News
Funeral Arrangements for Professor Okello Oculi: Celebrating a Pan-Africanist Scholar, Poet, and Intellectual
Abuja, Nigeria – August 7, 2025 – The family of the late Professor Okello Oculi, a distinguished Ugandan scholar, poet, novelist, and pan-Africanist, announces the funeral arrangements to honor his remarkable life and legacy. adsbygoogle || []).push({}); js"> [adrotate banner="51"] Professor Oculi passed away on July 26, 2025, in Abuja, Nigeria, at the age of 82+, leaving behind an indelible mark on African intellectual, literary, and political spheres.
Funeral Arrangements
The family invites friends, colleagues, and admirers worldwide to join in commemorating Professor Oculi’s extraordinary contributions through the following events:
Online Session of Tributes: A global online session for friends, former associates, and admirers to share tributes and reflections will be held on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at 7pm.
Service of Songs: A Service of Songs will take place on Thursday, August 21, 2025, at The Cathedral Church of the Advent, Lifecamp, Abuja, celebrating Professor Oculi’s life through music and shared memories.
Funeral Service: The Funeral Service will be held on Friday, August 22, 2025, at The Cathedral Church of the Advent, Lifecamp, Abuja at 10am, followed by interment at Gudu Cemetery.
Biography of Professor Okello Oculi
Born in 1942 in Dokolo District, Northern Uganda, Okello Oculi was a towering figure in African academia, literature, and pan-Africanism. Educated at Soroti College, St. Peter’s College Tororo, and St. Mary’s College Kisubi, he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Makerere University in 1967, with a year as an exchange student at Stanford University (1964–1965). He bagged an MSc in Arts from University of Essex in 1968. He later pursued a PhD in Political Science at the University of Wisconsin, USA, under a Rockefeller Foundation Scholarship. Choosing Nigeria over a return to Idi Amin’s Uganda in 1977, Professor Oculi spent 48 years in Nigeria, becoming a beloved figure in its academic and intellectual communities with a Special Immigration status. He served as a Professor of Social and Economic Research at Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) in Zaria and later as a private political and social consultant in Abuja through the Africa Vision 525 Initiative. He was a long-serving member of the Daily Trust Editorial Board, shaping its pan-African editorial direction with historical insight and intellectual rigor.
Achievements in Nigeria:
Over his 48 years in Nigeria, Professor Oculi made profound contributions to academia, literature, and pan-Africanism:
Academic Influence: At ABU, he inspired generations of students, many of whom became influential figures in Nigerian society. His innovative “Mock OAU/AU Summits” encouraged students to study African countries beyond Nigeria, fostering pan-African consciousness. He later extended this initiative to secondary schools as simulations of the African Union from 2003 to date in Nigeria. These simulations teams also staged performances at Nairobi and the African Union Headquarters in Addis Ababa.
Literary Contributions:
A prolific writer, Oculi’s works, including Orphan (1968), Prostitute (1968), Kanta Riti (1973), Malak (1976), Kookolem (1978), Nigerian Alternatives (1987), Discourses on African Affairs (1997), Song for the Sun in Us; Orphan 2;1 and Banana Man (2024), blended satire, folklore, and socio-political critique, capturing the struggles and aspirations of post-independence Africa. His writing championed African values and critiqued European imitations.
Pan-African Advocacy:
A committed pan-Africanist, Oculi worked tirelessly to promote African unity. In the last six months of his life, he focused on a book project about Diallo Telli, the first Secretary-General of the Organization of African Unity (OAU), and sought to establish a Diallo Telli Prize for African diplomats, seeking support from the Dangote Foundation.
Journalistic Impact:
As a member of the Daily Trust Editorial Board for nearly a decade, he enriched discussions on African issues. He was instrumental in the Daily Trust’s “African of the Year” project, notably recognizing Congolese gynecologist Denis Mukwege. He contributed articles to international and Nigerian publications, including West Africa, Le Monde Diplomatique, The Guardian, and Vanguard. He played a role as a member of the editorial board of ThisDay and was currently a weekly contributing writer on their opinion page.
Cultural and Social Engagement:
Known for his vibrant personality, Oculi was a regular at intellectual gatherings, sharing his love for African culture, music, and cartoons. His home in Nigeria, shared with his wife Debrah and son Sembene including Sophie and Bashir, was a hub for pan-African dialogue.
Tributes and Legacy
Professor Oculi’s passing has left a void in the African intellectual community. Colleagues like Yusuf Bangura described him as “a scholar who lived and breathed Africa,” while Is’haq Modibbo Kawu called him “a pan-Africanist asteroid” whose contributions illuminated the continent’s potential. His commitment to decolonizing African knowledge systems and fostering unity resonated globally, earning him admiration from the late Prof. Ali Mazrui, with whom he shared a passion for pan-Africanism and literary pursuits. The family encourages all who knew Professor Oculi to share tributes, stories, and reflections to celebrate his life. These are being creatively compiled into a memorial collection to honor his legacy.
Deadline for Tributes: Tributes to Professor Oculi can be submitted via email to sysoculi@gmail.com, emmhu@yahoo.com or through the link https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfgahEueoPF6O38a1KsGsRo379HjlMuuBrnkK8DCf2K3-vZAw/viewform?usp=header
by Wednesday, August 13, 2025.
Media Contact:
Dr Emman Usman Shehu
Topaz Media Concepts
09050145806
09023117473
Author Profile
- Prince Abdulrahman Obaje is a Media, Information and Computer Technology Consultant. A quintessential Journalist, online marketer, social media strategist, Mathematician and Computer Scientist is based in Abuja, Nigeria. He is the Founder and the Publisher of The Informavores!. You can reach me on +234 805 939 5252 or send i-witness report directly to me on news@informavores.com.ng.
Latest entries
PoliticsMay 2, 2026Fika Emirate Blessed YMK’s 2027 Presidency Presidential Ambition
PoliticsMay 1, 20262027 Presidential Election: YMK Emerges First Presidential Candidate, Contesting Against President Tinubu
PoliticsApril 23, 2026Yunusa Charges Team to intensify coordination, discipline as YMK Nigeria Steps on PRP Platform for 2027 Presidential Election
PoliticsApril 20, 2026Kogi Central APC Stakeholders Kick Against Imposition of Unpopular Candidate Endorse Obaro
News
Easter: Nigeria Must Do Better, NGIJ Warns Amid Rising Insecurity
By AbdulRahman Obaje
The Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists (NGIJ) has issued a strongly worded Easter message, condemning worsening insecurity and demanding urgent action from security chiefs. adsbygoogle || []).push({}); [adrotate banner="51"]
In a statement signed by its National President, Abdulrahman Aliagan, and National Secretary, Rowland Olonishuwa, the Guild said Nigeria must confront its security failures without delay.
The Guild congratulated Christians across Nigeria and the world on the Easter celebration, noting that the season crowns weeks of sacrifice, reflection, and spiritual renewal.
It also acknowledged that Muslims recently concluded Ramadan and celebrated Eid al-Fitr, describing both religious observances as powerful symbols of discipline and devotion.
NGIJ said the overlapping spiritual journeys of Christians and Muslims highlight a shared national lesson on unity and peaceful coexistence.
However, the Guild warned that the current security reality contradicts those values, as many communities continue to live in utter dread.
It described the recent killings in Jos as a grim reminder of deep cracks within the nation’s security architecture pointing out that the violence goes beyond headlines, insisting that it reflects systemic failure.
NGIJ condemned the bloodshed in the strongest terms possible and criticised what it called the growing helplessness of authorities. It argued that routine condemnations and post-attack visits by the relevant authorities saddled with the responsibility of securing lives and properties no longer satisfy public expectations.
The statement stressed that repeated promises without visible results only deepen public frustration and grief.
NGIJ maintained that every Nigerian deserves safety at home, in places of worship, and in public spaces while stressing that government must treat that responsibility as a non-negotiable duty.
The Guild urged security chiefs to respond with urgency, intelligence, and clear results. It insisted that those unable to guarantee safety should step aside for more capable leadership.
NGIJ also clarified that its position reflects a moral duty rather than political bias while noting that Easter symbolises sacrifice, accountability, and renewal, adding that real change requires courage and action.
It warned Nigerians against yielding to fear or division despite the tense climate and encouraged citizens to protect unity and resist forces that thrive on chaos.
The Guild reaffirmed its commitment to investigative journalism, promising to pursue truth and hold power accountable. It also pledged to amplify the voices of victims often ignored in national discourse.
NGIJ concluded that hope must translate into action, urging the nation to confront its challenges with urgency.
Author Profile
- Prince Abdulrahman Obaje is a Media, Information and Computer Technology Consultant. A quintessential Journalist, online marketer, social media strategist, Mathematician and Computer Scientist is based in Abuja, Nigeria. He is the Founder and the Publisher of The Informavores!. You can reach me on +234 805 939 5252 or send i-witness report directly to me on news@informavores.com.ng.
Latest entries
- PoliticsMay 2, 2026Fika Emirate Blessed YMK’s 2027 Presidency Presidential Ambition
- PoliticsMay 1, 20262027 Presidential Election: YMK Emerges First Presidential Candidate, Contesting Against President Tinubu
- PoliticsApril 23, 2026Yunusa Charges Team to intensify coordination, discipline as YMK Nigeria Steps on PRP Platform for 2027 Presidential Election
- PoliticsApril 20, 2026Kogi Central APC Stakeholders Kick Against Imposition of Unpopular Candidate Endorse Obaro
Legislative
NGIJ Targets Stronger Democracy Through Partnership with NILDS
By AbdulRahman Obaje
The Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists (NGIJ) has sought a strategic partnership with the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS) to enhance legislative reporting, strengthen democratic accountability, and promote evidence-based journalism in Nigeria. adsbygoogle || []).push({}); [adrotate banner="51"]
The proposal was made during a courtesy visit by the NGIJ delegation, led by its President, Mallam Abdulrahman Aliagan, to the Institute’s headquarters in Abuja.
The Director-General of NILDS, Professor Abubakar O. Suleiman, was represented at the meeting by the Director of Legal Services, Professor Ibrahim Danwanka. Also in attendance were the Special Adviser to the DG on Media, Mr. Muhammad Abdulkadir and the Director of Information, Mr. Emmanuel Atakpo.
Speaking during the visit, Aliagan described the engagement as a strategic step toward building synergy between investigative journalism and legislative research institutions. He commended the leadership of Professor Suleiman for transforming NILDS into a leading centre for legislative studies and democratic governance in Africa.
“This visit is not merely ceremonial—it is deeply strategic. NGIJ and NILDS share a common vision of strengthening democracy, promoting accountability, and deepening good governance in Nigeria,” Aliagan said.
He explained that while NILDS advances democratic governance through research and legislative capacity development, NGIJ complements these efforts through investigative journalism and public-interest reporting.
Aliagan highlighted the Guild’s activities across the country, particularly its Governance Assessment Visits conducted in Kogi, Bayelsa, Ondo, Kwara, Osun, and Kaduna states, noting that such engagements have improved public discourse and strengthened accountability at the subnational level.
“Our mission is to promote ethical investigative journalism, strengthen transparency in governance, and build capacity for data-driven reporting that connects citizens with democratic institutions,” he said.
The NGIJ President also proposed collaboration in areas such as training on legislative processes, joint research and publications, policy dialogues, data sharing, and fellowship programmes for journalists and researchers.
He further informed the Institute of the Guild’s plan to host the Dele Giwa Memorial Annual Lecture on Investigative Journalism in June as part of activities marking Democracy Day. The Guild requested that Professor Suleiman serve as keynote speaker and sought approval to use NILDS’ auditorium for the event.
“We are confident that your presence and intellectual contribution will greatly enrich the discourse and lend national significance to the event,” Aliagan added.
Responding on behalf of the Director-General, Professor Danwanka welcomed the proposal and described the initiative as timely and beneficial to national development. He commended NGIJ for its commitment to accountability journalism and its recognition of the Institute’s growing impact.
“If there is any institution journalists need to collaborate with, it is NILDS.
Legislative reporting requires specialised knowledge that many journalists currently lack,” Danwanka said.
He explained that NILDS was established by an Act of Parliament in 2011 and later expanded in 2017 to include broader responsibilities covering democratic institutions and civil society organisations.
According to him, the Institute has grown significantly under Professor Suleiman’s leadership, expanding from four departments to eleven, with increased staff strength and wider national, regional, and continental visibility.
Danwanka noted that NILDS currently provides research and capacity-building support not only to Nigeria’s legislature but also to parliaments across West Africa and other parts of the continent, including Kenya, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Ghana, and Togo.
“Legislature is a specialised field. Even experts from other disciplines must acquire knowledge of its processes to report it accurately. That is where NILDS comes in,” he said.
He assured the NGIJ delegation that all requests presented during the visit, including collaboration proposals, the use of the Institute’s facilities, and the invitation to the DG would be communicated for necessary action.
Danwanka also acknowledged NGIJ’s commendation of the appointment of Mr. Abdulkadir as Special Adviser on Media, describing the recognition as thoughtful and well-deserved.
The meeting ended with both parties expressing optimism about establishing a formal framework for collaboration, with a shared commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and improving governance through knowledge-driven journalism.
“This engagement marks the beginning of a sustainable partnership that will advance legislative excellence and investigative journalism in Nigeria,” Danwanka said.
Author Profile
- Prince Abdulrahman Obaje is a Media, Information and Computer Technology Consultant. A quintessential Journalist, online marketer, social media strategist, Mathematician and Computer Scientist is based in Abuja, Nigeria. He is the Founder and the Publisher of The Informavores!. You can reach me on +234 805 939 5252 or send i-witness report directly to me on news@informavores.com.ng.
Latest entries
- PoliticsMay 2, 2026Fika Emirate Blessed YMK’s 2027 Presidency Presidential Ambition
- PoliticsMay 1, 20262027 Presidential Election: YMK Emerges First Presidential Candidate, Contesting Against President Tinubu
- PoliticsApril 23, 2026Yunusa Charges Team to intensify coordination, discipline as YMK Nigeria Steps on PRP Platform for 2027 Presidential Election
- PoliticsApril 20, 2026Kogi Central APC Stakeholders Kick Against Imposition of Unpopular Candidate Endorse Obaro
News
NGIJ urges unity, cautions politicians against divisive rhetoric ahead of 2027
The Nigeria Guild of Investigative Journalism (NGIJ) has called on Nigerians to embrace peaceful coexistence and warned political actors against exploiting religious and ethnic divisions as the country gradually approaches the 2027 general elections. adsbygoogle || []).push({}); js"> [adrotate banner="51"]
In a statement issued on Friday to mark the 2026 Eid al-Fitr celebration, and jointly signed by its National President, Malam Abdulrahman Aliagan, and National Secretary, Rowland Olonishuwa, the Guild congratulated Muslim faithful on the successful completion of Ramadan.
The Guild noted that this year’s Ramadan coincided with the Christian Lenten season, describing the alignment as a “rare and powerful symbolism” that underscores shared values across faiths.
According to the statement, both periods called for reflection, sacrifice, discipline, and compassion, stressing that such common ideals should serve as a foundation for national unity.
“For weeks, across mosques and churches, Nigerians prayed, fasted, gave to the needy, and sought a better version of themselves. If we can endure hardship together in pursuit of spiritual growth, then we can certainly live together in peace,” the Guild said.
However, NGIJ expressed concern over rising tensions in the country, warning that differences are increasingly being weaponised, particularly along religious and ethnic lines.
The Guild emphasised that the lessons of Ramadan and Lent should not end with celebrations but must be reflected in citizens’ daily conduct, urging Nigerians to embrace patience, empathy, and truth in their interactions.
While addressing the political class, the organisation cautioned against early signs of divisive campaigning ahead of the 2027 elections, including the spread of misinformation and fear-based rhetoric.
“We are already seeing early signs of the familiar playbook, divisive rhetoric, calculated misinformation, and appeals to fear rather than reason. That path is dangerous and ultimately destructive,” the statement read.
NGIJ urged politicians, political parties, and aspirants to focus on issue-based campaigns, particularly on the economy, security, and governance, rather than resorting to identity politics.
It warned that power gained through division could undermine national stability, stressing that Nigeria cannot afford another election cycle that deepens societal fractures.
The Guild also reaffirmed its commitment to accountability and responsible journalism, pledging to continue challenging false narratives and exposing misinformation.
“A peaceful and informed society requires citizens who think critically and reject manipulation,” it added.
The statement concluded by describing Eid al-Fitr as not only a moment of celebration but also a test of collective responsibility, urging Nigerians to choose unity over division in the interest of national progress.
Author Profile
- Prince Abdulrahman Obaje is a Media, Information and Computer Technology Consultant. A quintessential Journalist, online marketer, social media strategist, Mathematician and Computer Scientist is based in Abuja, Nigeria. He is the Founder and the Publisher of The Informavores!. You can reach me on +234 805 939 5252 or send i-witness report directly to me on news@informavores.com.ng.
Latest entries
- PoliticsMay 2, 2026Fika Emirate Blessed YMK’s 2027 Presidency Presidential Ambition
- PoliticsMay 1, 20262027 Presidential Election: YMK Emerges First Presidential Candidate, Contesting Against President Tinubu
- PoliticsApril 23, 2026Yunusa Charges Team to intensify coordination, discipline as YMK Nigeria Steps on PRP Platform for 2027 Presidential Election
- PoliticsApril 20, 2026Kogi Central APC Stakeholders Kick Against Imposition of Unpopular Candidate Endorse Obaro