Category Archives: biography

biography, death, grief, nigeria, police

Can I ever say goodbye to you, IGP Solomon Arase?

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By Edward A. Ajogun

I have been drowning in emotional turmoil since the news broke on Sunday, 31st August 2025, of the passing of IGP Dr. Solomon Ehigiator Arase, CFR, NPM, FCC, FCIA, PhD (Rtd), the 18th indigenous Inspector-General of Police of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, whom some of us, his younger colleagues and subordinates, fondly called Oga Arase.

He was indeed our boss, mentor, leader, and superior, as the Yoruba word *Oga*, in all its depth, connotes. Always a dependable pillar of support, I had only three days earlier spoken to him on the phone, seeking a favour on behalf of a kinswoman in academia. He promised to help upon his return the following Monday, after the marriage ceremony he was attending in Morocco. His voice was strong, clear, and resonant—full of vitality.

The news of his death was therefore rude, shocking, and destabilising. Not my Oga Arase, not at just 69 years of age, with all his brilliance and good-naturedness. Truly, a good man has gone.

My mind became a cacophony of questions: Why now? Could this be real? Is Arase actually gone? Has a star fallen from Nigeria’s security firmament? Has the *irokotree* that Arase was truly fallen, its echoes sounding in our confusion?

On Monday, 1st September 2025, I left Lagos for Abuja, distraught and heavy-hearted. I prayed silently that the news of his passing was fake. But upon arrival at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport and then at his Maitama residence, the unusual traffic and sombre gathering confirmed my worst fears.

Inside, dignitaries and close associates—DIGs, AIGs, CPs, aides, and sympathisers—were visibly broken. When I asked SPU Kom, his Personal Assistant, he sighed deeply and said in a heavy voice: “Naso we see am; Oga don leave.”

At that moment, the tears that had been hanging in my eyes finally broke free.

Inside the house, his wife, dressed in black, was surrounded by grieving women. Past Governors, Ministers, retired and serving police officers, security officials, and even students of the Institute of Strategic Studies and the Defence College all came to pay respects, scribbling tributes in the condolence register and describing the beauty of the human being that Oga Arase was.

I, too, approached the table where his framed photograph and condolence register lay. Trembling, I could barely write. How could I possibly say goodbye to Oga Arase? His warm voice and image of him receiving me into his home filled my mind, and I desperately wished I could call him back from death’s grip. But the truth was undeniable: Arase was gone.

I first met Oga Arase in 1991 in Benin. I had graduated from the Nigeria Police Academy in 1989 as a cadet officer and was posted back to Bendel State to start my career. He was a charismatic Deputy Superintendent of Police and remained so till his unfortunate demise. I met him through a kinsman of mine, and his calm, welcoming, and gregarious nature left a mark.

By 2002, when I became Personal Assistant to the late Inspector-General of Police, Tafa Balogun, my relationship with him grew closer. He was then Principal Staff Officer (PSO) to the IGP, succeeding another intellectual giant, retired CP Yinka Balogun.

The Abuja Secretariat under Oga Arase was the hub of strategic operations for IGP Balogun, while Lagos hosted the ebullient DIG Taiwo Lakanu. Oga Arase stood out. As PSO, he was head of the intellectual engine room of the IGP Secretariat, where other cerebral officers like CP Aderemi Adeoye also shone.

IGP Balogun made it clear to me that I was not going to be a ceremonial PA but an intellectual support.

Among the initiatives I made modest contributions to were:

– Formation of the Women’s Arm of the PMF
– Establishment of the PMF Training School, Ila-Orangun
– Establishment of the Police Computer School, Abeokuta
– Expansion of PMF squadrons and units
– Compilation of improved service terms and conditions for police officers
– Re-compilation of the senior officer staff list to restore order and proper seniority

In all these, Oga Arase was indispensable—our Editor-in-Chief. His deft final touches on drafts gave them life and clarity, often the last step before IGP Balogun’s signature. Indeed, Oga Arase was like a modern-day AI—a vast reservoir of knowledge that inspired, challenged, and refined us.

Now, arrangements for his burial are fixed for 3rd October 2025.

Death—merciless, monopolistic death—has taken him, as it often does with the best among us. Yet, even in grief, it is important to remember that Oga Arase lived a remarkable life of service, leadership, and mentorship.

As PSO, he guided, corrected, and nurtured with wisdom, earning the nickname Editor-in-Chief for his meticulous feedback. As IGP, he drove innovation and reform, establishing the Intelligence Response Team, the Complaint Response Unit, and community policing initiatives that built bridges between the Force and the people. He strengthened the Police Cooperative Society and remains the only PSO to have served under three IGPs.

Beyond policing, he gave back through education and philanthropy, awarding scholarships to children of deceased officers and indigent students through the Solomon Ehigiator Arase Foundation.

His academic pursuits, leadership as Chairman of the Police Service Commission, and his recognition as a Fellow of the Nigerian Defence Academy further attest to a life of depth and purpose.

He was respected for his knowledge, admired for his kindness, and loved for his vibrant spirit.

It is difficult to say a *dieu* to you, my Oga Arase. But as painful as it is, I submit to God’s will.

In sorrow and tears, I summon the courage to say goodbye, Sir. Your memory will continually guide me until we meet to part no more. The sun has set too early.

Goodnight, Sir.

*Ajogun, ESO, PSC, is a retired Commissioner of Police.*
https://tribuneonlineng.com/can-i-ever-say-goodbye-to-you-igp-solomon-arase/

biography, documentary, entertainment, music

Renée Elise Goldsberry is ‘Satisfied’

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Renée Elise Goldsberry is most well-known to the public as Angelica Schuyler from the hit musical *Hamilton*, but her career started long before that.

**“Satisfied,”** a new documentary from Melissa Haizlip and Chris Bolan, takes a close look at Goldsberry’s run on *Hamilton*—but more importantly, it explores what she sacrificed to dedicate herself to that award-winning performance. The film offers an honest portrayal of how a performer at the top of her career attempts to balance being a wife and mother while navigating a career-changing moment many dream of.

Haizlip and Bolan recently sat down with the *Tribune* to discuss their film and the evolving role of documentarians during these challenging times. The filmmakers shared what inspired them to make the documentary, with Bolan highlighting the canceled theatrical release of *Hamilton* as the catalyst.

“Renée moved away from the city and became close friends with a dear friend of mine, Kelli O’Hara—who is also a wonderful Broadway performer, Tony Award-winning actress, and executive producer (EP) on our project,” Bolan explained. “Renée told Kelli that she had a lot of behind-the-scenes footage from *Hamilton* and wished she had done something with it instead of just posting it all on Instagram. She wished she had made a documentary or met someone who knew how to create one.”

Kelli responded, “‘Well, it just so happens that I have a good friend who lives right over here who is a documentary filmmaker. Do you want to meet him?’ And [Renée] said, ‘Sure!’”

As a theater fan herself, Haizlip said she was excited to join the team for this Renée Goldsberry documentary. “I’m a huge musical theater fan; I’m a musical theater kid,” she shared. “I also grew up doing plays and musicals, and then I had a really long career on Broadway, performing myself in many shows. Now I’m producing shows on Broadway, and I love making documentaries as well. So the idea of bringing all these things together as a Black woman in theater, I was so excited to see her story being told this way.”

One of the major themes examined in *Satisfied* is how Goldsberry balances her career and family—a dilemma that many women in America face. As Goldsberry states in the film, “I’m the only cast member that’s also a mom.”

“The themes of our film—motherhood, balancing career and family—are just so universal,” Haizlip emphasized, “but the specificity of Renée and seeing the film through her eyes, that’s what really made a lot of difference for me.”

Both filmmakers, with impressive résumés, were also asked about the role of documentarians in today’s historical context. In many ways, they represent the last true truth-tellers.

“I try to use it to amplify underrepresented stories, particularly those focusing on Black culture and history,” Haizlip said. “I intentionally approach filmmaking to show the full breadth of Black expression and humanity; especially with this film, we tried to tell a more intimate story about her journey with motherhood and infertility.”

Bolan highlighted his previous film, *A Secret Love*, to explain his perspective on why documentarians are so important. “Creating a documentary requires dedication and teaches us the importance of perseverance. I try to build trust with my subjects by ensuring they are co-creators in the storytelling process,” he shared. “I work with them to ensure their story is told in an authentic and compelling way, and that’s what Melissa and I did with *Satisfied.*”

It is this type of attention to detail and care that makes *Satisfied* such a compelling film. It not only highlights Goldsberry’s incredible talents but also the sacrifices an artist of her caliber makes to bring us a lifetime full of memories.

*Satisfied* hits U.S. theaters for a special three-day theatrical event via Fathom Events through October 2.

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acting, biography, comedy, entertainment, film

5 iconic Michael Keaton characters you must remember

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**5 Iconic Michael Keaton Characters You Must Remember**
*By Vinita Jain | Sep 29, 2025 | 04:57 PM*

Michael Keaton, a versatile actor, has delivered some unforgettable performances over the years. From intense dramas to quirky comedies, Keaton has done it all with unmatched finesse. Today, we look at five of his most memorable roles that showcase his range and talent.

Each of these characters gives us a glimpse of Keaton’s ability to switch between different genres and bring depth to his performances.

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### Beetlejuice – The Iconic Ghost

The character Beetlejuice marked a turning point in Keaton’s career. In the Tim Burton classic, he plays the titular mischievous ghost who helps a couple scare away new occupants from their home.

Keaton’s eccentric portrayal made Beetlejuice an instantly iconic role. His impeccable comedic timing and willingness to go over the top created a performance that remains unforgettable. The film itself has become a beloved classic, largely due to his originality in the role.

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### Birdman – A Washed-Up Actor’s Redemption

In *Birdman*, Keaton plays Riggan Thomson, a washed-up actor famous for his superhero role. Interestingly, this character parallels Keaton’s own career, adding layers to his performance.

The film explores themes of fame, identity, and redemption, following Riggan’s attempt to revive his career by directing and starring in a Broadway play. Keaton’s nuanced and compelling portrayal earned him an Academy Award nomination, showcasing his dramatic prowess.

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### Spotlight – Championing Investigative Journalism

Keaton’s role as Walter Robinson in *Spotlight* shines a light on the dedication of investigative journalists. The film centers around the Boston Globe’s Spotlight team uncovering child abuse within a powerful institution.

His authentic portrayal emphasizes perseverance and commitment to uncovering the truth, contributing significantly to the film’s critical success and impact.

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### The Founder – Ambition and Moral Complexity

In *The Founder*, Keaton takes on the role of Ray Kroc, the man responsible for making McDonald’s a global fast-food empire. The film traces Kroc’s rise from a struggling salesman to a business magnate.

Keaton embodies Kroc’s ambition and moral ambiguity, skillfully bringing depth to this real-life story about business challenges and ethical dilemmas.

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### Gung Ho – Bridging Cultures Through Comedy and Drama

*Gung Ho* showcases Keaton as Hunt Stevenson, an American introducing Japanese management techniques at a struggling Pennsylvania auto plant. The film blends comedy and drama as Stevenson works to bridge cultural gaps between workers and managers.

Keaton balances humor with the complex realities of cross-cultural interactions, demonstrating his ability to tackle both lighthearted and serious themes seamlessly.

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Michael Keaton’s body of work continues to impress audiences with its diversity and emotional depth. These five characters highlight why he remains one of Hollywood’s most memorable and skilled actors.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/michael-keaton-s-unforgettable-characters-a-list/story

american history, biography, politics

In Philly visit, Kamala Harris opens up about regrets in failed White House bid

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Former Vice President Kamala Harris discusses her new book “107 Days” in front of a packed audience at The Met in Philadelphia on Thursday night.
— TRIBUNE PHOTO/KYLAN WATSON

Before the discussion with former Vice President Kamala Harris, a line could be seen down North Broad Street outside The Met on Thursday.
— TRIBUNE PHOTO/KYLAN WATSON

Former Vice President Kamala Harris, right, on stage with Dawn Staley on Thursday at The Met.
— TRIBUNE PHOTO/KYLAN WATSON

The Met in North Philadelphia was filled to capacity on Thursday to hear former Vice President Kamala Harris tell her story in the second stop of her book tour for *107 Days*. The discussion was moderated by Philadelphia native, basketball star, and championship coach Dawn Staley, who asked Harris questions about why she wrote the book, the importance of family, and the characteristics of a good president.

“First to remember how unprecedented those 107 days were,” Harris said. “And I would also like history to recall and to point out that it was the closest election in the 21st century, so I decided to write a book.”

The book chronicles her failed presidential campaign and offers Harris’ perspective on critical moments in the election. It also outlines her own regrets about her decisions and performance during the campaign. Harris said she wanted to make sure her voice was present when the story is told for the history books.

She also talked about a conversation she had with Angela Merkel, the former chancellor of Germany, who told Harris to never let anyone make her cry.

“It was such an important moment for me—this world leader who had been doing it for 15 years at that level, who saw something about what was happening here and offered that type of advice,” Harris said.

Harris expressed gratefulness to the men and women in her life who have offered her advice that considered the realities of being the first woman president.

Throughout the conversation, she spoke frankly about the current political situation the country is in and encouraged everyone in attendance to continue to fight to make the country better.

“I wanted to see her, I wanted to hear what she has to say since the election,” said Barbara Long, an attendee at the event. “For the time she had, I thought she did great, but I think a lot of people were disappointed. I love her and I’m still supporting her.”

Long mentioned she wanted to hear about Harris’ plans for the future. While Harris did not delve into that topic during the conversation, she did talk about how she predicted many developments during the second Trump administration—except for the capitulation from the private sector, colleges and universities, and other organizations in the country.

“I’m hoping to hear what she went through,” said Dana Boone, a Pennsylvania resident who attended the event. “I know it took a toll on her mentally, probably physically. I want to hear how she was able to get through those 107 days.”

Harris touched on some behind-the-scenes moments, specifically around election night and how she had not cried like she did that night since her mother’s death. She also talked about the toll that campaigning took on her marriage to Doug Emhoff, who was worried about the results in Pennsylvania.

Additionally, Harris said that until she started creating the book, the two had not talked about what happened on election night and how traumatic it was for them.

“There’s a certain clarity [from crying] that comes with that about seeing what’s important and what’s not,” Harris said. “Trying to understand the importance of being a leader who understands the suffering of other people and then trying to do something about it to lift them up.”

During the event, Staley asked Harris questions from the audience that touched on the importance of Gen Zers, investing in children and future generations, teaching the history of the country, and the fear around censorship.

“Instead of constantly trying to divide our nation and create fear and a sense of loneliness, part of why I wrote the book is to remind us to pay attention,” Harris said.

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The Philadelphia Tribune hosted its 2025 Most Influential African Americans event Thursday evening, September 18, 2025. The event celebrates and honors Black Philadelphians who are making a significant impact throughout the area.
https://www.phillytrib.com/news/local_news/in-philly-visit-kamala-harris-opens-up-about-regrets-in-failed-white-house-bid/article_7f9a24c1-b0f2-4272-b999-4e0103570b1a.html

acting, biography, cinema, entertainment, film

5 milestones that made Dev Patel a Hollywood star

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**5 Milestones That Made Dev Patel a Hollywood Star**
*By Vinita Jain | Sep 24, 2025, 06:02 PM*

Dev Patel has carved a prominent place for himself in Hollywood thanks to his versatile roles and powerful performances. From his early days as a young star in *Slumdog Millionaire* to becoming an acclaimed actor, Patel has consistently demonstrated his range and depth. Here are five key milestones that define his remarkable journey in the film industry, each showcasing his talent, dedication, and ability to embody diverse characters.

### Early Success: Breakthrough Role in *Slumdog Millionaire*
Dev Patel’s career truly took off with the 2008 film *Slumdog Millionaire*. The movie was both a critical and commercial sensation, winning eight Academy Awards. Patel’s portrayal of Jamal Malik earned him international recognition and established him as a leading actor to watch. His ability to convey deep emotion and resilience in this role set the tone for his future projects.

### International Recognition: Acclaimed Performance in *Lion*
In 2016, Patel received widespread acclaim for his role in *Lion*. The film, based on a true story, follows a man searching for his lost family in India after being adopted by an Australian couple. Patel’s deeply authentic and heartfelt performance brought the story to life, earning him multiple prestigious award nominations, including an Academy Award nod for Best Supporting Actor.

### Diverse Characters: Versatile Roles in *The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel*
Patel showcased his versatility in *The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel*, where he played Sonny Kapoor, a young Indian hotelier with big dreams. This delightful mix of humor and drama allowed Patel to demonstrate his charm and chemistry with the ensemble cast. His performance was a shining example of his ability to breathe life into a wide range of characters.

### Artistic Acclaim: Leading Role in *The Green Knight*
In 2021, Patel took on the challenging lead role of Sir Gawain in *The Green Knight*, a retelling of the Arthurian legend praised for its artistic vision and storytelling. His nuanced and complex portrayal was met with critical praise, as the film gave him the opportunity to explore darker themes and showcase the depth of his acting skills.

### Creative Storytelling: Impactful Presence in *The Personal History of David Copperfield*
In 2019, Patel starred in *The Personal History of David Copperfield*, directed by Armando Iannucci. This modern adaptation of Charles Dickens’s classic novel featured Patel as the titular character, bringing charm, wit, and a fresh perspective to the beloved story. His performance highlighted not only his comedic timing but also his dramatic prowess.

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Dev Patel’s career is a testament to his adaptability and dedication to his craft. Each of these milestones reflects his growth as an actor and his continued influence in Hollywood. As he takes on new and diverse roles, audiences eagerly anticipate what this talented star will do next.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/dev-patel-s-hollywood-journey-5-career-highlights/story