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Things To Know About Dr Paul Akintelure, Ondo APC Gov Aspirant, Who Died Before Primaries

Published

1 year ago

March 26, 2024

The late Dr. Paul Akintelure was one of the frontline governorship aspirants of the All Progressives Congress, APC in Ondo State was announced dead Tuesday morning.

Dr Paul Akintelure’s death comes amid preparations for the APC governorship primary election scheduled for April 25.

Before his untimely demise, Akintelure had raised concerns about both direct and indirect threats to his life.

His background and educaton

Dr Paul Akintelure had expressed hope that the situation would improve over time but sadly, it escalated.

The late Dr. Paul Akintelure, was a distinguished medical practitioner and community leader. He was born in the vibrant town of Igbotako, Ondo State, Nigeria.

His journey in education began at St. Anthony’s RCM School, Omotosho, in 1967.

Following his family’s relocation, Dr Paul Akintelure continued his primary education at St. Pius Primary School, Igbotako, and excelled academically, completing his primary education in 1973.

Tragedy struck in 1978 when his father, Mr. S.O. Akintelure, a teacher, passed away in a road traffic accident.

Despite this setback, Dr. Paul Akintelure’s academic prowess earned him a government scholarship in 1976, witnessed by his late father.

Undeterred by the challenges, Dr. Paul Akintelure‘s journey took him to Manuwa Memorial Grammar School, Iju-Odo, in 1975, where his exceptional intelligence shone through.

He secured a Division One grade in the West African School Certificate Exams (WASCE) in 1980, a testament to his academic dedication.

His passion for medicine led him to decline offers from two polytechnics and the University of Benin, opting instead for a rigorous A-level program at the Federal Government College, Odogbolu.

This choice marked the beginning of his remarkable journey toward a medical degree at the University of Ibadan, where he obtained his MBBS in 1990.

Beyond his impressive academic achievements, Dr. Paul Akintelure is a devoted family man.

Blessed with four children, two girls, and two boys, he embodies the values of commitment and responsibility. His personal life reflects a balance between professional success and family values, demonstrating that excellence in one area need not compromise the other.

Scholarships, academic and professional Achievements

The journey to becoming a medical doctor was not without financial challenges for Dr. Paul Akintelure.

After the passing of his father, he faced the responsibility of supporting ten fatherless siblings. Notably, in 1976, the Ondo State government recognized his potential and awarded him a scholarship.

Further, the Igbotako Youth League, an elite organization, extended another scholarship to the promising scholar.

Akintelure’s proactive approach led him to secure a teaching position at Lubokun Comprehensive High School, Igbotako, to save for his future education, showcasing his resilience and commitment to his goals.

His academic journey culminated in his graduation from the University of Ibadan with an MBBS degree in 1990. His commitment to excellence was evident as he consistently secured top positions throughout his educational pursuits.

Beyond academia, he has become a distinguished medical practitioner, contributing to the well-being of the community.

His dedication to both education and community service has earned him the titles of Otunba of Osooro-land and Otunba of Ikale-land, reflecting the high regard in which he is held by his community.

Dr. Paul Akintelure’s life story is one of resilience, academic excellence, and community service.

From overcoming personal tragedies to achieving professional success, he serves as an inspiration to aspiring individuals in both the medical field and the broader community.

Dr. Paul Akintelure: Life of triumph over adversity

Late Akintelure‘s journey through university was marked by formidable challenges, a testament to his resilience in the face of adversity. Struggling against hunger, inadequacy, and the harsh realities of poverty, the young Paul Akintelure faced a defining moment.

Undeterred, he emerged victorious in his battle against the constraints of financial limitations.

During his internship at General Hospital, Lagos, and the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) at the Comprehensive Health Centre in Ogunbayo, Abeokuta, Dr. Akintelure’s leadership qualities, dexterity, and unwavering dedication shone through.

His transformative impact on the Ogunbayo Health Centre, turning it into the busiest in the local government, attested to his exceptional work ethic.

This early professional experience laid the foundation for his future endeavors, showcasing a commitment to excellence that would define his medical career.

Brief stints at Island Maternity, Lagos, preceded the establishment of his private hospital, BROAD HOSPITAL, marking a significant milestone in his professional journey.

Philanthropy, leadership, and political engagement

Beyond his medical practice, Dr. Paul Akintelure has emerged as a compassionate leader, philanthropist, and active participant in local politics.

Recognized for his outstanding contributions to the community, he was honored with the title of Otunba of Ossooro-Land by HRM Oba Shadriack Gbadebo Bajowa in November 2005. This recognition was followed by the title of Otunba of Ikale-Land, conferred by the Abodi of Ikale-Land in December 2007.

Akintelure’s alignment with the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) in response to the community’s call further underscores his commitment to public service.

A true caring heart, Dr. Paul Akintelure has demonstrated his commitment to education by providing scholarships to forty-two students and counting across various higher learning institutions.

As an employer of labor, he contributes to job creation and economic development.

His benevolence extends to offering free medical services to indigent patients in Ondo, reflecting a public-spirited approach to healthcare. Dr. Paul Akintelure’s exemplary and kind-hearted initiatives have significantly impacted Ondo and Lagos states, making healthcare accessible and affordable to communities.

His background positions him as a force dedicated to liberating the people from the chains of poverty, illiteracy, and disease, marking him as a transformative figure in Ondo State.

Political journey and loyalty to Asiwaju Bola Tinubu

Akintelure‘s political journey is marked by loyalty and dedication to the Progressive fold, particularly under the leadership of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. In 2008, after the defeat of the AC (Action Congress) in Ondo State, PBAT (presumably a political figure or group) called upon the Democratic People’s Alliance (DPA) to return to Ondo State and rebuild the party.

Recognizing DPA’s contribution to the AC’s victory in Alimosho local government in Lagos State, DPA willingly obliged. Dr. Akintelure played a pivotal role in the development of the party and was eventually urged to contest the senatorial election for Ondo South. His victory in the primary against the incumbent Senator Hosea Oladapo Ehinlanwo marked a significant achievement.

Dr. Paul Akintelure’s loyalty and commitment continued as he became the running mate to Akeredolu in 2012.

Despite signifying his intention to contest the 2016 APC primary for the governorship, he stepped down at the request of PBAT, demonstrating a strong adherence to party decisions and hierarchy.

The mention of Akintelure by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as one of his long-time associates during a meeting with traditional rulers in Okitipupa speaks to the level of trust and loyalty he has earned within the political landscape.

Otunba Dr. Paul Akintelure‘s political resume is adorned with notable accomplishments and recognition within the APC (All Progressives Congress).

Serving as the ACN deputy governorship candidate to Aketi (Akeredolu) in the 2012 Ondo State gubernatorial election showcased his capability and trustworthiness.

His significance within the party was further emphasized when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu specifically mentioned him, along with Ambassador Sola Iji, as associates who had been with him for a long time.

This acknowledgment underscores Dr. Akintelure’s standing as a trusted and loyal political figure within the APC, particularly in the southern senatorial district of Ondo State.

The late Akintelure, was a long time associate of President Bola Tinubu.

News

Nigerian Don Bags US Varsity Elite Research Fellowship

Published

45 minutes ago

September 5, 2025

Editor

A Nigerian scholar, Raphael Ebiefung, has been awarded the prestigious Grace Jordan McFadden Professor Programme Fellowship at the University of South Carolina.

A statement issued by the Institution noted that the “highly competitive fellowship” recognises academic leaders who advance knowledge and address pressing social challenges.

Ebiefung, a doctoral researcher and a one-time assistant lecturer and librarian at Top-Faith University, Nigeria, who specialises in human-AI interaction and information behaviour, is expected to join “an elite group of scholars shaping the future of higher education and interdisciplinary inquiry,” the University said.

Ebiefung, in a statement made available to The PUNCH on Friday, described the award as a “milestone that underscores Nigeria’s capacity to produce world-class scholars.”

He said, “I am deeply honoured to receive the Grace Jordan McFadden Fellowship. It is a testament to the resilience and potential of young Nigerian academics striving to make a global impact.

“My research seeks to understand the dynamics of human behaviour in relation to AI systems. This area is critical as we move deeper into the digital age,” he explained.

Nigerian scholars have continued to leave an impressive intellectual footprint across the world.

The PUNCH reported how, in August, a Nigerian scientist, Deborah Agbakwuru, was awarded the prestigious Besancon scholarship at the University of Montana.

The scholarship is one of the most distinguished graduate recognitions at the university and is awarded annually to an outstanding researcher in the biological, physical, and mathematical sciences.

Similarly, Nigerian-born researcher, Peter Ngene, won a €2m grant from the European Research Council for his project in 2024.

Ngene, an associate professor at the Debye Institute for Nanomaterials Science, was among seven researchers from Utrecht University, the Netherlands, who won the grant. According to a statement by his university, Ngene’s work focused on the “interface-mediated fast ionic conductivity in nanocomposite solid-state electrolytes.”

He said the goal was to unravel the reason why the ionic conductivity of certain solids can increase or decrease by thousands of fold at their interface with other solids.

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NBA Drags IGP Egbetokun To Court Over Tinted Glass Permit Policy

Published

2 hours ago

September 5, 2025

Editor

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has filed a lawsuit against the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, challenging the legality of the Nigeria Police Force’s tinted glass permit policy.

The lawsuit, instituted on Wednesday, September 2, 2025, before the Federal High Court in Abuja, comes months after the IGP introduced a directive requiring motorists to apply for and renew tinted glass permits annually through a digital platform, for a fee.

In a statement released Friday, the NBA described the policy as unlawful, unconstitutional, and lacking transparency. It also raised concerns that proceeds from the exercise were being paid into a private account rather than the Federation Account.

“Despite the extension of enforcement to October 2, 2025, several motorists have reported harassment and extortion by policemen at checkpoints on the basis of this policy,” the association said, warning that it infringes on citizens’ rights to privacy, freedom of movement, and dignity.

The NBA also questioned the validity of the Motor Tinted Glass (Prohibition) Act of 1991, a military-era law under which the police has anchored the policy, stressing that it may not meet constitutional tests required in a democratic society.

The action was filed by the NBA’s Section on Public Interest and Development Law (SPIDEL), led by Prof. Paul Ananaba (SAN) and Olukunle Ogheneovo Edun (SAN). The association vowed to pursue the case “to a logical conclusion.”

READ THE FULL STATEMENT BELOW:

THE NIGERIAN BAR ASSOCIATION CHALLENGES THE LEGALITY OF THE POLICE TINTED GLASS PERMIT POLICY OF THE NIGERIA POLICE FORCE

One of the key resolutions of the National Executive Council of the Nigerian Bar Association at its pre-conference NEC meeting held on the 23rd day of August 2025 in Enugu is that the NBA should challenge the legality of the Nigeria Police Force tinted permit policy in court.

In April 2025, the Inspector General of Police purportedly introduced a policy which mandated members of the Nigerian motoring public to apply for and obtain annual motor tinted glass permits from the Nigeria Police Force for a fee. The Inspector General of Police in the same month purportedly launched a digital portal (http://possap.gov.ng) through which the application for tinted glass permits were to be processed. We are being informed that the portal and the policy are to be managed by a private vendor, and there is no indication that the funds generated from the enforcement of the purported policy will go into the Federation Account.

The Inspector General of Police initially pegged the date of commencement of the enforcement of the Policy to the 1st day of June 2025, but subsequently extended the date to the 2nd day of October 2025.

Despite the fact that the date of commencement of the enforcement of the purported policy has been extended to the 2nd day of October 2025, there have been several reported cases of harassment and extortion of citizens by the Policemen in checkpoint duty on the basis of this same Policy, thus raising serious concerns of threats to and violation of citizens’ fundamental rights to dignity of human person, right to privacy, right to freedom of movement and the right to own movable property guaranteed as by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999, as amended.

Furthermore, the introduction and proposed enforcement of the tinted glass permit Policy has raised several other genuine concerns, including the validity of the Motor Tinted Glass (Prohibition) Act (Decree 1991), a military-era law under which the Police has sought refuge. A critical scrutiny of the Act would confirm concerns that the legislation may be unable to satisfy the test of a law reasonably justifiable in a democratic society under Section 45 of the 1999 Constitution as to justify reliance on it to deprive citizens of their rights to privacy and free movement.

Moreover, the fact that the legislation does not make provision for renewal of tinted glass permits or payment of fees for renewal are serious issues which clearly reveal that the Policy lacks statutory foundation.

Furthermore, that payment for the permit is being made into a private account: PARKWAY PROJECTS Account No: 4001017918 raises serious concerns of transparency surrounding the utilisation of funds realised from the exercise, given that the account is neither domiciled with the Central Bank of Nigeria nor associated with the Treasury Single Account of the Federal Government of Nigeria.

Against the above backdrop, the Nigerian Bar Association, through its Section on Public Interest and Development Law (SPIDEL) has on Wednesday the 2nd September 2025 instituted a public interest action before the Federal High Court, Abuja in Suit No: FHC/ABJ/CS/182/2025 between: The Incorporated Trustees of the Nigerian Bar Association v. The Inspector General of Police & Anor essentially challenging the legality of the tinted glass permit policy.

The NBA-SPIDEL, under the leadership of its Transition Committee Chairman, Prof. Paul Ananaba, SAN and the Section’s Public Interest Litigation Committee, chaired by Mr. Olukunle Ogheneovo Edun, SAN, whose proactive efforts were responsible for the accomplishment of this task, have been directed to pursue this litigation to a logical conclusion.

News

Peju Ogunmola’s Family Breaks Silence On Cause Of Son’s Death

Published

2 hours ago

September 5, 2025

Editor

The family of veteran actress, Peju Ogunmola, has spoken out for the first time following the passing of the actress’ only son, Sola Ayomikun Omobolanle, dismissing rumours about the circumstances of his death.

Tribune Online reports that Ayomikun, the 24-year-old son of Ogunmola and her husband, comic actor Sunday Omobolanle, popularly known as Aluwe, died on September 2, 2025.

Shortly after the news broke, unverified reports surfaced online alleging that his death was linked to a bathroom accident — claims the family has now categorically denied.

In a statement signed by Yemi Amodu on behalf of the Ogunmola family, they clarified that Ayomikun passed away in a hospital in Ibadan after a brief illness, not from any accident.

The statement read: “It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved son, Sola Ayomikun Omobolanle, a jewel, a precious child, and a rising star whose light shone brightly and touched many lives.

“We wish to clearly state that Sola did not pass away as a result of any bathroom accident, contrary to false reports being circulated online. He was briefly unwell and, during this period, received first-class medical care. Despite the best efforts of the medical team, he peacefully answered the call of his Creator.”

The family further condemned the speculation surrounding his death, describing it as painful and disrespectful.

“These misleading stories, suggesting that Sola died from a fall in the bathroom without help, are entirely false. They not only dishonour his memory but also bring unnecessary pain to his loved ones,” the statement added.

According to the family, Ayomikun has since been laid to rest at Eternal Rest Home in Ibadan, surrounded by relatives and close friends.

They also expressed appreciation for the support received during their period of mourning:

“At this time of grief, we are deeply grateful for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support we have received from family, friends, colleagues, and well-wishers. Your kindness has been a source of strength and comfort. We pray that no family will ever have to endure the pain of untimely loss. May the Almighty grant Sola eternal rest and grant us all the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.”