K1 DE ULTIMATE

You’ll feel me in your business—k1 De Ultimate tells valuejet owner over Airport incident.

Famous Nigerian Fuji musician, K1 De Ultimate, has vowed that the owner of ValueJet airline, Kunle Soname, will “feel me in his business.

This statement comes just hours after the singer publicly apologised for his unruly behaviour at the Abuja airport.

Earlier in the week, CREEBHILLS reported that a ValueJet aircraft nearly crushed K1 De Ultimate  while he attempted to block the plane from taking off after being deboarded for violating aviation rules. The incident led to the suspension of the pilot and sparked outrage on social media, with many criticising the singer’s actions.

In response, Nigerian Airline Operators placed K1 on a no-fly list. On Friday, the musician apologised to all parties involved and to his fans in a video message.

However, in a leaked audio that has since gone viral, K1 De Ultimate accused the airline of publicly embarrassing him and insisted that “no one messes with me and gets away with it.

While recounting his version of events in Yoruba, the singer said:

I’m a patient who needs water every second, you won’t want to see me shut down. Let them swear with the Bible and Quran about how the incident happened. After telling them not to make it a national issue, the pilot insisted that I must not go in with the water flask. She then said to one of them, ‘don’t let him go’. And I said if that’s how you want it, then nobody is going.

When people started gathering, I opened the flask and poured the content for them to see. Soname, your boss, ‘omo mi ni’. In government, I guarantee Soname. I’m Wasiu Ayinde, nobody does that and gets away with it, because I didn’t look for trouble or bypass the queue or do something wrong but the next thing I heard was ‘you can’t go on our flight.’ I don’t want to go on that flight again in my life, but Soname will feel it, he will feel me in his business.

PRESS STATEMENT: DECISION TO WITHDRAW CRIMINAL COMPLAINT AGAINST MS. COMFORT EMMANSON AND TO ADDRESS RELATED MATTERS

(1). In the last 48 hours, I have been in consultation with critical stakeholders in the Aviation Sector and those involved in the unfortunate incidents regarding the unruly behaviours of certain individuals at our airports of recent.

(2). Though regrettable, we think valuable lessons have been learnt by all sides to these incidents and airport security protocol, especially, have been well highlighted for the travelling public. If nothing at all, the episodes have undoubtedly helped to raise public awareness about appropriate conduct within the aviation space.

(3). As highlighted in my previous statements on the last two incidents, clear wrongs were committed by both the offending passengers and staff of the airlines involved from all the evidence available to us and those available to the public. It is clear that all the actors involved cannot continue to highlight the injury or injustice done to them without acknowledging their own equal culpability.

(4). Therefore, after reviewing the entire incidents, including appeals made by well-meaning individuals and remorse shown by the actors, the following decisions have been reached:

THE CASE OF IBOM AIRLINE AND MS. COMFORT EMMANSON

(a) In the case of the unruly passenger, Ms. Comfort Emmanson, on the Ibom Airline on Sunday, the 10th of August, 2025, I have conferred with Ibom Airline to withdraw the Complaint against her today. When the Police took her Statement in presence of her lawyer, she exhibited great remorse for her conduct.

(b) Subsequent to the withdrawal of the complaint by the Complainant, the CP of Airport Command and the Police Prosecutor will immediately take the remaining steps to facilitate her release from Kirikiri Prisons within this week.

(c) I have also conferred with the leadership of the Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) and have appealed to them to lift the life-time flying ban imposed on her, to which they agreed. The details of the resolution will be made public by the AON subsequently.

THE CASE OF VALUEJET AND WASIU AYINDE MARSHALL (KWAM 1)

(d) In the case of KWAM 1, the NCAA is to reduce his flight ban to a one-month period. FAAN will also work with the music star with a view to engaging him as an ambassador for proper airport security protocol going forward.

(e) Having publicly demonstrated penitence, the NCAA is also to withdraw its criminal complaints against KWAM 1 earlier lodged with the Police.

(f) In the case of Captain Oluranti Ogoyi, and the co-pilot, First Officer Ivan Oloba of VALUEJET, the NCAA is to restore their licenses after the same period of one-month ban after undergoing some mandatory professional re-appraisal. The details will be announced by the NCAA.

AIRLINE OPERATORS, AVIATION AND OTHER GOVERNMENT AGENCIES

(5). I have directed all relevant Aviation agencies in collaboration with other complementary agencies outside aviation to IMMEDIATELY begin a retreat NEXT WEEK to properly retrain and prepare our Aviation security personnel on how to deal with errant and disruptive passengers and how to deescalate potentially explosive situations. The retreat will be fully covered by the Press with the opportunity to ask all the relevant questions.

(6). The Airlines will also have their own session when the conduct and attitude of their staff towards members of the travelling public will be in full focus.

FINAL COMMENTS

(7). These above decisions were taken by Government and the airline operators purely on COMPASSIONATE grounds as Government will never pander to base sentiments, politically-motivated views or warped legal opinions when clear encroachment of our laws are involved.

(8). We are also sending a CLEAR MESSAGE that we take safety and security in the aviation sector very seriously and we have decided to draw a line after these clemencies.

FESTUS KEYAMO, SAN, CON, FCIArb (UK)

Wednesday, August 13, 2025

KWAM 1 TO BE MADE THE AMBASSADOR OF AVIATION IN NIGERIA

The Federal Government has announced plans to engage Fuji star, Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, popularly known as KWAM 1, as an ambassador for proper airport security protocol, after the recent controversy over his conduct at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

‎This was disclosed on Wednesday by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, in a statement outlining resolutions to recent cases of unruly behaviour at Nigerian airports.

‎Keyamo said the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority had agreed to reduce KWAM 1’s flight ban to one month and would work with the musician to promote awareness on acceptable conduct within the aviation space.

‎The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria will lead the engagement process.

‎”The NCAA is to reduce his flight ban to a one-month period. FAAN will also work with the music star with a view to engaging him as an ambassador for proper airport security protocol going forward.

‎”Having publicly demonstrated penitence, the NCAA is also to withdraw its criminal complaints against KWAM 1 earlier lodged with the police,” the statement read.

‎The minister added that the decision followed appeals from well-meaning individuals, as well as KWAM 1’s public show of penitence over the August 5 incident in which he allegedly obstructed a ValueJet aircraft’s movement.

‎Keyamo also revealed that the NCAA would withdraw its criminal complaints against the artiste.

‎The development comes days after the musician apologised to the public, insisting the flask he carried on the day of the incident contained water for medical reasons and not alcohol, as was alleged by security personnel.

‎The minister emphasised that the clemency was granted on “compassionate grounds” , warning that the government remained committed to enforcing safety and security laws in the aviation sector.

‎On August 5, KWAM 1 was involved in a confrontation with airline staff and security officials at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, while attempting to board a ValueJet flight to Lagos.

He was accused of carrying a prohibited flask believed to contain alcohol, spilling its contents on personnel, and later walking onto the aircraft’s tarmac, allegedly blocking the plane from taxiing.

The Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority described the act as a breach of aviation safety regulations and initially placed him on a six-month no-fly list while filing a criminal complaint with the police.

THIS IS COMFORT EMASSON: THE NAKED STORY

"Ibom Air confirms that on Sunday, August 10, 2025, an incident occurred on board our Uyo–Lagos flight involving a passenger, Ms. Comfort Emmanson, whose conduct posed a serious threat to the safety of our crew, passengers, and aircraft.

Shortly before take-off from Uyo, Ms. Emmanson was instructed in line with standard aviation safety procedures, to switch off her mobile phone. She bluntly refused to comply until the Pilot-in-Command made an announcement, after which a fellow passenger seated beside her took the phone and switched it off. This action prompted a verbal tirade from Ms. Emmanson. The situation was eventually calmed, and the flight departed as scheduled.

Upon arrival in Lagos, Ms. Emmanson waited for all other passengers to disembark and then proceeded to confront the Purser who had earlier instructed her. She walked up to the unsuspecting Purser, stepped on her, forcibly tore off her wig, removed her glasses and threw it to the floor, and used her footwear to assault her. She slapped her several times and when the other cabin crew member tried to intervene, she slapped her too. She then attempted to forcibly remove a fire extinguisher to use as a weapon, an act that could have damaged and grounded the aircraft.

By this time, the Pilot-in-Command had alerted airport security. Before security could arrive, the Purser as seen on the viral video on the internet, prevented the passenger from leaving the aircraft until security arrived. The arrival of Ibom Air Security personnel, did not deter the passenger as she attacked them as well, lashing out violently at both Ibom Air and FAAN security. She was then restrained and removed from the aircraft by force. Even after disembarking, she continued to assault both Ibom Air and FAAN security staff, and even slapped the ground supervisor.

The passenger was removed from the ramp and taken into custody by FAAN security and handed over to the Nigeria Police Force for further investigation.

Ibom Air has since submitted a report on the incident to the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, and placed a travel restriction on Ms. Emmanson, who will no longer be permitted to fly on any of our aircraft."

Trinidad and Tobago removes Christopher Columbus statue amid reckoning with colonial past

A vandalized statue of Christophe Columbus towers over Columbus Square in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, Wednesday, Aug. 28, 2024.

Trinidad and Tobago

The statue of Christopher Columbus, a controversial fixture in Trinidad and Tobago’s capital for over a century, was finally removed on Wednesday as the Caribbean nation continues to confront its colonial legacy. The decision follows years of activism from citizens and historians who argue that such monuments glorify oppression rather than heritage.

The statue, located in a public area of Port of Spain, had been repeatedly vandalized by protesters who saw it as a symbol of colonial violence.

At the time of its removal, its head was covered with a decorative bag—an anonymous act of defiance.

This move aligns with a broader push across Trinidad and Tobago to reassess historical symbols tied to European colonization.

Last year, officials announced plans to redesign the country’s coat of arms, removing colonial-era imagery for the first time since independence in 1962.

"Global laughingstock": activist celebrates the decision

Shabaka Kambon, director of the Caribbean Freedom Project, has long advocated for the removal of colonial monuments.

In a statement, he criticized the irony of seeking reparations for colonial crimes while still honoring figures like Columbus.

"This monument turned us into a global laughingstock," Kambon said. "People often refer to the natives as the children of the human family. The fact that we struggled for so long to grasp our violent colonial history and lacked the bravery to face it made us appear foolish—especially while demanding reparations from the same powers we were memorializing."

From Columbus’s ships to steelpan: redefining national symbols

The changes extend beyond statues.

Columbus’s famed ships—the Pinta, the Niña, and the Santa María—still adorn some government buildings, but officials plan to replace them with the steelpan, a musical instrument born in Trinidad and Tobago and cherished as a symbol of Caribbean culture.

These shifts reflect a growing movement to decolonize public spaces and celebrate indigenous and Afro-Caribbean heritage instead of European conquest.

A global movement against colonial monuments

Trinidad and Tobago’s decision is part of a worldwide reckoning with colonial history.

In recent years, statues of Columbus have been toppled, vandalized, or removed in the United States, Latin America, and beyond.

Critics argue that these monuments whitewash the brutality of colonization, including slavery, genocide, and cultural erasure.

Columbus first arrived in Trinidad and Tobago in 1498, marking the beginning of centuries of European domination in the region.

For many, his removal from public spaces is a symbolic step toward justice.

With the statue gone and national symbols being reimagined, Trinidad and Tobago continues its journey toward reclaiming its history.

While some may oppose these changes, activists argue that true independence requires confronting—not glorifying—the past.

As Kambon put it, "We can’t seek reparations for colonial crimes while still honoring the criminals."

The removal of Columbus’s statue is not just about taking down a monument—it’s about rewriting a narrative.

Source: africanews

THIS IS NOT JUST ABOUT K1 OR A FLASK — IT’S ABOUT WHO WE BECOME WHEN PRIDE MEETS POWER

Let’s step away from the noise. Forget the flask. Forget the pilot. Forget the celebrity. Let’s talk about us — humans in a world where emotions, ego, and status collide daily in damaging ways.

Last Tuesday, at Abuja Airport, Fuji legend K1 De Ultimate was denied entry onto a ValueJet flight after insisting on carrying a flask onboard — one he claimed contained water or medicine. The pilot, Captain Oluranti, stood her ground and refused him. The result? A standoff. Allegations. Suspension. Six-month flight ban. National drama.

But the real story here isn’t about aviation rules or celebrity rights. It’s about the chemistry of pride, and how our failure to master our emotions is silently costing us influence, dignity, and even safety.

THE EMOTIONAL DYNAMICS NO ONE IS TALKING ABOUT:

K1, a cultural icon, sees himself not just as a man, but as a system. His music moves crowds. His name opens doors. He’s a symbol of Yoruba pride, wealth, and reach — close to political power. So, when a pilot says no, it hits more than protocol. It hits the ego.

Captain Oluranti, daughter of a former Senator, isn’t just a pilot. She’s a highly educated, rule-bound professional in a male-dominated space. She’s had to work twice as hard to earn her stripes. Her instinct? Never be intimidated. Not even by a king of Fuji.

Now pause.

Two people. Both symbols. Both intelligent. Both powerful.

And both failed one thing: Emotional intelligence.

When emotions override reason, status becomes a weapon, not a gift.

When pride hijacks perspective, every disagreement feels like disrespect.

And this — not the flask — is what we need to reflect on.

THE REAL CONSEQUENCES

K1 walked away with a 6-month flight ban. Reputation dented.

Captain Oluranti got suspended. Career under scrutiny.

A near-miss situation emerged on the runway. People could have died.

All because two grown, influential adults couldn’t de-escalate a simple misunderstanding.

This is not a win for anyone.

This is a case study in what happens when pride goes unchecked and emotional intelligence is absent — no matter your age, title, or tribe.

WHAT THIS INCIDENT TEACHES US:

✅ Fame does not excuse arrogance.

✅ Education does not guarantee emotional maturity.

✅ Power does not replace wisdom.

✅ Leadership is not shown in how loud you talk, but how well you listen — even when you don’t agree.

Let’s stop acting like being right gives us the license to be reckless.

Let’s normalize the fact that calm is a superpower.

You don’t need to win every argument. You just need to win your peace.

We need a society that teaches emotional literacy as seriously as we teach financial literacy.

TO OUR LEADERS & INFLUENCERS:

Whether you’re a singer, pilot, imam, governor, or CEO — if you cannot manage your emotions, you will eventually manage a scandal.

We don’t need more prideful people in power.

We need emotionally intelligent role models who know when to step back, when to apologize, and when to let silence speak louder than ego.

This is not about Wasiu Ayinde. Or Ranti Oluranti. This is about US.

Because every day — in marriages, boardrooms, friendships, churches, mosques, airports — we are reenacting this same drama.

And every time pride wins, something beautiful dies.

Let this incident reform us. Transform us. Wake us.

Let it remind us:

When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom. – Proverbs 11:2

And lower your wing to the believers who follow you. – Qur'an 26:215

By Prince Adeola Afolabi

#emotionalintelligence #growthspace

MEET THE IJEBU MAN WHO OWNS VALUEJET AIRLINES THAT GOT ENTANGLED WITH KWAM 1

His name is Kunle Soname. He is a Nigerian businessman with an estimated net worth of over $100 million, possibly up to $500 million. He has diverse interests in sports, betting, aviation, and real estate. 

The airline's daily operations are managed by Captain Omololu Majekodunmi, who serves as the CEO. 

The airline was founded in 2018 but commenced operations on October 10, 2022, with flights to Abuja, Port Harcourt, Asaba, and Jos. 

Soname is the Chairman of the sports betting website Bet9ja and owner of Portuguese football club C.D. He is also the President of Remo Stars Football Club.

Fracas @Nnamdi Azikwe Airport...

I Tender my Unreserved and Heartfelt Apology

- Wasiu Ayinde Marshall

The incident that occurred at the local wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport on August 5, 2025, involving my humble self and ValueJet Airline, was, to say the least, unfortunate.

Unknown to many, I suffer from chronic dehydration, and my doctor strongly advised that I remain constantly hydrated. This is why I always carry a water flask with me. And contrary to the negative narrative being circulated in some quarters, the flask I carried on that particular day contained only water — not alcohol, as wrongly alleged.

For the record, I passed through two security screenings with the flask empty. The flask was only filled with water at the lounge area, just before heading to the tarmac. This fact can be verified by the CCTV footage at the airport lounge. More so, I hadn’t even boarded the plane, let alone being deboarded.

However, I acknowledge and deeply regret the concerns that arose from the incident. It was never my intention to cause any disruption or violate aviation protocols in any way.

My unwavering patriotism and unshaken loyalty to the Federal Republic of Nigeria have never been in doubt. Over the years, I have consistently used my God-given talent and platform to promote the Nigerian brand across the globe. I would never do anything to tarnish the image I’ve built over the past five decades, nor would I knowingly act in a way that could diminish the reputation of the country I love so dearly.

That said, the incident is sincerely regretted. I remain committed to upholding the values and responsibilities that come with being a global ambassador of Nigerian music and culture.

To the Presidency, Ministry of Aviation, FAAN, NCAA, ValueJet, fellow Nigerians, and my teeming fans across the world who have shown great concern since the incident happened, I tender my unreserved and heartfelt apology.

Thank you.

Signed 

King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal

K1 De Ultimate

Friday August 8,2025

MY STORY ! — CAPTAIN RANTI

LISTEN: Captain Ranti, Pilot of Flight VK201 from Abuja to Lagos, speaks out after K1 blocked the aircraft from taking off. What really happened on that runway? 👇

"During boarding which commenced as scheduled at 8:10 am, KWAM1 approached the aircraft at about 08:15–08:20 carrying a gold flask of unknown content.

"Ground staff requested, as per standard procedure, to verify the content of the flask but he vehemently refused.

"He was seen drinking from the flask and the ground staff suspected that it contains alcohol, a substance prohibited onboard aircraft in Nigeria.

"Instead, he responded with comments such as, “Do you know who I am? You have no right to tell me to open my flask.”

“As he reached the foot of the aircraft, security personnel reiterated that he could not board without complying with the inspection. He became confrontational, causing a disruption,” Captain Ranti continued.

“To manage the situation and prevent further delay, I exited the cockpit and approached Mr. Ayinde to engage him amicably. Without warning, he opened the flask and poured its contents on me, the security personnel, and some nearby passengers.

“Following this assault, airport security intervened, and other passengers were allowed to continue boarding. The Head of Security advised that Mr. Ayinde should not be permitted to travel on the flight due to his behaviour. I agreed, prioritising the safety of my passengers and crew.

“After shutting the aircraft doors, I observed that Mr Ayinde was still near the aircraft, obstructing movement. I made a Public Announcement to inform passengers of the delay while security personnel worked to remove him from the area. Once he was moved out of sight, I commenced taxiing and departed for Lagos at approximately 08:50.

“This incident caused significant delay, disruption, and posed safety risks to passengers, crew, and the operation of the flight.”

Captain Oluranti Ogoyi: The Pilot Who Prevented K1’s Boarding of a ValueJet Flight

Captain Oluranti Ogoyi, a highly experienced pilot with over 10 years in the aviation industry, recently made headlines for her role in preventing Fuji music icon K1 De Ultimate from boarding a ValueJet aircraft.

Having joined ValueJet after a long tenure with Arik Air, Captain Oluranti was in command of the flight when an unexpected confrontation occurred. As K1 insisted on boarding the aircraft despite an earlier decision barring him from entry, Captain Oluranti, alongside her co-pilot, First Officer Ivan Iloba, made the call to proceed with the flight.

In the process, they nearly ran into the musician, an incident that has since sparked controversy. Many have criticized the decision as reckless and unprofessional, raising questions about the handling of the situation. Though it remains unclear what led to K1’s insistence on boarding, the episode has added another layer of intrigue to Oluranti’s career, as she continues to navigate the skies with poise and authority.

THE INCIDENT INVOLVING VALUEJET AND KWAM 1

I have received reports from all the relevant Aviation agencies regarding the altercation between the staff and crew of ValueJet and Kwam 1 at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, on Tuesday, August 7, 2025. I have also received video footages of the incident.

From all the details so far received, my preliminary impression is that it was obviously a case of temporary loss of sanity and control on both sides which could have led to serious fatalities.

Contrary to what the agents of Kwam 1 has said, he CONSTANTLY moved his position on the tarmac to ACTUALLY BLOCK the aircraft from taxiing to take position on the runway for take-off. This is TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE behaviour. The issue of whether he was carrying water or alcohol is not even in issue at this point. It is the physical blockage of the aircraft from taxiing that is the reprehensible conduct here which akin to a hostage situation. The actual video footage showing this recalcitrant behaviour is hereby attached.

On the other hand, NO AMOUNT of provocation should make the Captain and Pilot of an aircraft begin to taxi without ensuring that the security personnel have safely moved an unruly passenger away that is standing in front of an aircraft.

Both sides breached standard SAFETY PROTOCOL as required by the INTERNATIONAL CIVIL AVIATION ORGANISATION (ICAO).

I have noted that the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has temporarily suspended the license of the Captain and the Pilot pending full investigation. I commend them for their proactive action. However, I have also questioned their sense of justice in only acting against one party and not the other party. What applies to the goose must also to the gander. That is one of the tenets of Justice I have preached all my life. I will not sit idly by and allow this to pass.

IN THE CIRCUMSTANCE, I HAVE ALSO DIRECTED THE NCAA TO PLACE KWAM 1 on a NO-FLY list pending further and full investigation, just like the Captain and Pilot. ALL AIRLINES, both domestic and International should IMMEDIATELY be informed of this directive and anyone who flouts this directive risk withdrawal of their operating licence.

Festus Keyamo.

Hon Minister of Aviation.

GOODLUCK JONATHAN IS THE SLEEPER CANDIDATE FOR TINUBU

Nigeria’s former President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, will be one of the leading candidates to confront incumbent President Bola Tinubu, in the 2027 presidential poll, a close ally of the Bayelsa-born politician confirmed to Vanguard yesterday.

The ally, who is also in the People Democratic Party, PDP, as Jonathan, told Vanguard that the plan to draft the former President to contest on PDP’s platform had gone far, and that he had accepted, adding that the former president was going into the race to find ways of addressing Nigeria’s rising poverty, hardship and the general suffering that had gripped the citizenry in recent years.

The source said the project to bring back Jonathan to reposition Nigeria was being driven by key Nigerian leaders and elders, who believed the former president stabilised the country and its economy within the six years of his administration.

The source said it was in a bid to rescue the country and restore the dwindling economy and Nigeria to its pride of place that key PDP leaders and elders started ‘pleading with him’ to consider running against Tinubu in 2027.

There are those who believe that giving him the opportunity to run for a single term of four years remained the clearest pathway for power to return to the north in 2031 and remain there for eight years without a serious struggle by the south.

Going by the fact that Jonathan had already served out a term of four years, he cannot run for more than another four years in office if he wins the election in 2027, just like Tinubu if he gets re-elected.

Meeting with northern leaders:

Jonathan’s ally said the Otuoke-born politician had already met behind the scene with some top leaders within and outside the PDP to consult them and seek their support for the 2027 presidential race.

According to the politician, Jonathan met with former Nigerian military president, General Ibrahim Babangida, retd., last weekend in his Hilltop Mansion in Minna, Niger State, and briefed him on his desire to run for one term in 2027.

Although the source did not say what General IBB’s response to Jonathan was, he, however, expressed optimism that the idea had been properly sold to the north.

The official also disclosed that Jonathan was currently in the South-South consulting and meeting with critical stakeholders, with a view to selling the project to them and soliciting their unflinching support.

It was, however, not clear at press time who the GEJ team was meeting with in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital on Tuesday and yesterday but it is believed that his support base in the region would not be a problem to him.

PDP intensifies effort to woo Jonathan:

Meanwhile, Vanguard gathered that the PDP is actively courting Jonathan to contest the 2027 presidential election under its platform.

Reliable sources informed the BBC Hausa Service monitored by our correspondent in Kaduna that the move, backed by top PDP figures, including some governors, was aimed at convincing Jonathan to return and lead the party’s charge against the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, and President Tinubu.

While confirming the development, Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the PDP, Mallam Ibrahim Abdullahi, said the party’s move was in response to growing calls from Nigerians who now believe Jonathan’s past administration was under-appreciated.

“Many Nigerians have come to realise the mistake they made in not re-electing Dr. Jonathan. They now acknowledge his achievements and are even apologising, pleading with him to return and rescue the country,” Abdullahi said.

He added that since Jonathan remained a PDP member, the party saw no reason not to approach him. “He is a compassionate leader, and as a party that listens to Nigerians, we felt compelled to heed their call,” he added.

Sources also revealed that some high-ranking PDP stakeholders recently travelled to The Gambia to meet with the former president and persuaded him to accept the party’s ticket.

Jonathan gives conditions:

According to Abdullahi, Jonathan has shown signs of interest and has begun laying down conditions, including clarity on whether he would participate in the primaries or be given the ticket outright, and whether the party genuinely recognises his capacity to lead.

“He has started listening to the emissaries and is consulting with his inner circle,” Abdullahi disclosed.

He may get automatic ticket:

In an exclusive interview with Vanguard in Abuja yesterday, Daniel Woyengikuro, PDP’s National Financial Secretary, described Jonathan as the party’s national leader and a central figure in its strategy for zoning the presidency to the south.

“Is he not the best candidate for us at this moment? He is not just a former president; he is the leader of the party now. Aside from Obasanjo, the next person in line is him. Goodluck Jonathan is the national leader of this party,” Woyengikuro said.

He explained that the PDP was already consulting with Jonathan and engaging with his associates to encourage his return and deeper involvement in reshaping Nigeria’s political landscape.

“Nigeria has reached a point where we need to salvage this country. We need to salvage this country for our generation and for the generations ahead of us.

“The people who can do this, at least for now, are the leaders of the party, especially when we’re talking about the Southern presidency. Someone like Goodluck Jonathan is okay,” he added.

Asked whether the PDP would consider giving Jonathan an automatic ticket, Woyengikuro gave his full endorsement.

“For me, that’s what I firmly stand for. You can quote me anywhere: I want him to come. An automatic ticket for him, as it stands now. Because we must salvage both this party and the nation.

“If Goodluck finally accepts, you will see that the entire dynamics will change. The entire politics of 2027 will change,” he stated.

In addition to Jonathan, Woyengikuro praised Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde, describing him as a dynamic leader capable of bridging generational gaps.

“We have Governor Seyi Makinde, a vibrant leader who is doing great things in Oyo. Now that we are talking about the Presidency remaining in the south, these are the two main individuals I stand for: Goodluck Jonathan and Seyi Makinde,” he said.

What the law says on Jonathan’s eligibility:

Amid the push to get Jonathan to run, there is division in the polity on his eligibility, following a 2018 Constitutional amendment that bars those sworn-in twice in the past from running for presidency or governorship.

The sections of the Constitution that address the issue of presidents and governors being sworn in more than twice are Sections 137(3) and 182(3). These sections state that a person who was sworn in to complete the term of another person as President or Governor shall not be elected to such office for more than a single term.

*Section 137(3) applies to the President and states: “A person, who was sworn in to complete the term for which another person was elected as President, shall not be elected to such office for more than a single term.”

*Section 182(3) applies to Governors and states: “A person, who was sworn in to complete the term for which another person was elected as Governor, shall not be elected to such office for more than a single term.”

These sections aim to prevent individuals from serving more than eight years in office, either as President or Governor, even if they assume the role due to the incumbent’s inability to serve.

The amendment, now referred to as the Fourth Alteration Act, became effective on June 8, 2018, when it was signed into law by then President Muhammadu Buhari.

Currently, lawyers are divided on the issue. While some are of the view that Jonathan could no longer contest any presidential election, having completed the unexpired term of the late President Umar Yar’Adua and concluded another term in 2015, others contended that the new provisions cannot be applied to Jonathan who started his tenure before the law took effect.

In 2022, when the matter came up, a Federal High Court in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State held that Jonathan could not be barred by the amendment. Then, there were rumours that the former president would run and some supporters had procured the APC’s N100 million nomination and expression of interest forms but he declined to contest.

The position of lawyers supporting Jonathan’s eligibility was upheld in a judgment delivered on May 27, 2022, by a Federal High Court in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State by Justice Isa Hamma Dashen on a suit, marked: FHC/YNG/CS/86/2022 filed by Andy Solomon and Idibiye Abraham (who claimed to be members of the APC).

Defendants in the suit were Jonathan, the APC and the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.

Solomon and Abraham argued that by the provisions in Section 137(1)(b) and (3) of the constitution, Jonathan was no longer eligible to vie for the office of the president because he had taken an oath to that office on two previous occasions.

However, Justice Dashen held, among others, that Section 137(3) of the constitution did not bar Jonathan from contesting the 2023 presidential election because the provision could not be applied retroactively.

The judge held that the oath taken by Jonathan on May 6, 2010, after the death of President Yar’Adua, complied with a constitutional provision and not because he contested and won the election.

He noted that the 2007 general election produced the late Musa Yar’Adua as the President and not Jonathan, adding that Section 137(3) could not have a retroactive effect to stop him from contesting the 2023 presidential election.

The judge held that Section 137(3), which came into effect on June 8, 2018, “cannot apply retroactively, except the legislature, in clear terms, expressly stated their intention for it to be so.”

Lawyers divided over Jonathan’s eligibility:

Meanwhile, senior lawyers in the country yesterday weighed in on the eligibility of former President Goodluck Jonathan to contest the 2027 presidential election.

Their intervention followed a reported move by the PDP, to consider handing automatic ticket to the former President should he return to the party and become politically active again.

However, the said decision of the PDP threw up questions about Jonathan’s legal standing to vie for presidency again, in view of the fourth alteration to the 1999 Constitution, which forbade anyone from taking the presidential oath twice after election.

Reacting to the development, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, SAN, Mr. Dayo Akinlaja, argued that former President Jonathan was not caught up by the said constitutional amendment.

KWAM1: ABSOLUTE POWER......ABSOLUTE IGNORANCE

When the President of the country displayed his lack of ignorance for protocol by directly calling KWAM 1 to commensurate with him on the demise of his mother. The Fuji legend returned the gesture by his own regard for decorum. An Igbo adage goes that a man gives his son the marching order to go and attack his neighbor should expect the worst result. With our silence on the significant implication of that phone call. We should expect the worst from KWAM 1.

And what was the worst that could have happened from that plane incident. A plane crash that might have involved the loss of many lives. That is the repercussion of coercive behavior we love to ignore. Power abuse happens when people like KWAM 1 exploit their authority to demean, control, or marginalize ordinary citizens. He put the President on speaker phone for us to hear and be intimidated. No reprimand from the authorities that should know better. We acted like the inappropriate was the normal thing to do. Afterall, he is the drummer boy of the President. He made Tinubu. So, what is wrong in drinking alcohol on plane. Making the plane crash. Putting his own life and many others in jeopardy.

People like KWAM 1 lack emotional intelligence and the self-awareness to understand the burden of proximity to power. The need to protect the image of the President that he says he grew up with in Ita-garawu. His bad behavior did not start with this plane incident. It will not end with it. It may end with the loss of lives. Including his. But what does a bastard like me know? Let me continue to GANUSI. One day God will put butter on my bread. Like KWAM 1.

KWAM 1: THE RECKLESS MAIYEGUN OF YOURUBALAND

How Tinubu’s Loyalist, Fuji Star Kwam 1 Spilled Alcohol On Airline Official On ValueJet Flight, Triggered Safety Breach At Abuja Airport | Sahara Reporters 

The disorderly conduct of Wasiu Ayinde, the veteran Fuji musician, led to the suspension of two ValueJet pilots by the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), TheCable understands.

Ayinde is popularly known as Kwam 1 or K1 De Ultimate and commands a huge following in Nigeria’s music industry, having popularised the Fuji genre.

Sources informed TheCable that Kwam 1, who was onboard a ValueJet plane on August 5, was seen drinking from a flask and was approached by a flight attendant who suspected that the content was alcohol — a substance prohibited onboard aircraft in Nigeria.

The attendant was said to have asked the musician to surrender the flask, but Kwam 1 refused, saying it was medication prescribed by his doctor.

TheCable understands that following his refusal to give up the flask, the flight crew deboarded the celebrity.

Consequently, an enraged Kwam 1 proceeded to the front of the aircraft in an attempt to prevent it from taking off.

In a video seen by TheCable on Wednesday, the Fuji artist was seen standing in front of the aircraft, with ground personnel interacting with him.

Seconds later, Kwam 1 and the ground personnel were seen dodging the wing of the ValueJet plane as the flight forcefully took off in breach of aviation safety rules.

In response, the NCAA, on August 6, announced the suspension of two pilots over the incident which occurred at the domestic terminal of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.

The authority said it received reports of a serious breach of aviation safety protocols involving a ValueJet flight.

According to the NCAA, the pilots commenced departure procedures from the designated bay without adhering to the mandatory pre-departure clearance protocols.

“This reckless action endangered the safety of ground personnel and other airport users, contravening established civil aviation regulations and international safety standards,” the NCAA had said.

Apart from the suspension of the pilots, the aviation authority is considering punitive measures for Kwam 1, such as being put on a ‘no-fly list’, over his unruly conduct.

A ‘no-fly list’ is a database of individuals prohibited from boarding commercial flights due to suspected links to terrorism or other security threats.

If the NCAA goes ahead with the punishment, Kwam 1’s international and local engagements may take a hit.

Meet Diébédo Francis Kéré: The Burkinabe Architect Behind the Thomas Sankara Mausoleum

On May 17, 2025, Burkina Faso unveiled the Thomas Sankara Mausoleum in Ouagadougou, a monument honoring the nation’s revered revolutionary leader.  Designed by acclaimed architect Diébédo Francis Kéré, the mausoleum is built by President Traore to celebrate and honor Sankara’s legacy.

Who is Thomas Sankara

Thomas Sankara, often referred to as “Africa’s Che Guevara,” led Burkina Faso from 1983 until his assassination in 1987.  His presidency was marked by ambitious reforms in education, health, gender equality, and anti-corruption efforts.  The mausoleum, situated at the site of his assassination, preserves the bullet-scarred building where Sankara and twelve of his aides were killed, surrounded by water to symbolize reflection.

The oval-shaped mausoleum, constructed using local laterite and earth, features natural cooling and lighting techniques.  Small openings allow light to filter in during the day and glow at night, creating a serene atmosphere.  An 87-meter tower serves as a new urban landmark, offering panoramic views and housing a restaurant.  The complex also includes an amphitheater, media library, ateliers, and spaces for weddings and study, aligning with Sankara’s vision of community empowerment.

Who is Diébédo Francis Kéré

Born on April 10, 1965, in Gando, Burkina Faso, Diébédo Francis Kéré is renowned for his sustainable and community-focused architectural designs. After receiving a scholarship, he studied architecture at the Technische Universität Berlin, graduating in 2004.  In 1998, he founded the Kéré Foundation to fund the construction of a primary school in his hometown, emphasizing the use of local materials and community involvement.

Kéré’s architectural designs have earned him numerous accolades, including the 2022 Pritzker Architecture Prize, making him the first African-born laureate.  His work, such as the Gando Primary School and the Burkina Institute of Technology, showcases his commitment to blending traditional techniques with modern design to create environmentally sustainable and socially impactful structures.

What is the Thomas Sankara Mausoleum

The Thomas Sankara Mausoleum is envisioned not merely as a place of mourning but as a vibrant space for life and gathering.  Kéré emphasized, “We don’t want a place of death and suffering, but rather one full of vitality and life.”  The design incorporates green spaces for students, areas for celebrations, and exhibits showcasing Sankara’s revolutionary ideals.

The project, initiated under President Ibrahim Traoré, reflects a broader effort to honor Sankara’s memory.  In recent years, Sankara was declared a “hero of the nation,” and October 15 was designated as an annual day of homage.  A major boulevard was renamed in his honor, and his statue was unveiled at the site.

IDI AMIN DADA OF UGANDA

In early 1976, while African presidents were busy throwing banquets and pretending to understand the term “non-aligned movement,” Uganda’s Field Marshal, Dr. President-for-Life Idi Amin Dada, VC, DSO, MC, Conqueror of the British Empire, etcetera etcetera, had other ideas. He suddenly decided that a large chunk of Kenya, including Kisumu, Eldoret, and possibly your grandmother’s land in Kakamega, actually belonged to Uganda. According to Amin, the British had wrongly transferred the land to Kenya in 1902, perhaps in exchange for tea, chapati, or colonial confusion.

Now, this wasn’t Amin’s first outlandish claim. The man already called himself Conqueror of the British Empire and King of Scotland. But this time, he went from comic relief to threat mode. He declared Uganda would reclaim its territory, and if Kenya resisted, he would send troops. Never mind that his army had more tanks than fuel, and his air force had more ambition than altitude.

Enter Mzee Jomo Kenyatta. Old, yes. Frail, perhaps. But still sharper than a Maasai spear and twice as deadly with words. When news of Amin’s territorial fantasies reached State House, Kenyatta did not panic. He summoned the nation to Uhuru Park and growled, “We shall not give away even an inch, not even a quarter of an inch.” He warned that if Uganda tried anything, they would be met with unimaginable force.

Kenyans, fueled by patriotic pride and a natural dislike for being bossed around, took to the streets with chants, protests, and the highly creative art of effigy burning. In Kisumu, someone constructed a ten-foot tall dummy of Idi Amin with a chicken on its head. In Nairobi, the phrase “Amin must go to school” began trending long before Twitter existed. Meanwhile, the Kenyan army, which rarely got to do anything beyond marching on national holidays, was mobilized to the border. Military trucks rolled into Busia and Bungoma. Jet fighters began doing flyovers near Uganda’s airspace just to remind Amin that Kenya too had joined in the rally.

#Africa #Uganda #World

CHARLY BOY BUS STOP: THE MUMU IN ALL OF US

The tribalism in us beclouds our reasoning. Not sometimes. I mean all the time. We cannot see the truth. If not, why make an ordinary name change the reason to start another civil war? Why? Because of Charly Boy?

Not for Charly Boy. This is the height of our mumu in this country. The lack of trust that we have in what should be a great country. Tribalism is a deeply ingrained human phenomenon, a natural tendency to form groups based on shared identity, values, or goals. It has shaped our history, fostered our greatest achievements, and, at times, fueled our darkest conflicts.

I know Charly Boy. I worked with him. I was a frequent visitor to his house in Gbagada. He was to mine in Surulere. Besides, I lived in Bariga for a long time. Knew the area in question more than most. It was NEVER CHARLY BOY BUS STOP. He happened to rent a house close to the bus stop. As a result, conductor found it convenient to call it Charly Boy bus stop. Due to his notoriety at that time. He hijacked it like Charly Boy is known to do. It was Second Pedro bus stop before Charly Boy came to town. It was never officially named Charly Boy bus stop by any government. That is the fact.

We live in a very polarized country. Each tribe very suspicious of each other. Quick to reach for the gun to kill. The ethical blind spots are what our politicians play on. To turn us into mumu. Our tribalism has spiral out of control. The consequence can only be catastrophic. Charly Boy is not a decent human being to have a bus stop named after him. Not in Lagos. Not in Nnewi. Not even in Sabon Gari. It has nothing to do with the Igbo in him. It is more about the opportunistic Nigerian that he is wired to be. Sadly, we fail to see that. The unchecked tribal dynamics is the reason for all of our problems. The fault lines that continue to separate us. The civil war over a bus stop. A nonexistence CHARLY BOY BUS STOP.

 "Our mumu never do."---Charly Boy

Babatunde Olatunji: The First Nigerian to Win a Grammy Award

Early Life and Education

Michael Babatunde Olatunji was born on April 7, 1927, in Ajido, near Badagry in Lagos State, Nigeria. A native of the Yoruba ethnic group, he grew up in a fishing village where traditional drumming and chants shaped his early experiences. In 1950, he moved to the United States on a Rotary International scholarship, enrolling at Morehouse College in Atlanta. He later earned a degree in political science and continued his studies at New York University, initially intending to become a diplomat.

Musical Breakthrough and “Drums of Passion”

Olatunji's musical career took off in 1959 with the release of his debut album, Drums of Passion. The album, released under Columbia Records, became an international sensation and is widely credited with introducing traditional African music to Western audiences. One of the standout tracks, “Jin-Go-Lo-Ba,” achieved global acclaim and was later covered by artists such as Carlos Santana. With its use of Yoruba drumming patterns and spiritual chants, Drums of Passion marked a turning point in global appreciation for African rhythms.

The Grammy Achievement

In 1991, Babatunde Olatunji made history as the first Nigerian to win a Grammy Award. He won for his collaboration with Grateful Dead drummer Mickey Hart on the album Planet Drum, which took home the inaugural Grammy Award for Best World Music Album. This recognition solidified Olatunji’s position as a global ambassador of African music and placed Nigerian artistry on the world stage.

Cultural Advocacy and Activism

Beyond music, Olatunji was a prominent cultural advocate and social activist. In 1965, he established the Olatunji Center for African Culture in Harlem, New York, where he taught drumming, dance, and Yoruba philosophy. He became deeply involved in the American Civil Rights Movement, marching alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and using his platform to promote justice, unity, and African heritage.

Influence on Global Music

Olatunji’s work influenced a wide range of musicians across genres. He collaborated with jazz legends like John Coltrane and Cannonball Adderley, contributed to the spiritual jazz movement, and inspired popular musicians such as Stevie Wonder and Santana. His rhythms were not just musical tools—they were cultural messengers, introducing African spiritual traditions to new audiences.

Educator and Mentor

Throughout his life, Olatunji was also a teacher. He conducted workshops worldwide, led educational programs, and created instructional materials that continue to shape percussion studies today. His performances were interactive experiences that combined music, storytelling, and communal energy, helping people everywhere feel a part of Africa’s rhythm and spirit.

Legacy and Death

Olatunji passed away on April 6, 2003, one day before his 76th birthday, due to complications from diabetes. He left behind a powerful legacy: a trailblazer who used rhythm to unite people, educate minds, and empower generations. His contribution as the first Nigerian Grammy Award winner continues to inspire African musicians and cultural advocates worldwide.

Babatunde Olatunji was not only the first Nigerian to receive a Grammy, but also one of the most important voices in the global music scene of the 20th century. His commitment to preserving and promoting African heritage, his collaborations with global artists, and his role as a cultural educator cement his place as a legend. Through his drum, Africa found a voice that resonated across continents—and it still echoes today.

THEY ALL DIED AT THE LONDON CLINIC

(1). Muhammadu Buhari (Age 82): Former President of Nigeria who served from 2015 to 2023 and previously as a military ruler from 1983 to 1985. He died on July 13, 2025, in a London hospital after a prolonged illness.

(2). Oluyemi Adeniji (Age 83): Top diplomat and former Minister of Foreign Affairs under President Obasanjo. He represented Nigeria at the United Nations and led peace missions in Africa, dying in a London hospital.

(3). Ifeanyi Ubah (Age 53): Successful businessman and senator for Anambra South. He built shipping, oil, and hotel companies and died unexpectedly in London.

(4). Clement Nyong Isong (Age 78): Former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria and later Governor of Cross River. He received specialist care in London and passed away in 2000 after a short illness.

(5). Sheikh Isyaku Rabiu (Age 93): Wealthy businessman and generous donor who funded schools and hospitals in Kano State. He passed away in a London hospital after a long illness.

(6). Oba Okunade Sijuwade (Age 85): Senior traditional ruler among the Yoruba people. Known for his efforts to bring people together, he passed away in a London clinic in 2015.

(7). Ado Bayero (Age 83): Former Emir of Kano who ruled for over 50 years, marked by stability and charity work. He received treatment in a London hospital before returning to Nigeria, where he passed away.

(8). Alex Ekwueme (Age 85): Nigeria’s first elected Vice President under President Shehu Shagari. He fought for Nigeria’s 36-state structure and worked towards democracy, passing away in London.

(9). Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu (Age 78): Leader of the breakaway state of Biafra during Nigeria’s civil war. He spent his final days at the Royal Berkshire Hospital in Reading, England, and died in 2011.

Their deaths highlight the need for improved healthcare infrastructure in Nigeria, with many questioning the country’s reliance on foreign medical treatment.

CECIL DENNIS JUNIOR

Liberia's Minister for Foreign Affairs Charles Cecil Dennis Jr is prepared for execution alongside other cabinet ministers after Samuel Doe overthrew the government.

On April 12, 1980, Samuel Doe led a military coup, killing President William R. Tolbert, Jr., in the Executive Mansion. Twenty-six of Tolbert’s supporters were also killed in the fighting. Shortly after the coup, government ministers were walked publicly around Monrovia in the nude and then summarily executed by a firing squad on the beach.

Samuel Doe was a master sergeant in the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) when he staged the violent 1980 coup d'état that overthrew President William Tolbert and the True Whig Party, becoming the first non-Americo-Liberian leader of Liberia.

Politics in the 80s and 90s was utterly chaotic. A whole president, Samuel Doe, was brutally tortured and executed on live television by a rebel group.

If you have ever watched samuel doe’s 1989 public brutalization before he was further killed like a stray goat. 

That saying “power is only transient” will ring in your ear.

#Africa #Liberia #World