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Houston African leaders mourn departed former Mayor, Rep. Sylvester Turner

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10 months ago

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The city of Houston was enveloped in sorrow today as news spread of the passing of Rep. Sylvester Turner (D-Texas), a freshman congressman who was sworn into office just two months ago. Turner, a beloved figure in Houston, was 70 years old at the time of his passing.

Turner died Tuesday night after suffering a medical emergency. His family said he went to the hospital on Tuesday night in Washington D.C. He was let go but sadly passed away at home at 5:45 a.m. on Wednesday because of some health problems he had been dealing with. He was 70 years old and had just taken the oath of office in January. Turner previously faced bone cancer. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., later confirmed Turner’s death in a statement Wednesday, calling the former Houston mayor an “iconic leader” and a “fighter until the end.”

The shocking news was revealed during a city council session in Houston on Wednesday morning, causing unease among those in attendance. The Mayor, John Whitmire, was visibly moved by the news, a rare display of emotion from the typically composed leader. This unexpected turn of events has left everyone in disbelief. In response, Mayor Whitmire urged Houstonians to unite, offer prayers for the family affected, and join in honoring the remarkable public servant involved.

The news of the former mayor’s death deeply impacted the African community, where he was highly regarded. Community leaders were at a loss for words, struggling to accept the shocking revelation.

Professor Chris Chinwe Ulasi, former President of the Ndi-Ichie Cultural Association and Cultural Director of IgboFest Houston, expressed that Mayor Sylvester Turner was more than just a leader for Houston. He described Turner as a champion for the arts and culture that bring vibrancy to our city. Ulasi emphasized that during Turner’s time in office, his unwavering support enabled organizations like the Ndi-Ichie Cultural Association, the creators of IgboFest Houston, to flourish. This support helped foster creativity and community connections that will have a lasting impact on future generations.

Ulasi praised Turner’s vision and dedication to Houston’s multicultural landscape, noting that it was transformative. He expressed deep gratitude for the legacy that Turner leaves behind. Ulasi also highlighted Turner’s leadership in leading a delegation of industry leaders and government officials to West Africa towards the end of his second term as Mayor of Houston. Dr. Ulasi said, “Turner led a strong contingent comprising captains of industry and government officials to West Africa towards the end of his second term as Mayor of Houston. Today, we mourn his passing but celebrate the indelible mark he left on our city and its people.”

Kay Elegbede, the International Community Liaison Manager in the Mayor’s Office of International Affairs, described Turner as a towering figure who served Houston with pride and united people from all walks of life. “Mayor Whitmire said he and Turner supported each other at their political campaigns, and Turner asked him to speak at his mother’s funeral. They have been friends long before recent politics moved them apart. He will be leading the celebration of the life and achievements of his friend Sylvester Turner just as he honored Congressman Sheila Jackson Lee,” Elegbede said.

Tunde Fasina, owner of the Wazobia African Market, described the mayor as an inspiring mentor, a tireless leader who led with grace and compassion, and a cherished friend. “His guidance and dedication left a lasting impact on all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be deeply missed. May God grant his soul eternal rest,” he said.

High Chief Obinna Mbachu, the Chairman Emeritus of the Peoples Club of Nigeria, First International Branch in Sugar Land, praised Turner as a valuable friend to the African Community. He commended Turner for his unwavering support and dedication to promoting unity and empowerment within the African community in Sugar Land. Chief Mbachu highlighted Turner’s efforts in organizing cultural events, providing resources for education and entrepreneurship, and advocating for the rights of African immigrants. He expressed gratitude for Turner’s commitment to fostering a strong sense of belonging and solidarity among members of the community and emphasized the importance of allies like him in advancing the interests of the African diaspora in their new home. Chief Mbachu concluded by stating that Turner’s friendship and collaboration were instrumental in achieving progress and prosperity for all members of the African community in Sugar Land.

Turner grew up in a fabulous neighborhood in Houston called Acres Homes. He attended college at the University of Houston and then Harvard Law School. After that, he became a lawyer and started his law firm. In 1988, he got elected to the Texas House and stayed there for almost 30 years. Then, in 2015, he became the mayor of Houston.

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Turnout, Trust, and Ground Game: What Decided Houston’s Runoff Elections

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4 days ago

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December 14, 2025

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Low-turnout runoff races for Houston City Council and Houston Community College trustee seats revealed how message discipline, local credibility, and voter mobilization determined clear winners—and decisive losers.

The final ballots are counted, and Houston’s runoff elections have delivered clear outcomes in two closely watched local races, underscoring a familiar truth of municipal politics: in low-turnout elections, organization and credibility matter more than name recognition alone.

In the race for Houston City Council At-Large Position 4, Alejandra Salinas secured a decisive victory, winning 25,710 votes (59.27%) over former council member Dwight A. Boykins, who garnered 17,669 votes (40.73%). The margin was not accidental. Salinas ran a campaign tightly aligned with voter anxiety over public safety and infrastructure—two issues that consistently dominate Houston’s civic conversations. Her emphasis on keeping violent criminals off city streets and expanding Houston’s water supply spoke directly to quality-of-life concerns that resonate across districts, especially in an at-large contest where candidates must appeal to the city as a whole.

Salinas’ win reflects the advantage of message clarity. In a runoff, voters are not looking to be introduced to candidates—they are choosing between candidates they are already familiar with. Salinas presented herself as forward-looking and solutions-oriented, while Boykins, despite his experience and political history, struggled to reframe his candidacy beyond familiarity. In runoffs, nostalgia rarely outperforms momentum.

The second race—for Houston Community College District II trustee—followed a similar pattern. Renee Jefferson Patterson won with 2,497 votes (56.63%), defeating Kathleen “Kathy” Lynch Gunter, who received 1,912 votes (43.37%). Though the raw numbers were smaller, the dynamics were just as telling.

Patterson’s victory was powered by deep local ties and a clear institutional vision. As an HCC alumna, she effectively positioned herself as both a product and a steward of the system. Her pledge to expand the North Forest Campus and direct resources to Acres Home connected policy goals to place-based advocacy. In trustee races, voters often respond less to ideology and more to proximity—those who understand the campus, the students, and the neighborhood. Patterson checked all three boxes.

By contrast, Gunter’s loss highlights the challenge of overcoming a candidate with genuine community roots in a runoff scenario. Without a sharply differentiated message or a strong geographic base, turnout dynamics tend to favor candidates with existing neighborhood networks and direct institutional relevance.

What ultimately decided both races was not a surprise, but execution. Runoffs reward campaigns that can re-mobilize supporters, simplify their message, and convert familiarity into trust. Salinas and Patterson did exactly that. Their opponents, though credible, were unable to expand or energize their coalitions in a compressed electoral window.

The lesson from Houston’s runoff elections is straightforward but unforgiving: winners win because they align message, identity, and ground game. Losers lose because, in low-turnout contests, anything less than that alignment is insufficient.

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Houston and Owerri Community Mourn the Passing of Beloved Icon, Lawrence Mike Obinna Anozie

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3 months ago

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October 3, 2025

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Houston was thrown into mourning on September 19, 2025, following the sudden passing of businessman and community advocate Lawrence Mike Obinna Anozie, who peacefully joined his ancestors. Immediate family member in Houston, Nick Anozie, confirmed his untimely death and expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and condolences from both the Houston and Owerri communities.

Lawrence was born to Chief Alexander and Lolo Ether Anozie of Owerri in Imo State, Nigeria, and will be dearly remembered by family members, friends, and the entire Houston community.

An accomplished accountant, the late Lawrence incorporated and successfully managed three major companies: Universal Insurance Company, LLC, Universal Mortgage LLC, and Universal Financial Services. Through these enterprises, he not only built a thriving business career but also created opportunities for countless individuals to achieve financial stability. His contributions to entrepreneurship and community development will remain a lasting legacy.

According to the family, arrangements for his final funeral rites are in progress and will be announced in due course.

Lawrence will forever be remembered as a loving and compassionate man who dedicated much of his life to uplifting others. He helped countless young Nigerians and African Americans overcome economic challenges by providing mentorship, financial guidance, and career opportunities. His generosity touched the lives of many who otherwise might not have found their footing. A devout Catholic, he was unwavering in his faith and never missed Mass, drawing strength and inspiration from his church community. To those who knew him, Lawrence was not only a successful businessman but also a pillar of kindness, humility, and faith whose legacy of service and compassion will continue to inspire generations.

For more information, please contact Nick Anozie – 832-891-2213

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Houston Gets a Taste of West Africa at Chef Kavachi’s ‘Art of Fufu’ Show, August 8

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5 months ago

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July 30, 2025

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When it comes to international culinary gems and cultures across the United States, the city of Houston is counted among one of the best places to experience an authentic taste of every corner of the world.

 On the evening of Friday, August 8th, Houstonians will have a chance to engage all of their senses into the world of real West African flavors at Grubido’s ‘Art of Fufu’ Food & Art Show, a free culinary and art experience taking place at Flatland Gallery (1709 Westheimer Rd.) in Montrose.

  Curated by Grubido founder and Culinary Cultural Curator Kavachi Ukegbu, the annual celebration of west African cuisine and artistry will once again open its doors to patrons to witness the delights of creating and eating Fufu (a starchy, dough-like food that is a staple in many West and Central African countries), and its delicious and diverse pairings of soups and stews that originate from various parts of the continent, and uniquely compliment the beloved food staple as a complete meal. The event will also celebrate the observance of National Fufu Day  in the United States on August 11th.

  From the process of how different types of fufu are grown and manufactured, to the careful guidance on properly preparing the fufu to be eaten, the ‘Art of Fufu’ Food & Art showcase will give patrons a full circle perspective and appreciation for the food staple that has gained global popularity on social media and in many countries around the world.

  Attendees will be treated to fufu and soup samples, live Afrobeats music, an impressive display of fufu inspired artwork and collectables from over the years, and the opportunity to purchase Grubido food products, t-shirts, and the official The Art of Fufu cookbook. Originally published and released by Chef Kavach in 2021, “The Art of Fufu is a fascinating and informative guide to fufu, one of the most delicious and beloved staple foods of West Africans.” All cookbook purchases at the event will be signed by Chef Kavachi.

Entry for this event is free to all guests, but RSVP is strictly required in advance. To RSVP for the upcoming Art of Fufu Food & Art show, please visit the official website online at www.TheArtofFufu.com, or contact Grubido at (832) 818-6847.

The Art of Fufu Cookbook is a culinary treasure that explores the flavors, techniques, and cultural significance of fufu. It is a testament to the artistry of West African cuisine and serves as a guide for those seeking to immerse themselves in this beloved dish.

For more information, please visit www.theartoffufu.com & www.artoffufu.com

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