As Ondo State prepares to host the 7th National Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Summit in Akure, Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa is reaffirming his administration’s unwavering support for local entrepreneurs and political unity across the state.

On Friday, August 1, 2025, the Governor received two Ondo-based entrepreneurs who were recently honoured at the national MSME awards in Abuja. Engr. Emmanuel Adewumi of Denki Wires and Cables, Akure, won the Award of Excellence in Manufacturing, while Mr. Femi Olufunmiloye of Lafbart Innovations & Consulting Ltd, also based in Akure, received the FIRS Award of Excellence in Tax Compliance.

Speaking at the reception held at the Government House, Akure, Governor Aiyedatiwa lauded the achievements of the awardees, describing them as exemplary entrepreneurs whose innovations and integrity have elevated the state’s reputation nationally.

“Your awards are not just personal honours; they are endorsements of Ondo State’s growing entrepreneurial ecosystem. Our government will continue to create a conducive environment for MSMEs to thrive,” said Governor Aiyedatiwa.

The awardees were introduced by the Governor’s Senior Special Assistant on Youth Empowerment and Job Creation, Mr. Orioye Gbayisemore.

Governor Aiyedatiwa further disclosed that the state had disbursed over N220 million in support funds for micro and small businesses in the past year, and pledged to intensify government patronage of local enterprises.

The visit came ahead of the 7th Expanded National MSME Clinic, scheduled to hold in Akure on Tuesday, August 5, 2025, with Vice President Kashim Shettima expected in attendance.

Court Upholds Aiyedatiwa’s Victory

In a parallel development, the Court of Appeal in Akure on July 31, 2025, upheld the election of Governor Aiyedatiwa and his Deputy, Dr. Olayide Adelami, affirming their victory in the November 16, 2024, governorship polls.

The appellate court unanimously dismissed appeals filed by opposition parties including the PDP, ADC, APM, and SDP, citing lack of evidence to support claims of electoral irregularities.

The panel, comprising Justice Nimpar Yargata, Justice K.I. Amadi, and Justice I.M. Sani, ruled that the appellants failed to prove non-compliance with the Electoral Act and awarded a cost of N1.5 million against them.

Reacting to the verdict, Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed gratitude:

“I give glory to Almighty God who orchestrated this journey from the beginning and used the good people of Ondo State. Over 366,000 residents gave us their mandate… The judiciary has fulfilled its role by upholding the choice made by the majority of voters across the 18 local government areas.”

He praised the judiciary, thanked his legal team, party members, and reaffirmed his commitment to responsible governance.

Ondo APC Strategises for Tinubu 2027

On the same day, Governor Aiyedatiwa convened the Ondo State Leaders Caucus of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in a high-level strategy meeting at the Government House Banquet Hall.

The gathering brought together political heavyweights and former officeholders in what many analysts view as a power consolidation drive for the 2027 general elections. The highlight of the meeting was the unveiling of ‘Ondo State for Tinubu 2027’, an umbrella structure to rally support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election.

During the session, the Governor reiterated the importance of party unity and urged all groups in the state to operate under the party’s leadership.

“Our administration is aligned with the Renewed Hope agenda. The newly launched Ward Development Programme will deepen grassroots development and political inclusion,” Governor Aiyedatiwa said.

The caucus appointed Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, Secretary to the State Government, and Mrs. Roseline Okafor, APC State Secretary, to coordinate the new structure.

Among those present were Deputy Governor Dr. Olayide Adelami, Senators Jide Ipinsagba and Adeniyi Adegbonmire, former Senators, members of the National Assembly, current and past Speakers of the House, and notable APC chieftains such as Ambassador Sola Iji and Mrs. Jumoke Ajasin-Anifowose.

“This is not just a political gathering. It is a strategic move to foster development and unity,” said Hon. Derin Adesida, member of the House of Representatives.

Ambassador Sola Iji added: “The meeting is in line with the APC constitution and necessary for forward planning.”

Mamuda Beverages Limited, a Kano-based beverage manufacturer, is facing fresh legal action over allegations of trademark infringement involving its Pop Power Energy Drink. Rite Foods Limited, makers of Nigeria’s leading Fearless Energy Drink, has dragged Mamuda to court, accusing the company of flouting a previous court-approved settlement.

According to Rite Foods, the new lawsuit arises from Mamuda’s decision to reintroduce Pop Power into the market with only superficial design changes—despite earlier agreements to completely halt any form of imitation of the Fearless brand.

“In January 2025, we sued Mamuda for infringing the trademark and design of our Fearless Energy Drink through its Pop Power product,” said a source close to Rite Foods. “Mamuda sought settlement and agreed to destroy all infringing products and avoid any form of brand imitation. But they’ve returned with a nearly identical product.”

The Federal High Court had previously approved a consent judgment after Mamuda’s request for settlement. Among the agreed terms were commitments to halt the production and distribution of the infringing product, change its packaging, and avoid further brand impersonation. However, Rite Foods claims these conditions have now been violated.

The reintroduced version of Pop Power is said to still mislead consumers, many of whom reportedly refer to it as “small Fearless.” This, according to Rite Foods, undermines not only the court’s resolution but also threatens consumer trust and violates intellectual property protections.

A source familiar with the case stated that reports claiming the court rejected Rite Foods’ recent ex parte motion are inaccurate. “The Federal High Court has not denied the application,” the source clarified. “The court is simply addressing Mamuda’s preliminary objection, which is procedural and does not affect the merits of our case.”

Speaking on the development, Kano resident Aminu Danladi expressed frustration:

“Mamuda’s actions are not just disappointing — they are a grand deception to pass off the quality and explore the success of Fearless Energy Drink. Rather than being original, they’re trying to exploit a well-established brand, which is against fair competition. I’ve been drinking Fearless since it launched. When friends started asking for ‘small Fearless,’ I was shocked. It’s unfair to hardworking brands that invest in originality.”

Faroq Ismail added his voice, stating that it was vital to protect innovative brands:

“We must safeguard companies that invest heavily in quality, creativity, and consumer trust from being undermined by opportunistic imitations.”

A spokesperson at Rite Foods reinforced the company’s commitment to legal redress:

“As the leader in Nigeria’s energy drink sector, we owe it to our consumers, partners, and the broader business community to defend originality against opportunism.”

Fearless Energy Drink, widely regarded as the pioneer of Nigeria’s PET-packaged energy beverages, is available in flavors such as Red Berry and Classic. Known for its empowering “I Can, I Am” message, the brand has cultivated a loyal consumer base driven by ambition and resilience.

Legal analysts suggest that the case could set a key precedent in Nigeria’s consumer goods sector, especially in the protection of intellectual property and product identity in a rapidly expanding market.

Anambra State Governor, Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, has extended his heartfelt congratulations to the Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Reverend Paulinus Chukwuemeka Ezeokafor, on the occasion of his 18th Episcopal Consecration Anniversary.

In a goodwill message, the governor praised the bishop’s unwavering dedication, deep faith, and wise leadership in steering the Catholic faithful across the diocese for nearly two decades.

“Bishop Ezeokafor has shepherded the Catholic faithful in Awka Diocese with exceptional dedication, steadfast faith, and profound wisdom for the past remarkable eighteen years,” Soludo stated.

According to a press release issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, Governor Soludo said the bishop’s influence had gone beyond the pulpit, contributing significantly to the social, moral, and spiritual growth of Anambra State.

He commended Bishop Ezeokafor for his contributions to youth development, Christian values, and humanitarian causes.

“His passionate leadership has not only strengthened the spiritual fabric of Anambra State but has also contributed immensely to its social and moral development,” the governor said.

“Bishop Ezeokafor’s tireless efforts in youth empowerment, promotion of Christian values, and humanitarian service to the less privileged are deeply appreciated.”

“The Bishop’s numerous initiatives have touched countless lives and continue to make our state a better place for all, together with his consistent advocacy for peace, justice, and development in Nigeria during challenging times.”

Governor Soludo concluded his message with prayers for the bishop’s continued health and fruitful ministry.

“I wish Bishop Ezeokafor well on his Episcopal milestone, praying that God grants him continued strength, wisdom, and good health as his ministry continues to flourish and bring forth abundant fruits for the glory of God and the benefit of humanity.”

The anniversary marks nearly two decades of steadfast religious leadership in one of Nigeria’s most prominent Catholic dioceses.