Jakande’s servant-leadership mindset remains relevant — Olurode

LAGOS — A retired Professor of Sociology at the University of Lagos, Lai Olurode, has described the late first civilian governor of Lagos State, Alhaji Lateef Kayode Jakande, as a symbol of ethical and people-centred leadership, saying his “servant mindset” continues to offer lessons for today’s political class.

Olurode spoke in Lagos on February 11, 2026, at a commemorative event marking the fifth anniversary of Jakande’s passing, where he delivered a tribute titled “Jakande’s Servant Mindsets Remain Evergreen.”

Reflecting on Jakande’s legacy, Olurode said the late governor’s decisions were largely driven by public good rather than personal gain.

“An analysis of Jakande’s actions… reveals that his major actions weren’t self-interest driven but motivated by a consuming concern for the enhancement of public goods,” he said.

He noted that Jakande’s tenure expanded access to education, healthcare, roads and employment, with benefits reaching ordinary citizens rather than a narrow political circle.

According to him, the former governor demystified governance by taking it to the grassroots and maintaining close contact with the masses.

Olurode also recalled the period following the 1983 military coup, when praise for Jakande’s achievements continued despite the prevailing political climate, citing an incident where a government official described the ousted governor as a “superstar.”

Highlighting Jakande’s personal style, he said the late leader avoided flamboyance, cut the cost of governance and remained accessible even after leaving office.

“Jakande shunned flamboyance and the wasteful paraphernalia which many Nigerian leaders artificially surround themselves with,” Olurode added.

He urged contemporary leaders to embrace ethical values, inclusivity and accountability, noting that Jakande’s legacy endures decades after his single term in office.

The event also featured reflections on Jakande’s contributions to Lagos State and tributes to his family, including his wife, Alhaja Sikirat Abimbola, and their children.

El‑Rufai Warns He Could Be Arrested Amid Rising Political Tensions

Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El‑Rufai has raised alarm that he could be arrested at any time by Nigeria’s security agencies, claiming his outspoken criticism of the federal government and the alleged targeting of political opponents may make him a potential target. In an interview with BBC Hausa, El‑Rufai said that although he has not yet been detained, he believes his arrest is imminent, noting that several close associates have already been picked up by security forces. “About four people we worked with in Kaduna have been arrested; so it’s only a matter of time before they come for me too,” he said, highlighting what he described as political pressure and intimidation of opposition voices.

El‑Rufai alleged that the APC-led federal government is using security and anti-corruption agencies to intimidate dissenting politicians, forcing some to either defect to the ruling party or face punitive action. His remarks come amid heightened political tension in the country and follow the arrest and ongoing trial of former Attorney-General of the Federation Abubakar Malami, who faces charges including abuse of office — allegations he describes as politically motivated. Critics say selective targeting of opposition figures undermines democratic principles and escalates mistrust in governance, especially as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections. El‑Rufai’s warning has intensified debates about the independence of law enforcement agencies and their role in political matters.

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Once a key figure in the APC, El‑Rufai has become a vocal critic of parts of the current administration. He claims that officials linked to his past administration have faced repeated investigations and detentions without formal charges, alleging these actions are politically motivated. In a confidential memo dated February 10, 2026, he stated that several former aides and associates had been detained and arraigned on what he called “phantom charges” designed to tarnish reputations and limit political competition.

While he insists he has committed no wrongdoing, El‑Rufai has called for due process and transparency, stressing that Nigeria’s political space must remain free from intimidation and unlawful targeting of opponents. His statement underscores growing concerns about political intimidation and the misuse of security agencies, highlighting the need for institutional independence and protection of opposition voices as the country navigates an increasingly charged political atmosphere.

El‑Rufai Warns He Could Be Arrested Amid Rising Political Tensions

Cubana Chief Priest Vows to Oppose Peter Obi in 2027 Presidential Race

Popular Nigerian socialite and businessman Pascal Okechukwu, widely known as Cubana Chief Priest, has officially announced that he plans to oppose Peter Obi’s 2027 presidential bid, signaling a significant political shift from his previous support for the Labour Party candidate in the 2023 elections.

The revelation came during an interactive session with his followers on Instagram, where questions about his political alignment and involvement in the City Boy Movement (CBM), a key youth support group for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, prompted a candid response. Cubana Chief Priest affirmed his opposition, stating, “Yes oh, hope say no be crime, because I worked for Obi last election even as special adviser to an APC governor.”

His announcement quickly generated mixed reactions on social media. Critics reminded him of past encounters with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), noting that the government he now supports previously investigated him. He responded with confidence, declaring, “If you never go EFCC for Naija, you never make am.”

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The discussion also touched on regional development in the South-East, with commenters suggesting stronger unity could have helped Obi in 2023. Cubana Chief Priest replied sharply, urging supporters to back candidates of their choice and questioning the tangible impact of political arguments on regional progress.

Cubana Chief Priest’s shift coincides with another high-profile appointment: his close associate, Obi Cubana, was named South-East Director of the City Boy Movement, a move announced by Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This development has fueled discussions on the growing influence of South-East businessmen and celebrities in Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.

Political analysts note that Cubana Chief Priest’s declaration underscores the increasing role of celebrities and social influencers in shaping voter sentiment, particularly among youth and urban populations, and highlights the interplay between entertainment, social media presence, and political mobilization.

As Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 general elections, Cubana Chief Priest’s public opposition to Peter Obi is likely to intensify political debates and influence early election dynamics, especially among supporters and detractors in key demographic groups.

Cubana Chief Priest Vows to Oppose Peter Obi in 2027 Presidential Race