₦airaland Forum

Yenagoa, Bayelsa State — Engr. Elvis Donkemezuo, a prominent chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and son of Kolokuma/Opokuma, has called on the people of the Yenagoa/Kolokuma-Opokuma Federal Constituency to begin looking beyond political sentiments and consider the strategic importance of who represents them at the National Assembly.

Speaking as a guest on Your Turning Point on Radio Bayelsa, Engr. Donkemezuo argued that the constituency requires a representative who possesses the intellectual capacity, legislative pedigree, experience and political understanding necessary to translate the aspirations of the people into meaningful legislation and development.

According to him, the political equation within the constituency makes the question of effective representation particularly important as Bayelsa approaches another gubernatorial transition in 2028.

“As the tenure of the Governor of Bayelsa State comes to an end on February 14, 2028, we must begin to ask ourselves a very important question: who will speak for this constituency at the federal level, and who has the capacity to give our people the representation they truly deserve?”

Donkemezuo noted that the present administration has provided strong political representation for Kolokuma/Opokuma at the state level, with the Governor hailing from the local government area. He stressed, however, that political realities will change with the transition in 2028, making it necessary for constituents to think carefully about the balance of representation at both the state and federal levels.

“Today, Kolokuma/Opokuma has a son occupying the highest political office in the state. That is significant. But politics is about continuity, and leadership transitions are inevitable. When that happens, we must ask whether we are also adequately positioned at the federal level to protect our interests, attract development and ensure that our voice remains strong where national decisions are made.”

He challenged constituents who may question the need for a Kolokuma/Opokuma son to represent the Federal Constituency at this time to look beyond the immediate political moment.

“This is not about saying that one particular community should have everything. It is about strategic representation. If the political equation changes at the state level in 2028, where will our strongest voice be at the federal level? We cannot wait until there is a gap before we begin to think about who has the capacity to fill it.”

The PDP chieftain emphasized that representation at the National Assembly is fundamentally different from executive leadership at the state level, stressing that lawmakers must possess the ability to understand legislation, sponsor bills, scrutinize national policies and negotiate effectively for their constituents.

“The House of Representatives is not a place for trial and error. It requires people who understand lawmaking, who can draft and sponsor bills, who can interrogate policies and who can stand before the Federal Government to demand what belongs to their people.”

Donkemezuo said his ambition is driven by a desire to bring competence, experience and a renewed sense of responsibility to the constituency.

“Politics is more or less a passion. Having seen things going in the wrong direction, and having travelled around the world and seen things done differently, it becomes a moral burden. You cannot see what is possible elsewhere and return home without asking yourself what you can do differently.”

He further disclosed that he was trained under the tutelage of the late former Chief of Army Staff, General Owoye Azazi, describing the experience as part of the foundation for his approach to leadership, discipline and service.

He also reaffirmed his commitment to the PDP and urged party stakeholders to maintain cohesion and continuity.

“Declaring one’s position for any other party is an aberration, especially when APC was the party that moved an Ijaw man from office.”

Donkemezuo maintained that his aspiration is not merely about occupying a political office but about adding measurable value to the constituency.

“I have the capacity to represent my people competently, and I will add value to the progress of the constituency.”

He therefore called on PDP stakeholders, community leaders, youths, women and voters across Yenagoa/Kolokuma-Opokuma Federal Constituency to critically examine the choices before them and prioritize competence, legislative capacity, experience and strategic representation.

As the 2028 political transition approaches, Donkemezuo said the constituency must not only ask who is available to represent them, but who is capable of representing them effectively when it matters most.

Engr. Elvis Donkemezuo is seeking to bring experience, vision, intellectual capacity and legislative competence to the representation of Yenagoa/Kolokuma-Opokuma Federal Constituency at the National Assembly.

Media Contact

Benjamin Emmanuel
Secretary, EBD Diamond of Movement
Phone: 09114704751

Asaba, Delta State | July 30, 2026 – Cubana Millennium City, one of Delta State's emerging luxury residential developments, has announced its participation in the Delta State Economic and Investment Summit 2026, scheduled to hold from August 3 to August 5, 2026, in Asaba, the Delta State capital.

The summit, themed "Unlocking Delta's Investment Potential," is expected to bring together government officials, investors, business leaders, development partners, entrepreneurs, and key stakeholders from across Nigeria and beyond to explore new opportunities for sustainable economic growth in Delta State.

For Cubana Millennium City, participation in the summit goes beyond exhibiting luxury homes. It represents an opportunity to contribute to the broader conversation about urban development, private sector investment, and the future of real estate as a driver of economic transformation in Delta State.

Speaking ahead of the summit, Chief Obinna Iyiegbu (Obi Cubana), Founder of Cubana Millennium City and Chairman of the Cubana Group described the event as a timely platform to engage directly with prospective investors, homebuyers, and strategic partners who share the vision of building vibrant, secure, and modern communities.

"Delta State is rapidly positioning itself as one of Nigeria's most attractive destinations for investment, and real estate remains one of the strongest pillars supporting that growth. Our participation in this summit reflects our confidence in the state's future and our commitment to delivering developments that create lasting value for individuals, families, and investors," he stated.

Located in Asaba, Cubana Millennium City has continued to attract attention for its blend of modern architecture, strategic location, and investment-friendly offerings. Designed with both comfort and long-term appreciation in mind, the estate combines contemporary luxury with essential infrastructure to meet the needs of today's discerning homeowners and investors.

Visitors to the Cubana Millennium City exhibition stand during the three-day summit will have the opportunity to interact with the sales and management team, gain firsthand insight into the development, and explore flexible property investment opportunities available within the estate.

The project currently offers a range of residential options tailored to different investment capacities. These include 253-square-metre plots for four-bedroom terrace duplexes priced from ₦37 million, 315-square-metre plots for semi-detached luxury duplexes from ₦46 million, and 560-square-metre plots for fully detached luxury duplexes from ₦80 million.

Beyond the homes themselves, Cubana Millennium City has been thoughtfully designed as a secure and family-oriented community. Planned estate features include perimeter fencing, round-the-clock security, reliable water supply, electricity, well-tarred internal road networks, and dedicated recreational spaces such as children's playgrounds. These amenities are aimed at creating not just houses, but a community where residents can enjoy convenience, peace of mind, and a high quality of life.

As conversations around housing continue to shift from simply owning property to making smart long-term investments, Cubana Millennium City believes the development offers an attractive proposition for both first-time buyers and seasoned investors seeking capital appreciation and sustainable returns.

The company also noted that events such as the Delta State Economic and Investment Summit provide an important bridge between the public and private sectors, encouraging partnerships that accelerate infrastructure development, create employment opportunities, and stimulate economic activities within the state.

The summit will be hosted by the Delta State Government under the leadership of His Excellency, Rt. Hon. (Elder) Sheriff F.O. Oborevwori, with participation expected from local and international investors interested in sectors including real estate, manufacturing, agriculture, energy, technology, tourism, and infrastructure.

Cubana Millennium City expressed optimism that the summit would further strengthen investor confidence in Delta State while showcasing the immense opportunities available within its fast-growing real estate market.

The management extended an open invitation to delegates, business executives, prospective homeowners, and members of the public attending the summit to visit its exhibition stand, engage with its team, and discover how investing in quality real estate today can create lasting value for generations.

"Every thriving city begins with visionary investments and communities built to stand the test of time. At Cubana Millennium City, we are proud to be part of Delta State's growth story by creating spaces where families can flourish and investors can build enduring wealth. We look forward to welcoming everyone to our stand at the Delta State Economic and Investment Summit 2026".

As Delta State continues to position itself as a destination for investment and innovation, Cubana Millennium City remains committed to supporting that vision by delivering premium developments that combine luxury living, strategic value, and sustainable community growth.

*About Cubana Millennium City*

Cubana Millennium City is a premium residential real estate development in Asaba, Delta State, dedicated to providing modern, secure, and investment-driven housing solutions.

Built around the promise of "Luxury Living, Lasting Value," the estate offers thoughtfully planned residential options complemented by quality infrastructure, making it an ideal destination for homeowners and investors seeking long-term value in one of Nigeria's fastest-growing property markets.

Warri, Delta State – More than 400 residents of Warri and surrounding communities have benefited from a comprehensive free eye care outreach organized by the AVM Terry Omatsola Okorodudu Foundation in partnership with the Africa Cataract and Eye Foundation, bringing renewed hope and restored vision to hundreds of indigent Nigerians.

The three-day medical outreach, held in Warri, provided free eye screening, cataract and glaucoma surgeries, prescription medications, and free eyeglasses to beneficiaries drawn from Itsekiri, Ijaw, Isoko and other communities across Delta State.

The initiative, organized in memory of the late Air Vice Marshal Terry Omatsola Okorodudu (Rtd.), who passed away in 2025 after a distinguished military career, was designed to continue his lifelong commitment to humanitarian service and improving the lives of vulnerable people.

A team of experienced ophthalmologists and medical personnel, led by renowned eye surgeon and Founder of the Africa Cataract and Eye Foundation, Dr. Gabriel Mejuya Okorodudu, carried out the surgeries and attended to hundreds of patients suffering from cataracts, glaucoma, refractive errors, and other vision-related conditions.

According to the organizers, more than 400 people registered and received treatment during the outreach, with scores successfully undergoing life-changing cataract and glaucoma surgeries, while more than 100 pairs of prescription and reading glasses were distributed free of charge to individuals diagnosed with visual impairments.

The outreach was initially conducted at Agbowu Medical Centre before the surgical team relocated to Harvard Specialist Hospital, Warri, to accommodate the growing number of beneficiaries in a more spacious and better-equipped environment.

*Speaking on the objective of the initiative, Joan Okorodudu, wife of the late AVM Omatsola Terry Okorodudu and their son Bidemi Steven Okorodudu, said the family deliberately chose to continue the humanitarian ideals of the late Air Vice Marshal through impactful programmes that directly improve the lives of ordinary Nigerians*.

They explained that the foundation's interventions are focused particularly on supporting the less privileged, stressing that giving back to society was one of the enduring values for which the late AVM Terry Okorodudu was widely respected.

Speaking during the programme, Dr. Gabriel Mejuya Okorodudu said the foundation was established to preserve the legacy of his late brother, whose life was defined by service, patriotism, compassion and a deep commitment to helping others.

He explained that the free surgeries were aimed not only at restoring eyesight but also at restoring dignity, independence and economic productivity to individuals whose livelihoods had been severely affected by avoidable blindness and other eye diseases.

"Our late brother dedicated his life to serving Nigeria with honour and integrity. We believe one of the best ways to immortalize him is by giving hope to those who are unable to help themselves. Restoring someone's sight is about much more than medicine; it restores confidence, dignity, the ability to work, care for family members, and participate meaningfully in society," Dr. Okorodudu said.

He noted that many of the beneficiaries had lived with poor vision for years because they could not afford the cost of surgery, adding that cataract operations and glaucoma management remain beyond the financial reach of many low-income families.

Dr. Okorodudu appealed to individuals, corporate organizations and philanthropic institutions to partner with the foundation in expanding the programme to reach more underserved communities across Nigeria.

He also disclosed that beyond healthcare interventions, the foundation has continued to invest in education by providing scholarships to indigent students, describing education and healthcare as two critical pillars for sustainable community development.

A member of the foundation, Kobe Pemu Arayi, described the outreach as a practical demonstration of the foundation's commitment to supporting vulnerable members of society.

He noted that many residents who ordinarily would have remained blind because of the high cost of eye surgery were able to regain their vision through the intervention.

"Eye surgery is expensive, and many people simply cannot afford it. Through this programme, we are removing that financial barrier and giving people another opportunity to see again and improve their quality of life," he said.

As part of activities marking the outreach, the foundation also presented five educational scholarships to deserving students, reinforcing its commitment to empowering young people through access to education.

Several beneficiaries expressed gratitude to the foundation and its medical partners for restoring their vision and giving them another opportunity to live independently.

One beneficiary said the successful surgery had transformed his life after years of struggling with poor eyesight.

"I am deeply grateful to the foundation. I can now see clearly again. This intervention has changed my life, and I thank everyone who made it possible," he said.

Another beneficiary commended the organizers for remembering ordinary people who could not afford quality healthcare.

Health experts have consistently identified cataracts and glaucoma as two of the leading causes of preventable blindness in Nigeria. Medical professionals note that early diagnosis, timely surgical intervention, and regular eye examinations remain the most effective strategies for preventing irreversible vision loss.

The AVM Terry Omatsola Okorodudu Foundation said it intends to sustain the free eye care programme as an annual humanitarian intervention while expanding its educational support and other community development initiatives in honour of the enduring legacy of the late Air Vice Marshal.

By Ejike Ubani

Nigeria's democratic journey continues to be challenged by recurring debates over transparency, accountability and the appropriate use of public resources. While elections provide citizens with the opportunity to choose their representatives, the real test of leadership begins after victory at the polls, when elected officials are entrusted with managing public funds in ways that directly improve the lives of the people.

Recent controversies surrounding the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, have once again brought these issues into sharp national focus. As the occupant of one of the highest legislative offices in the country, Kalu's actions naturally attract heightened public scrutiny. The standard expected of such a high-ranking public official goes beyond legality; it extends to sound judgment, transparency and public confidence.

The first controversy relates to the reported absence of a federal garri processing plant valued at approximately ₦348 million, allegedly attracted to Bende Federal Constituency. Community leaders questioned the existence and location of the project, insisting that residents could not identify the facility despite official claims that it had been completed. In response, the Deputy Speaker's office maintained that the physical structures exist in Bende Town and explained that installation of processing equipment remains the responsibility of the relevant implementing government agency rather than the lawmaker.

Before public debate over the garri processing project had subsided, another controversy emerged regarding a proposed budget allocation for churches in Bende Federal Constituency. Initial media reports suggested that over ₦1 billion had been earmarked for the purchase of musical instruments for churches. The Deputy Speaker's office subsequently clarified that the actual proposed allocation stands at approximately ₦780 million after statutory deductions and forms part of a broader "Youth Re-orientation and Social Support Programme" to be implemented through faith-based organisations. According to the explanation, the programme would provide evangelical equipment and public address systems to selected churches as platforms for youth engagement, anti-drug campaigns, peace building and moral orientation. The office also acknowledged what it described as a technical error in the budget description and stated that a corrigendum had been initiated.

Whether or not one accepts this explanation, the controversy raises broader questions about governance and development priorities in Nigeria.

Public office demands more than compliance with budgetary procedures. It requires political sensitivity and an appreciation of prevailing socio-economic realities. At a time when millions of Nigerians are grappling with inflation, unemployment, deteriorating infrastructure, rising food prices and declining purchasing power, the allocation of hundreds of millions of naira to programmes routed through religious institutions is bound to provoke public debate.

The issue is therefore not merely whether the allocation complies with existing budgetary processes. Rather, it is whether such expenditure reflects the most urgent developmental needs of the people. Constituency intervention projects are generally expected to address tangible community needs such as roads, healthcare, education, agriculture, water supply, skills acquisition and youth employment. Citizens are justified in questioning whether limited public resources could have generated greater long-term value if directed towards these priorities.

Nigeria's democratic culture has matured to the point where public officials should expect greater scrutiny than ever before. Civil society organisations, investigative journalists and community stakeholders increasingly demand evidence that constituency projects exist, have been completed and deliver measurable benefits. This trend should be welcomed rather than resisted, because accountability strengthens public confidence in democratic institutions.

It is equally important to distinguish allegations from proven misconduct. While concerns have been raised regarding both the garri processing project and the proposed church-based intervention, these issues remain matters of public controversy and should be addressed through openness, verifiable documentation and independent oversight rather than political rhetoric. Transparency remains the strongest defence against allegations of misuse of public resources.

Ultimately, the electorate will determine whether these explanations are satisfactory. Democracy gives citizens not only the right to question those who govern them but also the power to reward or reject political leaders through the ballot box.

As preparations gradually begin for the 2027 general elections, the people of Bende Federal Constituency will inevitably assess the record of their representative—not merely by the number of projects announced or funds appropriated, but by visible impact, prudent judgment, transparency and measurable improvements in the quality of life of the people.

In every democracy, public office is built on trust. Once that trust begins to erode, rebuilding it becomes far more difficult than winning an election.

Ejike Ubani writes from Umuahia, Abia State.

Lagos, Nigeria – One of Nigeria's foremost event planners and hospitality entrepreneurs, Samuel Onuoha, popularly known as Sammy Jay and the Chief Executive Officer of Event Drinks Service Limited, has raised fresh concerns over the growing circulation of fake alcoholic beverages in Nigeria, describing it as one of the biggest threats facing event planners, drinks suppliers, and party hosts today.

Speaking as the special guest on Episode 3 of the UNCORK-NG Podcast, Samuel Onuoha shared practical insights from years of planning high-profile social events, weddings, corporate functions, and celebrations across Lagos and Nigeria. The conversation explored changing consumer preferences, the impact of counterfeit drinks on the events industry, and how Nigeria's current economic realities are shaping the business of celebrations.
According to him, the proliferation of fake drinks has significantly affected the confidence many clients have in event professionals, particularly those responsible for beverage supply.

He explained that while experienced event planners work hard to maintain quality and professionalism, the widespread availability of counterfeit drinks has made many clients increasingly cautious. As a result, several hosts now prefer to source and import their own drinks rather than entrust that responsibility to planners or suppliers, a trend he believes is gradually eroding trust within the industry.

"The fake drinks problem has made many clients more sceptical than ever before. In many cases, we're contracted to plan every aspect of an event, yet clients still choose to purchase or import their own drinks because they want complete assurance of authenticity. While we understand their concerns, it reflects the level of distrust that counterfeit products have created in the industry."

Beyond the challenge of fake drinks, Mr Onuoha noted a noticeable shift in wine consumption at Nigerian events, revealing that white wines are increasingly becoming the preferred choice at weddings, parties, and other social gatherings.
He attributed this trend to changing consumer tastes and the growing appreciation for lighter, more refreshing wine options that appeal to a wider range of guests.Addressing concerns about Nigeria's economic situation and its possible effect on the events industry, the renowned event planner maintained that celebrations remain deeply rooted in the Nigerian way of life.
According to him, while event budgets may have changed, Nigerians have not stopped celebrating life's important milestones.

"Nigerians naturally love to celebrate. We always find reasons to come together—whether it's weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, thanksgiving services, or other milestones. The economy may influence spending patterns, but it hasn't diminished our desire to celebrate. We are still planning a significant number of events because celebration is part of who we are."

The episode offered listeners an insider's perspective on the realities of Nigeria's vibrant events industry while encouraging greater collaboration among event professionals, drinks suppliers, regulators, and consumers in tackling the menace of counterfeit beverages.

*About UNCORK-NG Podcast*
UNCORK-NG Podcast is a leading platform dedicated to conversations that shape Nigeria's wine, spirits, hospitality, tourism, and events industries. Through engaging interviews with respected professionals, entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and innovators, the podcast explores emerging trends, consumer behaviour, business opportunities, and the challenges driving the future of the beverage and hospitality ecosystem. Each episode is designed to educate, inform, and inspire industry stakeholders while promoting authenticity, responsible consumption, and excellence across the sector.

LAGOS, Nigeria - All On, Nigeria's leading off-grid energy access investor is pleased to announce the launch of the 2026 All On Off-Grid Energy Challenge, a nationwide competition designed to identify, support and scale innovative off-grid solutions that address Nigeria’s critical energy access gap. Application is open to all Nigerian innovative clean energy companies to compete for funding and support. Applications opened 02 July and close on 31 July 2026.

Building on the success and learnings from previous editions, the Challenge seeks to attract entrepreneurs, and innovators developing scalable and commercially viable solutions in renewable energy, productive use technologies, energy efficiency, cold chains solution and other off-grid energy applications capable of transforming livelihoods and stimulating business and economic growth. The Challenge continues its mission of catalyzing energy access for the millions of Nigerians living in unserved and underserved communities, where clean and reliable energy remains out of reach. Since 2018, the program has committed $3.6 million to 36 Nigerian-owned companies, implementing projects that have delivered clean energy access to more than 150,000 Nigerians.

The 2026 edition raises the stakes considerably. Successful proposals will receive between USD200,000 and USD1,000,000 in blended funding, structured as a combination of non-dilutive and commercial instruments. In addition to capital, successful applicants will receive technical assistance and investment-readiness support from the All On Hub team.

This year’s Challenge prioritizes projects that boost the productive use of energy (PUE), transforming access-to-electricity into economic opportunities through agriculture processing, cold storage, healthcare, and enterprise. It also seeks to support advancements in mini-grids, solar home systems, innovations that drive activities within the end-to-end off-grid value chain, and interventions designed to enhance outcomes for women and youth.

Speaking at the Launch, the Innovation Hub Manager, Sele Inegbedion stated:

"The Off-Grid Energy Challenge exists because we believe the solutions to Nigeria's energy problems already live within Nigeria, in the minds and hands of our entrepreneurs. Our role is to find them, back them, and walk with them as they grow. This year, we are doing that with more capital and more conviction than ever before. If you are building something that brings light and economic opportunity to communities that have been left behind, we want to hear from you."

In her remarks, the Chief Executive Officer of All On, Caroline Eboumbou stated:

" Nigeria's off-grid energy sector has proven, year after year, that the right kind of support that is patient, flexible, and rooted in deep market understanding, can produce transformational outcomes. The Off-Grid Energy Challenge is one of the most direct expressions of what All On stands for: putting serious capital behind entrepreneurs who are dedicated to solving one of our country's most pressing challenges."

To be eligible, applicants must be majority Nigerian-owned and managed, for-profit private companies legally registered and operating in Nigeria. Proposals must demonstrate innovation, a credible plan to serve unserved or underserved communities, and a commercially viable business model capable of sustaining itself within the 12-to-18-month investment period.

For more information and to apply, visit: www.all-on.com/off-grid-challenge

About All On

All On Partnerships for Energy Access (All On), an independent impact investing company, was seeded by Shell to catalyze the growth of Nigeria’s off-grid energy market to provide affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy for low-income households and small businesses.

All On provides debt and equity funding, as well as non-financial support, to Nigerian energy companies that align with its mission of closing Nigeria’s access-to-energy gap through renewable energy solutions. Visit www.all-on.com to learn more. For media enquiries, contact communications@all-on.com.

Lagos, Nigeria – Nigerian Nightlife Entrepreneur and Entertainment Personality, Cubana Chief Priest, has paid glowing tribute to businessman and hospitality mogul Obi Cubana, crediting him with playing a defining role in his journey to success and describing him as a visionary leader whose greatest strength lies in building people.

As he reflected on a decade in the hospitality and nightlife industry, Cubana Chief Priest shared the story of his rise from humble beginnings to becoming one of Nigeria's most influential figures in entertainment and hospitality.

According to him, the success he enjoys today was built on years of apprenticeship, dedication, service, and a willingness to learn under the guidance of Obi Cubana.

Reflecting on the turning point in his career, he said:

"Did Not Bring Opium Cubana To Owerri In 2016. I For No Be Chief Priest. I Did Not Just Lap Him Rather I Contributed & Became The Motion Of The Business. The Motion Was Heavy & Everyday Was A Shutdown."

He recalled that the overwhelming success of Opium Cubana in Owerri became the catalyst for the rapid expansion of the Cubana brand across Nigeria.

The momentum created opportunities that saw the launch of Pablo in Victoria Island, Lagos, strategically located opposite the office of billionaire businessman Mike Adenuga, followed by Montana Cubana in Ikeja and Gustavo Cubana in Enugu. At the same time, Crave Cubana was already operating in Abuja alongside Cubana Suites, Habit, Liquor Empire and Cubana Hotels, further strengthening the brand's national footprint.

Speaking on Obi Cubana's leadership style and entrepreneurial mindset, Cubana Chief Priest praised his mentor's fearless approach to business, describing him as someone who consistently embraces opportunities and inspires those around him to strive for excellence.

"Obi Is Born Ready, He Has Lifestyle & He Is Ready To Spend, He Is Not Afraid To Lose, Learn & Move. He’s An Aries Like Me So I Had Everything I Wanted From Artist, Lifestyle, Brands, Everything Was Available. Very Smart Dude. He Really Put Me On Not Minding How Famous I Was Becoming. Baba Na Ruthless Builder, He Gets Anything He Wants. He Is Indeed The Pablo, He’s Always Ready To Explore & Deliver."

He noted that within just three years, the Cubana brand witnessed extraordinary growth, earning the confidence and loyalty of leading beer, champagne, whisky and brandy brands while establishing itself as one of Nigeria's most recognizable hospitality brands.

Concluding his reflections, Cubana Chief Priest expressed profound appreciation to Obi Cubana for his mentorship and used the opportunity to encourage young entrepreneurs to embrace apprenticeship, service and value creation as the true foundations of lasting success.

"I Want To Leave It Here For Today But Before I Go Obi Cubana, You Are My Don For Life, You Are A Winner, An Achiever, You Taught Me The Business Wholeheartedly. Invest With Him, He’s Solid, Man Is A Walking Blessing.
The Lesson For Today Is Value. Be A Man Of Value.
I Did Not Just Meet Him, I Came To Serve, Learn & Grow Myself. When You Are Working For Someone You Are Working For Yourself. Apprenticeship Is Key. You Must Serve Before You Become Odogwu."

The heartfelt tribute has resonated widely across social media, sparking conversations about the enduring value of mentorship, loyalty, discipline and purposeful leadership. Many have described the message as a timely reminder that sustainable success is often built through learning, service and meaningful relationships.

Beyond celebrating his personal achievements, Cubana Chief Priest's reflections shine a spotlight on the impact of investing in people. His story reinforces Obi Cubana's reputation as not only a successful entrepreneur but also a respected mentor whose influence has helped shape some of Nigeria's most recognizable hospitality brands and business leaders.

Cubana Chief Priest is a Nigerian entrepreneur, nightlife promoter, businessman and brand influencer. Widely recognized for his contributions to the growth of the Cubana brand, he has become one of the country's most influential personalities in the hospitality, entertainment and lifestyle industries.

In a video published on her Instagram page, Helen Prest Ajayi, the former beauty queen and widow of the late founder of First Foundation, Dr. Tosin Ajayi has alleged that some paid writers and bloggers have been attacking her using false narratives Breaking her silence following a recent judgment by the Lagos State High Court, the ex-beauty queen and legal practitioner directly addressed the intense public scrutiny surrounding the multi-million Naira estate.

She made it clear that she will not stay silent while her twenty-five-year legacy with the late medical icon, his stellar reputation, and their children's names are dragged through the mud by individuals pushing coordinated smear campaigns.

Speaking with immense resilience, Helen Prest Ajayi emphasized that she felt a profound moral duty to stand up for the truth of her relationship, regardless of public backlash or coordinated media campaigns. In her video address, she stated that anyone in her position would find strength because the situation demands it. She questioned the alternative, asking if she should simply fold her arms and allow her husband's legacy, her children's names, and the life they lived together to be completely undefended and trashed.

Asserting her deep commitment to his memory, she stated that she owes her late husband much more than to remain silent, describing him as a respected pillar of the medical community, a great father, and a generous man.

Addressing the narrative media coverage and negative online criticism following the court ruling, Helen Prest Ajayi noted that the aggressive nature of these attacks highlights insecurity and hidden motives of her detractors. According to her, truth does not require manufactured outrage or character assassination. She remarked that the public can always discern which side is telling the truth based on the side that attacks with venom and vitriol, noting that there is absolutely no need to sponsor people to destroy someone's character because the truth will inevitably come out in the end.

Furthermore, she clarified a crucial point regarding the ongoing legal warfare, stating that she has never initiated lawsuits against anyone but has consistently remained on the defensive, responding only to legal actions brought against her and her children to protect her family.

The bitter inheritance dispute began shortly after the passing of Dr. Tosin Ajayi in April 2020, dividing the family into two distinct factions. On one side is Dr. Ajayi's estranged first wife, Adenike Oluyemisi Ajayi, along with her children, and on the other side is Helen Prest Ajayi and her daughter, Tomisin Ajayi. The situation escalated when Justice Oluwatoyin Odusanya of the Lagos State High Court in Ikeja delivered a judgment that declared Adenike Oluyemisi Ajayi as the sole lawful widow of the deceased and granted her the exclusive right to apply for Letters of Administration to manage the multi-million Naira estate. The court also dismissed Helen Prest-Ajayi’s claims of a valid Kalabari customary marriage, ruling that the union was not legally proven under the law.

Refusing to accept the High Court’s decision, Helen Prest Ajayi and her daughter have officially filed a Notice of Appeal through their legal counsel, the prominent Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Abiodun Owonikoko. The appeal challenges the lower court's judgment on several critical grounds, arguing that the trial judge erred fundamentally in law.

The defense contends that the High Court completely ignored a subsisting 2021 consent judgment from the Federal High Court, which allegedly already recognized both women as co-wives and stakeholders in the estate. Additionally, the appeal posits that the trial judge committed judicial overreach by going beyond the scope of the specific prayers brought before the court, making unnecessary and premature pronouncements regarding the ultimate distribution of Dr. Ajayi's assets.

As the legal battle transitions to the Court of Appeal, Helen Prest Ajayi has assured her well-wishers and followers that she remains completely unfazed by the media storm. Reaffirming her trust in the justice system, she closed her statement by noting that not everything is transactional and that while some believe public opinion can be bought, the ultimate truth cannot be manipulated. With the appellate court now set to review the details of the case, this high-stakes battle over one of Nigeria’s most prominent medical estates remains far from resolved.
Watch video below:
https://www.instagram.com/reel/Daf6nn4IGaV/?igsh=b3VycWN0MXl4ZTh5

Courtesy Meeting with the HRH of Azikoro: Engr. Elvis Donkemezuo Calls for Unity and Pride in Yenagoa/Kolokuma-Opokuma Federal Constituency

YENAGOA, BAYELSA STATE — Hon. Engr. Elvis Donkemezuo, the PDP Candidate for Yenagoa/Kolokuma-Opokuma Federal Constituency, has officially flagged off his campaign consultations with a courtesy visit to the HRH of Azikoro, Dr. Amadoko Clever Austin and community stakeholders, where he called for unity, community pride, and purposeful representation.

Speaking during the meeting held in a warm and convivial atmosphere, Engr. Donkemezuo described the engagement as the official beginning of his journey to represent the people of Yenagoa/Kolokuma-Opokuma at the National Assembly. He noted that the visit was significant as it marked the first step of his campaign, made possible by the support and mandate given to him by the people and the party leadership.

“He brought me today to you to start my journey today,” he said, acknowledging the collective backing that has brought him this far.

Addressing the elders, youth leaders, and other stakeholders present, Engr. Donkemezuo emphasized that politics is a game that demands wisdom, strategy, collaboration, and a deep commitment to the people. He assured the gathering that his approach to representation would be people-centered, inclusive, and driven by the real needs of the communities in YELGA/KELGA.

He made a passionate appeal for support, expressing strong confidence that his emergence would bring historic and prideful representation to the constituency. “For the first time you will have a House of Representative that you will sit back and say yes this is my son and makes him proud,” he stated. According to him, his mandate is to ensure that the constituency is not only well represented but also respected on the national stage.

Engr. Donkemezuo further described the gathering and the goodwill he received as “a plug that must germinate.” He called on all stakeholders to work together to ensure that this movement translates into tangible development and the dividends of democracy for the people of Yenagoa/Kolokuma-Opokuma. He reaffirmed his dedication to the welfare of the people and urged them to stand together to achieve their shared goals. He concluded his remarks with a prayer for success, declaring that the project must “germinate in the mighty name.”

The courtesy meeting was attended by elders, youth leaders, and community stakeholders who received the candidate warmly. The discussions centered on the pressing needs of the constituency and the vision of the EBD Diamond of Possibilities Movement, which is focused on the building and sustainable development of YELGA/KELGA through education, business empowerment, infrastructure, and dignity for the people.

Engr. Donkemezuo thanked the HRM of Azikoro and the entire community for their reception and pledged to run an inclusive campaign that prioritizes the voices and aspirations of all communities in the federal constituency.

Hon Kelvin Ingbaifegha
Director Media/Publicity
Engr. Elvis Donkemezuo Campaign Organization
PDP, Yenagoa/Kolokuma-Opokuma Federal Constituency

The Tosin Ajayi saga stands as one of the most complex and heavily publicized legal and familial disputes in recent Nigerian history, highlighting the deep friction that can arise when personal relationships and estate law collide.

Beneath the complex legal arguments lies an uncomfortable reality; the entire push to declare Adenike Ajayi the sole wife hinges solely on the existence of the multi-million Naira estate. If the assets, properties, bank accounts, and investments were stripped away and replaced only with debts, there would be no motivation for the first family to seek this legal declaration.

In a scenario involving only financial liabilities, creditors would naturally target Helen Prest-Ajayi as the partner who actually shared his life and business responsibilities for 25 years rather than someone who had been completely absent for over three decades.

Therefore, the current legal battle is fundamentally driven by the inheritance of wealth rather than the preservation of marital legacy.

For nearly 25 years, Helen Prest-Ajayi was not merely a companion, she was Dr. Tosin Ajayi’s life partner, business associate, and the person sharing his daily life, joys, and challenges. As an active director and stakeholder in First Foundation Medical Engineering Co. Ltd., Helen was a key economic driver of the very wealth being disputed today.

In any fair assessment of a relationship, 25 years of continuous cohabitation, substantial corporate contribution, emotional support, and the shared parenting of their daughter, Tomisin, should carry significant weight.

Testimony, revealed that prior to meeting Helen in 1996, Dr. Ajayi had been living entirely alone for a decade as the “longest staying resident” at the Sheraton Hotel in Lagos, long after his marriage fractured.

This reality immediately triggered a fierce battle over his multi-million Naira estate. At the core of the dispute were two distinct eras of Dr. Ajayi's personal life: his first family, led by his legal wife of many decades, and his long-term partner, with whom he spent the latter half of his life.

From the standpoint of equity, the appeal contends that a continuous 25-year partnership should not be dismissed based on the technicality of an un-dissolved, 35-year-old marriage that existed only on paper.

To understand the roots of the legal battle, one must look back to 1974, when Dr. Ajayi married his wife, Mrs. Adenike Ajayi. Together, the couple had five children, but after several years, the marriage fractured, leading to a physical separation that lasted for roughly 35 years.

Crucially, the defense disclosed that when Helen’s legal team wrote to the ministry of interior to verify the July 6, 1994 marriage certificate purportedly presented by Adenike, the ministry replied that the document could not be authenticated without the original copy, showing that the validity of the baseline paperwork was itself heavily challenged.


Years after this separation, Dr. Ajayi built a completely new life and formally sought the hand of Helen Prest, a lawyer and former Miss Nigeria, in a heartfelt 1996 letter to her mother, Ella Prest, promising to build a family founded on love.

For nearly 25 years, the two lived together as domestic and business partners and had their daughter, Tomisin, as well as two other children who tragically did not survive.

in the eyes of their social circles, they functioned effectively as husband and wife. in fact, during the wedding of Adenike's daughter, Mayowa, Helen actively co-arranged the seating plan with the bride and sat directly beside Dr. Ajayi throughout the entire ceremony as his wife, a position she held in the open presence of Adenike without any challenge or protest from the first family.

The tension between the two families started almost immediately at the mortuary and while planning the funeral, as both sides argued over who had the right to lead the burial.

This emotional fight quickly moved into the courtroom, where the argument shifted to who would control Dr. Ajayi’s wealth and his company.
Represented by top lawyers, the first family argued that under Nigeria's marriage laws, a legal marriage stays valid until a court officially ends it. This meant that even though they lived apart for decades, Adenike was still his only legal widow. On the other hand, Helen Prest presented a strong case for fairness and equity. She argued that she was his traditional wife under Kalabari customs and that her 25 years of continuous devotion, living together, and working as business partners gave her and her daughter a rightful claim to the property. She maintained that Dr. Ajayi’s clear intention throughout his later life was to treat her as his true wife and partner.

When the Lagos State High Court delivered its judgment, it strictly favored statutory legal frameworks over domestic realities, delivering what many view as a harsh fate for Helen's case. The court ruled in favor of the first family, declaring Mrs. Adenike Ajayi as the sole lawful widow of the deceased and granting her the exclusive right to apply for Letters of Administration. The trial judge emphasized that under Nigerian law, prolonged separation does not dissolve a valid statutory marriage without a formal court decree.

The court dismissed the arguments for a customary marriage and relied on the technicality that Helen was still legally tied to a previous marriage during the early years of her relationship with Dr. Ajayi.

In doing so, the ruling completely shut out Helen and effectively marginalized their biological daughter, Tomisin, an outcome that critics argue flies in the face of Section 42(2) of the Nigerian Constitution, which protects children from discrimination based on the circumstances of their birth.

Even though the High Court's decision heavily relied on strict statutory rules, the pursuit of genuine justice continues as the matter moves to a higher court.

Unhappy with the rigid verdict and the harsh, disparaging language used by the trial judge to describe their domestic status, Helen Prest and her daughter filed an appeal with the Court of Appeal in Lagos.

They argue that the lower court committed significant errors in law, notably by completely ignoring a prior January 2021 consent judgment, an existing, legally binding compromise where both sides had already agreed to share the administration of the estate.


In the end, the Tosin Ajayi story is a profound reminder that true justice must consider the human reality of a devoted life partnership, warning modern Nigerian society against letting paperwork technicalities entirely erase decades of family devotion and shared building.

Succession is not only about who inherits wealth. It also raises a broader question: when a person's life is examined after death, what weight should be given to the relationships he maintained, the choices he made, and the people who shared his life over the years? As the appeal proceeds, these questions are likely to remain at the center of public debate. If there had been nothing to inherit, would this dispute still exist? That is a question readers can answer for themselves.