It seemed just like yesterday when he was crowned as the 21st Elegushi and the second to wear a beaded crown. But that was back in 2010; some 14 years ago! Unbeknownst to the kingmakers and council of chiefs of the Ikate-Elegushi kingdom, they were only fulfilling a divine assignment; choosing the son, who was just 34 years old, to step into the legendary shoes of his late father. They didn’t envisage that they were crowning not just a prince that is steeped in the rich pedigree of his forebears, but also a benevolent and visionary leader who would rewrite the story of the coastal community.

In a society often plagued by turmoil and uncertainty, Oba Saheed Ademola Elegushi, Kusenla the third, has stood unwaveringly for 14 years, unscathed and untainted by the ebbs and flows of time and power. With a deep sense of duty and dedication to his community, Oba Elegushi embarked on a journey of innovation, inclusivity, and transformation. His reign, marked by stability, progress, and integrity, serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for his subjects and an observant nation.

Under Oba Elegushi’s leadership, the Ikate-Elegushi kingdom has experienced unprecedented progress, prosperity, and development across various sectors. From infrastructure, and education, to healthcare and commerce, the kingdom has undergone a remarkable transformation, becoming a hub of tourism and investment opportunities in Lagos State.

One of Oba Elegushi’s key priorities has been the empowerment and development of the youth in his domain. Recognising the potential of young people as the kingdom’s future, he has implemented numerous initiatives to support their education, skills development, and entrepreneurship. Through scholarships, vocational training programs, and youth empowerment schemes, Oba Elegushi has enabled countless young people to realize their full potential and contribute to the growth of their community.

Despite the pressure, challenges, and obstacles that pockmark kingship and public office, Oba Elegushi remains undaunted, leading with integrity and humility while inspiring a new generation of leaders to follow in his footsteps and shaping a legacy that will endure for a long time.

In an era plagued by fake news and divisive characters, Oba Elegushi’s ability to unite and inspire serves as a powerful reminder of the potential for positive change when guided by the principles of integrity and compassion. His eventful reign so far is a testament to the enduring power of leadership rooted in service, selflessness, and a deep commitment to the common good.

As we reflect on his 14 years of steadfast and storied leadership, it is clear that Oba Saheed Elegushi’s impact goes far beyond the borders of his kingdom. His unwavering commitment to peace, development, and national cooperation has positioned him as a respected statesman, advocating for development and championing causes that promote unity and inclusivity.

Thus, as a grateful and gracious people, we can only show our appreciation by carrying forward his vision of a more just, peaceful, and prosperous society.

May his sterling examples continue to inspire us to strive for excellence, to embrace integrity, and to always seek the greater good in all we do.

May your reign continue to be peaceful and prosperous, Your Majesty.

Temitope Oyefeso is Special Assistant, Public Affairs, to His Majesty

A four-year-old pupil, identified as Miguel Ovoke, has reportedly died at BrickHall School in Abuja during feeding hours.

We learnt that the school located at Cadastral Zone B11, Kaura in Abuja, is owned by Senator Joy Emodi, who was a member of the 5th and 6th Senate before serving as Special Adviser to President Goodluck Jonathan on National Assembly Matters.

She is the founder and Chairman of the school, we learnt.

During her time in the Senate, she was appointed Chairman of the Senate Committee on Education.

It was learnt that Ovoke who died on Wednesday.

According to the death certificate of the pupil dated April 24, 2024, issued by Excel Specialist Hospital, Abuja, which was sighted by The PUNCH, Ovoke was brought to the hospital by his teachers around 11 am in an unconscious state.

The medical report, signed by Dr. Akinwande Ajayi, on behalf of the medical director, indicated that he was brought in, “on account of aspiration on meat while feeding at school.”

Upon examination, the medical team found that the boy’s pupils were fixed and dilated, with a nonreactive response to light.

His peripheral pulses were said to be “impalpable, blood pressure was unrecordable, and there was no cardiopulmonary activity or respiratory excursions, silent chest.”

Efforts made by the hospital to resuscitate him failed.

When contacted, Josephine Adeh, the FCT Police Command Public Relations Officer told SaharaReporters that she had not been briefed about the incident.

“I have not been briefed about the incident, I will get back to you when I have anything on the matter,” she said.

Sahara Reporters!

In the intricate mosaic of Nigeria’s societal fabric, Otunba Adejare Adegbenro stands as a beacon of commitment, resilience, and service.

Born on March 6th, 1973, in Lagos, he draws from a lineage steeped in political legacy, being the grandson of the late Premier of Western Region, Alhaji Daudu Sooroye Adegbenro. Raised in a family that values service to the community, Otunba Adegbenro has carved his path as a distinguished figure in Nigerian society.

The culmination of his familial heritage and dedication to community service was marked by his installation as the first Otunba Laje of Owu Kingdom in Ogun State, Southwest Nigeria.

This historic event, which took place on January 20th, 2018, under the auspices of His Royal Majesty Oba Olusanya Dosunmu II, traditional ruler of Owu kingdom, reinforced Otunba Adegbenro’s deep-rooted ties to his cultural heritage and commitment to uplifting his people.

Beyond his traditional titles, his influence extends globally, with his appointment as High Commissioner by the International Human Rights Commission (IHRC), where he spearheads foreign special missions aimed at preventing illegal migration and human trafficking. This appointment is a testament of his reputation as a renowned security expert and industrialist, whose expertise transcends national borders.

In his role as the acting Director-General of the National Commission against the Proliferation of Arms, Light Weapons, and Pipeline Vandalism (NATCOM), Otunba Adegbenro has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to combating threats to national security. His vast experience in security consultancy and supply of security gadgets has positioned him as a pivotal figure in Nigeria’s security landscape.

However, Otunba Laje of Owu Kingdom’s contributions extend beyond the realm of security.

Through his foundation, the Otunba Adejare Adegbenro Foundation (OAAF), he channels his resources towards uplifting the less privileged in society. With initiatives ranging from the provision of boreholes to communities lacking access to clean water, to scholarships for deserving students, he exemplifies the spirit of philanthropy and communal solidarity.

Reflecting on his journey, Otunba Adegbenro once acknowledged the challenges he has faced, from navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship to confronting societal stereotypes.

Yet, through it all, he remains resolute in his commitment to service and upliftment. His philosophy, rooted in faith and compassion, drives him to make a tangible difference in the lives of others, regardless of obstacles encountered along the way.

Otunba Adejare Adegbenro stands as a testament to the power of leadership, resilience, and unwavering dedication to the common good. In him, Nigerians find not only a visionary leader but a compassionate steward of progress, whose impact reverberates far beyond the shores of his homeland.