Personality in Focus
Community Honours Retired Navy Officer with Chieftaincy Title for Gallantry
When he was posted to Naval Outpost, Onitsha, few years ago, the last thing that crept into his mind was to become a respected traditional title holder in Ogwu-Ikpele Community in Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra State.
However, with crumbling internal security within the area, especially relentless attacks on an oil facility owned by Sterling Global Oil Exploration, Navy Lieutenant Godwin Oscar Sampson was deployed with his men, not only to restore order and ensure lives and properties of the community were safe.
Expectedly, they met a hostile atmosphere but resorted to other instrumentality in peace building operation to penetrate and win the hearts of the warring groups and restore modicum of security.
However, some recalcitrant elements who were bent on instigating more conflicts sustained the attack with illegal weapons, aiming at the community elders in particular.
Therefore, the officer and his men had to bring the criminals to subjection within the ambits of the law.
Lt Sampson (retd) told our correspondent at Ogbaru that shortly after they were deployed to the community, they provided protection as the community were vulnerable to constant threat and harassment.
“Due to enormous insecurities they were faced with and our ability to repel the miscreants, they became friendly with the understanding that one way to win the battle is to win the minds and hearts of people.”
Encountering the miscreants
Becoming the Eze-Udo 1, King of Peace in Ogwu-Ikpele community wasn’t a fluke. The honour was borne out of hard work and inert ability to bring enduring peace, and clear every undesirable element from the community.
No sooner than they were deployed, intelligence gathering revealed that the enemy were among the community dwellers.
It was learnt that the community was tormented by a former Councillor and Vice Chairman in Ogbaru LGA, who recently was appointed as the President General of the Community.
According to reports obtained, Mr. Sunday Madupue, in cahoots with his two sons, unleashed a reign of terror on the community simply because he wanted to control the soul of the community.
“He later turned his gun against the community and used moneys met for security of lives and property to purchase two AK 47 rifles, some pistols and ammunition as well as a cache of charms,” Lt Sampson remarked.
Investigation revealed that Madupue with the assistance of the two children brutalized three elders of the community, whose ages were between 75 to 90 years old over a little altercation involving the handing over of OFFOR title to the most eldest in the community until a king is selected.
As a result of the beating, Navy Lt Sampson (retd) explained, the villagers became infuriated and wanted to stone them (Madupue and two children) to death in their house.
“Swiftly, we had to take him into custody to forestall extrajudicial killing that could have escalated the fragile peace.
“After the arrest, we discovered that one of his sons had a necklace with a pendant made from an empty shell of an expended ammunition. That got us curious and began to profile them, which led us to carry out a search in their house that night,” he explained.
“To there chagrin, we recovered two empty magazines of AK 47 rifle, one pistol and 17 rounds of 7.6m live ammunition.”
Not satisfied, the following morning, the naval personnel began the search and made additional recovery of a locally made pistol with three cartridges.
However, since they hadn’t the prosecutorial powers, they handed them to other security agencies after Mr. Sunday Madupue had confessed he bought two AK 47 rifles in order to fight war against the community.
Emphasizing some modest achievements which culminated in granting him the title, Retired Navy Lt Sampson disclosed that they also settled several skirmishes that could have pitted one community against another. With express authorization from the naval headquarters, the officer and his men were able to settle those squabbles.
Besides, one particular case, he alluded to that cannot be forgotten was the arrest of some thieves that vandalized three transformers and other government facilities. “We got two of the vandals arrested and handed them over to the police including Sunday Madupue and the two sons for prosecution.”
However, while in detention Mr. Sunday was said to have mobilized advance party to attack the community, our reporter was hinted. Luckily, the suspects were picked up and handed over for prosecution. It was learnt that singular efforts brought about the restoration of peace to the community while the naval personnel were still there.
“As a result of these successes, the community in their wisdom bestowed on me the title of Eze-Udo 1 of the community – King of peace. I have been issued a certificate to help me function in that role effectively,” he said.
Community Reacts
Some residents of Ogwu-Ikpele who bared their minds expressed joy and satisfaction to the Nigerian Navy for their support at degrading the capabilities of organised criminal gangs that held the community hostage.
They also appreciated the upscaling of the quality of lives and security in the community.
According to the Deputy Youth President, Mr Ben Bulus, who spoke with our correspondent said “the granting of the title to Navy Lt Godwin Oscar Sampson (retd) was a collective agreement of Uduoaku and his Chiefs in Council. Until today, we are still loving him because he has relieved the community of pains they have gone through for some several years in the hands of Mr Sunday Madupue and his children.
The title is to show our appreciation to Navy Lt Sampson, for playing a neutral role to broker peace. He helped where necessary and God used him to clean our tears, sanitize the community and ushered peace.
Elaborating on how Sunday Madupue and his family members terrorised the community, he explained that before he was eventually arrested, the notorious Mr Sunday and his two children burst oil company’s pipe with relentless ease, beats up elders. He used his position to intimidate and torment people and became untouchable even by the police.
“It is a miracle that God used Navy Lt Sampson and the Nigerian Navy to liberate the community from the grips of criminal gangs. We are happy about it and the title of Eze-Udo 1, is a mark of our appreciation. He was here for three to four months and achieved what Napoleon Bonaparte could not do,” he reiterated.
Navy Lieutenant Godwin Oscar Samson (retired), enlisted into the Nigerian Navy 25 years ago as a Rating and rose to the rank of a Navy Lieutenant before he retired from the service on the 26th May, 2025 after meritorious service.
During his years in service, he was in the Information unit and had worked at the Western Naval Command, Apapa as well as other Commands across the country.
This piece is contributed by Okosun Dennis
Personality in Focus
Eminent Gents Int’l Announces Philanthropist Abiodun Enilari Paseda As New President
By Eric Elezuo
The Eminent Gents International Club, an association of eminent gentlemen, who have proved their mettle in the society, and committed to lending a helping to the upliftment of the society, has announced Sir Abiodun Paseda as its new president.
Paseda takes over from Eminent Otunba Olumide Owoseni, who performed creditably well during his tenure in office.
The announcement was made following a keenly contested electoral process, where Paseda was elected unopposed. His election, according to a cross section of the club members, was made possible as a result of the confidence members reposed in him owing to his acknowledged discipline, focus and leadership abilities.
Announcing the results, the Chairman of the Electoral Committee, Eminent Barr. Taiwo Odumosu, commended members for the maturity, discipline, and commitment they demonstrated throughout the process, noting that despite minor challenges encountered, members conducted themselves in a manner that reflected the values and ideals upon which the Club was founded.
Immediate Past President Eminent Otunba Olumide Owoseni
Barr. Odumosu congratulated the newly elected officers and urged them to provide purposeful and inclusive leadership capable of strengthening the unity and growth of the Club.
Among members of the executive council, who will be working with Eminent Paseda are Eminent Barr. Oluwaseun Basorun, who was elected as the Vice President and Eminent Ariyo Abass, who won the General Secretary position.
Others are Eminent Ganiu Omotoso for the office of the Assistant General Secretary, Eminent Akinsanya Olaseni as Financial Secretary, Eminent Muyiwa Jayesimi as the Treasurer, Eminent Barrister Yomi Akodu as the Public Relations Officer and Eminent Segun Fetuga, who won the position of the Social Secetary.
Eminent Odumosu admonished the incoming administration to ensure that no member is left behind in the affairs of the Club, and to place the welfare of members at the forefront of its programmes and policies in order to continue to enhance the beautiful etiquette of the almost 20 years Club.
The Eminent Gents International Club was established in 2006 as a group saddled with the responsibility of catering for the less privileged, the needy and the have-nots of the society. The Club strongly believes in giving back to the society, with an overriding philosophy, which revolves around pooling skills, resources and experience to create a sustainable change, and improve the lives of those in need.
New Vice President Eminent Barrister Oluwaseun Bashorun
Consequently, the Club has prioritise engagements in targeted initiatives aimed at addressing critical issues affecting the needy cutting across food, heathcare, shelter, clothing and not forgetting empowerment.
In his acceptance speech, Eminent Paseda pledged to live up to expectations, and ensure that the founding principles of the Club is not derailed.
He congratulated his co-executive council members, urging everyone to give their best performance to ensure the success of the administration in particular, and the Club in general.
A distinguished Nigerian based in London, England, Paseda is the Chief Executive Officer, Focus on Disabilities (FOD) Foundation, a not for profit organization that is saddled with the responsibility of seeing to the wellbeing of those living with disabilities. The organization, founded in 2010, has supervised the provision of sundry humanitarian assistance to people living with disabilities across Nigeria and the African continent with special mention to England, his place of residence.
He is a stern believer in the lifting of the downtrodden in the society, and has been awarded the Humanitarian award by Ceebee Gold Foundation.
A recipient of the BEFFTA Award, Africa achiever Award, Scotland among many others, Paseda has since 2012 been distributing movement enhancing materials to the disabled across the continent. Some of these distributions include 60 wheel chairs and disability aids in Kano and Kaduna states in 2012; distribution of clutches, wheel chairs, food items among other things in Ogun state in March and September 2013. Ever since, the selfless giver has not looked back in supporting the less privileged with his resources. He runs an all-expense paid home for people living with disabilities in Odogbolu, Ogun State
Paseda’s humanitarian outreach stretches across Africa and the UK where he is reputed to have touched a lot of lives.
A new chapter in clinical leadership has commenced at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Abeokuta, with the appointment of renowned Consultant Nephrologist, Dr. Olusola Adebisi, as the institution’s new Head of Clinical Services (HCS). He officially resumes duty today, Monday, June 15, 2026, following the expiration of the tenure of his predecessor, Dr. A.S. Adediran, whose stewardship contributed significantly to the advancement of clinical services within the tertiary healthcare institution.
The appointment, approved by the 7th Board of Management at its 6th Extraordinary Meeting held on June 8, 2026, is hailed as a strategic move that places one of the hospital’s most experienced clinicians and respected administrators at the helm of its clinical operations. With a distinguished career spanning renal medicine, healthcare leadership, organized medicine, and community service, Dr. Adebisi brings a wealth of experience and a reputation for excellence to the role.
Until his appointment, Dr. Adebisi served as Head of the Nephrology Unit at FMC Abeokuta, where he earned recognition as one of the leading authorities on kidney-related illnesses within the West African sub-region. A passionate advocate for preventive nephrology, he has spearheaded numerous community sensitization initiatives, including annual World Kidney Day campaigns aimed at promoting early detection and management of kidney disease. He has also mentored and supervised generations of resident doctors, medical officers, and specialized nephrology nurses, helping to sustain a culture of clinical excellence.
His leadership credentials extend beyond clinical practice. Dr. Adebisi previously served as Chairman of the Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria (MDCAN), FMC Abeokuta Chapter, where he was instrumental in fostering professional harmony and academic advancement among consultants. He currently serves as Faculty Treasurer of the West African College of Physicians (WACP), a role that underscores his financial discipline, organizational trust, and administrative competence. His earlier engagements with the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) and the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) further enriched his understanding of Nigeria’s healthcare landscape.
Beyond medicine, Dr. Adebisi is actively involved in civic and community development. He currently serves as President of the Rotary Club in the Oke-Ona Egba District, championing humanitarian, maternal health, and community empowerment initiatives. He is also the Social Secretary of the Abeokuta Sports Club, contributing to social cohesion and cultural development within Ogun State.
A devout Christian and committed family man, Dr. Adebisi is widely respected for a leadership style rooted in integrity, compassion, and service. As Head of Clinical Services, he is expected to focus on strengthening patient-centred care, enhancing clinical research and residency training, improving interdepartmental collaboration, and promoting institutional harmony across all clinical cadres.
Speaking on his vision for the office, Dr. Adebisi emphasized the need for innovation, professionalism, and teamwork in healthcare delivery. “Our objective remains clear: to deliver compassionate, world-class, and accessible healthcare to our immediate community and beyond, fueled by clinical innovation, integrity, and absolute dedication to human life,” he said.
With his assumption of office today, stakeholders within and outside FMC Abeokuta express optimism that his blend of clinical expertise, administrative experience, and people-centred leadership will further strengthen the institution’s position as a leading centre of excellence in healthcare delivery, training, and research.
Personality in Focus
June 12: Tinubu Confers National Honours on Kolade-Otitoju, Dasuki, Okei-Odumakin, Others
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has conferred national honours on several prominent pro-democracy activists, journalists, civil society leaders, and retired military officers in recognition of their contributions to Nigeria’s democratic struggle and the historic June 12 movement.
The announcement was made during the President’s nationwide Democracy Day broadcast commemorating Nigeria’s 27 years of uninterrupted democratic governance.
According to President Tinubu, the awards are intended to immortalize the sacrifices of individuals who endured persecution, imprisonment, solitary confinement, harassment, and exile during the fight against military dictatorship and the struggle to actualize the June 12, 1993 presidential election mandate.
Tinubu Honours Democracy Heroes
The President emphasized that the honourees played critical roles in defending democratic values and laying the foundation for the civilian rule Nigeria enjoys today.
Among those recognized are veteran journalists, media executives, civil rights advocates, and leaders of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), whose resistance to military rule helped shape the nation’s democratic journey.
Media and Civil Society Leaders Recognised
Notable recipients in the media and civil society category include:
* Gbemiga Ogunleye, former Provost of the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ)
* Babajide Kolade-Otitoju, Director of News at TVC News and veteran journalist
* Dr. Joe Okei-Odumakin, renowned human rights campaigner
* Chief Ayo Opadokun, NADECO chieftain
* Sam Omatseye
* Oladele Alake
* Olatunji Bello
* Louis Odion
* Tunde Fagbenle
* Richard Akinnola
* Debo Adeniran
The recognition highlights the pivotal role played by the media and civil society organizations in resisting authoritarian rule and advocating for democratic governance.
Retired Military Officers Honoured for Opposing Dictatorship
In what observers have described as a historic and groundbreaking move, President Tinubu also created a special category to honour military officers who worked from within the armed forces to challenge authoritarian rule and support democratic ideals.
The honoured retired officers include:
* Colonel Sambo Dasuki (retd)
* Colonel Lawan Gwadabe (retd)
* Brigadier Yahaya Abubakar, the Etsu Nupe
* Major General Ishola Williams (retd)
* Major General M.A. Garba
* Brigadier General Lawal Jaafaru Isa
The President noted that these officers risked their careers, personal freedom, and lives in pursuit of democratic governance during one of Nigeria’s most turbulent political periods.
Celebrating 27 Years of Democracy
The national honours ceremony forms part of activities marking Democracy Day, observed annually on June 12 in remembrance of the 1993 presidential election widely regarded as the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history.
President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to preserving democratic institutions, protecting civil liberties, and ensuring that the sacrifices of June 12 heroes remain permanently etched in Nigeria’s national memory.
The honours have been widely viewed as a significant step toward acknowledging the contributions of individuals and groups whose courage and resilience helped restore democratic rule and strengthen Nigeria’s democratic foundations.
