Category: PM News

Nigerian singer Adekunle Gold has opened up about the transformative changes in his life, sharing that becoming a father of two has been the most profound shift for him.

In a heartfelt newsletter sent to his fans, Adekunle Gold reflected on his growth, career milestones, and personal journey, revealing how life can change in the blink of an eye.

“I’ve been thinking a lot lately about how quickly life can change without you even noticing it while it’s happening. One day you are praying quietly over dreams that still feel far away, and then suddenly you realize those same dreams are now your actual life,” the singer wrote.

Over the past few months, the singer shared that he has experienced numerous career successes and personal fulfillment, describing it as a period of significant movement and growth. “The past few months have felt like that for me. There’s been so much movement, so many wins, so much life that makes all the toiling worth it,” he added.

Adekunle Gold also discussed his latest musical project, Formation, and the joy of creating music after years in the industry. “I released Formation, which felt special for many reasons. There’s something beautiful about being able to make music that I enjoy after all these years. I love creating, I love hearing an idea come alive for the first time,” he said.

The singer further reflected on his upcoming orchestra shows across North America, recalling a dream he had years ago before releasing his hit album Afro Pop. “I remember seven years ago before I released Afro Pop, I sat in Asa’s living room discussing the idea that I wanted to perform with an orchestra someday. I wanted to hear my songs differently with an orchestra,” he reminisced.

Looking back on his journey, Adekunle Gold acknowledged that many people did not see the sacrifices and the faith that shaped his career. “I know the years nobody saw. I know how much faith this journey has required from me over and over again,” he shared.

Despite his public achievements, the singer revealed that the most significant transformation in his life has been in his personal life at home. “The biggest change in my life has actually been happening at home. I’m now a father of two,” he said, describing fatherhood as a surreal and deeply fulfilling experience.

“I’ve been completely consumed with joy over my son. I understand something new about love watching him. Sometimes I’m holding him and looking at his sister and I genuinely lose track of everything else for a moment. The noise disappears. The pressure disappears. The world slows down. It’s the best feeling,” he wrote.

Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has approved the appointment of renowned businesswoman and founder of BOVAS Oil and Gas Company, Mrs Victoria Adunola Samson, as the new Chancellor of Osun State University.

A statement issued by the University’s Public Relations Officer, Ademola Adesoji, said Mrs Samson, popularly known as Mama BOVAS, becomes the third Chancellor of the institution, succeeding renowned philanthropist and business magnate, Apostle Folorunso Alakija, whose tenure ended on March 18, 2026, after 10 years of distinguished service.

The statement described the appointment as a significant milestone in the continued advancement of the University’s vision of academic excellence, innovation and strategic partnerships.

Governor Adeleke commended the immense contributions of Apostle Alakija to the growth and transformation of the University, particularly the donation of the multi-billion-naira Modupe and Folorunso Alakija Medical Research and Training Hospital.

According to the Governor, the impact of the former Chancellor remains a lasting legacy in the history of both the University and Osun State.

As part of activities marking the completion of Apostle Alakija’s tenure, the Osun State Government and management of the University paid a courtesy and appreciation visit to the Alakija family on Friday, May 8, 2026, in recognition of their unwavering support and commitment to the institution over the past decade.

Mrs Samson, a native of Iree in Boripe Local Government Area of Osun State, was born on December 5, 1949. She has built BOVAS Oil and Gas Company into one of Nigeria’s leading indigenous petroleum marketing firms.

Under her leadership and that of her husband, the company expanded from a single filling station to more than 200 petroleum service stations across the country, providing employment for over 2,000 Nigerians as of December 31, 2025.

Mrs Samson also holds the Texaco Petroleum franchise and made history as the first Nigerian to win the highly competitive Texaco Latin America and West Africa Award for Best Overall Dealer in 1990, having recorded the highest sales volume across both regions.

A respected figure in the oil and gas sector, she has held several strategic positions, including serving as Matron of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, NNPC/PPMC Satellite Depot, Ejigbo, Lagos State, and Apata Depot, Ibadan, Oyo State. She is also a member of the Board of Trustees of the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketing Association.

Mrs Samson holds a Professional Diploma in Marketing and attended the Harvard University Business School Leadership Programme for Family Businesses in 2013. She also participated in the Chief Executive Programme at IESE Business School, Barcelona, Spain.

Governor Adeleke described the new Chancellor as a woman of integrity, accountability and patriotism, whose business philosophy reflects honesty, decency and commitment to humanity.

“We recognise and appreciate your distinct efforts to make life easier for consumers of petroleum products. We celebrate you as a symbol of decency, honesty, integrity and humanity in our society,” the Governor said.

The management, staff and students of Osun State University congratulated Mrs Samson on her appointment and expressed confidence that her wealth of experience, leadership capacity and passion for societal development would further strengthen the institution’s drive towards global relevance and sustainable growth.

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has called for immediate release of the abducted lawyer and National Youth Service Corps member, Eunice Ameh, describing her disappearance as painful and deeply disturbing to the legal community.

President of the association, Afam Osigwe, made the appeal in a statement posted on X on Saturday amid growing concerns over the whereabouts of the young lawyer, who was reportedly kidnapped in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

“Release Eunice Ameh now! When a young lawyer goes missing, the pain is not distant to the Nigerian Bar Association, it is personal,” he wrote.

The NBA president stated that the association was more than a professional body, noting that lawyers across the country were emotionally affected by the incident.

According to him, lawyers are a community bound by shared sacrifice, shared dreams, and a collective duty to stand for one another.

“The disappearance of Miss Eunice Ameh, our dear colleague and a young Nigerian serving her country through the NYSC scheme, has therefore deeply shaken the entire legal community,” he added.

Osigwe stressed that behind every missing person case was a grieving family and anxious loved ones desperately hoping for safe return.

“Behind every missing person report is a family unable to sleep, friends clinging to hope, and colleagues praying for safe return.

“No young Nigerian who answered the call to national service should disappear without an immediate, coordinated, and determined response from our security agencies,” he stated.

He called on the Inspector General of Police to urgently intensify efforts towards securing her freedom.

There are reports that her suspected kidnappers have demanded a ransom of N20 million.

Ameh was last seen on Wednesday evening while returning home from work in the Maitama area of Abuja.

The Chairman of the South-West Governors Forum and Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has congratulated Pa Reuben Fasoranti, an elder statesman and Leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organisation, Afenifere, on his centenary birthday celebration.

He described Pa Fasoranti, who will clock 100 on Monday, May 11, as a committed leader and one of the tested and trusted surviving disciples of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, who is worthy of being celebrated for his contribution to the growth and development of Yorubaland and Nigeria as a whole.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, in a congratulatory message issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Gboyega Akosile, described Pa Fasoranti as a committed, respected and passionate leader whose work, particularly in education, leadership and public service, remains indelible.

He said Pa Fasoranti as a courageous and uncompromised elder statesman, has made positive impacts in the lives of many people as a Yoruba leader, adding that his commitment to public service and community development is commendable.

LGovernor Sanwo-Olu said the people of Yorubaland respect and appreciate Papa Reuben Fasoranti’s leadership as Afenifere leader for many years, adding that they are happy to celebrate and associate proudly with him on his 100th birthday.

He said: “On behalf of my family, the government and the people of Lagos State, as well as my brother governors in the South-West, I congratulate Afenifere Leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, on his centenary birthday celebration.

“Papa Fasoranti has made a lot of positive impact in Yorubaland and has done great exploits as the Leader of Afenifere by steering the ship of the pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organisation in the right direction.

“He has devoted and committed himself to the Nigeria Project since his active years. We cherish his commitment to fighting for truth, equity, justice, true federalism, and good governance, which he has championed and fought for many decades.

“The people of the South-West of Nigeria are proud to celebrate Baba Reuben Fasoranti’s centenary birthday because it is not everybody that is blessed to attain that old age in great health and sound mind, but it has pleased God to preserve Baba to celebrate 100.

“As Pa Reuben Fasoranti celebrates his centenary birthday, I pray that the Almighty God will continue to bless him with good health, wisdom, knowledge, and understanding in his old age.”

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, has arrested three persons living with disabilities for alleged drug trafficking during separate operations in Anambra and Kwara states.

Babafemi said one of the suspects, 60-year-old Romanus Nwabara, was arrested following credible intelligence that led operatives to Akpaka Forest in Onitsha, Anambra State.

He stated that Nwabara was traced to the forest on Wednesday, May 6, where NDLEA officers allegedly recovered 250 grams of skunk packaged in retail sachets from him.

Babafemi added that in another operation at Ogbunike area of Anambra State on Thursday, May 7, operatives arrested a 25-year-old suspect identified as Amos Kenneth.

According to him, Kenneth was found in possession of 160.3 grams of Tramadol 225mg and 100mg, 80 pills of Diazepam, 38.23 grams of Exol 5 and 176.93 grams of skunk.

The NDLEA spokesman further stated that operatives on patrol along Bode Saadu in Kwara State also intercepted a commercial vehicle on Friday, May 8.

Babafemi noted that the arrests were part of ongoing interdiction operations by the anti-narcotics agency across the country.

He also referenced the agency’s War Against Drug Abuse, WADA, sensitisation activities carried out in schools including Mallam Ibrahim Islamiyya School, Rano, Kano State, and Isemi-Ile Grammar School in Kajola Local Government Area of Oyo State.

While commending officers and men of the Special Operations Unit as well as commands for the arrests and seizures, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (retd.), urged operatives to sustain the momentum.

By Oluwole Adeboye

Former Lagos State Independent Electoral Commissioner, Saheed Olamilekan Mabinuori, is seeking to be elected into the Lagos House Assembly to represent Mushin Constituency 1, at the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election coming up in the state on 21st of May 2026.

Mabinuori, who was a member, INEC/LASIEC Joint Committee on the review of registration areas/wards and polling units in Lagos State in 2009 has been an astute grassroots mobiliser in the state.

He has distinguished himself as an outstanding politician, not only in Odi-Olowo and Mushin, but across Lagos State and beyond.

Mabinuori has prepared himself for the highly demanding office of a representative in state assembly, going by the several administrative and leadership offices he has held from young age.

He was 28 years old when he made history as the first chairman of Removal of Abandoned Vehicles Committee in the state.

At age 30, he became LASIEC Commissioner and served an eventful two-term tenue that contributed to strengthening of democratic process in the state.

Aside public offices, he has been carrying out youth talents development initiatives which include the Hon. Olamilekan Saheed Mabinuori Ilupeju Champions League.

The project provided opportunities for young people in the constituency to grow through football, some of whom are already doing well at both local and international levels.

When asked of his motivation for seeking the Assembly seat, Mabinuori told PM NEWS that passion to provide more opportunities for his people and ensure continued qualitative representation for the Constituency was the driving force.

He has served the ruling party in different capacities both at the local and state levels.

Olalekan Mabinuori holds a B.Sc in Political Science from the University of Ibadan and Master’s in Public Administration from the Lagos State University.

He was born on 19 March 1977 in Lagos.

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

President Bola Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to elder statesman and leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, on the occasion of his 100th birthday, describing him as a symbol of integrity, honesty and dedicated service to Nigeria.

In a personally signed statement released on Sunday, Tinubu said his “joy knows no bounds” as the renowned nationalist and pro-democracy activist attained the milestone age of 100 on May 11.

The President said Fasoranti deserved “all the encomiums” for what he described as an uncommon life of service and immense contributions to the country.

According to Tinubu, the Afenifere leader distinguished himself through his disciplined lifestyle, commitment to noble causes and unwavering belief in principles.

“Pa Fasoranti has distinguished himself in all respects: in his disciplined, Spartan way of life, his belief in principles, and his commitment to noble causes,” Tinubu said.

He added, “His life is a metaphor for integrity, honesty, dedicated service to the nation and true leadership.”

The President traced Fasoranti’s educational and professional journey, noting that the elder statesman understood early in life the importance of education as a tool for societal transformation.

Tinubu noted that Fasoranti obtained a degree in English and Geography from the University College, Ibadan, now the University of Ibadan, before furthering his studies in the United Kingdom and Australia.

He also highlighted Fasoranti’s contributions to the education sector through his teaching career and the establishment of schools in Ondo State, including Omolere Nursery and Primary School, Akure High School and St. Frances’ Academy, Igoba, Akure.

The President recalled that Fasoranti was a member of the defunct Action Group in the First Republic and later the Unity Party of Nigeria during the Second Republic.

He said Fasoranti served meritoriously as Commissioner for Finance in old Ondo State between 1979 and 1983 under the administration of the late Chief Adekunle Ajasin.

“It is on record that his integrity and financial prudence helped manage the state’s finances,” Tinubu stated.

The President further praised Fasoranti’s role during the military era, saying the elder statesman became one of the leading voices against dictatorship and a strong advocate for democracy, Yoruba unity and development.

Tinubu noted that Fasoranti remained the authentic and widely recognised leader of Afenifere following internal divisions within the group after the death of Pa Abraham Adesanya.

“To this date, Baba remains the only recognised leader of Afenifere,” he said.

The President also reflected on the personal tragedies Fasoranti endured, including an assassination attempt during the late General Sani Abacha regime, the death of his wife in 1991 and the killing of his daughter, Funke Olakunrin, by kidnappers in 2019.

The President expressed gratitude to the elder statesman for his support and prayers throughout his political journey, especially during the 2023 presidential campaign.

“At the start of my campaign for the presidency, I visited Pa Fasoranti in Akure, Ondo State capital. Baba prayed for my electoral victory, saying he would live to witness my ascension to the presidency,” Tinubu said.

“God answered his prayer through my victory and eventual ascendancy to the top office,” he added.

Tinubu thanked Fasoranti for believing in his vision and supporting the Renewed Hope Administration.

Aston Villa’s hopes of qualifying for the Champions League have suffered a setback after they were held to a draw by already relegated Burnley at Villa Park on Sunday.

Even though Aston Villa have reached the Europa League final, they are currently fifth in the Premier League. They are now under pressure from Bournemouth and Brighton with only two matches left in the season.

Burnley took the lead when Jaidon Anthony scored from a rebound after Emiliano Martinez saved a long-range shot from Lesley Ugochukwu.

Aston Villa thought they had equalised earlier through Ollie Watkins, but the goal was ruled out for offside. Later, Ross Barkley made it 11 with a header from a John McGinn corner.

Villa pushed for a winning goal and briefly believed they had it when Watkins scored after a long pass from Martinez. However, Burnley responded quickly with a good team move finished by Zian Flemming, giving them a draw and their first point in almost two months.

In the final minutes, Villa appealed for a penalty after Kyle Walker appeared to step on Emiliano Buendia’s foot, but VAR did not award it.

The result leaves Aston Villa in a difficult position in the Premier League race for Champions League qualification, while Burnley, already relegated, managed to earn a surprising point away from home.

The Ofu Local Government Traditional Council, alongside many indigenes, hosted a grand reception in honour of the Kogi State Deputy Governor, Joel Salifu.

The event, held in Ejule on Saturday, was marked by the defection of over 600 members of the Peoples Democratic Party, Social Democratic Party and other political parties to the ruling All Progressives Congress in solidarity with the deputy governor.

Declaring the occasion open, the Eje Ofu and Chairman of the Ofu Local Government Traditional Council, HRH Akwu Obaje, said the gathering was organised to celebrate “our own son” and acknowledge his loyalty, humility and representation of the Ofu people in government.

He commended the deputy governor for remaining calm, respectful and accessible despite the demands of public office.

The monarch also thanked Governor Ahmed Ododo for the confidence reposed in Salifu and for respecting traditional institutions across the state.

The royal father pledged the council’s continued support for the administration in maintaining peace, unity and development.

He urged youths to embrace education, hard work and peaceful coexistence.

Obaje appealed for more government intervention in roads, healthcare, security, youth empowerment and rural development for the predominantly farming and trading community.

In his response, the deputy governor described the reception as a deeply honouring moment.

“Today is a very special day for me. Standing here before my people, I feel deeply honoured, happy and grateful for this reception organised by the Ofu Traditional Council and sons and daughters of the local government, both at home and in the diaspora,” he said.

He thanked the traditional rulers, political office holders, women, youths and others who made the event possible, noting that the honour meant much because it came from his own people.

Salifu expressed loyalty to his principal, Ododo, and gratitude to former governor Yahaya Bello for the opportunity to serve.

The FCT Police Command announced on Sunday that Ms. Linda Ameh, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member and lawyer, who had been reported missing since May 6, has been found in Abuja.

According to the police, she personally reported to the Maitama Police Station to provide details about her disappearance, which is currently under investigation.

SP Josephine Adeh, the Public Relations Officer for the FCT Police Command, confirmed in a statement that, “Ms. Linda Ameh, the legal practitioner previously reported missing on the 6th of May 2026, has now been located. She is assisting the Police with valuable information to aid the ongoing investigation.”

The Police have stated that efforts to apprehend those responsible for her disappearance are underway. The investigation is focused on identifying the individuals behind her abduction. However, authorities have not confirmed whether any ransom money was paid in exchange for her release, despite earlier reports that her abductors demanded a N20 million ransom.

It was reported that the 25-year-old lawyer, who was also serving as an NYSC member, was abducted on Tuesday, May 6, shortly after finishing work at Blades and Butchers Ltd in Maitama. At around 5:40 p.m., as she was heading home to Life Camp, her phone became unreachable, and her family was unable to contact her. The phone lines remained switched off despite multiple attempts to reach her.

Her family then received communication from the suspected kidnappers, who demanded N20 million for her release, sparking widespread concern for her safety.

The FCT Police promptly launched an investigation and have been working diligently to trace her whereabouts and understand the circumstances surrounding her abduction.

Linda Ameh was nearing the completion of her NYSC service and had almost finished her Community Development Service when the incident occurred.

The Police are continuing their efforts to apprehend the perpetrators of the crime.