THE STORY OF NIGERIA’S FIRST MILLIONAIRE, CANDIDO DA ROCHA.

THE STORY OF NIGERIA’S FIRST MILLIONAIRE, CANDIDO DA ROCHA.
...He held the chieftaincy title of the Lodifi of Ilesa.

Chief Candido Joao Da Rocha ( 1860 – March 11, 1959) was a Nigerian businessman, landowner and creditor who owned Water House on Kakawa Street, Lagos Island,
and was the proprietor of the now defunct Bonanza Hotel in Lagos. He held the chieftaincy title of the Lodifi of Ilesa.

Da Rocha, a native of Ilesha, was born to the family of Joao Esan Da Rocha, a former slave; his father was 10 years old when he was captured as a slave in about 1840 and Candido was born in the Bahia region of Brazil.

Candido attended CMS Grammar School, Lagos where he was peers with Isaac Oluwole and Herbert Macaulay.

Left is Joao Esan and right is Candido as a young boy with his mother, Angelica Candido is the brother of Moses Da Rocha, one of the earliest Western-trained Nigerian doctors. He lived in Water House on Kakawa Street, Lagos, a house built by his father. The home was commemorated in literature by a novel, The Water House, written by Antonio Olinto.

The house had a borehole and the first water fountain in Lagos Island; water was sold from his house to consumers. Some of his business interests included a restaurant called The Restaurant Da Rocha and Sierra Leone Deep Sea Fishing Industries Ltd.

He collaborated with Lagos businessmen J. H. Doherty and Sedu Williams on a money lending business established under the name of the Lagos Native Bank.

He was a founding member of the Lagos auxiliary to the Anti Slavery and Aborigines Right Society which was headed by James Johnson and had Samuel Pearse and Sapara Williams as members.

Candido was so rich that he was  said to have been so rich, he sent his dirty clothes to Britain for laundry.

Da Rocha died in 1959 and is buried at Ikoyi Cemetery. Among his children were Alexander Da Rocha, Adenike Afodu, Angelica Folashade Thomas and Louissa Turton.

Ekiti Pry Sch pupil winner of Spelling Bee competition becomes One-Day LG Chair.

Ekiti Pry Sch pupil winner of Spelling Bee competition becomes One-Day LG Chair. 

A primary school pupil, Ayiga Prince,  winner of spelling bee competition in Ekiti State has been appointed to act as a One- Day Local Government Chairman.

The event, that led Ayiga into becoming a one day chairman, was organised by Prince Michael Ogungbemi, Executive Chairman of Ajoni LCDA of Ekiti.

Speaking on Friday, Ogungbemi said the competition was put in place to promote academic excellence among  Primary and secondary schools in Ajoni Local Council Development Area.

Also while addressing people of the Council area during his acting period, Ayiga Prince, who toured the council secretariat as well as addressed staff,  described Ogungbemi as a man that is passionate about the progress and advancement of youths 

Ayiga Prince, a pupil of St. Patrick's Primary School, Oke Ayedun Ekiti, who emerged as the overall best competitor, stated this in Oke Ayedun,the headquarter of Ajoni LCDA when he acted as a day chairman 

He commended Ogungbemi for various initiatives and programmes put in place by his administration, to enhance capacity of youths, as well as liberate them from the bondage of  illiteracy and unemployment.

He called on the chairman to assist more indigent pupils and students in the area, so that they can realise their future ambition .

As a day chairman, Ayiga Prince was driven in the Chairman's official car, from his home to the Council Secretariat where he  was welcomed by the Vice Chairman, Secretary to the Local Council and the Head of Local Council Administration and other top management staff 

He toured the various departments, and later presided over the Executive Council meeting 

The one-day council chairman, appealed to all the workers in the council area to join hands with Prince Ogungbemi, in order deliver on more of  his electioneering promises.

The one day chairman later embarked on tour of some completed and on-going project sites within the LCDA.

Ayiga said he was impressed with the various projects he saw, describing them as those that would directly impact on the people of Ajoni LCDA.

To officially record his one-day service to the local government, he was later paid part of the Chairman's salary for his official functions.

Ayiga  thanked his  parents,teachers  siblings and friends for their love and support, saying " You have always been there for me and cheered me on. You have made me proud and happy".

"I am very grateful for this experience and I hope to make the best of it. I hope to learn more about the work of the council and the development of our LCDA. 

" I hope to continually contribute positively to our society and to make a difference in the lives of others".

Oyebanji Mourns Ekiti APC Leader, George Akosile.

Oyebanji Mourns Ekiti APC Leader, George Akosile.

Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has expressed condolences on the passing of Afenifere chieftain and Chairman of Ekiti State All Progressives Congress (APC) Elders' Forum, Chief George Akosile.

The late Chief Akosile, who retired from civil service as a Permanent Secretary in the old Ondo State, and later served as State Chairman of the Alliance for Democracy (AD), died on Friday.

Mourning the loss of the elder statesman, Governor Oyebanji in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, said Ekiti has lost a great patriot, a servant-leader, a committed democrat and an illustrious elder, who loved the state and gave his best for its development. 

The Governor noted that the late Chief Akosile was a principled politician and an exemplary Awoist who led by example and served selflessly in all the positions he occupied in the civil service, political parties, elders' circles and in government.

He remarked that the late Chief Akosile jealously guarded his name and integrity in his public service trajectory, adding that the deceased's country home in Igbara Odo Ekiti served as a Mecca for those who needed his wise counsel, guidance and direction on how the state could move forward.

Describing the late Chief Akosile's demise as a personal loss to him, the Governor said the deceased was a leader he looked up to as a young politician, adding that he had lost a political father whose life was an inspiration to him and those coming behind.

According to him, the late Chief Akosile shone brilliantly in the last major assignment he handled on behalf of the party, as the Chairman of Political Appointments Committee of his administration, adding that he gave his best shot despite being advanced in age.

He said the late Chief Akosile's faithful, honest and truthful lifestyle had always made him relevant in every progressive administration in the old Ondo State and Ekiti State which led to his being entrusted with positions of leadership in which he served to the best of his ability.

The Governor said Ekiti State and its people will remain ever grateful to the deceased for his selfless service and laudable contribution to the entrenchment of democracy and the development of the state.

Oyebanji commiserated with the family, friends and political associates of the deceased urging them to be consoled by the good life he lived and the worthy legacies he has left behind.

“We shall miss Baba. But we are  consoled with the fact he lived a good life and left behind legacies of integrity and service. 

“ On behalf of the Government and good people of the State, I express our condolences to the children and immediate family members and pray that God will grant Baba eternal rest and grant the family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.” The Governor added.

Meanwhile, the Governor has paid a condolence visit to the deceased residence in Igbara Oke, where he met with the children and family members.

President Tinubu Restates Priority Areas On Development, Seeks Support From Governors.

President Tinubu Restates Priority Areas On Development, Seeks Support From Governors.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Thursday in Abuja said the task of turning around Nigeria’s economy from the age-long status of “potential to pragmatic’’ had started with the removal of fuel subsidy and unification of exchange rates, urging the 36 state governors to join the fray.

Inaugurating the National Economic Council (NEC), an advisory body comprising the 36 state Governors, CBN Governor, and other stakeholders, at the State House, President Tinubu listed eight priority areas for urgent attention and called for collective frameworks that will stimulate a buoyant economy that meets the needs of the poor and vulnerable.

The President assured the governors that the administration would address the issues that devalue the lives of Nigerians, with a focus on security, economy, jobs, agriculture, infrastructure, monetary policy, and fuel subsidy.

“It is worthy of note that the monthly meeting of NEC chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima has remained officially the economic platform for robust dialogue among the federal government, the 36 state governors, the CBN, and other key stakeholders.

“In my inaugural speech of May 29th, 2023, I expressed this administration’s commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians in a manner that not just reflects our humanity, but encourages compassion towards one another and duly rewards our collective efforts to resolve the social ills that seek to divide us. 

“I also listed the principles that will guide our administration and it is as follows: to be partial and govern according to the constitution and ensure the rule of law;  to defend the nation from terror and all forms of criminality; to promote economic growth and development through job creation, food security and putting an end to poverty; to prominently feature women and youths in all our activities; to take proactive steps such as championing a credit culture and; to discourage corruption while strengthening the effectiveness and efficiency of various anti-corruption agencies,’’ the President said.

President Tinubu noted that policies and programmes of the government will be driven by compassion for the less privileged, and for more inclusivity, women and youths will be involved in the design and implementation of issues that impact their lives.

“It is evident that the task of growing our economy is enormous but you and I asked for it. We campaigned for it, we even danced for it, we begged for it, so we have no reason to complain. We must harness the growth potential of Nigeria and bring about serious development that will take us from 'a potential nation' to a pragmatic economic development in a rapid manner,’’ he noted.

President Tinubu urged NEC to stimulate ideas, through robust discussions, that will improve the livelihood of Nigerians, while highlighting the exigency for interventions on poverty.

“Members of this country are behind us, they want reform and they want it quick to impact their lives,’’ he added.

Rallying the governors for national development, President Tinubu said, “Collaboration is not a crime, please let’s do it.’’ 

The President noted that the three tiers of government will need to be involved in economic development, including the Local Government Councils, in order to ensure inclusiveness, collectivity, and ownership of policies and programmes.

“The National Economic Council was established by the provision of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended. As one of the key bodies of the Federal Government,  NEC has the mandate to advise the President on the economic affairs of the federation on appropriate measures for coordination of economic plans and programmes of the government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies,’’ he said.

The President emphasized that significant steps had been taken by ending the fuel subsidy and unifying the foreign exchange rate.

“This government will continue to transform the fortunes of our nation and bring about unprecedented development through good governance. We are committed to sustainable initiatives and programmes that will stimulate the rejuvenation of the economy without causing inflation.

“The plans and ideas we have presented, underscore our confidence and ability to meet the challenges of the day and pave the way for a better future,’’ President Tinubu said.

 

Abiodun Oladunjoye

Director, Information

State House

June 15, 2023

Transfer of Power Temporarily to Ondo Deputy Governor, A Show of Civility and Respect for Rule of Law.

Transfer of Power Temporarily to Ondo Deputy Governor,  A Show of Civility and  Respect for Rule of Law.

The action of the Executive Governor of Ondo State, His Excellency Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu to have willingly resolved to transmit power temporarily to the Deputy Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa is a show of civility and absolute respect for the rule of law by a man who understands the reason why government must be a continuum. His action today finally doused the tension and rumor mongers and unscrupulous political gladiators and actors from various quarters in and outside the state trying to heat up the sunshine state,the political system and cause disaffetions among political leaders.

 Yes, it is absolutely expected that no artificial lacuna must be created in government as authority and the responsibilities of government  must be discharged at all times unabated and unhindered. If there is any reason whatsoever for a gap  by reasons of incapacitation of any sort, power must be transferred in the most decent manner which requires to be done in strict adherence to the dictates of the constitution. This act of civility and decorum by the Governor of the state is highly commendable and should be acknowledged by all. 

This press statement is hereby issued by the  Ondo State chapter as the noble group admonish the acting Governor, and Deputy Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to live up to expectation as he discharges his duties in acting capacity henceforth.

 He is advised to shun distractors and focus on the activities of government by  implementing programmes outlined in the Redeemed Agenda of Mr. Governor which is already being implemented since the commencement of his second term in office.

Omoluabi Socio- cultural amd political group, Ondo State Chapter under the leadership of Engr. Aluko Taiyelolu however wish the Governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu a quick recovery with divine healing to be able to provide good governnace to the state  unhindered.

Let the sun continue to shine.

E- Signed:

Omoluabi Aluko Taiyelolu 

Ondo State Coordinator

Omoluabi Team Alliance Socio- cultural and Political Group.

13/6/2023

Meet Nigerian Professor Who Drove Peugeot 504 From London To Kano In 24 days.

Meet Nigerian Professor Who Drove Peugeot 504 From London To Kano In 24 days.

Professor Aminu Mohammed Dorayi is a renowned educationist and adventurer that drove from London to Kano with his car.

The elder statesman is a Record-breaker, who broke a world record by driving his Peugeot 504 over a distance of about 4,000miles, in 24 days.

Prof Dorayi is a distinguished Abusite (Ahmadu Bello University) and respected professor of Chemistry. He doubled as a former president of the ABU Students Union Government (SUG) for 1966/1967. Dorayi set up the Sharada Industrial Estate in Kano. He is also the first to organize trade fair in Nigeria.

He is called The Adventurous Chemist because of his passion for adventure. While in the UK, his journey was inspired by several adventure books he had read. For instance, he read about the Marcopolos, the Mungo Parks, these adventurous stories fascinated him.

Dorayi, therefore proceded to make a record-breaking trip by driving his Peugeot 504 over a distance of about 4,000miles in 24 days.

According to the elder statesman, “England is an Island. So when you reach Southampton you have to take a boat, you and your car, to Calais, France. I drove through Paris and so on through Madrid, Gibraltar. So when you reach Gibraltar, you reach the Mediterranean Sea, where you also take a ferry to Algeria.

"From there you enter the road all through, though there is no road, in the desert, you’re guided by your compass, your map.”

Speaking further on the trip, Prof disclosed that ”I became very keen during my PhD in the US. I had a Volkswagen which I bought for about 600 dollars at that time. I used it to drive across the desert over there.” He added that he is highly adventurous, that is why even his autobiography is titled, The Adventurous Chemist.

Dorayi disclosed that as he bought the Peugeot 504 for 1000 pounds and hit the road immediately.

He said, ”I was assisted by the British Automobile Association (AA). They gave me the guidelines, the map, the route. They told me what to do in crossing the desert, and what not to do. So, I was quite prepared.

Speaking of his preparedness, Doriya said, ”Since I went to secondary technical school, I was technically inclined and I could service my car. I came from a technical background. Going back to Zango in Kano and hanging out with friends, they taught me confidence. So this thing has been in me for years. I enjoyed reading about trans-Sahara.

In his encounter, Doriya noted that ”There was a place I passed in Algeria, and the day I arrived, it was raining heavily. Little children of 13 years and below were running helter-skelter and crying. When I asked the elders why they said those children had never seen rain before. No rain for 14 years, so they thought heaven was falling. They had to be counselled by their elders.”

#Northbook

10th NASS Inuaguration: Ekiti Lawmaker, Odebunmi Congratulates Senator Fasuyi, Hon. Rotimi, Promises Partnership.

10th NASS Inuaguration: Ekiti Lawmaker, Odebunmi Congratulates Senator Fasuyi, Hon. Rotimi, Promises Partnership.

Earlier today Ekiti state House of Assembly Lawmaker, representing Oye constituency II, Hon. Idowu Odebunmi, has extended congratulatory hand to the lawmaker representing Ekiti State North Senatorial District, Senator Cyril Fasuyi and member representing Ekiti Federal Constituency I, comprising Oye & Ikole at the House of Representatives, Hon. Akin Rotimi on their inauguration.

In a statement made available to the newsmen in Ado Ekiti, Ekiti state capital Hon. Odebunmi expressed his excitement with the two lawmakers for the opportunity to serve at the highest law making institutions of the country with a prayer to God for success in all their endeavors to make Ekiti great and strength to deliver well.

The Oye born, breed and grassroot politician assured that through God's gifts with their policies and agendas will bring positive impact to the Senatorial District,  the Constituency and Ekiti state at large.

Hon. Odebumi expressed his readiness to work hand in hand with the two federal Lawmakers to promote good governance and bring development to the state, constituency and bring Government closer to the people.