Personality in Focus
Ogunsan Felicitates with AIGs Longe, Owohunwa on New Appointments, Lauds IGP Egbetokun
Respected Board Member, Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF) and Chairman, Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV), Dr. Ayo Ogunsan, has extended his congratulations to the duo of AIG Yetunde Longe and AIG Idowu Owohunwa on their new appointments as the Force Secretary and Head of INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB), Force HQ Abuja by the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.
The security expert, who is also the CEO, Executive Group, made his felicitations known via a statement he signed himself, where he lauded the capabilities of the AIGs as a result of their antecedents as well as praised the foresight of the IGP in appointing the duo.
“It takes only a leader with genuine foresight to discover the likes of Longe and Owohunwa to appoint them into such sensitive positions. So, I can’t hide for the able IGP,” Ogunsan said.
He further hailed the IGP for recognizing the abilities of women in the Force, and remaining gender-sensitive in distribution of appointments under his watch.
Speaking on the AIGs, Ogunsan noted that Owohunwa and Longe have paid their dues in the Police Force, and are forces to reckon with when it comes to both policing and administration.
He agreed with the IGP that the new assignments is a proof of their exceptional abilities and the trust the Force places in their capabilities.
“I have followed the trajectory of Owohunwa and Longe, and can’t agree more with the IGP. These officers have been exemplary in the discharge of their duties, and churn near impeccable records.
“I heartily congratulate them, and with them the best and successful time while their tenure in their various offices last. I’m very sure they will, and help to give the Nigerian Police Force the pride of place it deserves,” the LSSTF board member said.
He acknowledged Longe for her many firsts including becoming the first Female Deputy Commissioner of Police in Charge of Lagos State Criminal Investigation Department, SCID, Panti; first female Area Commander, Area F Ikeja, and the first female AIG in Charge of Training Department of the Nigeria Police Force.
Similarly, he acknowledged Owohunwa’s doggedness, noting that he has over the years proven his mettle in various capacities including as PSO to many IGPs, as Lagos CP, and most recently, as AIG of Force CID Annex Alagbon.
It would be recalled that IGP Kayode Egbetokun, in a statement signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, announced the appointment of the two AIGs.
The statement read:
‘The Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D, NPM, has approved the posting of two senior police officers to strategic positions within the Nigeria Police Force as part of ongoing efforts to bolster the efficiency of the Force and multinational approach to tackling crimes.’
“AIG Yetunde Longe has been appointed as the Force Secretary. In this capacity, AIG Longe will be responsible for overseeing the secretarial functions of the Force Headquarters, ensuring that policies and directives of the IGP are implemented effectively, as well as coordinate the affairs of senior police officers.
“Similarly, AIG Idowu Owohunwa has been assigned to the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB) at the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) in Abuja. He is tasked with enhancing international police cooperation and ensuring that Nigeria fulfills its obligations within the global INTERPOL framework.”
The family of Bolaji Olarewaju, popularly known as Big Bolaji has confirmed the passing of the singer following a brief illness.
According to a statement signed by the Family on Saturday, Bolaji died on Easter Saturday.
The statement said, “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Bolaji Olarewaju, affectionately known as “Big B,” a cherished father, husband, brother, and an esteemed figure in both the church community, an ordained Pastor in the RCCG and a giant in the music industry and our community. Bolaji left us on Easter Saturday, 19th April 2025, after a brief illness.
“His departure leaves a void in our hearts that can not be filled.
“Bolaji’s life was a testament to his passion for music, his unwavering faith, and his dedication to uplifting those around him. His legacy is not only in the melodies he created but in the lives he touched and the unquantifiable joy he spread.
“We take solace in knowing that his absence with us is his presence with the Lord, and the indelible mark he left on all who had the privilege of knowing him will not be erased.
“As we navigate through this time of loss, we kindly request privacy to mourn as a family. We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and support we have received and ask that you continue to keep us in your prayers.
“Details regarding the obsequies will be shared in due course as we come together to celebrate Bolaji’s remarkable life and legacy.
“Thank you for respecting our wishes during this incredibly difficult time. With gratitude, The Family of Bolaji Olarewaju.”
Pascal Dozie, a renowned Nigerian entrepreneur and business leader has died. He was 86.
According to sources close to the deceased, Dozie died a battle with old age-related illness.
Dozie, was a man of many parts, best known for founding Diamond Bank and serving as chairman of Pan-Atlantic University.
He was born on April 9, 1939, in Egbu, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria. Dozie’s educational background includes a degree in Economics from the London School of Economics and a master’s in Administrative Science from City University in London.
Dozie also founded theAfrican Development Consulting Group, which worked with notable clients like Nestle and Pfizer. He served as MTN Group chairman but later resigned and was succeeded by Ernest Ndukwe.
Dozie received the prestigious National Award of the Order of the Niger (OON) for his contributions to Nigeria’s banking industry.
Dozie is survived by his wife Chinyere Dozie, and five children among other relatives.
A former governor of Oyo State, Dr. Victor Olunloyo, is dead.
According to a statement by his family on Sunday, he died a few days before his 90th birthday.
The statement titled ‘Victor Olunloyo goes home’ was signed by Oladapo Ogunwusi on behalf of the family.
It read, “With a heavy heart but gratitude to the Almighty, we announce the passing into glory of Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo, former governor of Oyo State, mathematician and engineer and renowned technocrat, a few days before his 90th birthday.
“The Balogun of Oyo and Otun Bobasewa of Ife, Dr. Olunloyo was first Rector, Ibadan polytechnic and first Rector, Kwara State Polytechnic among other notable appointments.
“His long record of service to the nation and humanity is a source of pride to his family and associates even as we come to grip with this devastating event.
“The Olunloyo family will appreciate the understanding of the press and the public as they commence efforts to give him a befitting burial.
“Even from everlasting to everlasting, He is God.”
About a year ago in April 2024, the rumour of the death of the elder statesman was reported by some news platforms.
But speaking with The PUNCH correspondent who visited his Molete residence in Ibadan, the state capital, he debunked the rumour, saying he was hale and hearty.
“I’m still here, not yet gone,” he declared then.
He also expressed worry over the rumour and asked who would live forever, stressing, “Those breaking death news and the person presumed dead will all die one day.
“I’ve been lucky. My father died at 42, while my mother died at 102. I’m 89. I’ve crossed the expected life age.”
The elder statesman also illustrated how the rumour of his death hit several news platforms on June 7, 2022.
He noted that the rumour mongers claimed that he died at the University College Hospital, Ibadan.
A few days later, the family issued a statement, declaring that he was not dead but suffering from old age ailment and asked Nigerians to pray for him to survive the health complications.
