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  • Flood of tributes for missionary, Ruth Elton, at 80

    Flood of tributes for missionary, Ruth Elton, at 80

    No distance was too long for admirers of Mama Ruth Elton, a British born misionary, particularly those who have benefited from her generosity and benevolence, to be part of her 80th happy birthday.  Guests came from all parts of the federation. They particularly came from towns where Mama Ruth Elton had patiently served in spreading the gospel of the Lord – from Kogi to Ondo, Oyo and Osun states. The celebrator since she was three years old had been in Nigeria when she followed her missionary parents, Pa Sydney and Mama Hannah Elton, in July1937. Since she was introduced to the Christian faith by her parents and following the consequence of the latter rain revival of the early 50s, Mama Ruth’s passion was inspiring to others. She proved herself a worthy enthusiastic assistant to her parents in spreading the gospel in many parts of the country, particularly rural communities, where residents were yet to hear of the Word of the Lord.

    The King’s Event Centre in Ilesa, Osun State, the venue of the thanksgiving service and reception, two Saturdays ago, was filled to capacity. Adorned in their best attire, the guests paid glowing tribute to  the woman described by the preacher at the thanksgiving ceremony, Rev. Mike Oye, as smallish in stature but giant in faith.

    The preacher said: “How to know the love of God is to be prepared to die to save lives. In God’s words, we are made to know ‘That he lays down his life for us live.’ So we too like Mama Ruth must be ready to lay ours too for others to live. Ruth was raised by wonderful parents. They came to suffer, to teach, to help people, first class evangelists. Ruth was raised in an environment of love, she grew under parents who lived by God’s principles.”

    Speaking further, Rev. Oye said there was an urgent need to raise children in the fear of God just as Timothy’s parents in the Bible and Ruth’s parents had done. He said Mama Ruth’s parents emphasis was not on material values but promoting Christian standards.  Chiding Christians, who laid back and doing nothing about the insurgency of the dreaded Islamic Boko Haram in the North Eastern part of the country, he said soldiers don’t sit, they go to fight, they suffer, and come back to shine after conquering the enemies.

    “Boko Haram don’t sit they go to fight, soldiers don’t sit but must go and conquer. I pity those who say Boko Haram can’t come to them in other parts of the country before the rapture. They are coming, so it’s important to go out and win souls and help others. The problem with us is being disobedient to the Word of the Lord. This smallish woman (Mama Ruth) sitting here is a giant of faith, a lioness like David fighting and receiving wounds. One of the reasons why we are not making advances is fear of suffering and love of luxury.  Even Jesus suffered. If there is any Christian not suffering for the faith, then something is wrong. Ruth Elton stands out in this regard. The Christians in the South are not talking and doing enough about evil of Boko Haram in the North. We are not helping the Christians affected by this evil. It is not pentecostalism but holiness and impeccable character that will speak to people. If not for her patience and courage, Mama Ruth would have gone back to England thirty years ago. She faced great challenges, some of which even threatened her life. So, as Christians, we are to endure persecution, suffering, difficulty.”

    Sam Kputu, the International Director of the Calvary Ministries, said: “There are two ways to spend your life. You either waste or invest it. That life is wasted that is spent just on transient things and ephemeral glories. That life is invested that is spent fulfilling God’s eternal purpose, the redemption of nations. Sister Ruth Elton, like her parents before her, is an example of a life well invested. Many servants of God in Nigeria today, as well as many churches and ministries, including ours, Calvary Ministries, are either direct or indirect fruits of the labours of the Eltons in this land.”

    According to Emeka and Bade Nwankpa  of the Intercessor For Nigeria: “The story of our lives cannot be told without the testimony of the immeasurable deposit that God made in us using Pa S. G. Elton of blessed memory. We, therefore, appreciate the Elton family more than words can describe.”

    Pastor Dejo Akande of the Christ’s Ambassadors Evangelistic Team said: “The contact with Mama Elton encouraged the interest of CAET in missions that culminated in a series of mission trips to the Okene-Keton mission field, beginning from  1988. The trip exposed us to great works Mama was doing over years, especially among the Ebiras, Bassa Komo people and others around the Middle Belt of the country.”

    Also, Bishop Joel Ejingwon of the  Gospel Assembly Intercontinental, Agasa-Okene, Kogi State asserted: “Mama, you have positively affected the lives of the entire Ebira nation and its environs through your passion for soul wining. Your labour for the kingdom gave birth to the church now known as the Gospel Assembly Intercontinental.”

    Pastor J. B. Aladega of the Kingdom Gospel Mission declared: “Sweet mother, congratulations on your 80th birthday. You have been a great blessing to your generation. Your sacrificial life and dedication to the work of the kingdom is a challenge to us. You have been a seasoning salt and light to the world. You have been shining brightly, showing the glory of God wherever you are.”

    According to President, Gospel Group, Oritamefa, Ibadan, Oyo State, Brother Yinka Olufayo: “Mama, having been born into mission by our late Papa and Mama S. G. Elton, missions colossus of note, you yourself have become mission incarnate by God’s grace and divine providence.”

    The General Overseer, Gethsemane Prayer Ministries International and National Director, Nigeria Prays, Ibadan, Rev. Moses Aransiola, enthused: “The life and ministry of the Elton family was certainly a major influence that shaped the out look of Christianity in Nigeria from the 70s right through the 80s. It laid a strong foundation for and produced many ministries that are today blazing the trail of gospel advance both locally and internationally. Pastor S. G. Elton was a rally point for many of us on the campuses then and only eternity can reveal how much we have benefitted from the grace of God on the Elton family.”

    Some of those present at the colourful event included the former deputy governor of Kogi State, Dr. Philip Salawu, Rev. Mathew Owojole from Kaduna State, Pastors Sarah and Olubi Johnson of the Scripture Pasture Christian Centre, Ibadan, Rt. Rev. Joel Ejingwon, who worked with Mama Ruth in Okene, Kogi State, Dr. Femi Soetan,  the chairman of Planning Committee for Mama Ruth 80th birthday celebration, Pastor Tokunbo Salami and wife, Funmi and other eminent men and women of God.

  • Tributes as Justice Oputa goes home

    Tributes as Justice Oputa goes home

    The sleepy community of Oguta in Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State, hometown of late eminent jurist, Justice Chukwudifu Akunne Oputa hosted an unprecedented crowd of mourners. The crowd was as large as it was made up of the crème de la crème of Nigeria who turned up to pay their last respects to the late Justice of the Supreme Court.

    Judging by the glamour and fanfare, one could easily mistake the funeral for a cultural festival. The young and old came out in large numbers to celebrate the man that brought them fame and honour.

    Traditional funeral rites befitting such a titled man were secretly done probably to escape the wrath of the church, while traditionalists added colour to the event with their bright costumes and traditional dances. Justice Oputa meant a lot to everybody.

    One elder, Udoka Okafor said Oputa was a titled man who should be given a befitting burial in line with the traditions of the land but for the fear of possible sanctions by the church, which was officially allowed to perform the burial rites. This caused the traditional aspect of the ceremony to be played down.

    At the church which is just a few poles away from the Oputas’ home, security men had a hectic time controlling the surging crowd.

    The Presiding Priest and Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Most Reverend Matthew Hassan Kukah, in his sermon, urged Nigerians to rise up in the defence of Justice and Equity, stressing that the late Oputa, during his life time was obsessed with the concept of Justice and Equity.

    He stated that the late Supreme Court Judge lived a life of patriotism and service and left legacies that are beyond his immediate family, adding that members of the Supreme Court should be taken more seriously, given their contributions to the development and stability of the nation.

    Kukah said that Oputa’s ability and capacity to manage people, is something that his people should be proud of, adding that for a man that held his kind of position to tolerate a son like Charly Boy, was a measure of his greatness.

    The cleric noted that Nigerians will remember the late Oputa in the temple of Justice this was where he excelled. “Our leaders should work for justice, equity and fairness. I believe that the history of human rights cannot be complete without mentioning the late Justice Oputa”.

    Opening the flood of tributes, President Goodluck Jonathan, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Anyim Pius Anyim, described the late Oputa as a respected public servant, patriot and internationally acclaimed jurist.

    He said: “It is on record that in his long service to our country, he distinguished himself and left behind an enviable legacy which the entire Oputa family can be rightly proud of. He was not only an outstanding legal icon, he also readily gave of himself in the service of our fatherland in the demonstration of his faith in the emergence of a strong, united and prosperous Nigeria”.

    In his condolence massage, former President Olusegun Obasanjo said Oputa served the country efficiently in various capacities throughout a distinguished career as the Judge of the High Court of the then Eastern Nigeria, from where he rose, steadily, to seat as a Justice of the Nigerian Supreme Court. Justice Oputa will be remembered as one of the pillars of the noble profession in this country.

    “Personally, I deeply value the way he handled the affairs of the Oputa Panel which I instituted in 2001 to investigate human rights abuses in Nigeria from 1979-1999. He gave it all, with commitment and a very high sense of duty, despite his short tenure as Chairman of the Panel”, he wrote.

    In her letter of condolence, the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Aloma Mariam Mukhtar, said that Oputa was a respected member of the Supreme Court bench who contributed his very best to the Court and the development of law.

    Earlier, the Imo State Government has organized a Special Day of Tribut in honour of the late jurist who was described as a pillar of justice, fairness and equity by  prominent indigenes of the State who showered encomiums on him.

    Speaking at the event which held at the International Conference Centre, the state governor, Rochas Okorocha said the late legal giant was a source of pride and honour to not only Ndigbo but the entire nation.

    He observed that the famous Oputa Panel report would have helped the nation a lot if it had been implemented, adding that Nigerians should know when to play politics and when to unite for a common goal.

    “What is important in the life of every individual is the legacy left behind and not the date of birth,” Okorocha said. “The quality of a man’s life cannot be measured by the amount of wealth he acquired while alive, but by the legacies he left behind”.

    Naming the State Judiciary complex under construction after the late Jurist, Okorocha, called on Nigerians to emulate the lives of men like Oputa, Ojukwu and Mbakwe, among others.

    The State Deputy Governor, Eze Madumere, said that Oputa lived a life that is worthy of celebration, priding that his contributions to the development of the judiciary and landmark judgments will continue to speak volume about him.

    The Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Uwajumogu described the late Oputa as a colossus and an eminent jurist, who died while upholding the integrity and sanctity of the legal profession.

    The Speaker stated further that Justice Oputa remained one of the greatest and celebrated jurists Imo State and Nigeria ever produced, maintaining that his eloquence in the delivery of landmark judgments, as well as his good mastery of the Law earned him the title, ‘Socrates’ of the Supreme Court of Nigeria.

    He said that the late legal Icon, who was versed in the art of philosophy, letters and oratory, was also a devout Christian and regretted that Justice Oputa passed on at a time when the state and the Country were ready to tap from his enormous wealth of experience.

  • Olu-Browns pays tributes as Ateke Tom celebrates birthday

    Olu-Browns pays tributes as Ateke Tom celebrates birthday

    As Niger Delta leader, Chief Ateke Tom celebrated his birthday last Saturday, his close friend and alies, Chief Olu-Browns Olubunmi, CEO Steroil Marine Services Limited and Mr. Raymond Morgan pay glowing tributes to the man who alongside others fought for the ongoing emancipation of the Niger Delta region.

    Ateke Tom took up arms against the federal government of Nigeria to fight against the degradation of the Niger Delta region, a situation that has led to the improvement of lives and infrastructure as well as drew more development to the region.

    Brown, in a tribute, described Ateke as a “powerful force to reckon with in the South South region of Nigeria. Ateke Tom has being a good friend he merits all the best wishes on his birthday. He is the most amazing person I have ever met. He is a true friend and brother,  that is why I am wishing him a very happy birthday to you.”

    Chief Olu-Browns is of the opinion that the Niger Region is better off after the struggles by Chief Ateke Tom. “Yes, the region has witnessed tremendous development all thanks to the struggles by Chief Ateke Tom. The region owes him a lot because the struggle is ongoing until the Niger Delta is totally emancipated and her people enjoying their resources.”

    Ateke Tom is a philanthropist, he has been supporting people from all sectors especially entertainers and Nollywood practitioners. His doors are opened 24 hours for any entertainer either in Nollywood or the music scene. Everyone, at least almost everyone at his Palatial home in Okrika Rivers State had one issue or the other that they want Tom to solve ranging from the fund to shoot a movie, re-launch a music career or shoot a big budget music video among many others.

    “Ateke Tom has touched many lives and he does not get tired of doing that,” Chief Olu-Browns said adding, “You never leave his presence the same way you came. You must have a smile on your lips. That is why I am wishing this wonderful man a happy birthday and praying that God gives him many more years to be kind to humanity. Happy birthday Father!”

  • Lar: Buhari, Ihedioha, governors, CAN pay tributes to ‘apostle of peace’

    Lar: Buhari, Ihedioha, governors, CAN pay tributes to ‘apostle of peace’

    MORE tributes have continued to pour in for the late first civillian governor of Plateau State, Chief Solomon Daushep Lar, who died in the United States on Wednesday. He was 80 .

    Former Head of State and leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Maj. Gen. Muhammadu Buhari, yesterday said Nigeria and Nigerians will miss the politics without bitterness played by the late Chief Lar.

    In a condolence letter to the widow of the late politician, Mary, a professor, Gen. Buhari recalled that Lar handled various challenging national assignments to conclude that the circumstances of our initial interaction following our assumption of power in 1983 could have been more auspicious.

    The former Head of State said: “I received the news of the transition of Chief Solomon Lar, former Governor of Plateau State in the Second Republic, former Minister of Police Affairs and the pioneer Chairman of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) with great sadness.

    “My sympathy goes to his family, friends, relatives and political associates who will feel most strongly the huge void that his exit has created. May Almighty give you all the fortitude to bear this loss.

    “It has taken decades of knowing Chief Solomon Lar as he handled various challenging national assignments to conclude that the circumstances of our initial interaction following our assumption of power in 1983 could have been more auspicious.

    “Knowing him in recent years have persuaded me that we all have to do our duties to the best of our understanding believing that this country is greater than all of us. The important thing is that at the end of the day history will record his legacy as one of selfless service to his fatherland.

    “He towers among several progressives who preached and practised politics without bitterness. He carried on with a patriotic zeal in the service of his fatherland even in the face of odds. As the nation mourns, I say adieu to a man who stood by the people and remained principled when it mattered most.

    The National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP), Alhaji Bamanga Tukur, yesterday said the party would ensure a befitting burial for Chief Lar.

    Tukur, who spoke in Abuja when he briefed reporters, said the party would greatly miss Lar who was “a light in the political firmament.’’

    He said the vacuum created by the death of Lar would be difficult to fill “because he was an emancipator of the less privileged and a democrat of repute.”

    The PDP national chairman said Lar as a former Governor of Plateau and one who had always been in the corridors of power, never compromised his stance.

    “He started young as a Parliamentary Secretary and was always in the corridors of power and politics but never compromised’’, Tukur stressed.

    He said that although Lar was dead, the PDP leadership would continue to work towards ensuring enduring peace in the party.

    This, according to him, was the desire of Lar as manifested symbolically in the white handkerchief he always waved at political meetings.

    “It is a pity that Lar had gone, but we will continue to pray and ask for peace which he had already prayed for’’, Tukur said.

    He prayed God to grant his soul a peaceful rest and his family, the PDP family and the nation the fortitude to bear his loss.

    “All we can say is to pray for his family, friends and associates to take solace because it is very difficult to replace such a giant’’, Tukur said.

    Meanwhile, a condolence register had been opened at the PDP national headquarters for the late Lar.

    House Deputy Speaker Emeka Ihedioha yesterday described the late Chief Lar, as a nationalist and statesman.

    Ihedioha, in a message to the deceased’s family and the Plateau State Government, expressed deep shock over the death of the politician. He said he received the news “with pains and regrets” in far away Switzerland where he is attending the International Parliamentary Union conference.

    The Deputy Speaker, who also described Lar as a detribalised Nigerian, said Nigeria has lost one of the finest politicians the nation has ever produced, for a long time remained a link between the old and new breed politicians.

    Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi described Chief Lar, as a statesman who was passionate about the country’s development.

    Fayemi said the death of Chief Lar marked the depletion of the rank of honest and committed politicians who never saw politics as an opportunity to amass wealth but a means to serve the people.

    The Governor, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Olayinka Oyebode, said Chief Lar preached his brand of politics with maturity and candour.

    Fayemi said Chief Lar has proved beyond every reasonable doubt that it is very much possible to play politics without tarnishing one’s image and reputation.

    He noted that the deceased was never indicted of any act of fraud or corrupt enrichment by any Judicial Commission of Inquiry or Military Tribunal after he had left office.

    The Governor described Lar as an apostle of peace who never encouraged violence either in words or in actions and stood out to be counted for counsel when Plateau State was engulfed in sectarian violence some years ago.

    Fayemi pointed out that the legacies left behind by Chief Lar during his tenure as Governor of the state that has since been split into Plateau and Nasarawa states are still enduring. He added that the country would miss the wise counsel of the deceased.

    He urged the families and associates of the late former governor to be consoled by the good life he lived and the positive impact he had on his generation.

    Kaduna State Governor Muktahar Yero, who expressed sadness over the death of Chief Lar, described the former governor as “a patriotic elder statesman, who dedicated his life to the service of his people and the country.”

    According to him, history would be fair to Lar for his selfless commitment to the unity of the diverse people in the North as well as national cohesion. He said Lar’s death is a loss to the entire country and not to his immediate family or the people of Plateau State alone.

    Yero said the death of the respected elder statesman came at a time the country needed the advice and guidance of its elders in the effort of building an enduring democracy that will guarantee peace, unity and progress of the nation.

    He said: “Our hearts and prayers are with the immediate family of the late Chief Lar, as we urge them to take solace in the fact that their patriarch lived a fulfilled life of service to humanity. On behalf of the Government and the good people of Kaduna State, we wish to express our sincere condolences with the Government and the people of Plateau State over this colossal loss. We pray that God Almighty grant the soul of our late leader eternal rest and give those he left behind the fortitude to bear the loss.”

    The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) yesterday expressed sadness over the passing away of Chief Lar.

    In a statement by the Special Assistant, Media and Public Affairs, Mr. Kenny Ashaka, CAN president, Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor conveyed his heartfelt sympathy to the family of the foremost politician, the good people and government of Plateau State.

    According to him, Chief Lar lived a life wholly dedicated to peace and human happiness, a trait he said demonstrated Lar’s principles based on his exceptional skills in learning and focused self-study.

    He said:” As the first chairman of the PDP, Lar symbolised the distinctive character of politics without bitterness while improving on the democratic ideals left by Nigeria’s founding fathers.

    “As a politician and one time governor of old Plateau State, Lar did not restrict himself to the development of the then Plateau State alone, he extended his audience base, emphasising the pressing social issues of the times.

    “Nigerians and indeed the political class will surely miss him. As we pray for the repose of his soul, we express deep sympathy to the bereaved family; we also urge all the present crop of politicians to imbibe some of the great virtues that typified his life and foray into politics.

    Kogi State Governor Idris Wada described Lar’s death as a loss to the nation.

    Wada, in a statement by his Special Adviser, Media and Strategy, Mr Jacob Edi, said Lar’s invaluable contributions to national development will be missed.

    He said: “Our heart here in Kogi State goes to the immediate family of the late Chief Lar, the good people of Plateau State and the country in general.”

    The Kogi governor who described the former PDP chair as a leader, a nationalist and a great mobiliser of people, prayed God to grant him eternal rest.

    Abia State governor Theodore Orji expressed shock over the death of Chief Lar.

    In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Ugochukwu Emezue, Orji said the death of the elder-statesman occurred at a time when his valuable contributions to the nation’s development are needed.

    The governor who went down memory lane recalled the numerous achievements the late former governor recorded while in the saddle as the number one citizen of Plateau State and the focused direction he gave the ruling party.

    He said the elder statesman will be missed. Orji commiserated with Governor Jonah Jang, the people of the state and the family of the deceased over the sad event and urged them to bear the loss with fortitude.

    A former Governor of Abia State Dr. Orji Kalu, described the late Chief Lar as an accomplished humanitarian and an incomparable politician.

    Kalu said Lar’s death was a big blow to the nation as he would be sorely missed by those whose lives he touched in various ways.

    The former Governor, who described the late politician as a symbol of statesmanship, in a condolence message signed by his Special Adviser, Oyekunle Oyewumi, said: “Chief Lar was an accomplished humanitarian and a consummate politician.

    “He touched the lives of many less-privileged in the society through his philanthropic gestures.

    “He was a detribalised Nigerian, who built friendship and relationships across boundaries irrespective of age, social status, religion, race and tribe.

    “Above all, he lived a fulfilled life worthy of emulation and will be remembered for his forthrightness on national issues.”

    Former President Shehu Shagari’s adviser on National Assembly Matters, Alhaji Tanko Yakasai described Lar’s death as not only shocking but a great loss to the country and particularly Plateau State.

    Yakasai, in Kano noted that Lar would for a long time to come be remembered as a founding father and member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which he helped to nurture.

    Lar’s all-embracing attitude, according to Yakasai, would never be forgotten by all those who came in contact with him particularly the political class, who hold him in a high esteem as an elder statesman.

    As a member of the Northern People’s Congress (NPC), Yakasai noted that Lar did not discriminate against the North and the minority but carried everybody along on equal basis, which is an attribute that engendered him to everybody, irrespective of religion or race.

    The Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Prof. Bem Angwe said the death “has created a large vacuum in the hearts of Nigerians which will be difficult to fill.”

    Angwe said this in a condolence letter to the deceased’s daughter and Chairperson, House of Representatives’ Committee on Human Rights, Beni Lar.

    In a statement yesterday, NHRC’s Director, Public Affairs and Communication, Muhammad Ladan, quoted Angwe as saying that Lar’s death “is a monumental loss to the whole country politically and otherwise”.

    Reminiscing on the deceased’s life and times, Angwe said: “We, are, however consoled by the nuggets of unquantifiable legacies he has left behind.

    He prayed that God grants him eternal rest and to his family and loved ones, the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

    Governor Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso of Kano State described the death of Chef Lar as a painful loss to Nigeria.

    In a statement, by his Director of Press and Public Relations, Halilu Ibrahim Dantiye, the governor described the late Chief Lar as a dogged politician, dynamic leader and well-respected statesman. “Chief Lar was the pioneer national chairman and later chairman of the Board of Trustees of our great party, the PDP. He contributed immeasurably towards building the party and ensuring its success at all levels. We shall surely miss him”, the statement said.

    “It is painful that we have lost such an icon at this point in time but we must be consoled by the fact that Chief Lar’s life was spent in the service of mankind”, the governor lamented.

    He, therefore, prayed God to stand by the bereaved family members in this time of sorrow and grant Nigerians, particularly people of Plateau State the courage to bear the loss.

    Kwara State Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed described the death of Chief Lar as a national loss.

    Ahmed, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Alhaji Abdulwahab Oba, noted that the demise of the elder statesman is even more painful as the nation has not only been deprived of the depth of his experience as a seasoned politician but at a time when his party, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and the nation are going through real and enduring transformation.

    He said that the late politician was particularly outstanding in the country’s political terrain because he “was an adherent of political integration and inclusiveness who played a significant role in the Second Republic: He observed that the late astute politician would be remembered for his exemplary humility, vision and the maturity he brought to political leadership in the country for more than 50 years of Nigeria’s nationhood.

    The governor said that the death of Chief Lar had left a big vacuum not only in the party but in Plateau State and Nigeria as a whole and prayed God to grant him eternal rest and grant the family, the government and people of Plateau State and the nation at large the fortitude to bear the loss.

    Governor Godswill Akpabio of Akwa Ibom State expressed shock at the death of Chief Lar. He condoled with the people of Plateau State, the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) family and, indeed, all Nigerians who feel the pain of Chief Lar’s departure. He described as a “this national treasure.”

    He described the late statesman as someone who placed the national interest above his personal interest and served his nation with great passion, delight and love.

    Akpabio maintained that the duty of all his admirers in particular and Nigerians in general was to continue his work and realise his principles and values in our nation- building efforts.

    The governor said that in every situation that the late statesman found himself while he was alive, either as the first civilian governor of Plateau State or the pioneer Chairman of PDP, he acquitted himself creditably and cast his moral shadow across the nation.

    He urged his survivors to be consoled that though he is dead, the memory of his good works and labours of love Nigeria would be stenciled in the sands of time and be embalmed eternally in the sacred places of our hearts.

    Benue State Governor Gabriel Suswam has said he received with shock the passing on of Chief Lar. The governor said the departure of the elderstatesman has created a leadership vacuum in the politics of the nation especially the Northcentral geo-political zone.

    Suswam described the former Governor of Plateau State as a rare leader whose interest in politics was always to fight for the cause of the less privileged and the down-trodden hence he was referred to as the “Emancipator”.

    The late Lar, Suswam recalled, sacrificed his entire life to the service of the people and offered selfless service in all the political positions he occupied either as member of the House of Representatives, Governor of Plateau state, Minister of Police Affairs or as pioneer National Chairman of the PDP.

    He condoled with the Lar family, the government and people of Plateau state and members of the PDP across the nation over the sad incident and prayed God to grant the soul of the departed eternal rest.

  • What Obasanjo, Fayemi, Ajimobi, others said at Agagu’s day of tributes

    Eminent Nigerians on Monday eulogised former Ondo State Governor, the late Dr. Olusegun Agagu.

    They spoke at a Day of Tributes organised in honour of the politician at the International Conference Centre of the University of Ibadan (UI) in Oyo State.

    The event was organised by UI’s Department of Geology and the Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society (NMGS).

    Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who was represented by his wife, Bola, said the late Agagu should be celebrated and not mourned because he lived a fulfilled life.

    Obasanjo said: “I miss an honest adviser, a dependable associate, hardworking colleague, indomitable leader, community lover and a committed worker in the political vineyard, who brought his intellectual ability to bear in my administration.”

    He said though the late Agagu was cheated during his tenure as Ondo governor, he took it in good faith because he was a good man.

    The former president said the deceased had conquered the cheats because he would be cheated no more.

    Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi said: “A good leader will take his people to where they want to go, but a great leader will take them to where they ought to be; he was indeed a great leader.”

    He said the late Agagu proved that irrespective of their political parties, politicians could work together, if they mean well for the people.

    Ajimobi said: “In life, we envied you. In death, we also envy you, because we are not sure that people with good qualities will celebrate us when we depart. Today is a very solemn day for Oyo people. We have lost a friend, patriot, brother and resident. His decades of living in Ibadan earned him the honour of being one of us, an indigene of Oyo State.

    “From January, 1958, when he moved to Ibadan to live with his cousin, Edward Fagbohun, and schooled at the Ebenezer African Church Primary School, Oke-Ado, where he completed his primary school education in 1960, Agagu’s love for Ibadan was clear and his choice of Oyo State as his home further proved this. It was, no doubt, his love for us that was responsible for his choice in 1961 to attend the Ibadan Grammar School (IGS), where he graduated in 1967.

    “That same preference for Ibadan led him to UI in 1968, where he first opted to study Botany, but later changed to Geology and graduated in 1971. One of our brightest stars has set. Agagu represented the best of us, indeed, one of the trail blazers of professionals in the murky waters of politics.

    “At a time when the general conception was that only the worst of us participated in politics, he literally bit the bullet, removed his hallowed academic gown and mounted the rostrum to campaign for the votes of his people. I congratulate Ondo people for having had Agagu administer their state, his wife for having such an uncommon patriot as a husband and his children for the honour to have been born and sired by him.”

    Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola said the late Agagu lived a life worthy of emulation and gave himself to the pursuit of a better life for the people.

    Aregbesola said: “Agagu was unassumingly humane. He connected without collision with people. He was unassuming without being cunning; brave without being brash and pleasantly accommodating. Though death holds him down, we will always rejoice that he lived a life worthy of emulation. He shines brilliantly in the minds of eminent Nigerians, who encountered him.”

    He said the late politician supported the Southwest integration agenda and saw it as an opportunity for the region to develop economically.

    Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi said the late Agagu’s entry into politics changed the impression that only charlatans got involved in governance.

    Fayemi said: “He lit the candle and showed the pathway to some of us. The late Agagu is a man of honour and intellect. He is a true kokumo because he will live forever in our hearts. He never played the politics of bitterness and deceit.”

    Former Ogun State Governor Gbenga Daniel, who spoke on behalf of ex-Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governors in the Southwest, acknowledged Agagu’s contributions to the region’s growth as a minister and governor.

    He described the late politician as an accomplished academic, politician and a public servant par excellence, whose life was characterised by diligence, humility, commitment, loyalty, patriotism and quiet philanthropy.

    Daniel said: “The late Agagu was a consistent politician, who brought dignity, candour, decorum and loyalty to politicking. We have lost a consummate political gladiator, humanist and complete gentleman.”

  • Obasanjo, Ajimobi, others honour Agagu at day of tributes

    Obasanjo, Ajimobi, others honour Agagu at day of tributes

    •’One of our brightest stars has set’

     

    Eminent Nigerians yesterday eulogised former Ondo State Governor, Dr. Olusegun Agagu, who died on September 13 at his home in Lagos.

    Many Nigerians described him as “a quintessential politician and a bridge-builder, who lived his life in the service of humanity”.

    They said the late Agagu was a patriot and one of the foremost Yoruba leaders, who played politics without bitterness.

    They spoke at a Day of Tributes organised in honour of the politician at the International Conference Centre of the University of Ibadan (UI) in Oyo State. The event was organised by UI’s Department of Geology and the Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society (NMGS).

    Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who was represented by his wife, Bola, said the late Agagu should be celebrated and not mourned because he lived a fulfilled life.

    Obasanjo said: “I miss an honest adviser, a dependable associate, hardworking colleague, indomitable leader, community lover and a committed worker in the political vineyard, who brought his intellectual ability to bear in my administration.”

    He said though the late Agagu was cheated during his tenure as Ondo governor, he took it in good faith because he was a good man.

    The former president said the deceased had conquered the cheats because he would be cheated no more.

    Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi said: “A good leader will take his people to where they want to go, but a great leader will take them to where they ought to be; he was indeed a great leader.”

    He said the late Agagu proved that irrespective of their political parties, politicians could work together, if they mean well for the people.

    Ajimobi said: “In life, we envied you. In death, we also envy you, because we are not sure that people with good qualities will celebrate us when we depart. Today is a very solemn day for Oyo people. We have lost a friend, patriot, brother and resident. His decades of living in Ibadan earned him the honour of being one of us, an indigene of Oyo State.

    “From January, 1958, when he moved to Ibadan to live with his cousin, Edward Fagbohun, and schooled at the Ebenezer African Church Primary School, Oke-Ado, where he completed his primary school education in 1960, Agagu’s love for Ibadan was clear and his choice of Oyo State as his home further proved this. It was, no doubt, his love for us that was responsible for his choice in 1961 to attend the Ibadan Grammar School (IGS), where he graduated in 1967.

    “That same preference for Ibadan led him to UI in 1968, where he first opted to study Botany, but later changed to Geology and graduated in 1971. One of our brightest stars has set. Agagu represented the best of us, indeed one of the trail blazers of professionals in the murky waters of politics.

    “At a time when the general conception was that only the worst of us participated in politics, he literally bit the bullet, removed his hallowed academic gown and mounted the rostrum to campaign for the votes of his people. I congratulate Ondo people for having had Agagu administer their state, his wife for having such an uncommon patriot as a husband and his children for the honour to have been born and sired by him.”

    Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola said the late Agagu lived a life worthy of emulation and gave himself to the pursuit of a better life for the people.

    Aregbesola said: “Agagu was unassumingly humane. He connected without collision with people. He was unassuming without being cunning; brave without being brash and pleasantly accommodating. Though death holds him down, we will always rejoice that he lived a life worthy of emulation. He shines brilliantly in the minds of eminent Nigerians, who encountered him.”

    He said the late politician supported the Southwest integration agenda and saw it as an opportunity for the region to develop economically.

    Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi said the late Agagu’s entry into politics changed the impression that only charlatans got involved in governance.

    Fayemi said: “He lit the candle and showed the pathway to some of us. The late Agagu is a man of honour and intellect. He is a true kokumo because he will live forever in our hearts. He never played the politics of bitterness and deceit.”

    Former Ogun State Governor Gbenga Daniel, who spoke on behalf of ex-Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governors in the Southwest, acknowledged Agagu’s contributions to the region’s growth as a minister and governor.

    He described the late politician as an accomplished academic, politician and a public servant par excellence, whose life was characterised by diligence, humility, commitment, loyalty, patriotism and quiet philanthropy.

    Daniel said: “The late Agagu was a consistent politician, who brought dignity, candour, decorum and loyalty to politicking. We have lost a consummate political gladiator, humanist and complete gentleman.”

    Also at the event were former Governors Olagunsoye Oyinlola (Osun), Ayo Fayose (Ekiti) and Segun Oni (Ekiti).

    Cross River State Governor Liyel Imoke was represented by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr. Christian Ita.

    Ondo State Governor Olusegun Mimiko was represented by his Chief of Staff, Dr. Kola Ademujimi. Wives of former governors: Mrs. Kemi Alao-Akala (Oyo), Mrs. Feyisetan Fayose (Ekiti) and Mrs. Mutiat Ladoja (Oyo) were also present.

    They all prayed for the repose of the late Agagu’s soul.

  • Tributes, tears as NUJ official is buried

    Colleagues, friends and family at the weekend bade a touching farewell to the late National Financial Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Adolphus Ugorji Okonkwo.

    He was buried in Abueke Umudike, Ihitte Uboma Local Government Area of Imo State.

    NUJ President Mohammed Garba, who led the national executive, described the late Okonkwo as a dedicated and hard working reporter, who gave his time and resources into fighting for the welfare of journalists.

    He said: “The union is going to ensure that the ideals for which he and the others died, that is improving the welfare of all journalists is realised.”

    He called on media owners to institute a comprehensive insurance scheme as part of conditions of service for their workers.

    Garba also called on the Federal Government to repair the nation’s highways to reduce accidents.

    The Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria (VON), Mohammed Jijiwa, who was represented by Mrs. Margret Obanya, described the deceased as a resourceful, hardworking and dedicated worker.

    The President of VON Staff Cooperative, Timothy Oyeleke, said the media had lost a profound and rare gem.

    His widow, Antonia, wailed: “Dim Oma! Ezigbo Dim! Oke Dim! Where do you want me to start from and where do I stop? You left me in the dark; in the middle of the road and in the middle of the sea.

    “Like a joke, the cold hands of death snatched you away from me and your children. O death where is thy sting? Little did I know that your voice on the phone that dark Friday asking me to prepare your favourite meal would be the last I would ever hear from you again.

    “Oh! Like a candle in the wind you were blown away from us. Who would help me take care of the children you left behind? Life will never be the same for us again. “Your sudden and traumatic death has left me devastated and every passing day I’m waiting to wake up from this nightmare.”

  • Tears as Senate pays tributes to Ewherido

    The Senate was in mourning yesterday. They paid tributes to one of their own, Pius Akpor Ewherido, who died on June 30 at the National Hospital, Abuja. He was elected on the platform of the Democratic Peoples Party (DPP).

    Most of the senators wept openly; few others fought hard to keep their eyes dry.

    Ninety-five senators paid their last respect to their fallen colleague, who they described as cerebral, quintessential, courageous and a senators’ senator.

    The Senate suspended its Order 17 to admit visitors, including Ewheridi’s widow, Doye, and his children; Delta State Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan; Rev. Tony, Ewherido’s brother; ministers, Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu’s wife and a host others.

    Senate President David Mark said the sudden demise of Ewherido was traumatic.

    He added: “We were taken by surprise. Given the level of impact that Senator Ewherido made, not just in his family, hometown, constituency, state and the country, it is safe to say that he is not dead because his legacy lives on.”

    Ekweremadu said Ewherido was a quintessential parliamentarian who brought his experience from the Delta State House of Assembly, where he was Deputy Speaker, to the Senate.

    Ekweremadu said: “This chamber has witnessed great Senators like Senators Chuba Okadigbo, Haruna Abubakar, Idris Abubakar, Yari Gandi, Martins Yellowe and others. Pius combined the attributes of all these great men.”

  • Pini Jason, Aloy Aguwa: Tributes

    Although the entire nation weeps over the most unexpected death of the late Dr. Aloysious Aguwa and the late Pini Jason Onyegbadue, not many Nigerians know that the two late icons were kinsmen who hailed from the great Mbaise clan in Imo state. Not many Nigerians also know that between 2007 and 2011, the two were members of the Imo state executive council in which, by the grace of God Almighty, I was privileged to serve as governor.

    While, the death of the two gentlemen at the same time (within a space of four days) is doubtlessly devastating, I am certain that it brings fond memories of that era which every well meaning Imolite acknowledges as one in which the state saw the biggest manifestation of its potentials. Needless to say, the involvement of Aloysious Aguwa, Ph.D., an academic and environmentalist of international repute and Pini Jason Onyegbadue, ace journalist and easily one of the most brilliant newspaper columnists Nigeria has ever produced, in that administration drew the attention of many, both within and outside Nigeria, to Imo.

    To be sure, that administration boasted of other very brilliant men and women who had distinguished themselves in various fields of endeavour, but I can say without any fear of contradiction that I count myself particularly fortunate to have been able to bring those two fellows, not only to be part of it, but to have remained with us throughout the period.

    As a public affairs commentator, Pini Jason had established a reputation as a fearless, bold and courageous fellow who would render his views no matter whose ox is gored. To be quite candid, I initially had to contend with a few friends who expressed some anxieties over the fact that I invited such a fiery critic, indeed, a radical, to serve with me. But I had no difficulty with that because my idea of governance was, and still is, that the people being governed should be given the benefit of having inputs from their best brains and hands, irrespective of the personal idiosyncrasies of the fellow who calls the shots as chief executive.

    Given his background, the late Pini Jason came in mostly as a member of my media team but his designation was that of Special Adviser on Special Projects. To be quite candid, I merely hid under that appellation to tap from his very fecund mind, after I had discovered that Pini was very vast on several other issues outside core media related matters.

    There was no topic the late Pini Jason would not give a sound opinion on (which you may disagree with) based on a thorough analytical expose. From politics to economics, from religion to culture, from diplomacy to folklores, Pini would treat you to fine details of both historical and contemporary perspectives that, if you had the patience to listen, you would wonder why you never knew all that before.

    Perhaps his most significant input in our administration was his insistence that we must accommodate criticism while, of course, abhorring the use of thugs. Looking back, I greatly appreciate that because that singular attitude shaped the character of our administration, an aspect that is being today remembered with nostalgia by the great people of Imo state who have since seen the difference.

    While we were in Owerri, even casual observers noticed that the late Chief Pini Jason Onyegbadue was one of the closest appointees to me. It was not for nothing. He shuttled between his office and mine several times and in most cases, he would return after close of work and together we looked at issues far into the night. When we completed the new Governor’s Office Complex, Pini got an office directly opposite mine. In fact, he was the only Special Adviser who shared the third floor with me. And unknown to many, the late Chief Pini Jason Onyegbadue until his death shared the same office complex with me in Abuja.

    I was with him when the news of the death of Dr. Aguwa came. We were both very shocked but he managed the devastation that arose from losing such a young and illustrious kinsman of his; to be able to continually tell me: “Take it easy”. Pini took off to Lagos to take advantage of the May Day public holiday to be with his family. Before he left for the airport, he passed through my place to see how I was faring. I bade him farewell but little did I know that that was the last time I would see him.

    Even before he suddenly took ill in Lagos, he had called and the major discussion was on the late Aguwa. Aguwa was of late in constant touch with me. We spoke almost every day especially in connection with the new book he was about to release on the environmental protection programmes of our administration. The late Aguwa was the Commissioner for Petroleum and Environment and had come up with a very fine account of what we did to make Imo state a model as far as cleanliness is concerned. The late Aguwa it was who presided over our programme that earned Owerri the sobriquet of the cleanest state capital in Nigeria.

    Once, I was elected governor, one of the first things I did was to begin to ask for the best Imo brains on environmental issues wherever they might reside. The search took us to Michigan in the United States of America where the late Aguwa was presiding over an organization known as Altech Environmental Services Inc. U.S.A. It took weeks of persuasion from well meaning citizens of the state, especially members of the highly respected Aguwa clan, for Alloy to accept to return home to serve the country. It is unfortunate that the nation is losing him at a time his wealth of experience and expertise is mostly needed.

    But in spite of the tragedy, part of my consolation is that it pleased God to let us come close to one fellow that combined intellect with a mien that almost set him aside as an enigma. Could a fellow of such academic standing and professional exposure be as humble as the late Aguwa? That must have been the question most of his colleagues were asking.

    If Aloy Aguwa were to be alive and I lost two members of my cabinet at a go, it is to him I would have run to for comfort and wise counsel. Just as Pini Jason kept on telling me when the news of his (Aguwa’s) death reached both of us: “What can we do?” Indeed what can we do? The demise of these two great men reminds all of us of the futility of life. In fact, the late Pini Jason preached that we should do things today as if there will be no opportunity to do them tomorrow. That was why he was himself a stickler to excellence. He believed that you should leave no stone unturned today.

    Did Pini Jason have a premonition of death? I have been asking myself this question because in death, Pini achieved what he would himself: Have his wife, to whom he was very close, watch him die. And that was precisely what happened. Was it destiny that took him back to Lagos where his family resides? Pini was so proud of his family and would seize every opportunity to tell you: “God gave me a wonderful family”. Was his manner of death a wish that came true? Why did it happen that way, so fast? Why did it please God to take away these two great fellows the same time?

    Adieu great ones.

    • Ohakim is ex-governor of Imo State

  • Rainbow Club’s evening of tributes

    The Rainbow Book Club will on Friday, April 26, between 5 and 7 pm, hold an evening of tribute for the late Chinua Achebe who died on March 21. The evening which is being organised in partnership with the British Council will hold at the council’s office in Port Harcourt, River State.

    The event will be attended by renowned writers such as Gabriel Okara, Capt Elechi Amadi, ANA Chairman-Rivers State Chapter, Mr. Obinna among others. They are expected to contribute to the conversation on the life and times of the literary icon.

    Chinua Achebe, best known for his novel Things Fall Apart, was recently in the news because of his last book There Was a Country. There Was a Country ; Achebe’s personal account of Nigeria’s civil war which stirred controversies when it was released, was Rainbow Book Club’s book-of –the month in January.

    Due to Achebe’s special relationship with the book club; he was made honourary member of the club and he also gave the keynote address at the 4tha Garden City Literary Festival titled: Literature And Ethnicity:  Is literature shaped by the cultural contexts of the authors?,which was read by his son. The club is dedicating this month to him. Things Fall Apart will be the book in focus.

    On Friday members of the book club, writers and lovers of literature will gather to celebrate one of Africa’s finest writers whose work transcended borders, languages, cultures and this work will continue to speak long after he has gone.