Ahead of the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary election slated for Saturday, December 13, in Osogbo, Osun State capital, all aspirants for the party’s ticket have closed ranks and endorsed Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji as the consensus candidate.

It was earlier gathered that one of the frontline aspirants, Senator Ajibola Basiru, had on Friday collapsed his campaign structure into that of Oyebamiji, paving the way for a united front going into the primary.

The aspirants later converged at the party secretariat, where the Chairman and Co-Chairman of the APC Primary Election Committee, Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State and Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State, urged party members to prioritise unity and cooperation to ensure the APC regains control of Osun State in 2026.

Speaking during a meeting with stakeholders on Friday night ahead of Oyebamiji’s formal affirmation, the committee stressed that the people of Osun were yearning for purposeful governance and charged members to work collectively towards defeating Governor Ademola Adeleke in the forthcoming election.

“Transparency is key, and tomorrow is to affirm Asiwaju Oyebamiji as our consensus candidate. Let me appeal to everyone to be united; we mustn’t allow internal wrangling or rancour to weaken our progress. After the affirmation, we must unite to concentrate on the August 2026 State election.

“Osun people are yearning for purposeful governance because it belongs to the Progressives and it must be reclaimed for the Progressives, and with unity and commitment after the primary, we will reclaim what duly belongs to us.”

Governor Okpebholo commended members for their steadfastness and patience despite being in opposition, assuring them that their sacrifices were recognised and appreciated.

Also speaking, the Co-Chairman, Governor Aiyedatiwa, described the 2026 Osun governorship election as a major political contest that can only be won through a united party.

Aiyedatiwa emphasised the supremacy of the party and urged members to rally behind the consensus candidate.

“**We have a great battle before us in August 2026, and we must stay united to achieve this feat. We can only win with the party through unity, so we must come together irrespective of who the candidate is. Besides, on the day of the election, the name of the candidate won’t be on the ballot, but that of the party, and that shows that the party is supreme; hence, he who wins must be supported.

“I plead with us to ensure a rancour-free election in 2026. Let’s mobilise our people, educate them, embrace newness and ensure we uphold unity.”

He added that Osun must reclaim its mandate and return to the Progressives.

The meeting was attended by members of the party’s apex Elders’ Council, Igbimo Agba Osun, the governorship aspirants, serving and former lawmakers at both national and state levels, and other critical stakeholders.

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Menstruation comes with its own challenges, and for many women, choosing the right menstrual product can significantly affect comfort, confidence, and daily activities.

While sanitary pads remain the most commonly used menstrual product in Nigeria, tampons offer an alternative that some women find more convenient, particularly for active lifestyles.

An estimated 1.8 billion people around the world menstruate each month, yet hundreds of millions lack access to menstrual products and basic hygiene facilities.

In Nigeria, as many as 37 million women and girls may struggle to access or afford menstrual products such as pads and tampons.

Studies show that less than two per cent of women in Nigeria use tampons, highlighting limited awareness and accessibility.

Speaking with PT Health Watch, Halimat Jimoh, a registered nurse-midwife and maternal health advocate, says that tampons are safe when used correctly and can provide comfort and mobility for women during their periods.

Mrs Jimoh, who is the founder of The Midwife Next Door, explains that tampons are inserted into the vagina to absorb menstrual flow, unlike pads, which sit outside the body.

“Tampons are perfectly safe to use, especially when applied correctly. First-time users should understand how they work and select the right size or absorbency for their flow,” she said.

“Always wash your hands before insertion, avoid touching the part that goes inside, and never leave a tampon in for more than four to six hours.”

Common misconceptions

Mrs Jimoh notes that several myths about tampons persist in Nigeria.

“Some people believe tampons can make you lose your virginity or that they can get lost inside you. These are false. Tampons stay in the vagina when used correctly and do not affect virginity.”

She also emphasises proper insertion, usage, and disposal.

“Lean over a chair or stool and gently insert the tampon. Most come with an applicator to guide placement. After insertion, the string remains outside and is used to remove it. Always change tampons every four to six hours, wrap used ones in tissue, and dispose of them in the bin. Do not flush them.”

Reducing health risks

Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) is a rare but serious risk linked to tampon use.

Mrs Jimoh advises that women should “Choose the lowest absorbency for your flow, change tampons regularly, and monitor your body for unusual symptoms such as fever, rash, or cramps. Seek medical attention immediately if any occur.”

She also encourages teenagers and first-time users to start with regular or lowest absorbency tampons, practising at home until they feel comfortable.

Comfort and convenience

From her professional experience, Mrs Jimoh noted that women find tampons more comfortable than pads, particularly during physical activities.

She said, “Tampons feel a lot less bulky than pads, and they give more freedom to move around. Many women complain that pads shift during workouts or feel somehow when they are walking fast or stretching.

“Some even say the pad makes them feel hot or uncomfortable, especially on active days. And there is also that experience of the pad getting in between the buttocks, which can be very annoying.

“But with tampons, you can move freely without thinking about anything. They are very good for days when you want to exercise, do sports or even swim.”

She said in terms of comfort and movement, tampons often make the whole experience easier.

She, however, said individual choices still depend on what feels comfortable for each person and the menstrual products they have access to.

Need for more awareness

Women who shared their experiences with PT Health Watch also find tampons more convenient, as they reduce friction and discomfort caused by pads and help keep clothing dry.

They also report that tampons can lower the chances of getting stained when changed regularly.

READ ALSO: Inside Nigeria’s prisons where female inmates are left without menstrual care

However, availability remains a challenge, and prices can be quite high. Some women have to buy multiple packs when they can find them, sometimes relying on friends to source them from different stores.

Despite these challenges, tampons are appreciated for their comfort and mobility.

While some women believe tampons offer convenience, hygiene benefits and comfort, their use remains very low in Nigeria due to misconceptions, cost, low availability and limited public awareness.

Mrs Jimoh says improved education on menstrual hygiene and product access may increase adoption over time, giving women more options.

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Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has said securing President Bola Tinubu’s re-election in 2027 must remain a shared objective for members of the All Progressives Congress, APC, across the state.

The governor made this known while addressing party leaders at the APC’s quarterly stakeholders’ meeting, where he urged members to close ranks as political activities gradually intensify ahead of future elections.

Aiyedatiwa stressed the importance of unity within the party, cautioning against internal divisions driven by personal ambitions or conflicting interests.

“We must collectively work to deliver Ondo State for President Tinubu in 2027,” the governor said, adding that party cohesion is essential to achieving that goal.

He warned members against actions that could undermine party leadership or fellow party members, even while supporting preferred aspirants, noting that internal discord could weaken the APC’s electoral chances.

The governor explained that the quarterly stakeholders’ meeting was designed to enhance engagement, feedback and collaboration within the party, as well as to review political and developmental progress in the state.

Highlighting achievements of his administration, Aiyedatiwa said efforts had been intensified in the health sector, with several facilities undergoing renovation and standby ambulances being provided across local government areas.

He added that ongoing development projects were deliberately spread across all local councils to promote balanced growth statewide.

The governor also disclosed that the Federal Government had approved the revalidation of Ondo State’s deep seaport licence, explaining that the earlier registration contained errors that failed to properly reflect the state’s identity.

Earlier, the APC Chairman in Ondo State, Ade Adetimehin, who was represented by the party’s Vice Chairman, Atili Agabra, said the meeting provided an avenue for party members to directly engage with the governor.

He commended the state government for employing youths across various ministries, departments and agencies, describing the administration’s engagement with different party organs as unprecedented.

Also speaking, the APC National Vice Chairman (South-West), Isaac Kekemeke, reaffirmed that Aiyedatiwa remains the party’s leader in Ondo State.

While acknowledging the presence of other influential party figures, Kekemeke said the governor is the principal mobiliser for President Tinubu’s second-term ambition in the state.

He added that the President has confidence in APC governors nationwide, describing Aiyedatiwa as a strong loyalist and key campaign figure for Tinubu in Ondo.

Kekemeke observed that most criticisms of the government were coming from within the party, noting that opposition parties such as the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and Labour Party no longer pose significant threats in the state.

He urged the governor to continue accommodating diverse interests within the APC and to lead efforts to maintain unity ahead of future political contests.

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Former President Goodluck Jonathan has mourned the death of the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, describing it as a painful loss to both the state and the nation.

In a condolence message shared on his Facebook page on Friday, Jonathan said he received the news of Ewhrudjakpo’s passing with “deep shock and sadness,” noting that the late deputy governor was a dedicated public servant who committed his life to the welfare of the people.

He described Ewhrudjakpo as a devoted servant of Bayelsa, a patriot and a loyal representative of the state and country, adding that his long years in public service earned him widespread respect and admiration.

Jonathan said Ewhrudjakpo distinguished himself in every position he held, serving with diligence as commissioner, senator and, later, deputy governor.

According to the former president, the death of the deputy governor represents a profound loss to the Government and people of Bayelsa State, his immediate family and all who worked closely with him.

Jonathan said Ewhrudjakpo would be remembered for his integrity, dedication to service and unwavering commitment to the development and progress of Bayelsa State.

He extended his condolences to the family of the deceased and the Bayelsa State Government, urging them to take solace in what he described as Ewhrudjakpo’s impactful life of service.

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A young lady has raised alarm on social media after her brother was knocked down by a commercial tricycle while heading to an early morning examination at the University of Abuja.

According to the distraught lady, the accident happened in the early hours of the day as students rushed to campus for a test reportedly scheduled for around 5 a.m.

Lady.

She said her brother and one of his coursemates were attempting to cross the road directly in front of the University of Abuja when a tricycle, allegedly moving against traffic, rammed into them.

She disclosed that her brother sustained severe injuries and was unconscious at the time she shared the update, adding that doctors had classified his condition as critical and were preparing him for surgery. The medical team, she noted, warned that amputation of his leg might be necessary.

The lady further alleged that although the tricycle operator was initially apprehended, there were indications that efforts were being made to secure his release. She also claimed that the university management had yet to contact the family or provide any form of assistance following the incident.

In addition, she revealed that the hospital initially declined to admit her brother due to the severity of his injuries before eventually accepting him, as medical expenses continued to rise beyond her financial capacity.

She said in part…

“University of Abuja you need to come to my aid at this point, I cannot do it alone; I’m traumatized. How school go dey set test around 5 am? He was struggling to go to school this morning, in front of university of Abuja that was how keke cleared him. The keke was following one-way. As I am talking to you now, he is unconscious, and they’re about to do surgery. As I am talking to you now, it’s 50/50; it’s either they do the surgery or they remove the leg. Please the bills is too much for me. It was the SUG that called me to come and carry my brother. They took him to two hospitals they rejected him because of the condition. As I am talking to you now, they arrested the keke man but they’re about to release him.”

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Nigeria’s pension industry continued its steady march upward in October 2025, with total pension assets climbing to N26.66 trillion, representing a 2.19% month-on-month increase from N26.09 trillion recorded in September, and a strong 21.63% surge year-on-year.

The pension industry demonstrated sustained resilience, supported by cautious rebalancing into safer, liquid assets and sustained confidence in Federal Government securities, despite a challenging macroeconomic environment, marked by sticky inflation, FX volatility, and uncertain capital market sentiment.

The data showed that RSA enrollments grew from 10.93 million in September to 10.97 million in October, a 0.39% increase—reflecting ongoing onboarding of new entrants into the formal workforce and micro-pension participants.

FGN Securities remain the anchor, now 59.86% of total Assets 

FGN instruments remain the backbone of Nigeria’s pension portfolio, expanding marginally by 1.35% MoM to N15.96 trillion. These securities now account for 59.86% of total pension assets. Key movements within FGN Securities are:

• Treasury Bills, up 11.34%, due to attractive short-term yields, prompted stronger inflows.
• Fed Govt Bonds (HTM), up 8.14%, still the largest component at N13.88 trillion, representing 52% of total pension assets alone.
• Sukuk Bonds, up 5.33%, because of the move to diversify portfolios with instruments offering attractive returns and lower risk.
• Green Bonds, up 1.68%, reflecting renewed interest in sustainability-linked instruments.
• Government securities, up 1.28% reinforce the market-wide risk-off posture as fund managers seek to safeguard value amid volatile equity and FX markets.

Money Market Instruments surge 18.85% as PFAs chase liquidity 

Money market allocation recorded one of the strongest movements in October, rising from N2.42 trillion to N2.88 trillion—an 18.85% MoM increase. The category now accounts for 10.80% of total pension assets.

• Fixed deposits and bank acceptances drove the rally, surging 24.89% to N2.48 trillion, as PFAs sought higher short-term yields and liquidity buffers.
• However, foreign money market instruments plunged 44.80%, due to FX repricing and valuation impacts tied to continued naira volatility.
• While commercial papers rose by 5.61% to N328.65 billion.

Corporate Debt Instruments slip 3.41% 

Corporate bonds dipped from N2.24 trillion in September to N2.16 trillion in October, contributing 8.11% to the total assets. The decline was broad-based:

• Corporate Bonds (HTM): down 3.70%
• Corporate Bonds (AFS): down 2.67%
• Infrastructure Bonds: down 7.61%

This cooling in appetite aligns with continued credit risk concerns in the private sector, elevated borrowing costs, and recent downgrades affecting select issuers.

Equities see mixed movements 

Domestic equities grew 5.01%, increasing to N3.84 trillion, and accounting for 14.42% of the total assets. This is supported by bargain-hunting as investors priced in potential year-end rallies.

Foreign equity exposure, on the other hand, fell 6.45%, echoing valuation pressures and conservative FX repositioning.

Total allocation to equities (domestic + foreign) represents about 15.39% of total pension assets.

Alternative assets 

The alternatives segment delivered mixed outcomes:

Mutual funds advanced 1.32% to N221.88 billion, buoyed by moderate growth of 2.22% and 0.21% in open/close-ended funds and Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), respectively.

• Infrastructure Funds, likewise, increased by 9.23% to N262.57 billion, signaling renewed PFA interest in real-sector diversification
• Private Equities declined by 10.53% to N233.10 billion, reflecting valuation adjustments and cautious commitments.
• Real Estate dropped sharply by 40.19% from N243.35 billion to N145.56 billion, possibly due to portfolio restructuring or markdowns.
• Supra-national Bonds retreated by 10.44% to N19.70 billion.

Cash & other assets declined sharply by 16.79% from N518.95 billion to N431.84 billion in October, reallocating into higher-yielding money-market and government securities.

Breakdown by fund category 

Across the Retirement Savings Account (RSA) structure, the distribution remained consistent with historical trends, as Fund II remains the largest and most actively managed segment of the industry:

• Fund II, the default fund for active RSA contributors aged 49 and below, rose to N11.25 trillion, increasing by 2.68%. This fund contributed 42.18% to the total assets, highlighting strong inflows and solid investment returns.
• Fund III (Pre-Retiree), the default Retirement Savings Account (RSA) fund for active Nigerian contributors aged 50 and above, also increased modesty by 1.89% to N6.85 trillion, accounting for 25.71% of the total assets.
• Fund I (Aggressive), recorded a significant growth of 6.99%, to N424.11 billion.
• Fund IV (Retiree Fund), and Fund V (Micro-Pension) posted growth of 3.65% and 4.42%, respectively, while Fund IV contributed 7.58% to the total assets.
• Fund VI (Shariah), increased by 7.16% to N205.39 billion.
• Fund VI (Retiree Shariah), N21.52 billion, +4.16%, 0.08%
• Existing schemes and CPFAs contributed by 12% and 10.10% to the total asset funds, respectively, reinforcing the growth trajectory across legacy and institutional schemes.

What this means for you 

October 2025 reinforced the pension industry’s steady resilience, even amid macroeconomic turbulence. The asset mix shows a sector leaning heavily into safety, liquidity, and predictable returns—evident in strong flows into FGN securities and money market instruments.

At over N26.66 trillion, Nigeria’s pension industry remains a major stabilizing force in the financial markets, with PFAs continuing to navigate the tightrope between risk management and return optimization.

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Tragedy strikes as former Lagos deputy governor, Princess Adejoke Orelope Adefulire loses her only son, Oluwafemi Olawale Adefulire.

According to reports, Oluwafemi Olawale Adefulire passed away in the early hours of Wednesday, December 10, 2025.

Oluwafemi Olawale Adefulire Passes Away

According to reports, Oluwafemi Olawale Adefulire passed away after undergoing surgery in Dubai.

Meanwhile, condolences and tributes are pouring in from fans and political dignitaries over his passing.

Oluwafemi Olawale Adefulire’s Biography

Oluwafemi Olawale Adefulire was a UK-based medical doctor prior to his passing and is survived by his wife and children.

Dr. Adefulire was a respected medical professional based in the United Kingdom.

Princess Adejoke Orelope Adefulire’s Biography

Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire is a renowned Nigerian politician and public servant, born on September 29, 1959, in Lagos State.

Notably, she’s affectionately known as cheerful giver due to her philanthropic nature.

Adejoke’s journey in politics began during the Third Republic when she was elected as a Member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, becoming the first female lawmaker in Lagos State.

She holds an Honorary Doctor of Arts (Poverty Alleviation and Technology Incubation) from Lagos State University (LASU) and serves as the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals.

Her dedication earned her numerous awards, including the International Public Servant of the Year Award (2007) and the Guinness World Record for reading aloud to the most children (2011) .

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Segun Awofadeji in Bauchi 

The Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, has sponsored 355 Christian pilgrims for the 2025 pilgrimage to Israel, reaffirming his commitment to religious inclusivity and support for the Christian community.

The Executive Secretary of the State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, Ibrahim Yakubu Gwallang, disclosed this yesterday at the commencement of the screening exercise for intending pilgrims held at the Board’s headquarters.

Gwallang described the governor’s gesture as a clear demonstration of inclusive governance, noting that the sponsorship reflects Bala Mohammed’s dedication to strengthening unity and supporting Christians in the state. 

He urged the beneficiaries to pray for the governor’s success and conduct themselves responsibly throughout the process.

He further appealed to intending Pilgrims to ensure orderliness, present only genuine documents, and uphold the image of Bauchi State during the holy trip. 

The Executive Secretary expressed gratitude to the governor for his continuous support, assuring that the Christian community will not disappoint him.

Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Christian Affairs, Pastor Zakka Magaji, congratulated the selected pilgrims and encouraged them to be worthy ambassadors of the state.

He lauded Governor Mohammed for consistently identifying with the Christian population in his administration, offering prayers for God’s continued guidance and wisdom upon him.

This year’s Team Leader, Mr. Haruna Mandabs, pledged a seamless and well-coordinated pilgrimage experience, adding that every effort is being put in place to ensure smooth operations.

The screening exercise is being conducted by officials from the National Christian Pilgrims Commission, the Nigeria Immigration Service, NDLEA, and medical personnel. 

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By Prisca Sam-Duru

Nigerian art circles are abuzz with anticipation for the forthcoming Uncle Sam Amuka (USA) Exhibition in Lagos, which promises to showcase some of the country’s most brilliant artistic talents.

The USA inaugural exhibition titled, “The Beginning”, is organised by Tourist Club International in collaboration with Vanguard Newspapers.

The exhibition is scheduled to hold at Alexis Gallery, 282 Akin Olugbade street, off Idowu Martins, Victoria Island, Lagos, from 16-20 December, 2025.

Among the headliners  is the distinguished sculptor and painter Fidelis Ugochuku Atumah Abiamuwe, widely known by his artistic persona, Atumakanism Afrikanism.

Fidelis Atumah’s participation is expected as a highlight of the exhibition, offering attendees a chance to engage with the powerful, evolving vision of one of Nigeria’s most significant artistic voices.

From Childhood Flair to Artistic Eminence

Born on June 25, 1961, in Obiaruku, Delta State, Fidelis Atumah’s journey into the arts began at the remarkably young age of four. He grew up experimenting with colours in the studio of his father, Martin Atumah, a distinguished painter and academic. This early immersion set the foundation for a lifelong dedication, which he solidified through formal education, earning an NCE in Fine and Applied Arts (1986), a B.Ed. in Sculpture (1993) and an MFA in Sculpture (2015).

A skilled sculptor with a profound flair for painting, Fidelis seamlessly excels in both disciplines of visual art. His academic credentials are matched by his leadership within the community, having served as a senior lecturer and Head of the Fine Arts Department at the College of Education, Warri, and Chairman of the Society of Nigerian Artists (SNA), Delta State Chapter.

His distinguished career includes over thirty exhibitions globally, with notable appearances at the Guinness Art Exhibition in Lagos (2005), the “Eyes Wide Open” SNA exhibition in Abuja (2017), the New York Art Expo (2019) in Manhattan, and the Street Art Exhibition (2020) in Trenton, New Jersey.

A Narrator of African Identity

Fidelis Atumah is an artist whose work is deeply rooted in the rich and vibrant cultural heritage of African traditional life. He draws inspiration from a diverse tapestry of sources, including masquerades, masks, folklore, mythology, poetry, music, and dance.

His paintings and sculptures are compelling testaments to his profound storytelling ability. They are marked by intricate forms and vivid imagery that reflect African history and spirituality, weaving captivating narratives with a particular emphasis on Nigerian history. Beyond cultural themes, Fidelis finds additional sources of inspiration in dreams, the surreal images of the subconscious, and his dedication to social change and advocacy for social justice.

The artist articulates his philosophy: “I visualize art as a creative medium of expression resulting in the outburst of moods, feelings, emotions, and passion from the subconscious, recollected in reality within an atmosphere of serenity and tranquility, executed in creative and visual harmony.”

Fidelis had been “commissioned by great collectors like HRM Nnaemeka Achebe, the distinguished Obi of Onitsha, who has some of my pointillism paintings in his collection; great enthusiasts and prominent art dealers like Andy Ine of krabhouse Art Gallery, who also has a couple of my pointillism art pieces which I sold to him in the early nineties; and great art gallery curators like Dozie of the Hour Glass Art Gallery in Ikoyi; Miss Juwon of True View Art Gallery in Ikoyi; and many more.”

Excitement about the USA Exhibition

Fidelis’ last exhibition in Nigeria was in 2017, before he relocated to America in 2019. Participating in the inaugural USA exhibition in Nigeria is another big one for him.

“I feel elated and fulfilled to be participating in the inaugural USA Art Exhibition. I have been a seasoned full-time artist before venturing into teaching and lecturing visual arts in tertiary institutions in Nigeria, and I have had over thirty exhibitions home and abroad, but this is my first exhibition commemorating someone, and that someone happens to be Uncle Sam Amuka.

“I have longed to see him collect my artworks as a collector, but I didn’t get the opportunity to see him collect my works or meet him one-on-one. I am proud of his contributions, his inspiration, and his support, not just to the visual arts but to the arts in general.”

He continues, “I am excited because this exhibition will give me visibility and, for my numerous art collectors, dealers, and curators, the opportunity and pleasure to visualize my latest and experimental paintings. 

I am excited also that this is the first time I’m having an exhibition in Nigeria since I travelled out to America in 2019. Also, I will be collaborating with great Nigerian artists from home and abroad under one project, exhibiting under one umbrella: the inaugural USA Art Exhibition, with great masquerades (masters of the art) in the likes of Professor Dele Jegede, a Nigerian-American cartoonist, painter, art critic, and art administrator, and Dr. Bolaji Ogunwo, the distinguished Nigerian visual artist, academic, and master portraitist whose works bridge the personal, cultural, and socio-political spheres.”

“I am truly excited partnering and participating in the inaugural Uncle Sam Art Exhibition. It’s a beautiful thing, and it’s of great joy to me. Uncle Sam has impacted lives, built relationships, and created lasting friendships, relationships, and memories regardless of tribe, tongue, or nationality. He has been given the opportunity to touch lives, and he has made good and great use of it; he has focused on the good of mankind, and he has encouraged and pushed for education and excellence for everyone who is opportune to come in contact with him. A man will only be remembered for touching lives and not for how much wealth and abundance he has—and that’s what Uncle Sam represents: impacting lives.  I am sure if death comes knocking, Uncle Sam will not gnash his teeth but will smile for living a good life and touching humanity. 

Kudos to the organizers of this great and epoch-making event and to my great friend, brother, and co-laborer in His vineyard, Dr. Osa Mbonu-Amadi. I celebrate you,” he added.

Works to be Displayed at the USA Exhibition

For the Uncle Sam Amuka Exhibition, Fidelis Atumah will present three recent works, all created in 2025, that reflect his deep spiritual and philosophical contemplation.

He explains, “The three masterpieces presented for this exhibition were consciously chosen considering the aura, vibes, and feeling of Uncle Sam Amuka at 90 years of age. I consciously thought of what and how he will be feeling at the age of 90—his early beginnings, the challenges, his trials, temptations, and frustrations in the journey of life, and the courage to face, navigate, and overcome whatever challenges that came his way, prioritizing determination over despair, approaching life with positivity, focus, and diligence, and making the best of this incredible gift called life.” 

 The first is titled ‘Gratitude’. Medium/Style: Oil on canvas; Abstraction. Size: 48″ x 60″ (4ft x 5ft). This piece he said, “is a testament that God in His infinite mercies has blessed Uncle Sam Amuka with infinite wisdom, knowledge, understanding, courage, and compassion. God has also blessed the works of his hands and fruits of his labor. His labor is not in vain; God has blessed him with children, blessed him with the wisdom and courage to navigate and overcome life’s challenges. God has decorated and beautified Uncle Sam Amuka’s life, and he has every reason to be thankful and give gratitude to God.”

 The second piece is titled: ‘Blessed All Round’. Medium/Style: Acrylic and oil on canvas; Abstract Expressionism. Size: 48″ x 48″ (4ft x 4ft). This work the artist explained, “is a heartfelt expression of thanks. When we express gratitude to God, we acknowledge that God is the source of all our blessings, big or small. 

I am very confident and convinced that Uncle Sam Amuka will be grateful to the Almighty God at 90 for His love, goodness, and transformative power in changing his life in profound ways.” 

 The third work is title: ‘Death is Inevitable, Life is a Gift, Tomorrow is not Guaranteed’. Medium/Style: Oil on canvas; Surrealism. Size: 24″ x 36″ (2ft x 3ft).

 This piece of art delves into the uncertainty of life. Through the lens of Surrealism, it serves as an inspiring call to live each day with intention, positivity, and gratitude, echoing the Psalmist’s call to “rejoice and be glad” in the present moment.

According to the artist, the piece “speaks of the mortality of mankind and the fundamental human quality of being destined to die. Ultimately, life is not about how long we live but how we live. There goes the saying, “It’s not how far, but how well.” It’s about the impact we make, the relationships we build, the memories we create; so, we should make the most of this precious gift called life. 

“No matter what Uncle Sam Amuka faces tomorrow, I am confident he will not regret how life has treated him. I am sure life has been kind to him to live up to the age of 90; that’s a blessing.”

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The post Art Maestro, Fidelis Atumah to feature in Uncle Sam Amuka exhibition appeared first on Vanguard News.

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OYO State governor, Seyi Makinde, and former Bayelsa State governor, Seriake Dickson, have expressed profound grief over the sudden death of the Bayelsa State deputy governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpor.  

Governor Makinde described the death of Ewhrudjakpo as a deeply painful loss to the state and to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

In a condolence message, Governor Makinde commiserated with the immediate family of the deceased, the Bayelsa State government, the people of the state and the PDP nationwide.

He prayed for the repose of Senator Ewhrudjakpo’s soul, describing him as a loyal party stalwart and a courageous democrat who served with dedication and integrity.

The governor said: “I received the news of the passing of our brother and deputy governor of Bayelsa State, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, on Thursday.

“His death is painful and a sad loss to the state he served with unwavering commitment and to us in the PDP, where he stood out as a faithful party man who placed loyalty and democratic values above personal interest.

“I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, the government and good people of Bayelsa State. I pray that God grants repose to his soul and gives his loved ones and the entire state the strength to bear this heavy loss.

“Good night, courageous democrat.”

Similarly, former Bayelsa State governor, Seriake Dickson, described the loss as one of the saddest events of his life.

In a statement on Thursday, Dickson recalled receiving news of Ewhrudjakpor’s medical emergency while preparing to attend the screening of ambassadorial nominees as vice chairman of the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs.

“I spoke with his aides and doctors, then left abruptly to monitor the situation until my worst fears were confirmed,” he said.

Dickson described Ewhrudjakpor as a “selfless, dedicated, honest, and loyal public servant” and a “principled mentee” who had been committed to public service.

He said the late deputy governor combined competence, intellect, loyalty, and selflessness, noting that he had “exemplified the act of living a simple life with profound impact.”

The former governor recounted how he mentored Ewhrudjakpor from the ’90s, supporting his rise from union activist to senior legislative aide, commissioner for works, senator, and finally deputy governor.

“He was steadfast, even to the point of almost losing his office. When forced to choose between his position and his loyalty, he chose the latter,” Dickson said.

According to Dickson, Ewhrudjakpor’s service left a lasting impact on Bayelsa State, highlighting his open-door policy and commitment to public service.

“No one is more affected by this sudden loss than I am, apart from his immediate family. He followed strictly the creed I teach all my mentees: service to man is service to God, with to ourselves the least,” he added.

Dickson extended his condolences to Ewhrudjakpor’s wife and children, describing them as family, and also sent sympathies to the Ofoni community, Bayelsa West Senatorial District, the Catholic Church, friends, associates, and supporters.

He urged Nigerians to join the family in praying for the peaceful repose of Ewhrudjakpor’s soul.

“The family will announce, in consultation with the government, the funeral arrangements. We must all find fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” Dickson said.

Ewhrudjakpor’s death marks a significant loss for Bayelsa State, with many noting his record of loyalty, diligence, and principled service in public office.

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