For Hon. Barr. D.I. Kekemeke, the APC Senatorial candidate for Ondo South in the 2027 general election, the job of a Senator is not about making promises he cannot keep. It is about advocacy, access, and results.

In a wide-ranging interview in his office in Akure with the members of the Association of Independent Newspaper Publishers of Nigeria led by the President, Olaseeni Oyesusi, Kekemeke said his primary responsibility will be to identify the challenges confronting Ondo South and use his position in the National Assembly to push for lasting solutions.

“My role is advocacy. I will be a strong voice for the people of Ondo South Senatorial District. I will also be a voice for Ondo State, working closely with my colleagues in the National Assembly while supporting the Governor and the Government of Ondo State in advancing the state’s interests at the federal level. That is the core responsibility I seek to fulfill,” he said.

He was clear that representation is not a privilege for personal gain. “By the grace of God, I do not see representation as a privilege or an opportunity for personal gain. Rather, I see it as a call to service—a continuation of my commitment to serving humanity.”

The message to voters, according to him, is simple: Ondo South comes first. He lamented that despite the district’s huge contributions to the economy of Ondo State and Nigeria through its natural resources, the people are often neglected.

“The people of Ondo South will have in me a representative they can easily access, one who listens carefully to them, understands their concerns, and faithfully presents those concerns to the appropriate authorities for action,” he said.

Kekemeke described himself as “old wine that gets better with age.”
“Many people already know me, but today I am older, more experienced, more mature, and better prepared for this assignment.The point is that experience matters, and I am fully prepared to serve effectively.”

A major plank of his agenda is jobs for young people. He said he will work with the Ondo State Government, the Federal Government, and his colleagues to attract industries, federal agencies, and development projects to Ondo South. He referenced ongoing initiatives he started in Ilaje, saying his goal is to see them standardized, expanded, and sustained through advocacy.

On accessibility, he made a commitment that has resonated with constituents: a monthly return home.
“You should not have to travel to Abuja before you can meet your senator—unless, of course, you simply wish to visit Abuja. I will come home regularly so we can engage, discuss your concerns, and ensure that your voices continue to shape my representation.”

He also addressed expectations around personal financial requests. With over one million people in Ondo South, he said true representation is about policy and sustainable development, not paying everyone’s school fees or wedding bills.
“However, while I may not be able to take every personal call, I will ensure that I remain accessible. I will establish an effective system through which people can reach me and through which I can communicate with them. Where personal intervention is genuinely required, we will not hesitate to help.”

Speaking on his emergence as the APC candidate, Kekemeke was direct. He credited Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for initiating and endorsing his aspiration, the people of Ondo South for their votes, the APC National Working Committee for their support, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing leadership for a credible process.

“I remain committed to justifying the confidence reposed in me through selfless, transparent, and people-oriented representation,” he said.

The post OLD WINE, NEW MANDATE: KEKEMEKE PROMISES PEOPLE-CENTRED REPRESENTATION FOR ONDO SOUTH appeared first on The Chronicle Magazine.

For Hon. Barr. D.I. Kekemeke, the APC Senatorial candidate for Ondo South in the 2027 general election, the job of a Senator is not about making promises he cannot keep. It is about advocacy, access, and results.

In a wide-ranging interview in his office in Akure with the members of the Association of Independent Newspaper Publishers of Nigeria led by the President, Olaseeni Oyesusi, Kekemeke said his primary responsibility will be to identify the challenges confronting Ondo South and use his position in the National Assembly to push for lasting solutions.

“My role is advocacy. I will be a strong voice for the people of Ondo South Senatorial District. I will also be a voice for Ondo State, working closely with my colleagues in the National Assembly while supporting the Governor and the Government of Ondo State in advancing the state’s interests at the federal level. That is the core responsibility I seek to fulfill,” he said.

He was clear that representation is not a privilege for personal gain. “By the grace of God, I do not see representation as a privilege or an opportunity for personal gain. Rather, I see it as a call to service—a continuation of my commitment to serving humanity.”

The message to voters, according to him, is simple: Ondo South comes first. He lamented that despite the district’s huge contributions to the economy of Ondo State and Nigeria through its natural resources, the people are often neglected.

“The people of Ondo South will have in me a representative they can easily access, one who listens carefully to them, understands their concerns, and faithfully presents those concerns to the appropriate authorities for action,” he said.

Kekemeke described himself as “old wine that gets better with age.”
“Many people already know me, but today I am older, more experienced, more mature, and better prepared for this assignment.The point is that experience matters, and I am fully prepared to serve effectively.”

A major plank of his agenda is jobs for young people. He said he will work with the Ondo State Government, the Federal Government, and his colleagues to attract industries, federal agencies, and development projects to Ondo South. He referenced ongoing initiatives he started in Ilaje, saying his goal is to see them standardized, expanded, and sustained through advocacy.

On accessibility, he made a commitment that has resonated with constituents: a monthly return home.
“You should not have to travel to Abuja before you can meet your senator—unless, of course, you simply wish to visit Abuja. I will come home regularly so we can engage, discuss your concerns, and ensure that your voices continue to shape my representation.”

He also addressed expectations around personal financial requests. With over one million people in Ondo South, he said true representation is about policy and sustainable development, not paying everyone’s school fees or wedding bills.
“However, while I may not be able to take every personal call, I will ensure that I remain accessible. I will establish an effective system through which people can reach me and through which I can communicate with them. Where personal intervention is genuinely required, we will not hesitate to help.”

Speaking on his emergence as the APC candidate, Kekemeke was direct. He credited Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for initiating and endorsing his aspiration, the people of Ondo South for their votes, the APC National Working Committee for their support, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing leadership for a credible process.

“I remain committed to justifying the confidence reposed in me through selfless, transparent, and people-oriented representation,” he said.

The post OLD WINE, NEW MANDATE: KEKEMEKE PROMISES PEOPLE-CENTRED REPRESENTATION FOR ONDO SOUTH appeared first on The Chronicle Magazine.

For Hon. Barr. D.I. Kekemeke, the APC Senatorial candidate for Ondo South in the 2027 general election, the job of a Senator is not about making promises he cannot keep. It is about advocacy, access, and results.

In a wide-ranging interview in his office in Akure with the members of the Association of Independent Newspaper Publishers of Nigeria led by the President, Olaseeni Oyesusi, Kekemeke said his primary responsibility will be to identify the challenges confronting Ondo South and use his position in the National Assembly to push for lasting solutions.

“My role is advocacy. I will be a strong voice for the people of Ondo South Senatorial District. I will also be a voice for Ondo State, working closely with my colleagues in the National Assembly while supporting the Governor and the Government of Ondo State in advancing the state’s interests at the federal level. That is the core responsibility I seek to fulfill,” he said.

He was clear that representation is not a privilege for personal gain. “By the grace of God, I do not see representation as a privilege or an opportunity for personal gain. Rather, I see it as a call to service—a continuation of my commitment to serving humanity.”

The message to voters, according to him, is simple: Ondo South comes first. He lamented that despite the district’s huge contributions to the economy of Ondo State and Nigeria through its natural resources, the people are often neglected.

“The people of Ondo South will have in me a representative they can easily access, one who listens carefully to them, understands their concerns, and faithfully presents those concerns to the appropriate authorities for action,” he said.

Kekemeke described himself as “old wine that gets better with age.”
“Many people already know me, but today I am older, more experienced, more mature, and better prepared for this assignment.The point is that experience matters, and I am fully prepared to serve effectively.”

A major plank of his agenda is jobs for young people. He said he will work with the Ondo State Government, the Federal Government, and his colleagues to attract industries, federal agencies, and development projects to Ondo South. He referenced ongoing initiatives he started in Ilaje, saying his goal is to see them standardized, expanded, and sustained through advocacy.

On accessibility, he made a commitment that has resonated with constituents: a monthly return home.
“You should not have to travel to Abuja before you can meet your senator—unless, of course, you simply wish to visit Abuja. I will come home regularly so we can engage, discuss your concerns, and ensure that your voices continue to shape my representation.”

He also addressed expectations around personal financial requests. With over one million people in Ondo South, he said true representation is about policy and sustainable development, not paying everyone’s school fees or wedding bills.
“However, while I may not be able to take every personal call, I will ensure that I remain accessible. I will establish an effective system through which people can reach me and through which I can communicate with them. Where personal intervention is genuinely required, we will not hesitate to help.”

Speaking on his emergence as the APC candidate, Kekemeke was direct. He credited Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for initiating and endorsing his aspiration, the people of Ondo South for their votes, the APC National Working Committee for their support, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for providing leadership for a credible process.

“I remain committed to justifying the confidence reposed in me through selfless, transparent, and people-oriented representation,” he said.

The post OLD WINE, NEW MANDATE: KEKEMEKE PROMISES PEOPLE-CENTRED REPRESENTATION FOR ONDO SOUTH appeared first on The Chronicle Magazine.

APOSTLE JOSEPH ADELO

LA: 1935 – 2026, A GENERAL WHO FINISHED WELL

Heaven received a patriarch a few days ago. Apostle Joseph Adelola went home to glory on Saturday, 25th July 2026, at the age of 91.

Born in 1935, Apostle Adelola lived a life defined by prayer, sacrifice, and service. He was the founder and General Overseer of Saint Daniels All Christians Assembly, also known as Oluwatosinmile. For decades, he shepherded the church with humility, building it into a house of prayer, healing, and sound doctrine.

To him, ministry was not about titles. It was about souls. He taught that the church must be a refuge for the broken, the weary, and the lost. Under his leadership, countless lives were restored, and many were called into ministry.

But beyond the pulpit, Baba was first a father. His greatest legacy walks the earth today in the lives of his children. He is survived by his beloved wife, Prophetess Abigail Adelola, and his children: Pastor Mrs Odunayo Christianah Ketiku, General Overseer of Christ Like Assembly; Evangelist Eunice Wumi Aderinboye; Pastor Emmanuel Fayape; Evangelist Stella Ajibola; Evangelist Oluwakemi Olumuyiwa Ogunsuyi; Pastor Ebenezer Adelola; and Pastor John Adelola. His joy also multiplied in 34 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren who call him blessed.

Those close to him remember a man of few words but deep convictions. A man who prayed more than he talked, and who gave more than he received.

Apostle Adelola ran his race with faith. He kept the charge. He finished well.

Though we mourn, we thank God for a life that pointed many to Christ. The church he planted, the children he raised, and the altar he built will continue to tell his story.

The post APOSTLE JOSEPH ADELOLA: 1935 – 2026, A GENERAL WHO FINISHED WELL appeared first on The Chronicle Magazine.

The Southern Kaduna Peoples United Association (SOKAPU) has called for a thorough investigation into the death of Mary Habila, a medical professional who reportedly died while on official duty, insisting that an autopsy is necessary to establish the true cause of her death.

Speaking on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief on Monday, SOKAPU President Samuel Tabara said the association was unaware of any Southern Kaduna tradition that forbids an autopsy, stressing that the laws of the country take precedence over cultural practices.

Tabara said the deceased’s family had informed the association, through their lawyer, that they had resolved not to permit an autopsy. However, he maintained that the police have a statutory responsibility to investigate any suspected criminal matter, regardless of the wishes of those involved.

According to him, SOKAPU has resolved to pursue legal action to ensure a proper investigation is carried out, adding that the association is not accusing anyone of wrongdoing but is seeking to remove all doubts surrounding the circumstances of Habila’s death.

He noted that any legal action against those involved would depend on the outcome of the investigation, stressing that it would be premature to conclude whether the Minister of Works, David Umahi, was in any way connected to the incident before the facts are established.

Responding to questions over the association’s demand for ₦20 billion in compensation, Tabara explained that the amount represents damages that could arise if investigations or court proceedings establish criminal liability. He added that the final decision on any compensation rests with the court.

Mary Habila reportedly died on June 27 at a private residence belonging to the Minister of Works in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State. Since her death, her remains have remained in police custody.

The deceased’s family has appealed to the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to facilitate the release of her body for burial.

Their lawyer, Kaile Yusuf, stated that Habila was a trained nurse and a civil servant who had worked at the David Umahi University of Health Sciences before being deployed to the office of the Minister of Works about three years ago. He said her employment records and appointment documents support this claim.

Meanwhile, Umahi has maintained that a comprehensive, transparent, and impartial investigation, including a forensic autopsy, is essential to determine the actual cause of Habila’s death and ensure justice for all parties involved.

The post SOKAPU Seeks Probe Into Mary Habila’s Death, Backs Autopsy appeared first on The Chronicle Magazine.

Founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide, Bishop David Oyedepo, has cautioned Nigerian youths against relying on sports betting as a means of achieving financial success, describing gambling as a dangerous path that can derail their future.

Speaking during a sermon on Sunday, the renowned cleric urged young people to reject the temptation of quick wealth through betting and instead embrace hard work, patience, discipline, and integrity.

According to him, genuine prosperity is built on diligence and consistency rather than gambling.

Addressing members of his congregation, Oyedepo repeatedly warned youths against staking their future on betting platforms.

“Naija Bet is not the way to financial fortune. Stop wasting your destiny,” he declared, urging them to pursue legitimate means of earning a living.

The bishop also encouraged young Nigerians not to lose hope when progress appears slow, noting that lasting success often takes time to build.

He maintained that achievements founded on honesty and perseverance are more rewarding and enduring than shortcuts to wealth.

To underscore the importance of gratitude and faithfulness, Oyedepo shared a personal testimony, recalling how the woman who introduced him to Christianity at the age of 15 was honoured with a car decades later when he turned 60.

He said the gesture was his way of appreciating her positive impact on his life, urging people never to forget those who contributed to their success.

Sports betting has witnessed significant growth across Nigeria in recent years, attracting millions of young people. However, religious leaders, financial experts, and social commentators have continued to express concerns over its increasing popularity, warning that excessive dependence on gambling can lead to financial losses, addiction, and other social problems.

The post Oyedepo Warns Youths Against Betting, Says It Destroys Destiny appeared first on The Chronicle Magazine.

• 
  The candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the Akoko South-West Constituency seat in the Ondo State House of Assembly, Hon. Funsho Joseph Olasheni, has expressed confidence in his chances of victory, citing his popularity among constituents and his commitment to people-centred representation.

Speaking during an interview, Olasheni said he remains focused on delivering quality representation rather than engaging in speculation about political defections.

According to him, if the All Progressives Congress (APC) secures the majority in the State House of Assembly, he would like the ADC to produce the Minority Leader, a position he hopes to occupy. However, he stressed that politics is dynamic, noting that today’s minority party could become tomorrow’s majority.

Asked what gives him confidence that the ADC can win the election, Olasheni explained that the contest is solely for the State House of Assembly, without a governorship election on the same day.

He said the arrangement would enable voters to concentrate on a single ballot, expressing confidence that the electorate would protect their votes until the final results are announced.

On his plans for women and youth, the ADC candidate identified education as one of his top priorities. He lamented the poor condition of many public schools in the constituency, attributing the declining enrolment to parents’ growing preference for private schools.

Olasheni argued that government must first address the factors responsible for the low enrolment before committing huge resources to infrastructure. He maintained that improving policies that attract pupils back to public schools would make investments in school facilities more effective and sustainable.

He also reiterated his commitment to supporting vulnerable groups, including elderly women, while pursuing policies that would create better opportunities for young people through improved access to quality education.

Reflecting on his decision to leave a comfortable life abroad for politics, Olasheni said genuine societal transformation can only be achieved through active participation in governance.

He acknowledged the widespread perception that politics is a difficult and sometimes controversial profession but insisted that every field comes with its own risks and uncertainties.

“If you truly want to bring lasting change, politics is one of the most effective avenues because politicians make decisions that shape the future of society,” he said.

Olasheni added that his desire to contribute positively to the development of Akoko South-West motivated his decision to seek elective office, expressing readiness to serve the people with dedication and integrity.

The post ADC’s Olasheni to Voters: Focus on One Ballot, Protect Your Vote, and Let Education Lead appeared first on The Chronicle Magazine.

The Honourable Commissioner for Commerce and Industry in Osun State, Rev. Dr. Bunmi Jenyo has expressed deep appreciation to the Executive Governor of Osun State, Sen. Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke on the historic commissioning of Ila-Orangun Township Dual Carriageway, held on Thursday, 23rd July, 2026.

The Commissioner who lauded the Ila-Orangun community residents for trooping out to welcome Governor Adeleke, applauded the current administration for effective delivery of democracy dividends to the people of Osun State.

He particularly applauded Governor Adeleke for fulfilling the seemingly impossible promise of Ila-Orangun Township Road Dualisation project. According to the Commissioner, naysayers believed it was not going to be realised.

“I congratulate His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Osun State, Sen. Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, Kabiyesi Orangun of Ila-Orangun, Oba Wahab Oyedotun, the Chiefs, Community leaders, indigenes (both home and abroad) and residents of the ancient city of Igbomina on this great achievement”.

“It is indeed a new dawn in Ila Orangun. Since the creation of Osun State in 1991 till this Governor Adeleke’s time, successive administrations have not been able to upgrade Ila-Orangun to this present status in the comity of communities in Osun State”, the Commissioner said.

“This is a visible, viable and a productive gesture for the people of Ila-Orangun and its environs. It will help in the socio-economic activities and transformation of our community and people. We do not take this magnanimity for granted”.

The Commissioner, who urged the residents to support, mobilise and vote for Imole Continuity Agenda, for the second phase of the Dualisation project, said Governor Ademola Adeleke is a GOD-sent to turn Osun State into small London, in the space of eight years.

According to Dr. Jenyo, Governor Ademola Adeleke can be trusted for the second term of four years, 2026 – 2030, because he is a talk-and-do, passionate and keeper of electoral promises.

He charged everyone to come out on August 15th, 2026 and cast their votes for the man of the moment, Governor Ademola Adeleke through the political platform of Accord.

“It is time to reciprocate the good gesture of the incumbent, my Principal Governor Adeleke, come August 15th, let’s vote wisely for continuity of good governance in every nook and cranny of Osun State. Let us show the world that we are indeed very grateful to Governor Adeleke, let us pay him back with our votes”, the Commissioner said.

Signed:
Rev. Bunmi Jenyo Ph.D
Honourable Commissioner,
Ministry of Commerce and Industry,
Osun State
28th July, 2026

The post APPRECIATION!!! appeared first on The Chronicle Magazine.

The Honourable Commissioner for Commerce and Industry in Osun State, Rev. Dr. Bunmi Jenyo has expressed deep appreciation to the Executive Governor of Osun State, Sen. Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke on the historic commissioning of Ila-Orangun Township Dual Carriageway, held on Thursday, 23rd July, 2026.

The Commissioner who lauded the Ila-Orangun community residents for trooping out to welcome Governor Adeleke, applauded the current administration for effective delivery of democracy dividends to the people of Osun State.

He particularly applauded Governor Adeleke for fulfilling the seemingly impossible promise of Ila-Orangun Township Road Dualisation project. According to the Commissioner, naysayers believed it was not going to be realised.

“I congratulate His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Osun State, Sen. Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, Kabiyesi Orangun of Ila-Orangun, Oba Wahab Oyedotun, the Chiefs, Community leaders, indigenes (both home and abroad) and residents of the ancient city of Igbomina on this great achievement”.

“It is indeed a new dawn in Ila Orangun. Since the creation of Osun State in 1991 till this Governor Adeleke’s time, successive administrations have not been able to upgrade Ila-Orangun to this present status in the comity of communities in Osun State”, the Commissioner said.

“This is a visible, viable and a productive gesture for the people of Ila-Orangun and its environs. It will help in the socio-economic activities and transformation of our community and people. We do not take this magnanimity for granted”.

The Commissioner, who urged the residents to support, mobilise and vote for Imole Continuity Agenda, for the second phase of the Dualisation project, said Governor Ademola Adeleke is a GOD-sent to turn Osun State into small London, in the space of eight years.

According to Dr. Jenyo, Governor Ademola Adeleke can be trusted for the second term of four years, 2026 – 2030, because he is a talk-and-do, passionate and keeper of electoral promises.

He charged everyone to come out on August 15th, 2026 and cast their votes for the man of the moment, Governor Ademola Adeleke through the political platform of Accord.

“It is time to reciprocate the good gesture of the incumbent, my Principal Governor Adeleke, come August 15th, let’s vote wisely for continuity of good governance in every nook and cranny of Osun State. Let us show the world that we are indeed very grateful to Governor Adeleke, let us pay him back with our votes”, the Commissioner said.

Signed:
Rev. Bunmi Jenyo Ph.D
Honourable Commissioner,
Ministry of Commerce and Industry,
Osun State
28th July, 2026

The post APPRECIATION!!! appeared first on The Chronicle Magazine.

The attention of the Management of the University of Medical Sciences Teaching Hospital Ondo (UNIMEDTH), has been drawn to a publication circulating in the media, credited to the Management of the Federal University of Technology Akure Teaching Hospital (FUTATH), and published by Sunshine Truth Media and other news media wherein it was stated that:
“The Federal Government continues to invest substantial resources in its growth and remains responsible for the payment of staff salaries and other crucial obligations.”

This statement is entirely false, misleading and does not reflect the true position of events. For the avoidance of doubt, the Ondo State Government, through the University of Medical Sciences Teaching Hospital (UNIMEDTH), has been solely responsible for the payment of salaries of staff working at FUTATH from the handover of the facility in October 2025 up to June 2026.

During this period, the Ondo State Government has expended over ₦2.3 billion on the payment of salaries and emoluments of staff currently working in FUTATH, despite the institution having been ceded to the Federal Government. This extraordinary financial commitment was made in good faith and in strict compliance with the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), pending the completion of the Federal Government’s staff verification and absorption process.

It is therefore incorrect and unfair for the Management of FUTATH to create the impression that the Federal Government has been responsible for the payment of these salaries throughout the period under reference. Such a claim undermines the enormous financial sacrifice made by the Ondo State Government and misrepresents facts that are easily verifiable.

UNIMEDTH remains committed to transparency, accountability, and the faithful implementation of the provisions of the Memorandum of Understanding. We believe that public institutions owe the public a duty of truthfulness and accuracy in all official communications.

Accordingly, the Management of FUTATH is respectfully requested to immediately correct this misinformation in the interest of truth, fairness and public accountability.

The Ondo State Government deserves due recognition for the significant financial burden it has borne in sustaining the workforce of FUTATH during the transition period. Accurate information is essential to maintaining public confidence and fostering the cordial intergovernmental relationship necessary for the successful development of the institution.

Signed

Professor Michael Olumide Gbala
Chief Medical Director
University of Medical Sciences Teaching Hospital Ondo (UNIMEDTH).

The post REJOINDER  TO MISLEADING  PUBLICATION ON PAYMENT OF SALARIES OF STAFF WORKING AT FUTA TEACHING HOSPITAL (FUTATH) appeared first on The Chronicle Magazine.