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What Oyo MILAD, Jemibewon, did to me over ‘Joy Girl’ advert ―Omisore
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Director General, Bola Ahmed Tinubu (BAT) Foundation, Ipoola Omisore, is an ex-lawmaker and advertising guru. He told BOLA BADMUS stories of his life journey.
Can you tell us your background?
My name is Ahmed Ipoola Omisore. I was born in Ile-Ife on the 8th of July 1948 to a very large family–one of the largest families in West Africa–the Omisore family dynasty. My father was Alhaji Saliu Olayemi, the Baba Adini of Ile-Ife Muslims and the Baale of Olode town in Ife South. I attended Ansar-ul-deen Primary School in 1955, I was one of the first sets of beneficiaries of Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s free education in the old Western Region and I left in 1960 during the Independence. I was one of the beneficiaries of the free rice, free cup, free national flag, and it was very remarkable that the year was the first time I entered Lagos to attend the first Trade Fair and Exhibition at the Bar Beach, which was organised in 1960 for the Independence ceremony by the British. And it was eye-opening for a man from the hinterland to come to the city.
attended Oduduwa College, Ile-Ife in 1962 and left in 1967. Among my mates in the college was the late Dele Giwa, who was my junior in the primary school. We met again at the college, and we left at the same time. At the college, I was one of the Literary and Debating society’s men. I was a member of the crew of the school magazine called The Touch and Dele Giwa was the editor. I remember that was the time they first introduced what we called Oral English, the phonics of today and Dele Giwa was the sole candidate for Oral English in those days. All of us cut our teeth right from our school days.
What are the earliest memories of your dad?
I knew that my father earmarked me to be a Muslim Alfa (cleric). He wanted me to attend ‘Ile kewu’ to study Arabic and he said ‘among all my children I want you to serve me.’ But luckily enough, I saw my uncle taking his own children to go and register for free primary school education, so I ran and joined them. And those were the days when your right hand must touch your left ear, or your left hand must touch your right ear, and I was lucky to scale through; I was over six years or so then. In secondary school, I remember we had what we called the American corps that were seconded to Nigeria to come and teach. We had one Mr. Epner, a West Indian tutor, who brought exposure to the hinterland, and most of us who went through that school succeeded because of the exposure; people like Dele Giwa, who became a world-famous journalist, like Biodun Sote, who is a professor at UNILAG, like Mulikatu Bello, like Lawal then, who became Controller of WAEC.
And after secondary school…
Leaving secondary school, I had the background of a son of a produce merchant. My father was a produce merchant. I worked at close range with people involved in produce inspection service, grading cocoa and palm kernel in those days which was the highlight of Nigeria’s economy then. So, I insisted on becoming a produce inspector because, in those days, produce inspector was like a Custom officer who makes more money than working as a clerk. And I was employed by the Western Nigeria Ministry of Agriculture, I think, in 1968. That was after my secondary school
I trained at Onireke, seconded to the Wharf, where I became a check tester and transferred back to Ile-Ife as a produce inspector. And in those days, it was beautiful. We were earning £198 a year, £16.10 per month. Even while I was transferred back to Lagos, we were still earning that amount. I was brilliant, I passed assimilated advancement test, which was to be taken by three-year-olds in service. I took it in one and a half years, and I passed. Then my salary went to £207 per annum amounting to £17.10 per month, and that was big. But income tax would take away one pound. While Lagos was paying heavy tax then, the other part of the country was paying less. So, taxation, introduced by Awolowo, was building Western Region then. After about three years, I travelled abroad. I first of all went to Hamburg in West Germany.
What was the motivation to travel when doing well at home?
In my family, we believe in education and as at that time, we had more than 90 Omisores in England. So, it became a culture of every Omisore, after secondary school education, to travel abroad; we have a historical background there. The Omisores, as far back as 1940, were having houses and studying there. So, most of the successful Omisores went through UK and I had to follow suit. The visa was difficult then, you normally get visa at the point of entry. So, if you get to Heathrow and they say no, you’re coming back to Lagos. It’s a greater risk than turning you down at the embassy. I had to go through West Germany, Hamburg, by ship, by rail, to London.
In Germany, I went to study journalism and I discovered that German language is very difficult. So, I chose to go to England. I arrived in England July 1971and I attempted to study insurance. A month to the time I got there, they just changed their entry qualification to OND. So, I said no. I went straight to go and study advertising which was mocked by those around me, but while I was in the college, I remember I was listening to commercials. In those days, on the radio, we used to hear advert calling our attention to one particular popular product people should buy if they wanted to cook, so I like the poetic method and all that.
What really fired your imagination?
I said, “who are those doing this radio adverts?” They said it was advertising people and that was what motivated me to say, “I wanted to study it.” I like things that are literary and imaginative.
So, I joined London Polytechnic, Moorgate for a three-year course. I was quite serious and I had an uncle that told me, “You have to face your studies.” So, I followed them to the library on Saturdays and on Sundays and within six months, I finished the one-year course. So, I now checked the condition of entry for that course, nothing says that you must pass part one before you go to part two.
I said, “I can try part two now.” I looked at it and I went to correspondence school, Rapid Results College, ICS. I took correspondence; I did that at home. The reason why I took that correspondence was actually because of the English teachers. I couldn’t hear them well and I always say, “pardon, pardon” and the whole class will burst out laughing. They knew I am an African and most of them normally made sure that I don’t hear them. So, I now devised a method of reading ahead of the class.
Second year, I went to attend one of the classes. When I finished that subject and I was to go out, they asked “won’t you wait for the next subject?” I said, “I had passed it.” And my classmates then were already in the industry and were top advertising men in their companies. So they said, “What do you mean?” I said, I passed it and I brought out the results sheet. They said this man had done an illegal thing. I read the conditions and nothing says otherwise. The lecturer then replied that “it is true; nothing says he cannot do it.” They went to the institute to find out, the institute said nothing stops me from doing so and that is why if you go to my school in the UK today, my name is still engraved on an 11-storey building as winner of Best African Student Award.
Nigerian Tribune
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Notorious Bandits Kingpin, Ado Aleru Attends Fresh ‘Peace Talks’ with Katsina Community Residents
Residents of Kankara Local Government Area of Katsina State have held another round of peace talks with bandits terrorising communities in the area, with wanted bandit kingpin, Ado Aleru, reportedly attending the latest parley.
The development has renewed attention on the controversial use of dialogue and peace negotiations as part of efforts to end banditry in parts of Katsina State.
Security analyst and journalist, Bakastine, disclosed the development, noting that Aleru was among those present at the peace meeting.
In a video from the meeting, Aleru reportedly explained why previous peace efforts between communities and bandits had repeatedly failed to produce lasting peace.
His participation is particularly significant given his status as a wanted bandit kingpin and his alleged involvement in criminal activities across parts of northwestern Nigeria
The latest meeting also comes days after reports that Aleru suffered a major setback following a military encounter in Doma village, Katsina State, in which his son, eight other members of his family and about 30 motorcycles belonging to his network were reportedly lost.
Earlier in August 2026, SaharaReporters reported that Aleru had suffered the losses during the encounter.
Intelligence obtained by counter-insurgency expert and security analyst Zagazola Makama indicated that the casualties and loss of motorcycles had significantly weakened the operational strength and mobility of Aleru’s criminal network.
According to an intelligence report dated August 9, none of the estimated 30 motorcycles deployed by the syndicate during the encounter reportedly returned, with their riders said to have been neutralised.
The report also stated that Aleru’s son and eight other members of his family were killed during the encounter.
Despite the reported setback, Aleru’s appearance at the latest peace meeting suggests that dialogue with armed groups remains an ongoing strategy in some communities affected by banditry.
However, his participation has also raised questions about the sustainability and effectiveness of previous peace agreements involving bandit groups.
This is not the first time Aleru has publicly appeared at a peace meeting involving communities and government representatives.
In June 2025, the notorious bandit kingpin, who remained on the wanted list of Nigerian security forces, reportedly surfaced publicly at a peace meeting in Danmusa Local Government Area of Katsina State.
The meeting was aimed at fostering peaceful coexistence between Fulani herders and other communities and was attended by personnel of the Nigerian Army, community leaders and several bandit groups, including Aleru’s faction.
Aleru was reportedly seen participating actively in the discussions and addressing the gathering.
Reports from the meeting said Aleru spoke about measures to be adopted by Fulani communities and other groups to promote peaceful coexistence.
However, despite his participation in such peace initiatives, allegations of renewed attacks linked to his network have continued to raise doubts over whether such agreements can guarantee lasting security.
The latest peace meeting in Kankara therefore comes against the backdrop of years of bandit attacks, killings, kidnappings and displacement affecting communities across Katsina and other states in the North-West.
Aleru has also previously attracted controversy after being conferred with a traditional title in Zamfara State during the administration of former Governor Bello Matawalle, who is currently the Minister of State for Defence.
His reported participation in peace meetings despite being wanted by security forces has continued to generate debate over the government’s and communities’ approach to negotiating with armed groups.
While proponents of dialogue argue that negotiations can help reduce attacks and create avenues for communities to return to normal life, critics have warned that agreements with armed groups may collapse if they are not backed by effective enforcement, disarmament and sustained security operations.
The explanation reportedly offered by Aleru at the Kankara meeting on why previous peace efforts failed is therefore expected to attract further scrutiny as residents and authorities seek a lasting solution to banditry in the area.
The latest development also highlights the complex security situation confronting communities in Katsina, where residents are caught between the need to negotiate for immediate safety and the broader demand for sustained security operations against armed criminal groups.
On Saturday, a distinguished assembly of political leaders, government officials, traditional rulers, and community dignitaries gathered in Akugbene Town, Bomadi Local Government Area of Delta State, to pay their final respects to the late Prince Isaac Firimokumo Penawou, who passed away at the age of 104. Among the mourners were former President Goodluck Jonathan, Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Bayelsa State Governor Senator Douye Diri, and former Delta State Governor Chief James Ibori. The funeral service served as a poignant reminder of the profound impact Prince Penawou had on his family, community, and generations of associates.
The funeral ceremony drew an impressive turnout, reflecting the deep respect and admiration held for the late prince. His son, Prince Kelly Penawou, serves as the Delta State Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, while his other son, Chief Joseph Penawou, holds the position of Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of First Marine Engineering Services Limited. The attendance of high-profile dignitaries underscored the Penawou family’s long-standing influence in the region, as well as the extensive networks cultivated by Prince Penawou and his descendants over decades.
The memorial service was attended by a cross-section of Nigeria’s political and social elite, each representing their respective roles in honoring the late prince’s legacy. Among the prominent figures present were:
Former Deputy Governor of Delta State, Deacon Kingsley Otuaro; Senator Joel-Onowakpo Thomas; Former Senator James Manager; Hon. Nicholas Mutu; Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri; Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor; Managing Director of Renaissance Africa Energy, Mr. Tony Attah; Seplat Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Effiong Okon; Numerous other political leaders and public office holders.
The presence of these individuals highlighted the breadth of Prince Penawou’s influence, extending beyond his immediate family to encompass political, business, and community spheres. The gathering provided a platform for dignitaries, family members, and mourners to offer prayers, share condolences, and celebrate the life of a man whose journey spanned over a century.
The funeral rites were not merely a somber occasion but also a celebration of Prince Penawou’s remarkable life, marked by resilience, wisdom, and an enduring commitment to his community. Family members and dignitaries took turns to express their gratitude for having shared in his journey, reflecting on the lessons and values he imparted over his 104 years. The event served as a testament to the profound connections he forged with those around him, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of many.
As the funeral proceedings drew to a close, the legacy of Prince Isaac Firimokumo Penawou was firmly cemented in the annals of history. His passing marked the conclusion of a life well-lived, one that touched countless individuals and left an enduring imprint on his family, community, and beyond. The tributes paid during the service were a fitting tribute to a man whose life exemplified dedication, leadership, and an unwavering spirit that transcended generations.
The Defence Headquarters said its X account has been “compromised,” and advised the public to disregard information posted there.
Its spokesperson, Samaila Uba, disclosed this in a statement posted on Facebook Saturday evening.
PREMIUM TIMES ran a quick check on the account and found that it has been flooded with countless cryptocurrency-related posts.
The account, which carries a verification badge, has more than 980,000 followers. Its name, military gallery and reposts remain intact.
Mr Uba, a major general, said the case was being treated as a “cybersecurity matter.” According to him, technical measures have been activated to secure the account and prevent further unauthorised access.
“The Defence Headquarters assures the public that efforts are ongoing to fully restore control of the official account,” he stated.
“Consequently, members of the public are advised to disregard any suspicious, unauthorised or misleading content that may be posted from the account during this period,” the military spokesperson added.
The account is one of the official channels through which military authorities disseminate information about combat operations, changes in hierarchies, and other defence matters.
Mr Uba did not state when the account was hacked. However, it appears that the hijackers have been consistent in posting automated cryptocurrency messages, with many of the posts made 19 hours ago.
The military spokesperson said the Defence Headquarters prioritises “highest standards of information security,” while ensuring the public “receive accurate, timely and credible information on the activities and operations of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.”
He urged the public to rely on other official communication channels—Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp— for “accurate, verified and timely information.”
“We appreciate the understanding and vigilance of the public and will provide further updates as necessary,” he stated.
Notorious Bandits Kingpin, Ado Aleru Attends Fresh ‘Peace Talks’ with Katsina Community Residents
Jonathan, Oborevwori, Diri, Ibori Mourn 104-Year-Old Prince Penawou
Nigerian Defence Headquarters Official X Account Hacked
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