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God Forced Me to Remarry Months After My Wife’s Death–Apostle Madubuko

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By Dipo Olowookere

When General Overseer of Revival Assembly Church in Lagos, Apostle Anselm Madubuko, decided to remarry some months after the death of his wife, Pastor (Mrs) Connie Madubuko, in 2012, many people castigated him.

However, in an interview with The Punch, the cleric claimed God forced him to remarry very fast.

According to the man of God, he never had the intention of taking another wife.

Apostle Madubuko also said when he remarried, many single ladies and married woman pestering him for marriage left his church.

He also talked about other issues, including fatherhood.

How would you describe fatherhood?

I believe fatherhood is an assignment given by God to some people on earth. When one begins to understand that fatherhood is a godly assignment, then such person takes it seriously.

Personally, there is nothing like being a father because it keeps reminding me of my Heavenly father. It is not an easy assignment, but I see it as a privilege to be a father.

What has been your biggest challenge as a father?

The biggest challenge any good father faces is when your kids are not living up to your expectations. Everyone, including God, has expectations from people. God expects us that at a certain age, we should be able to do certain things. I believe that when we are not doing all those things, He is not happy.

How many children are you blessed with?

I have three kids, but spiritually, I have many kids. My first child is a boy, followed by two girls. I have two grandchildren.I have always prayed to God to give me good kids. I didn’t care about the sex. This is a thing people should know about. For me, the important thing is for the kids to be taken care of because they are God’s gifts.

Were you scared when you wanted to start a family?

I got married quite early at 26. I was 28 when I had my first kid. At that point, I wanted to get married. I was not bothered about anything because I knew God was in charge. I have learnt in life never to worry about things I cannot control.

Why did you marry at 26?

I cannot really say. I had completed university education and I became born again. If I was not saved by God, I am not sure I would have married when I did. When I gave my life to Christ at 25, everything about me changed completely and I had nothing else to do but to get married.

How did you meet your wife?

My late wife was working in a computer firm in Ikoyi, Lagos. We ran into each other on a particular day and we became good friends. After I got saved, she became my first convert to Christ.

Did your wife play hard to get when you showed interest in her?

Those days, women were not a problem for me and I had a very good relationship with women.

Were you in the labour room with your wife during the birth of any of your children?

I always didn’t want to experience it and I tried to avoid it. I couldn’t even follow my wife to the hospital to get an injection; I couldn’t imagine seeing her go through pains. I made sure I was not around whenever she wanted to give birth.

How did you feel while carrying your first child?

It was a mixed feeling. I was thankful to God for the child but I also knew more responsibilities had come too. When she gave birth to our first child, I was in Lagos but not in the hospital.

How do you reward your children anytime they make you happy?

It depends on what is happening at that moment. When my kids were in the university, I made sure they were comfortable and promised to get them a car or other things once they did well. I tried to keep to my own part of the bargain.How did you punish them for wrongdoing when they were young?

I did not punish them but their mother did. She was the person who trained them and she was strong enough for them. Most cases, she would have dealt with them before telling me what they did wrong. I didn’t always punish them because I felt children should not be punished twice for a crime. Though there were a few cases I talked to them, I cannot remember using the cane on any of my children. I do not say it is good or bad to discipline children, but I didn’t do it.

How do you manage your roles as a pastor and father?

I have not done it well. I ended up leaving my kids with their mother while they were growing up. I was always travelling to one place or the other. Growing up, they knew their mother more than their father. That is my regret. I was busy working for God. Given another chance, I would wish to balance things in a way that my children would not suffer my absence. I have tried my best to correct my mistakes as they grew older and they aren’t doing badly now.

What did you learn from your father which is now useful in training your children?

My father taught my siblings and me how to be satisfied in life. That is why we are not greedy people in my family. Growing up, we were happy with whatever God gave us. We didn’t covet others’ blessing. I have inculcated this in my kids. I always tell them to be thankful to God and never to get too anxious about the next day, as God has promised to take care of tomorrow once they work hard.

How would you describe your father?

He was a nice and quiet man. He didn’t drink, smoke or party.

When was your happiest moment as a father?

That would be when my first daughter gave birth in the United States of America three years ago. I couldn’t explain the excitement and I cannot forget that day.

What event do you consider as the low moment of your life?

I have had many low moments in my life. I felt terrible when I lost my father and mother. My father died at 70. I didn’t expect him to die when he died. For me, I consider anyone who dies at 70 a young person. Ninety is the best age to die.My father was there for me all my life; he sacrificed a lot for his kids. But before he died, I was not in a position to do much for him. However, my mother lived above 90. She had a good life.

Why didn’t you take your wife’s death as the low point of your life?

As stated before, I have many low points. But when my father died, I felt worst than my wife’s death. I cannot explain why it appeared so.

When did your wife die?

She died in 2012. I didn’t expect her to die when she did and I was not in the country. I left Nigeria on a Wednesday night and we still spoke when I got to the airport. The next thing I heard on Friday was that she had passed on.

What caused her death?

She was not sick; it was a sudden death. If she had been ill, I wouldn’t have left her. As a strong woman that she was, she didn’t show signs of weakness as well. Our family doctor of over 25 years did his best but told me there was no life in her any longer.I was more confused than annoyed when I heard the news of my wife’s death. I was too shocked to feel anything. She was in her 50s when she died; we were age mates. The only time I felt bad was the day of her burial as it dawned on me that she was really dead. But before then, I kept thinking she would wake up because she was really a strong woman. I couldn’t go to the mortuary to see her, but I had to see her during the lying-in-state.

How did you comfort your children during the period?

My children are strong kids. They had all finished their university education in Canada when their mother died. We are a free and happy family. Whenever we are together, they don’t relate to me as their father.

How did your children react to your decision to remarry?

My children were happy when I told them I wanted to remarry. They knew I would be in the hands of a good woman. When my wife died, they didn’t want me to be left alone; they were always checking on me. In a way, I was disturbing them because they couldn’t live a day without worrying about me.But it was God who told me to remarry even though I did not take another wife. I even said it on the pulpit that I would not remarry. But God, who saw things I didn’t see, told me I must marry and marry fast. Now, I know why He said it and I thanked God I followed His direction.

Were you not worried that people could condemn you for remarrying a year after your wife’s death?

Of course, my decision to remarry generated a lot of attention from the public but I don’t care about such a thing. When my heart doesn’t condemn me, I don’t care. I don’t need to impress everyone. I don’t need to prove anything to anyone because I owe only God my life. Those close to me knew I was led by God.When my wife passed on, every woman wanted to marry me. I was getting text messages from different women, who were telling me that God told them I was their husband. I got messages from members of my church and other women. If I had stayed unmarried for two years, I cannot imagine what would have happened to me. When I finally remarried, many single women and even married ones left the church. This is not a joke; it happened. I thank God I didn’t promise anyone marriage or was dating anyone; I didn’t owe anyone anything. Also, I didn’t need to marry anyone recommended to me.

Why did you settle for a Kenyan when you had many options?

I knew the lady many years ago when I went to preach in Mombasa, Kenya. Then, my first wife was still alive and I told my friend that I liked the way she sang and carried herself. They spoke well about her and told me her father was a bishop. Later, I invited her team to Nigeria to sing in my church and people loved them. At that point, there was nothing between us.But many people believed we were having a secret affair even when my wife was alive, but I didn’t go out with her or touch her until we married. I also admired the fact that she did not trouble me for marriage like many others.

How did she react when you told her about your marriage plans?

When I told her I wanted to marry her, she felt it was strange. I was yet to know her well too. She told me I was too old for her. She said I was more like a mentor. It was God who convinced her and her family. How many fathers would allow their daughters to go to Nigeria for marriage? They read many negative things about us daily. Also, she was a single and young lady while I was a widower with three kids. There are many things that didn’t make sense naturally. But her father is a man of God and God touched him. I thank God it was her because I couldn’t have chosen anyone better.

What comes to mind when you read negative things about you?

I don’t bother myself about what people say about me because it is part of life. It was reported that I was having an affair with an artiste’s wife but he is my son and still worships in my church. Nothing can break me; gossips mean nothing to me. They are people who do not like me for reasons best known to them and they will always look for opportunities to tarnish my image.

How do you advise children without fathers?

God has plans for everyone. If you don’t have a father, kindly take God as your father and look for a mentor. When your biological father dies, you should pray to God to give you a good father that will love and guide you. When you have good parents, it is hard for you to join cultism or pick up other vices. These things are devil’s ways to destroy destinies. If you look around now, most kids are into one bad society or the other. If your parents are not godly, it is dangerous.

Dipo Olowookere is a journalist based in Nigeria that has passion for reporting business news stories. At his leisure time, he watches football and supports 3SC of Ibadan. Mr Olowookere can be reached via dipo.olowookere@businesspost.ng

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Omowunmi Esther Oyeleke Offers Fresh Rendition of Nigerian Old-School Gospel Songs

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Omowunmi Esther Oyeleke

By Michael Kolawole

Nigerian old-school gospel songs never grow old. They remain fresh and uplifting, especially when reimagined through new renditions. 

Omowunmi Esther Oyeleke breathes new life into these timeless melodies, offering a praise medley that stays true to their lyrics while infusing them with renewed joy and reverence.

Her Old-School Praise Medley takes listeners on a soul-stirring journey through some of Nigeria’s most beloved gospel songs. With her silvery voice and light, cheerful instrumentals, Omowunmi celebrates the greatness of God, leading listeners in both praise and worship.

She begins with a song deeply ingrained into the routine of morning devotions in many Nigerian Christian homes: “This Is The Day.” The lyrics, derived from Psalms 118:24, set the tone for gratitude and celebration. “This is the day / this is the day that the Lord has made / that the Lord has made,” she sings, adding, “I will rejoice / I will rejoice, and be glad in him.” Her backup singers gently re-echo the lyrics, creating a layered effect that emphasizes collective worship.

From there, she seamlessly transitions into “I Love the Man of Galilee,” another staple in Nigerian gospel music. With effortless grace, she cruises through songs like “Praise The Lord, O Sing, O Sing” and “I Will Enter His Gates With Thanksgiving In My Heart,” her voice soaring with reverence as she revels in God’s mercy and greatness.

At the 10:51 mark, the atmosphere shifts as she moves into a worship session. The instrumentals soften, becoming more soulful in deference to God. “We worship you, Jesus,” she begins, her voice rich with emotion. She gives all the glory to God, urging listeners to do the same. “Come on, open your mouth and bless the name of the Lord,” she exhorts, inviting participation in the sacred moment.

Despite its unedited nature, the production effectively delivers heartfelt messages of praise and worship. Rather than feeling raw or unfinished, the organic sound enhances the authenticity of the experience, making listeners feel as though they are in the midst of a live church service.

Omowunmi’s deep connection to gospel music is rooted in her upbringing. Born into a Christian home filled with the sounds of gospel hits from radios and stacked CDs, she spent hours poring over songbooks, copying lyrics by hand. Her passion for music was evident from a young age, leading her from the confines of her home to school assemblies, classrooms, and playgrounds, where she shared her voice with anyone who would listen.

That passion eventually found a home in the RCCG choir, Victory Parish, Surulere, where she was a tiny girl among adult singers. Initially met with scepticism, she quickly won hearts with her powerful voice. Today, she leads worship at the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Edinburgh Tabernacle, UK, touching and transforming lives through her music ministry.

Even as her mission has taken her far from home, it has always brought her back to her roots—the place where her love for gospel music began.

Through every season, Omowunmi reminds us that each day is a gift from God—one to be embraced with joy and worship.

Michael Kolawole is a screenwriter, playwright, and cultural journalist/critic

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The Real Housewives of Lagos Season Finale: One Last Showdown You Can’t Afford to Miss on Showmax

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The Real Housewives of Lagos

After weeks of jaw-dropping moments, shifting alliances, and designer showdowns, The Real Housewives of Lagos is heading for its Season 3 finale, and if you thought you’d seen it all, think again.

From luxury vacations that turned into battlefields to friendships that cracked under pressure, this season has been nothing short of explosive. Dabota and Carolyna’s face-off over an ex-husband? Diiadem, finding her voice in the group? Sophia is learning the hard way that, in this circle, alliances are fluid. Every moment has been reality TV gold.

But with the season wrapping up, the big question remains: Who will walk away “victorious”, and who’s leaving with grudges that will spill over into the next season?

The season that gave us everything

RHOLagos Season 3 took things up a notch, bringing in new faces and deeper conflicts; fans even saw reconciliation and restitution. While fans expected the usual mix of luxury and drama, this season proved that high society is unpredictable.

Dabota:

Dabota didn’t come to play. From the moment she joined, her presence shook the group. But her differences with Carolyna made things even messier, leading to one of the season’s biggest showdowns.

Carolyna:

Throughout the season, Carolyna held her own in confrontations, but in a surprising turn, she offered an apology to Laura for their past conflicts. Whether it was genuine closure or just another layer to their complicated history, fans had plenty to say about the unexpected moment.

Mariam:

Mariam never held back. Always armed with a sharp comeback, she kept the group on their toes. Her ability to say things exactly as they are? Unmatched.

Sophia:

Sophia had a rocky first season, joining the group late. She struggled to find her footing while navigating the group’s existing dynamics. But if one thing’s for sure, she blended in and blended in well.

Diiadem:

Diiadem gave us everything this season. From her sweet friendship with Dabota to being spoiled by her man, she embodied the soft life while still knowing how to hold her own.

Laura:

 Laura remained unpredictable. One moment, she was trying to keep the peace, and the next, she found herself in the middle of the drama, whether by choice or not.

With the final episode just around the corner, anything can happen. Who will reconcile? Who will leave with unresolved tension? And more importantly, who’s already plotting for next season?

More Housewives, more drama

The Real Housewives franchise isn’t slowing down anytime soon, and if you’ve been living for the drama, lavish lifestyles, and unpredictable friendships on The Real Housewives of Lagos, then you’re in for even more tea with The Real Housewives of Durban and The Real Housewives of Potomac

The Real Housewives of Durban S5

Trailer: https://youtu.be/Vurk5FNpKyE

One of the 10 most-streamed titles on Showmax in 2024, The Real Housewives of Durban is back for its fifth season, and trust, the drama is only getting bigger.

This season, OG Housewives Nonku Williams and Sorisha Naidoo return, cementing their place as Africa’s longest-serving Housewives. They’re joined by Jojo Robinson (who has been in the mix since Season 2) and Angel Ndlela, who made a splash in Season 4.

But what’s a new season without fresh faces? This time, the dynamic shifts with the introduction of newcomers Ayanda, Kwanele and Lo – and they are shaking things up already. Expect more glamour, shifting alliances, and some unmissable confrontations. New episodes land on Fridays.

The Real Housewives of Potomac S9

Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aGN09IlVRxs

Across the Atlantic, The Real Housewives of Potomac is delivering drama like never before. Nominated for the 2025 NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Reality, this season is packed with jaw-dropping moments.

From Karen Huger’s legal troubles to Gizelle Bryant’s dating life and Dr Wendy Osefo’s unforgettable 40th birthday, the ladies of Potomac are serving up scandal, shade, and sisterhood in equal measure.

This season also welcomes two new Housewives: Stacey Rusch, a former QVC host navigating life as a single mom in the middle of a divorce, and Keiarna Stewart, a successful entrepreneur with her own opinions about the group – and she’s not afraid to voice them.

Catch up on all the drama on Showmax. Take advantage of the Showmax Shikini Deal you can stream for just N1,000 on mobile or N2,000 on multiple devices. Sign up now at www.showmax.com/deals and start watching. This deal lasts until March 31st.

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GOtv’s New Must-Watch Africa Magic Series: ‘Our Husband’ and ‘The Yard’ Will Have You Hooked from Episode One

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‘Our Husband’ & ‘The Yard’ Will Have You Screaming at Your TV!

You know that feeling when you’re watching a show and suddenly, your jaw drops, your hands fly to your head, and you’re shouting, “Ewooo! What just happened?” Yeah, that’s exactly what GOtv’s new shows, Our Husband and The Yard, are about to do to you.

These aren’t your regular, predictable storylines. We’re talking about cheating scandals that will make you side-eye your neighbour, power struggles that feel like real-life politics, and betrayals so deep you won’t know who to trust anymore.

If you love premium drama, then get ready, because these two shows will have you hooked from the first episode!

OUR HUSBAND – When a Man’s Secrets Bring Two Women Together in the Worst Way

A woman finds out her husband is cheating. Not through rumours or suspicious text messages, but in the most shocking way possible. Just as she’s processing the betrayal, boom! He drops dead. Now, instead of mourning in peace, she’s forced to deal with his side chick and a scandal that could destroy them both.

Zara Nnamani thought she had the perfect marriage, until reality slapped her harder than Lagos traffic. Tiny, on the other hand, just wanted to enjoy the soft life, not get caught up in wahala. But fate has other plans. With secrets flying around like gbas gbos, family members lurking with their own agendas, and a mysterious death that raises too many questions, these women must form an uneasy alliance to protect themselves.

Can two women who were never supposed to meet actually survive each other? Or will betrayal strike again?

With spicy drama, shocking twists, and characters that will have you torn between love and frustration, Our Husband is the perfect show to sip cold zobo and gist about with your friends. Don’t miss it on Africa Magic Showcase, GOtv Channel 8, premiering March 31st, and airing every Monday to Wednesday at 8:30 PM.

THE YARD – When Power Corrupts, Who Will Survive?

You know those bus park fights where conductors shout, “Oga, no try am! I go show you today!” Now imagine that on a bigger scale, with real power, real consequences, and people who will do anything to stay on top.

Tega, a hustling bus driver, just wants to survive, but life keeps showing him shege. His father dies, leaving him with debts and no way out. Meanwhile, Odafe Junior, the privileged son of Chief Odafe, is tired of living in his father’s shadow. His father rules Ajakoro bus park with an iron fist, but Odafe Junior wants nothing to do with that kind of power.

But guess what? Whether he likes it or not, power is coming for him.

Tega and Odafe Junior are on opposite sides of life, but when they realize they both want justice, they form a dangerous alliance to take down Chief Odafe. The only problem? Power is like sweet and once you taste it, you might never let go. As Tega rises, will he become the very thing he once hated?

With shocking betrayals, unexpected alliances, and a storyline that will keep you at the edge of your seat, The Yard is not just a regular show.

Set your reminders, grab your popcorn, and get ready to be entertained like never before. GOtv is bringing premium drama, and you do NOT want to be left out!

Catch The Yard on Africa Magic Showcase, GOtv Channel 8, premiering March 31st, and airing every Monday to Friday at 8:00 PM.

Do not just hear about it, experience it. Step up now to unlock a world of exciting and entertaining programs. To upgrade, subscribe, or reconnect, simply download the MyGOtv app or dial *288#. To catch up and for on-the-go viewing, don’t forget to download the GOtv Stream App and enjoy your favourite shows anytime, anywhere.

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