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Ernest Shonekan Death: Who Is Chief Ernest Shonekan

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Ernest Shonekan

Who is Ernest Shonekan and all you need to know about the late Former Nigerian Leader can be accessed here.

Chief Ernest Shonekan, a former Nigerian leader and head of the Interim National Government that succeeded the military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida died on Tuesday, January 11, 2022.

Shonekan, who was reported to have died on Tuesday, January 11, at a hospital in Lagos, was the interim head of the Nigerian Government between August 26, 1993, and November 17, 1993, when he was removed in a palace coup led by the then Minister of Defence, General Sani Abacha, 3 months into his administration.

Before his appointment as the head of the Interim National Government, Shonekan, who was an industrial guru and Chief Executive Officer of the UAC Conglomerate, was the head of the transitional council and head of government under the administration of General Ibrahim Babangida.

Who Is Chief Ernest Shonekan

Shonekan was a British-trained lawyer, industrialist, and former Chairman/Managing Director of the United African Company of Nigeria (UAC) Plc before he was appointed as Interim President of Nigeria by General Ibrahim Babangida in 1993.

He was born on May 9, 1936, in Lagos into the family of an Abeokuta-born civil servant. He was educated at CMS Grammar School and Igbobi College.

He received a law degree from the University of London and was called to the bar. He later attended Harvard Business School.

Shonekan joined the UAC in 1964. He rose through the ranks in the company and was promoted to an assistant legal adviser. He later became a deputy Legal adviser and joined the board of directors at the age of 40.

He was made chairman and managing director in 1980 and went on to cultivate a wide array of international business and political connections.

On January 2, 1993, Shonekan assumed office as head of the transitional council and head of government under General Babangida. The transitional council was designed to be the final phase leading to a scheduled handover to an elected democratic leader of the Third Nigerian Republic.

Babangida later resigned from office in August 1993, following the annulment of the 12 June presidential election. He had signed a decree establishing the Interim National Government led by Shonekan who was subsequently sworn-in as Head of State.

Three months into his administration, Shonekan was overthrown in a palace coup by Abacha in November that year.

In 1994, he founded the Nigerian Economic Summit Group an advocacy group and think-tank for private sector-led development of the Nigerian economy.

Ernest Shonekan Age

Ernest Shonekan is 85 years old.

Ernest Shonekan Early Life

Shonekan attended C.M.S grammar school and Igbobi College both in Lagos. He also attended and received a law degree from the University of London after which he was called to bar.

Ernest Shonekan Career

After being called to bar, Shonekan worked as the chief executive of United African Company PLC (UAC). He was a seasoned and proven businessman with a wide network. Because of his proven abilities and political neutrality, then president Ibrahim Babangida liked him and made him a prospective leader for his council of civilians-run government, a government which was in the midst of economic turmoil and later came to a political crisis. He was Head of the Transitional Council of Babangida ‘s government in 1993.

On January 2nd, 1993, Shonekan assumed office as the head of government affairs under the leadership of the military president Babangida. At the time, the transitional council was designed to be the final phase leading to a scheduled hand over to an elected democratic leader.

On August 26th, 1993, Shonekan was appointed the interim president of Nigeria by General Ibrahim Babangida. Shonekan assumed office to meet the Nation gradually moving towards meeting a stalemate. He made attempts to have the Nations debt cancelled but after the annulment of June 12 election most of the western powers imposed economic sanctions on Nigeria. He tried to set things straight but he loosely controlled the military.

Shonekan only stayed in office for a transitional period of three months before his administration was toppled by General Sani Abacha who forcefully brought Nigeria back to military control on November 17th, 1993.

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FORMAL NOTICE: FALSE, DEFAMATORY, AND MALICIOUS PUBLICATION

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The attention of UBA Group has been drawn to a false, defamatory, and malicious publication currently circulating on social media platforms, falsely alleging that the Group Chairman, Mr. Tony O. Elumelu, CFR, has divorced his wife.

These statements and all similar content are entirely fabricated, reckless, and without basis. The claims are a deliberate falsehood designed to mislead the public and cause reputational harm.

The matter has been referred to the relevant law enforcement authorities, who have commenced action. We confirm that three individuals directly connected to the creation and dissemination of these malicious falsehoods have been arrested, namely:

 

  1. Mr. Kingsley Akunemeihe (@Directorkem)

 

  1. Mr. Chigozie Success Ihebom

 

  1. Mr. John Surpruchi Nwanorue (@problemchimky)

Investigations are ongoing and are expected to lead to further arrests and prosecutions of all persons involved in originating, amplifying, or sustaining this defamatory campaign.

This serves as a formal notice to all individuals, platforms, and entities involved in the publication, reposting, or continued dissemination of this content to immediately cease and desist.

All such parties are hereby required to:

 

  • Remove the offending publication from all platforms immediately

 

  • Refrain from any further publication or amplification of similar false content

 

  • Preserve all records, including digital footprints, communications, and metadata relating to the creation and dissemination of the publication, pending further legal action

According to a statement signed by Alero Ladipo  Group Head, Brand, Marketing & Corporate Communication

United Bank for Africa, failure to comply will result in the initiation of legal proceedings, including claims for defamation, injunctive relief, damages, and any other remedies available under applicable law.

The UBA Group is resolute in protecting the reputation, privacy, and integrity of our brand, that of Mr. Elumelu and will pursue all necessary legal avenues — civil and criminal — to ensure that all responsible parties are identified and held accountable.

 

 

 

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Wale Tinubu Celebrates Folawiyo at 66

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The Group Chief Executive of  Oando Group Jubril Adewale Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to billionaire businessman and oil tycoon Tunde Folawiyo on the occasion of his 66th birthday, describing him as a distinguished figure whose influence continues to resonate across Nigeria’s socio-economic landscape.

In a warm and reflective message, Tinubu celebrated Folawiyo not only as a respected elder but as a man whose enduring legacy cuts across business, culture, sports, and the arts. His words captured the deep admiration Folawiyo commands within elite circles and beyond.

“Happy birthday to a great Egbon, Tunde Folawiyo,” Tinubu wrote. “Your impact has touched many corners of our national story—from business to culture, sport, and the arts. As you mark another year, I celebrate all you have accomplished, and the grace and consistency with which you have done it.”

The Oando boss further offered prayers for continued strength and fulfilment, expressing hope that the years ahead would bring even greater accomplishments and sustained good health for the celebrated industrialist.

Folawiyo, a scion of one of Nigeria’s most prominent business families, has long maintained a commanding presence in the corporate world, while also nurturing interests that extend into philanthropy and the preservation of cultural heritage. His measured approach to leadership and quiet philanthropy have earned him widespread respect as a man of substance and refinement.

As he marks this significant milestone, tributes have continued to pour in from across the country’s business and social circles, affirming his status as one of Nigeria’s most influential and admired figures.

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Love, Pride and Prestige: Wale Tinubu Celebrates Wife’s Rise Among Africa’s Most Influential Women

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In the glittering world of high society and corporate influence, moments of genuine pride and admiration rarely go unnoticed. Such was the case when oil magnate and business leader Jubril Adewale Tinubu stepped into the spotlight to celebrate a milestone achievement by his wife, Bola Tinubu who was recently honoured at the prestigious ARISE 100 Women of Impact in Africa Awards.

The award ceremony, organised by the media powerhouse ARISE News, brought together some of Africa’s most accomplished and influential women—leaders whose contributions have left a remarkable imprint across business, governance, philanthropy, and social development. Among this distinguished league stood Mrs. Tinubu, whose recognition reflects years of quiet excellence, commitment, and purposeful impact.

For the energy tycoon, the moment was deeply personal. Known across the continent as the driving force behind the energy giant Oando Plc, the businessman is often celebrated for his boardroom brilliance and strategic leadership. Yet, beyond the corporate boardrooms and global energy deals, he was simply a proud husband applauding the achievements of the woman who stands beside him.

Taking to social media shortly after the ceremony, Tinubu shared a touching tribute that resonated with many who admire the couple. His message was simple but heartfelt, capturing the essence of admiration and partnership. Referring to the moment as a “proud husband moment,” he congratulated his wife on the prestigious honour and praised the significance of the recognition.

The ARISE Women of Impact Awards have increasingly become one of the continent’s most respected platforms for celebrating female excellence. The initiative highlights women whose work continues to shape industries, inspire communities, and redefine leadership across Africa. For the woman , being counted among this elite group places her firmly within a circle of changemakers whose influence transcends titles and accolades.

Observers at the event noted that her recognition was not merely ceremonial but well deserved. Over the years, she has cultivated a reputation for grace, professionalism, and dedication to meaningful causes—qualities that have earned her admiration within Nigeria’s social and professional circles.

For those who know the Tinubus, the public celebration was hardly surprising. The couple has long embodied a partnership built on mutual respect, shared ambition, and unwavering support for each other’s pursuits. While  Tinubu continues to command attention in the energy sector, his wife has quietly carved out her own path of distinction.

The quiet, steady influence of a woman who commands respect without seeking the spotlight  shone brightly on that memorable evening reminding many that true influence often speaks in the calmest of voices.

Beyond her professional accomplishments and social standing, the intelligent lawyer nine years ago,  translated her deep concern for child protection into action with the launch of the Cece Yara Foundation, an organisation dedicated to protecting children from abuse and giving young victims a safe platform to speak out against injustice.

Over the years, the foundation has become a powerful voice in the fight against child abuse in Nigeria, offering support, counselling and advocacy for vulnerable children. Through its initiatives, many young victims have found both protection and hope.

Through these initiatives, she  has continued to demonstrate that her influence goes far beyond society circles. Her commitment to protecting the most vulnerable members of society has made her not only a respected figure in elite circles but also a beacon of hope for countless children and families across the country.

In a society where achievements are often measured in grand gestures and headlines, moments like this serve as a reminder that recognition carries deeper meaning when it is celebrated by those closest to us.

For the GCEO of Oando Group, the award was not just another accolade on the social calendar—it was a powerful reminder that behind every remarkable woman is a story of dedication, resilience, and a partner proud enough to celebrate her success before the world.

 

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