The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has said women who wear makeup do not believe God did a perfect job on them.
Adeboye spoke on Saturday during the RCCG ministers’ conference held at the Redemption City, Mowe, Ogun State, as part of activities lined up for the church’s just-concluded 72nd annual convention.
Adeboye said God did a great job when God created humans, stating that women wearing make-up are expressing their disbelief in God who created them.
He said, “When you marry, you cut your coat according to your clothes. Some of you want to be like the people of the world. I can’t even imagine some of the things I see now. It wasn’t so in the beginning.
“People spend hundreds of thousands of naira on ‘shoot out’ (photo shoot). And then, on the day of the wedding, the girl put on all manner of decorations. Those who do make-up are those who do not believe God did a good job.
“When God created you, He did a great job, you are wonderful, perfectly made, and you cannot find any other fellow like you. You are special.
“When you begin to paint, and you think you can improve on what God has already done, you are a fool. You can never improve on what God has done.”
A distinguished Committee of Friends of one of the Awujale contestants, Prince Olawale Yusuf Adeyemi-Oriola (Esq.), has offered prayers and goodwill messages as he participates in the ongoing selection process.
Prince Adeyemi-Oriola, a member of the Olufadi/Obanlefa branch of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, is among the contenders being considered by the kingmakers and the Ogun State Government.
In a joint statement, members of the committee described Prince Adeyemi-Oriola as a principled and disciplined individual who holds the culture and traditions of Ijebuland in high esteem.
According to the statement, the committee expressed confidence in his character, leadership qualities, and deep respect for the customs of the land, while wishing him success throughout the selection process.
The statement read as follows:
“With great pride and sincere goodwill, we extend our warmest congratulations to @princeolawaleoriola on his nomination as one of the distinguished candidates for the sacred stool of the Awujale of Ijebuland.
“Your emergence as a nominee from your family is a profound affirmation of your character, values, and the esteem in which you are held by your people. It reflects a life lived with honour, responsibility, and unwavering commitment to the heritage from which you spring.
“At this defining moment, we stand with you in prayers. May the Almighty God guide every stage of the selection process, grant you favour in all screenings and deliberations, and ordain success in His perfect will.
“We confidently attest to your capacity as a humble, principled man who holds the culture and traditions of Ijebuland in the highest regard. Over the years, your consistent support, sincerity, and brotherhood have revealed a man of integrity, generosity, and uncommon grace.
“Your journey and service reflect visionary leadership, strength of character, and openness of heart; rooted deeply in Ijebu values. You exemplify the belief that tradition flourishes under wise stewardship, balance, and faithful guardianship, while remaining relevant in a modern and evolving world.
“May divine wisdom, strength, and guidance continue to rest upon you always, dear Prince Olawale Oriola Adeyemi”.
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun East Independent Chapel, joins colleagues, friends, and well-wishers in celebrating Comrade Akinwale Olarenwaju, Chairman of the NUJ Ogun State Council, as he marks his 50th birthday today.
Comrade Olarenwaju’s career in journalism has been distinguished by integrity, courage, and unwavering commitment to the noble ideals of the profession. Under his leadership, the NUJ Ogun State Council has witnessed enhanced unity, robust advocacy for journalists’ welfare, and the promotion of ethical standards across the media landscape.
A respected leader and committed comrade, Olarenwaju has played a pivotal role in mentoring young journalists, fostering collaboration among media practitioners, and defending the principles of truth, accountability, and press freedom. His leadership style, anchored on dialogue, inclusiveness, and discipline; continues to earn him admiration and respect within and beyond the union.
As he attains this golden milestone, the NUJ Ogun East Independent Chapel celebrates not only the years, but also the profound impact Comrade Olarenwaju has made on journalism and democratic society in Ogun State and Nigeria at large.
We wish Comrade Akinwale Olarenwaju many more years of good health, wisdom, and strength as he continues to serve the media profession with distinction.
Happy 50th Birthday, Comrade Chairman!
E-signed:
Comr. Funmi Adewoju Suleodu Secretary, NUJ Ogun East Independent Chapel
Comr. Oluseun Odunye Chairman, NUJ Ogun East Independent Chapel
As Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Ogun State Council, I speak from a place of pride when I recall that our Council is the cradle of journalism in Nigeria, tracing its noble history to the birth of Iwe Iroyin. Ogun State has always been a fertile ground for ideas, courage, and the written word, and it is from this historic soil that generations of journalists have risen to serve the public good.
Before the storms of crisis set in, Ogun State recorded remarkable development within the media space—capacity building, professional solidarity, institutional respect, and public trust were steadily growing. The Union was a beacon of unity, and journalism flourished as a respected calling that inspired young minds and shaped governance.
Sadly, a difficult period followed. Internal crises crept in, bickering replaced brotherhood, and colleagues who once stood shoulder to shoulder turned into adversaries. That dark chapter claimed lives, drained morale, and forced many promising professionals into premature retirement, leaving deep scars on our collective conscience.
Yet, history teaches us that after every night comes the dawn. The needed period of healing arrived, and with it came an opportunity to reset our course through a democratic election. It was at that defining moment that Comrade Akinwale Alade Olanrewaju emerged, a man God clearly mandated to lead, restore hope, and rebuild trust.
Since assuming office, Comrade Akinwale Alade Olanrewaju has been making waves—not with noise, but with purpose. His leadership has been firm yet humane, decisive yet inclusive, and anchored on the values that once made the Ogun NUJ a reference point across the federation.
Under his watch, the lost glory of the Union has steadily returned. Smiles are back on the faces of members, confidence has been renewed, and the spirit of camaraderie has replaced suspicion. The Union once again feels like home to journalists of all generations.
Akinwale Olanrewaju and Bunmi Adigun
He has midwifed numerous achievements that speak for themselves: reconciliation among aggrieved members, strengthened welfare structures, improved engagement with government and stakeholders, renewed professional training initiatives, and the restoration of the Union’s dignity in the eyes of the public. Indeed, God has used him to do so much within such a short time.
Beyond the Union, his impact resonates with the general public. By promoting responsible journalism, ethical standards, and unity of purpose, he has helped reposition the media as a partner in development and a watchdog that serves society with balance and courage.
Now, as Comrade Akinwale Alade Olanrewaju turns 50, it is only fitting that we celebrate him. At 50, he embodies service, sacrifice, and stewardship—having given so much to the profession he loves and to the people it serves. His journey is a testament to what leadership by grace and vision can achieve.
On this golden milestone, I join colleagues and well-wishers to thank God for the gift of Comrade Akinwale Alade Olanrewaju to the Ogun State Council of the NUJ. May his days ahead be filled with strength, wisdom, and greater accomplishments, as the Union continues to rise in unity and purpose.
Bunmi Adigun writes from Iwe – Iroyin, Abeokuta and he is the Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Journalists Ogun State Council
Second Term: Loyalists Endorse Tinubu, Daniel For 2027 In Ogun
…as senator appeals to constituents on state creation
Loyalists of the Senator representing Ogun East Senatorial District, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, have endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Senator Daniel for a second term ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The endorsement was made under the banner of the BATOGD Political Movement during a well-attended gathering held at Luwera Hotel Arena, Oke-Owa, Odogbolu Local Government Area of Ogun State on Sunday.
The venue was filled to capacity with thousands of supporters who openly declared their support for the senator and the president ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The event served as another mobilisation tour of the BATOGD movement across Ogun East Senatorial District and attracted several dignitaries, including traditional rulers such as the Onirete of Irete Ijebu, Alaye Aba of Aiyepe Ijebu, Alakan of Ilakan Aiyepe, Ayanyelu of Ijesha Ijebu, and the Sapenuwa of Odojobore, alongside chieftains of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from Odogbolu Local Government and across Ogun East senatorial district.
Addressing the gathering, Senator Daniel disclosed that the visit marked the seventh engagement tour of the BATOGD movement in recent months. He urged party members and supporters to participate actively in the ongoing APC online registration exercise.
“The e-registration process for the All Progressives Congress (APC) has commenced. I urge all citizens, young and old, men and women to take full advantage of this opportunity so that we can collectively support Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and our senatorial re-election bid”.
Speaking on the ongoing agitation for the creation of Ijebu-Remo State, the former Ogun State governor called on Ijebu and Remo indigenes to speak with one voice, stressing that the process of state creation is demanding and requires unity.
“In the current circumstances confronting Ijebuland, the last real hope for accelerated and sustainable development lies in the creation of a new state from the old Ijebu Province,” Daniel stated.
He added, “As your senator, we have undertaken significant work behind the scenes on this and other matters. However, the most critical requirement for the actualisation of this state is unity of purpose. If the National Assembly does not perceive that unity among us, success cannot be guaranteed.”
It was a joyful event while some members of the All Progressives Congress went home with empowerment tools from the senator representing the area, those tools were Fertilizers, Refrigerators, Motorcycles, Power Generating Sets, Wheel Chairs, Grinding Machines, and Smart Television Sets.
The atmosphere was filled with excitement as members of the All Progressives Congress went home with various empowerment tools provided by the senator representing the district. The items distributed ranged from fertilizers and refrigerators to motorcycles, power generating sets, wheelchairs, grinding machines, and smart television sets.
The Olu of Warri, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, on Saturday appealed to the Federal and Delta State governments, as well as major oil companies, to intensify the execution of infrastructural projects in Itsekiri coastal communities of Delta State.
The monarch expressed concern that the Itsekiri people had remained poor, frustrated and neglected despite their significant contribution to Nigeria’s oil wealth, blaming years of regulatory inconsistency and poor engagement by oil firms.
Ogiame Atuwatse III spoke while addressing journalists after touring several oil fields in Itsekiri riverine communities in Warri North Local Government Area, including Jakpa, Tebu, Ajamita, Ebrohimi, Udo, Obaghoro, Gbokoda and Dibi.
He criticised what he described as divide-and-rule tactics allegedly employed by oil companies operating in the area, noting that such practices had fostered oppression and were sometimes aided by internal compromise among a few individuals within the Itsekiri community.
The monarch warned oil firms against mistaking the peaceful disposition of Itsekiri communities for weakness.
“For over 60 years, the Itsekiri people have listened to figures, production numbers, revenue charts, academic explanations, drawn from oil produced on our God-given and legally recognised land.
“But today, we say clearly: those numbers no longer impress us, because they do not reflect the actual reality of the lives of our people on the ground.
Yes, the records confirm what the nation already knows: this tribe called Itsekiri, in the western corner of the Niger Delta, is one of the geese that lay the golden eggs for Nigeria.
“Yet, paradoxically, our people remain poor, frustrated, and neglected.”
The Olu of Warri said the situation was not accidental, attributing it to years of regulatory neglect, corporate practices that tolerated oppression and internal betrayal driven by greed.
He said he could no longer remain silent in the face of growing hardship among his people.
“My people are discouraged. My people are poor. My people are tired. However, my people will no longer accept being treated as though they do not matter.
“No external actor can truly undermine us, unless someone inside unlocks the door.
“Oil companies, be they International or Nigerian, take advantage of us only when they see that those who pose as leaders among us are willing to trade our collective destiny for their own personal gain.”
The monarch, however, commended Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, for the ongoing road project in Dibi and the Trans Warri–Ode-Itsekiri Bridges and Access Road, urging the state government to sustain infrastructural development in the coastal areas to give residents a stronger sense of belonging.
He also appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his openness to the concerns of the Itsekiri people but warned against individuals he described as “usurpers, charlatans and opportunists” who claim to speak for the community.
“The tolerance for them has failed us. And now is the time for us to replace it with transparency, unity, and accountability, or remain victims of a system we secretly enable,” the Olu of Warri said.
Our thoughts and solidarity are with the people of Apunren-Ijebu at this difficult time.
As the Executive Chairman of Ijebu North East Local Government, I wish to assure residents that the council is fully engaged in addressing the land acquisition issue affecting Apunren and its environs. We have visited the area on several occasions to maintain calm and have held consultations with relevant stakeholders to find a lasting solution.
We understand the concerns and distress of our people, and we share in their feelings. Be assured that the safety, security, and welfare of Apunren-Ijebu residents remain our top priority. No community is insignificant to us, and we remain firmly committed to the overall development of Ijebu North East.
Any relocation of Apunren-Ijebu residents would have serious implications—not only for the community but also for the local government—particularly in terms of population, voting strength, and statutory allocations. This is why we are strengthening collaboration with both the state and federal governments, recognizing that our population is a critical asset.
We appeal to the people of Apunren to remain calm and peaceful. We stand with you and will continue to work diligently to ensure this matter is resolved in a fair and positive manner.
Signed: Hon. Badejo Folusho (BF) Executive Chairman, Ijebu North East Local Government, Atan 11 January 2026
Burkina Faso has accused neighbouring Côte d’Ivoire of backing an alleged plot to assassinate the country’s military leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, saying the plan was foiled just hours before it was to be executed.
The allegation was made by Burkina Faso’s Minister of Security, Mahamadou Sana, who said the operation was scheduled for the night of January 3 and involved a network of civilian, military and foreign actors.
Speaking during a late-night broadcast on Tuesday, Sana said Burkina Faso’s intelligence services uncovered the plot “in its final hours,” preventing what he described as a coordinated attempt to destabilise the country’s leadership and institutions.
“They had planned to assassinate the head of state and then strike other key institutions, including prominent civilian figures,” Sana stated.
According to the minister, the alleged conspirators explored two possible methods to carry out the assassination: a direct armed attack on Captain Traoré or the planting of explosives at his official residence.
He said the plot extended beyond the president, adding that other senior civil and military officials were listed as targets, suggesting a broader plan to cripple the state’s command structure.
Sana further alleged that the group intended to sabotage Burkina Faso’s military capabilities by destroying a drone base ahead of a possible ground operation, which he said was aimed at weakening national defence and facilitating further attacks.
In his address, the security minister accused Burkina Faso’s former military ruler, Lieutenant-Colonel Paul-Henri Damiba, of being the principal architect of the plot.
According to Sana, Damiba allegedly designed the operation, mobilised financial resources and coordinated the recruitment of accomplices within and outside the country.
The minister went further to accuse Côte d’Ivoire of financing the alleged assassination attempt, claiming that a sum of 70 million CFA francs had been earmarked to support the operation.
Neither Damiba nor the Ivorian government has publicly responded to the accusations as of the time of filing this report.
Sana disclosed that several suspects have already been arrested in connection with the alleged plot. Among them is a businessman identified as Madi Sakandé, whom the minister said reportedly admitted to maintaining contact with Damiba.
He added that investigations were ongoing to dismantle the entire network and identify all individuals involved, both within Burkina Faso and abroad.
The accusations come amid heightened political tension in Burkina Faso following Captain Traoré’s rise to power through a military takeover in September 2022, which ousted Damiba. Since then, Traoré’s government has repeatedly alleged the existence of internal and external plots aimed at overthrowing his administration.
Relations between Burkina Faso and some neighbouring countries have also grown increasingly strained, particularly as the Sahel nation realigns its security and foreign policy priorities amid persistent jihadist violence and shifting regional alliances.
The latest claims, if substantiated, could further deepen diplomatic rifts in the region and raise concerns about escalating instability across West Africa.
OGUN NUJ DISSOLVES ALL STANDING COMMITTEES, ROLLS OUT 2026 PLAN
The newly elected Executive of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ogun State Council, has announced the dissolution of all standing committees inaugurated during the first term of the Wale Olanrewaju-led administration.
According to the Executive, the decision is aimed at widening participation, engaging more members of the Union, and assigning broader capacity roles to ensure the effective realization of the Council’s vision and aspirations.
The Executive expressed appreciation to members who served on the dissolved committees, commending their selfless service and contributions, which were instrumental to the significant progress recorded during the first term of the administration.
Approval for the constitution of new committees, as well as the expansion of some existing ones, was granted at the first Executive Meeting of the Wale Olanrewaju-led administration in the year 2026. The committees include the Capacity Development and Programme Exchange Committee, Ventures and Asset Management Committee, Membership Revalidation Committee, Social and Welfare Committee, Project Development Committee, Ethics and Disciplinary Committee, Media Parliament Guest Forum, Ramadan Lecture/Iftar Committee, Health and Fitness Committee, and the 2026 Press Week Committee, among others.
The Executive further disclosed that the list of committee members will be announced and formally inaugurated during the first Congress of the Ogun State Council.
Meanwhile, in fulfillment of a key campaign promise to provide uninterrupted internet access for members, the Council revealed that plans are at an advanced stage, as relevant service providers have been engaged and agreements reached toward achieving this objective.
The Council has also fixed February 5, 2026, as Unity Party Day, when members are expected to converge to celebrate unity, progress, and the continuity of development under the new Executive.
The NUJ Ogun State Council expressed gratitude to all individuals and stakeholders who have contributed in various ways to the progress recorded so far, assuring members that greater achievements lie ahead.
E-Signed: Bunmi Adigun Secretary Nigeria Union of Journalists Ogun State Council
Judicial activities across Ondo State were on Monday brought to a halt following the commencement of an indefinite strike by magistrates, presidents of Grade ‘A’ customary courts and legal research officers over unresolved issues of judicial autonomy and welfare.
The strike was declared by the Coalition of Magistrates, Presidents of Grade ‘A’ Customary Courts and Legal Research Officers, Ondo State Judiciary, in a notice dated January 2, 2026, and addressed to members across the state.
In the notice, the coalition directed all members to embark on an indefinite strike, stressing that the action would be total and uncompromising. Members were barred from performing any official duties, including reporting to offices, sitting in court or acting in any official capacity throughout the period of the strike.
The directive also prohibited magistrates and court officials from issuing, signing, endorsing or authorising any court order, process, directive or document, whether physically or remotely, for the duration of the industrial action.
According to the coalition, the strike would remain in force until all demands relating to judicial autonomy and improved welfare were fully met.
“This strike action shall remain in force until our collective demands for judicial autonomy and improved welfare are fully achieved,” the notice read. “We will not compromise on these fundamental principles.”
Members were urged to remain united and disciplined, with assurances that updates would be communicated as developments occur.
Videos and photographs obtained on Monday showed court premises across the state locked and padlocked, confirming a total shutdown of judicial activities.
The strike followed longstanding complaints by judiciary workers over poor working conditions and deteriorating infrastructure. On December 31, 2025, workers raised concerns over the dilapidated state of court facilities, lamenting that rainfall often disrupts court sittings and judicial operations. They also decried poor welfare conditions, which they said continued to undermine the justice system under the administration of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
Meanwhile, the governor has reaffirmed his commitment to the strict implementation of the 2026 budget, recently signed into law. He described the budget as critical to sustaining Ondo State’s development trajectory, noting that it contains provisions aimed at improving all sectors of the state.
Speaking during the first working-day prayer meeting for 2026 in Akure, Aiyedatiwa urged ministries, departments and agencies to commence work promptly, stressing that public expectations must be matched with effective delivery of projects and programmes.
He called on public servants and political officeholders to prioritise the collective interest of the state, while urging citizens to support government efforts by fulfilling their obligations and embracing the new year with optimism and patriotism.
The governor highlighted achievements recorded in the past year, including the construction and rehabilitation of 190 kilometres of roads, the construction and renovation of 280 classrooms across primary, secondary and technical schools, and the fencing of several school premises.
In the health sector, he said the renovation and construction of 112 health centres awarded in 2025 were nearing completion, while the solar lighting initiative launched in Akure was being extended to all local government areas.
Aiyedatiwa also cited progress in the revalidation of the Ondo Deep Sea Port licence, ongoing arrangements with development partners for a refinery and allied petrochemical industries in the Free Trade Zone, and plans to revive moribund industries such as the Ifon Ceramic Industry and Okitipupa Oil Mill.
Reaffirming his commitment to workers’ welfare, the governor said regular promotions, prompt payment of salaries and continued settlement of inherited gratuities for retirees had been sustained, adding that gradual recruitment would continue to ensure effective succession planning.
The Head of Service, Bayo Philip, said the public service had recorded steady and verifiable progress under the current administration.
In his exhortation, the Catholic Bishop of Ondo Diocese, Most Rev. Jude Ayodeji Arogundade, urged leaders and senior civil servants to embrace integrity, sacrifice and purpose-driven leadership in administering public resources for the common good.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Ijebu Ode Chapter, commenced the Adura Odun 2026, a week-long prayer event, at the Awujale’s Palace in Ijebu Ode. The event featured prayers for the late Awujale Sikiru Adetona, the people of Ijebu land, Ogun State, and Nigeria.
The Adele Awujale, Oloritun Sonny Kuku, the Ogbeni Oja of Ijebu land, revealed that exactly one year ago, the late Awujale, Oba (Dr.) Sikiru Adetona, GCON, had visited President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Lagos to express gratitude for the conferment of the Grand Commander of the Order of Nigeria (GCON) on him, celebrating his 90th birthday. Kuku stated that the Awujale had discussed the creation of Ijebu State with the President, who gave his nod.
Kuku assured the people of Ijebu land that the late Awujale had done significant work on the issue of Ijebu State, and those left behind would continue the pursuit. The Kakanfo Awujale, High Chief Bimbo Okenla, corroborated Kuku’s claims, saying all hands are on deck to achieve a logical conclusion.
The event was attended by notable personalities, including Apebi Okunade, the Iyalode of Ijebu land, Chief Mrs. Bisi Osibogun, the Yeye Sewa of Ijebu land, Yeye Toyin Oluwole, Deacon Ayodeji Olulani, CAN leaders, and others.
Despite the absence of some traditional rulers, the event was deemed a success.
The late Awujale Sikiru Adetona was sorely missed, and his absence created a vacuum, with many seats left unoccupied.
The next prayer session- Day two holds on Tuesday at the Okunowo family house in Ijebu -Ode.
Dr. Sonny Folorunsho Kuku: From Medicine to Monarchy, a Life of World-Class Excellence Rooted in Ijebuland
By Tayo Mabeweje
Ijebuland pauses today, not in silence, but in awe, as Dr. Sonny Folorunsho Kuku, OFR, FAS, the Ogbeni Oja of Ijebuland, marks his 82nd birthday. Some lives are measured in days; others, like his, are measured in the magnitude of their impact. Dr. Kuku’s life is a constellation—each achievement a star guiding generations, each act of service a comet leaving a trail of inspiration. At 82, he is not a relic of the past, but a living beacon illuminating the paths of medicine, tradition, and community.
In the realm of medicine, Dr. Kuku is legendary. As a master endocrinologist, he is celebrated globally, holding fellowships from the Nigerian Academy of Science, the Academy of Medical Sciences of Nigeria, and, historically, as the first African awarded Master Fellowship of the American College of Physicians. His career embodies Aristotle’s wisdom that “excellence is never an accident; it is the result of intention, effort and intelligent execution,” as each patient treated, each student mentored, and each research breakthrough attests. He has transformed knowledge into action, showing that medicine is not merely a profession but a calling that heals bodies and builds nations.
Beyond hospitals, his vision reshaped healthcare in Nigeria. As co-founder and joint chief medical director of EKO Hospitals, established in 1978, he planted not just walls and wards but standards and trust. Listing the hospital on the Nigerian Stock Exchange became more than corporate triumph—it was a declaration that integrity and professionalism can anchor sustainable institutions at home. In him, Nelson Mandela’s truth finds resonance: “What counts in life is not the mere fact that we have lived, but the difference we have made to the lives of others.” Every patient, every life touched, every opportunity created reflects that ethos.
Dr. Kuku’s influence flows seamlessly into civic and economic leadership. As former Chairman of Ecobank Nigeria and a guiding force within the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, he brought the precision of a physician to national policy, understanding that the strength of a nation rests not only in its resources but in the cultivation of human capital. His service earned him the Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic, a recognition befitting a man whose impact transcends titles.
In Ijebuland, his presence is both sacred and stabilising. As Olor’ogun of Ijebu-Ode and Ogbeni Oja, the highest non-hereditary title in the kingdom, he is a bridge between history and progress. His leadership as Chairman and Regent of the Ijebu Traditional Council ensures that culture and governance walk hand in hand, echoing Confucius’ observation that “Respect yourself and others will respect you,” evident in the reverence he commands across generations.
Within the Ijebu Professionals Elite Forum (IPEF), as Chairman of the Body of Awardees, Dr. Kuku has elevated recognition into a mirror of values, transforming excellence into communal responsibility. His quiet philanthropy through the Sonny Kuku Foundation nurtures health, education, and opportunity, proving that greatness is measured not only by titles but by the lives uplifted.
At 82, Dr. Kuku is ageless—not merely in body or mind, but in the enduring resonance of his legacy. His life is a testament to the power of purpose, the alchemy of wisdom, and the art of living fully. As Ijebuland, Nigeria, and the world celebrate him, one truth shines brighter than any accolade: Dr. Sonny Folorunsho Kuku’s life is a constellation of excellence, deeply rooted in home yet reaching the stars.
The Senior Pastor of the Mountain of Liberation and Miracles Ministries, Chris Okafor, has stepped down from pastoral duties amid growing outrage over multiple sexual allegations against him.
The cleric had last Sunday publicly apologised to an actress, Doris Ogala, during a service at his church, where he knelt on the pulpit, admitted to past “mistakes,” and sought forgiveness.
The development follows his wedding to a new bride, identified simply as Pearl, on December 16, 2025, and attended by prominent clerics.
Okafor was said to have gone ahead with the ceremony despite Ogala’s viral accusations of betrayal, emotional manipulation and reneging on a promise of marriage after a long-term relationship.
In separate interviews with Saturday PUNCH, several members of the church, however, dismissed the allegations, describing them as desperate moves by individuals trying to extort money from their “man of God”.
The pressure to step down
As the allegations escalated on social media in recent weeks, with more women coming forward with different narrations, Saturday PUNCH gathered that respected leaders in the Christian community pressured Okafor to step down in order to douse tension.
A senior executive of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, who is close to the pastor, confirmed this to one of our correspondents.
“There are more things to be done in terms of disciplinary actions,” the official added.
The source explained that the festive period had slowed down deliberations within the PFN on the scandal, as meetings could not be convened to formally discuss the matter.
“Meetings could not be held to deliberate on actions against him (Okafor). But from the pressure from some of the leaders in the body of Christ, he has stepped down for a month. I believe that before the month ends, some decisions would have been made concerning him,” the official stated.
When asked if the PFN would investigate the allegations against the pastor, the official said, “I don’t think it is the PFN that should do that. We are not the police, nor are we a law enforcement agency. If there is an allegation of rape against a pastor, it is not the PFN that should investigate it. I want Nigerians to get this right: even if we do any form of inquiry, we cannot arrest anyone. This is a criminal case, and the government should step in.
“However, this does not mean that PFN does not act in situations like this. What PFN or the body of Christ can do is what we call spiritual pressure and discipline; there are other areas where the police should investigate. PFN does not have the statutory power to investigate or arrest when it comes to criminal allegations.”
He added that although PFN was engaging the issue quietly, its actions should not be misconstrued as a formal investigation.
On Pastor Okafor’s matter, there are a lot of things PFN is doing behind the scenes, but I don’t want to call these things an investigation. It is not for public consumption for now. His stepping down is part of the action that PFN and the body of Christ pressured him to take.
“When we saw the enormity of the allegations, and it was already looking like a criminal matter, we had to step in and do our part, but the government also has to play its role,” the source added.
‘I stepped down on God’s instruction’
However, the pastor, during his sermon at the church’s New Year crossover service on Wednesday night, said his decision to step down was for spiritual renewal.
“I will be resting. It would be time for personal retreat with God and time for me and my wife to rest,” the pastor told his congregation.
“Since our wedding, we have not rested. We have not had time. We have not even done our honeymoon. So, we are stepping aside to pray, to have a retreat and to rest from this January, and to return better and stronger from the presence of the Lord.”
Okafor said the break, which he noted did not mean he would be totally absent from church activities, would last until February.
Speaking to Saturday PUNCH, the spokesperson for the command, Abimbola Adebisi, said she was not aware of any complaints against Okafor despite the swirling allegations on social media.
“If there is any, the department handling it would have briefed me. Anyone with a petition can come forward,” Adebisi said.
Members defend pastor
Saturday PUNCH visited the church headquarters in the Ojodu area of Lagos on Thursday and Friday.
During the Thursday visit, a church pastor and a security guard told one of our correspondents to return the following day to speak with some officials.
However, when the reporter returned on Friday, two ladies at the church reception were unwilling to comment on the matter or link the reporter with anyone to address the allegations, saying the pastor had left everything to God.
But two elderly church members, who spoke to our correspondent, dismissed the allegations as lies, blackmail and the handiwork of detractors.
