Nollywood Veteran Olofa Ina Passes Away at 73.

Nollywood Veteran Olofa Ina Passes Away at 73.

Popular Nollywood Veteran, Chief Adedeji Aderemi aka Olofa Ina is dead, The Nation has learnt.

Actor, Saidi Balogun, confirmed his passing in a post shared on his Instagram account on Thursday, January 4.

He wrote: “Goodnight legend Chief Deji Akinremi (Olofa Ina) RIP.

Film producer and Chief Executive Officer of Best of Nollywood (BON) also confirmed his demise.

Aderemi who is the Sobaloju of Edeland, was 73. Chief Aderemi is a renowned name in contemporary Yoruba theatre and film circle.

He is also famous for the rich Yoruba proverbs and idioms that punctuate his lines in various films and stage plays

He was born into the family of the late Chief AbdulSalam Aderemi and the late madam Aisha Aderemi of Jagun- Olukosi compound, Ede in Osun State on 15th May, 1950 during the reign of the late Oba John Adetoyese Laoye, the then Timi of Ede.

He had his primary education at St. Peters Anglican Primary School between 1957 and 1962 and then proceeded to Baptist Secondary Modern School, Ode-Omu from 1963 to 1965.

He later had his vocational training in carpentry and joinery at Olukorede Furniture Industry between 1965 and 1970.

Prior to 1980, he had earlier floated the Olofa Ina Theatre Group in 1972 with the likes of Erinfolamin, Dasofunjo, Gbolagade Akinpelu and the late Oyetunji of Esinnla compound, Ede. He received his theatre training under the late Oyetunji.

The Olofa Ina Group recorded landmark achievements in the theatre industry by pioneering the staging of epical histories of the Yoruba warlords of the 18th and 19th centuries, including Basorun Ogunmola, Balogun Ibikunle, Ogedengbe Agbogungboro of Ilesha, Aare Kurunmi of Ijaye, Kakanfo Afonja and a host of others.

These productions were recorded by Nigerian Television (NTV) Ibadan in the 70s and were narrated by the late Dr. Babayemi then, of the Institute of African Studies, University of Ibadan who later became the Oba Olufi of Gbongan, Osun state.

Olofa Ina also recorded series of television productions among which are Odetedo, Lakaaye, Kogun Maja, and Ade Oba.

Newly Inaugurated Chairman of Ifedara LCDA, Hon Ogunsanya Lawrence, Vows to Prioritize Community Welfare.

Newly Inaugurated Chairman of Ifedara LCDA, Hon Ogunsanya Lawrence, Vows to Prioritize Community Welfare.

By Olamide Akinwumi J.

Ifedara Local Council Development Area (LCDA) witnessed the swearing-in of its newly elected chairman, Hon Ogunsanya Lawrence, who expressed his commitment to fulfilling his campaign promises and enhancing the lives of the people in the region.

Hon Lawrence shared his vision with journalists on Thursday after the swearing-in ceremony. He pledged, "I will leverage all my powers and efforts to bring about positive impacts and changes in Ifedara LCDA; may God help me."

Emphasizing that he would not disappoint the constituents, the chairman assured the delivery of sound and effective governance. "I will ensure inclusivity during my tenure, involving children, youths, adults, males, and females, with their opinions heard through community engagement programs."

Affirming his dedication to democratic principles, Hon Lawrence promised to run a fair and equitable government, reaching all communities within Ifedara LCDA. He acknowledged the significance of traditional rulers, religious leaders, labor leaders, market women leaders, community leaders, youth leaders, political leaders, and other stakeholders, stating that they would be duly recognized in his administration.

Commending Governor Oyebanji for promoting youth inclusion and spearheading the development of Ekiti State, Hon Lawrence pledged to collaborate closely with the governor's six pillars of administration for the betterment of his constituents.

He urged the people of Ifedara LCDA to offer prayers and support, acknowledging that he cannot achieve his goals alone. "I need your prayers and support to elevate the LCDA to its peaks," he stated.

The newly inaugurated chairman expressed optimism about the future, outlining his dedication to fostering progress and prosperity in Ifedara LCDA.

Aiyedatiwa Pays Homage To PA Fasoranti, Afenifere, Seeks Support For The Development Of Ondo State.

Aiyedatiwa Pays Homage To PA Fasoranti, Afenifere, Seeks Support For The Development Of Ondo State. 

.....Falae, Arogbofa, Akorede, others pray for Governor’s success in leading Ondo State.

Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on Wednesday paid a visit to the elder statesman, Chief Reuben Fasoranti, and leaders of the pan Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere, during which he lauded their contributions to the development of the State and Nigeria.

Accompanied by top government officials and aides, the Governor said the visit was partly to pay homage to the elders and leaders to thank them for the fatherly role they played in restoring peace during the political crisis in the State.

He said: “I extend my heartfelt greetings to Chief Reuben Fasoranti and the distinguished elders present. Your wisdom and guidance have been invaluable to our State’s stability. In the past, during challenging times, your intervention, particularly the letter you wrote to President Bola Tinubu advocating constitutional adherence, restored peace to our state. Your counsel has been instrumental.”

Governor Aiyedatiwa also conveyed to the elders the news of the passing of the former Governor of the State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, promising to give him a befitting burial and continue with all his ongoing developmental projects and programmes.   

The Governor reiterated his dedication to serving the people of Ondo State while upholding the late Governor’s legacy, seeking the support of the elders in the tasks ahead.

During the visit, Oba Olu Falae, the Oluabo of Ilu Abo, highlighted the urgency of preserving the Yoruba language from the brink of extinction, urging the Governor to join his colleagues in the south west to implement policies that will protect and preserve the Yoruba language.

He commended Ondo State’s history of leadership in positive initiatives, including the establishment of the Amotekun security outfit aimed at securing lives and property within the region. He also urged the Governor to consider some new road projects in the State, especially in rural areas.

Also, Bashorun Seinde Arogbofa extended condolences to Governor Aiyedatiwa during the visit. He emphasized the need for immense goodwill for success and pledged their support, highlighting the elders’ commitment to the welfare of the people of the State.

Recounting the historical precedence set during the days of Ajasin’s administration, Bashorun Seinde Arogbofa urged Governor Aiyedatiwa to leave a lasting mark on the State, adding: “You are in charge now, take charge. Never forget those who stood by you during challenging times.”

Chief Reuben Fasoranti, on his part, conveyed the support and goodwill of the elders and offered a prayer for Governor Aiyedatiwa’s leadership. “May divine guidance and wisdom accompany you in this significant phase of leadership. I pray for success and prosperity in your administration,” Chief Fasoranti prayed.

Governor Aiyedatiwa received the prayers with gratitude, expressing appreciation for the support and blessings bestowed upon him, promising to always seek the counsel of the elders in leading the State forward. 

Ondo PDP Disagrees With NWC Over Chairman's Suspension, Appoints Deputy As Acting Chairman.

Ondo PDP Disagrees With NWC Over Chairman's Suspension, Appoints Deputy As Acting Chairman.

As a follow-up to the purported suspension of the party’s Chairman, Hon. Fatai Adams, the Ondo State Executive Council (SEC) of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has today appointed Tola Alabere, as the acting State Chairman of the party.

This was disclosed at a press conference after an emergency meeting of the SEC at the party’s secretariat in Akure, on Thursday, following the suspension of Fatai Adams by nine out of the eleven members of the State Working Committee.

The State Working Committee (SWC) of PDP had suspended Adams, citing alleged anti-party activities and actions detrimental to the party’s reputation.

However, Debo Ologunagba, the National Publicity Secretary of the party, in his blunt response to the purported suspension, said the National Working Committee (NWC) had dismissed the suspension, declaring it null and void, emphasizing that the state committee lacked the authority to suspend the chairman without recourse to the national body.

The Ondo State Chapter of the party has however defended the suspension, asserting that according to the party’s constitution, all levels possess the power to discipline erring members within their ranks, including the State Chairman.

They highlighted that nine out of eleven SWC members signed the suspension letter, signaling a lack of confidence in Adams’ leadership.

But today, after giving concurrence to Adams’ suspension, the SEC of the party took a step further by approving the appointment of the State Vice Chairman, Tola Alabere, to take over the affairs of the party as acting state chairman of the PDP in Ondo State.

Addressing newsmen, the State Publicity Secretary, Hon. Kenneth Peretei said the decision to appoint Alabere followed the due process and in line with the party’s constitution.

FG extends free train rides till Sunday, January 7.

FG extends free train rides till Sunday, January 7.

The Federal Government has extended the free rides for commuters on all train services to Sunday, January 7, 2024.

The Nigerian Railway Corporation had announced the commencement of the free train ride on Thursday, December 21, 2023 for all its passenger services, following the directive of President Bola Tinubu.

The announcement indicated that the free ride services would end on Thursday, January 4, 2024.

This followed the announcement by the Federal Government of 50 per cent waiver on interstate round transport and free train rides as part of moves to cushion the impact of the high cost of living in the country, especially during Yuletide.

Sadio Mane's Philanthropy Transforms Hometown: A Lesson for Nigerian Footballers.

Sadio Mane's Philanthropy Transforms Hometown: A Lesson for Nigerian Footballers.   By Comrade Olamide Akinwumi James

In a remarkable display of generosity, Sadio Mane, the celebrated Senegalese footballer, has once again left an indelible mark on his hometown, Bambali. Having invested £700,000 in the construction of a hospital, school, post office, and petrol station, Mane's latest endeavor involves the transformation of a mud-soaked pitch into a mini-stadium, officially launched yesterday.

This muddy pitch, where Mane and his friends played during his holiday in June 2022, has undergone a remarkable metamorphosis in a little over a year. The mini-stadium now stands as a testament to Mane's commitment to giving back to his roots and uplifting his community.

The act goes beyond material displays of wealth, challenging the narrative of acquiring luxury cars and houses. For Mane, it's about making a tangible impact on humanity. When questioned by the English media about his choice not to indulge in extravagant purchases like private jets and expensive cars, Mane's response reflected a profound sense of responsibility to his community.

Hailing from a humble background in Bambali, Senegal, Mane's journey to success resonates with the struggles of many young talents striving for recognition. His story is not one of luxury handed down by his community but rather a testament to his resilience and determination.

The footballer's philanthropic efforts stand in contrast to the common trend among Nigerian players who, after achieving success, often detach from their impoverished communities. Mane's example serves as a poignant reminder to footballers, especially those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, to remain connected to their roots.

The article concludes by urging Nigerian players to draw inspiration from Mane's altruism and consider their role in uplifting the communities that contributed to their success.

Customs’ll meet N5.1tn 2024 revenue target – CG.

Customs’ll meet N5.1tn 2024 revenue target – CG.

The Comptroller-General, Nigerian Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi, on Thursday, said the NCS would strive to deliver its projected N5.1tn revenue target for 2024.

Adeniyi spoke during the decoration  of newly promoted officers of the NCS at the organisation’s headquarters in Abuja.

“We are now in 2024 and we face daunting challenges. Our challenges are in an economy that continuously looks forward to the Nigeria Customs Service to generate revenue to fund the national budget.

“As at the last time, if it has not changed, the revenue projection for Customs in 2024 stands at N5.1tn,” he stated, stressing that officers of the NCS must work hard to achieve this.

“As we start the new year, I want our newly promoted officers, working with other officers, to lead the charge for the realisation of this target. I want all of us to bring our stakeholders to the heart of our operations.

“We have a country where economic operators, importers and exporters depend a lot on our processes, commitment and efficiency to run their own business. We cannot afford to disappoint these stakeholders.

“We cannot afford to disappoint the economy and the President, who has given us this opportunity and special privilege to be in charge of this critical aspect of our economic development. So I want you to lead the charge with integrity at the back of our mind,” Adeniyi stated.

On December 11, 2023, Adeniyi had during his appearance before the House of Representatives Committee on Appropriations, stated that the Customs had a revenue target of over N5tn in 2024, but the lawmakers pushed for N6tn.

The customs boss had explained that the major source of revenue for the service was duty charged on all goods imported into the country.

He also stated that another revenue source that the Customs was trying to improve was the excise duty charged on locally produced goods.