weak compared to our peers in Ogun East and especially Ogun West. 

We must work very hard to correct this going forward. I think that it is expedient that we put forward better materials less we mope who'd the other senatorial district get their deserving rewards as a result of the quality of members put forward. 

Reflect on this as we sustainably plan the future. Many Happy Returns. 

Today Ajiri Omo’ye. Omo wa ni Ile Akinbola Itoko Abeokuta.

Egba will produce next Ogun governor – Chief Mustapha

High Chief Mustapha Abdul-Hakeem, a chieftain of the All Progressive Congress (APC) and convener of Egba Agenda 2027, has restated his commitment to supporting an Egba-born candidate for the Ogun State governorship position in the 2027 election.

This was made known while speaking with newsmen in Abeokuta after his induction into the prestigious Abeokuta Club.

Th All Progressive Congress Chieftain from Ward 5 in Abeokuta South local Government Area of Ogun State said that the group will not renege in ensuring that the Ogun state government house is occupied by an Egba indigene in 2027.

While responding to the synergy between Abeokuta Club and the Egba Agenda Group, Chief Mustapha explained that Abeokuta Club is a revered institution that brings Egba elites together to foster development in the land and promote the cultural heritage of the Egbas. 

He further explained that the agenda of the Abeokuta Club aligns with the objectives of Egba Agenda Group, which is to promote the interests of all Egbas both home and abroad.

He posited that his contribution to the development of Egba land was the reason for being dragged into the Abeokuta Club. 

The Club which was founded in Nigeria has notable and well-meaning Egba Indigenes from all walks of life as members.

The induction ceremony was well attended by All Progressive Congress Party faithfuls, Egba chiefs, family, and well-wishers of Chief Mustapha.

CAGS Iperu old students condole Oriyomi-Onanuga's family, constituents

Members of the Christ Apostolic Grammar School Old Students Association (CAGSOSA) have expressed sadness over the passing of Rt. Hon. Adewunmi Oriyomi-Onanuga, who until her demise represented the Sagamu/Ikenne/Remo North Federal Constituency and served as the Deputy Chief Whip at the Federal House of Assembly, Abuja.

Her former schoolmates sympathised with her family and constituents, praying God give them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

“On behalf of the National President, Mr. Armstrong 'Tope Akintunde, the National Executives, and all members of CAGSOSA extend our heartfelt condolences to the members of the Federal House of Assembly, the people of Ogun State—especially her constituency—and her immediate family.

“This is an irreplaceable loss not only to her family but to all who knew and were impacted by her remarkable service and dedication to the development of her constituency and beyond.

“We pray for the peaceful repose of her soul and that God grants her family and loved ones the strength and fortitude to bear this great loss,” a statement signed by Prince Gaffar Adesoga Owokalade, said.

Dapo Abiodun Continuity Agenda mourns Oriyomi-Onanuga

The Convener and the entire members of the Dapo Abiodun Continuity Agenda have commiserated with the family Rt. Hon. Adewunmi Oriyomi-Onanuga over her sudden death.

They also sympathised with the good Sagamu/Ikenne/Remo North Federal Constituency whom the lawmaker represented at the House of Assembly until her death on Wednesday, January 15, 2025.

In a statement, DACA convener, Armstrong 'Tope Akintunde, said Oriyomi-Onanuga, popularly recalled that Ijaya until her death, was the Deputy Chief Whip, Federal House of Representatives, Abuja.

“We are saddened by this irredeemable loss because we are not unaware of her major contributions to the development of her constituency through medical outreach, agricultural intervention programmes and advocacy for widows and the less privileged as well as proper education for the girl child.

“As we mourn her passing, we take solace in the Almighty God that our separation is temporal, and that her legacies will speak further many years after her demise.

“Let me mention that her political sagacity, business acumen and intellectual contribution to national issues at the Green chamber will be truly missed, we pray that the Almighty God grant her family and the entire people of Ogun State, the fortitude to bear this immense loss. May her soul find solace in God,” he concluded.

Gbenga Adeoye Mourns Cash Madam

Abeokuta, Ogun State – Dr. Gbenga Adeoye, a prominent figure in Abeokuta, is mourning the loss of the legendary businesswoman and philanthropist, Cash Madam, who passed away in the early hours of the morning.

In a heartfelt statement released on behalf of the Adeoye family of Lemo Compound, Erunwon, Ake, Abeokuta, Dr. Adeoye paid tribute to the fearless business guru, describing her as a woman whose influence and legacy transcended generations. He described Cash Madam as a “woman like a man,” noting her unmatched boldness and fearless approach to life and business.

Dr. Adeoye expressed his sorrow, stating that her passing has left the community in shock, especially after the recent loss of another influential figure, Iyalode Alaba Lawson. He fondly remembered his numerous interactions with Cash Madam, particularly on business and land matters, and admired her clarity of purpose and determination.

“Her ability to embrace the name 'Cash Madam' without hesitation was a testament to her fearless character,” Dr. Adeoye wrote, acknowledging her unwavering commitment to success. Her legacy, he noted, continues to inspire many, with songs and tributes pouring in to honor her life and achievements.

Dr. Adeoye also highlighted the way Cash Madam instilled values of giving and hard work in her children, with her son, Engr. Mutiu Adebowale, serving as a true reflection of her spirit. He commended Engr. Adebowale’s dedication to community service and his support for institutions like ICAN in Abeokuta.

In closing, Dr. Adeoye prayed for comfort and strength for Cash Madam’s family and the entire community as they come to terms with the loss. He also called for the emergence of new fearless women to follow in her footsteps, ensuring that her legacy continues to shape the future of Egbaland, Ogun State, and Nigeria.

"Adieu, Cash Madam," he concluded, honoring a woman whose life will forever be etched in the history of Egbaland.

Dr. Adeoye’s statement reflects the deep sense of loss felt by the entire community, as Cash Madam’s passing marks the end of an era of bold leadership and entrepreneurial success.

Obasanjo Urges Egbas to Make Abeokuta Model City

 

In a heartfelt New Year address, former President Olusegun Obasanjo called on all Egbas to unite in transforming Abeokuta into a city so comfortable and appealing that visitors to Ogun State will have no reason to leave. 

The statement was made during a celebratory gathering at the residence of Dr. Gbenga Adeoye in Ibara GRA, Abeokuta, where prominent figures from various sectors came together to usher in the New Year.

Chief Obasanjo emphasised the importance of making Abeokuta an ideal place to live, noting its proximity to Lagos as a unique advantage. He expressed his commitment to ensuring the city continues to develop, offering a conducive and elegant environment for residents and visitors alike. "We must ensure that anyone who visits Abeokuta will find it so comfortable that they would not want to leave," he said.

The former President also acknowledged Dr. Gbenga Adeoye's significant contributions to the development of Egbaland and Ogun State, praising his continuous efforts to improve the region's social and economic landscape.

As part of the New Year celebrations, Pastor Funmi Kushimo (Apostle) delivered a sermon, urging attendees to place their faith in God for the year ahead. The message resonated with the crowd, encouraging them to trust in divine guidance as they navigated the year.

In attendance were notable figures such as Hon. Kayode Amusan, Senator Gbenga Obadara, Mr. Tunde Aroyeun, Chief Shina Luwoye, Chief Tokunbo Odebunmi, and many others, all of whom gathered to mark the occasion with Dr. Gbenga Adeoye and his family.

The New Year's gathering, which included family members, local dignitaries, business leaders, and close friends, underscored the spirit of unity and collective responsibility for making Egbaland a better place to live. Dr. Adeoye, in his vote of thanks, expressed gratitude to Chief Obasanjo and all the guests, highlighting the significance of their presence as a show of love and solidarity.

In closing, Dr. Adeoye encouraged all to remain kind-hearted in the new year and continue contributing to the betterment of Ogun State and Nigeria as a whole. He also shared a prophetic message that 2025 would be a year of the manifestation of God's power and glory, promising that the year ahead would surprise many with unexpected blessings and divine interventions.