Houston
Houston remembers late Ishola Balogun, Presidential Candidate of the UPD
Tragically, His Excellency Ishola Balogun, Presidential Candidate of the United Democratic Party, passed away in Nigeria while endeavoring to start a rice farm for the people of Nigeria, exemplifying his commitment to agricultural development and empowering his fellow citizens
“So, my people you cannot operate a Ferrari with kerosene, it seems we are asking a group of people who don’t understand the principles of basic mathematics to solve a calculus problem. I submit to you my brothers and sisters unless we want to continue turning over the running of the prison to the inmates, it’s time to change course completely…”
These are some of the words of His Excellency I. Ishola Balogun, Presidential Candidate of the United Democratic Party, who passed away in September 2022 after a brief illness.
On 20 September 2018, his he declared his intention to contest the seat of the No 1 citizen of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in Akure, Ondo State. Since this date, he had relentlessly fought through his party platform, the United Democratic Party, to become the President of Nigeria.
Isiaka Ishola Balogun, fondly known as IIB, was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, friend, and community leader popular in both Houston and Nigeria. His untimely passing has left a void in the hearts of those who knew him, as he was a man deeply loved and respected by many in his community. Born in Owo, Ondo State, Nigeria, IIB had a profound love for his homeland. However, his impact extended far beyond his native country.
As an American-based Nigerian businessman and respected statesman, he possessed a unique perspective on various matters, particularly in the realms of foreign and domestic policies. His insightful views and distinct approach made him a compelling figure in political discussions. The news of IIB’s entry into the Nigerian presidential sweepstakes in 2019 was thrilling for many Nigerians. With his extensive experience, exceptional leadership qualities, and deep understanding of both American and Nigerian contexts, his candidacy brought a fresh and interesting dimension to the presidential campaign.
His words and catchphrases were very philosophical and deeply persuasive. For instance, in one of his 2019 presidential campaign rallies, he said, “We have Senators that don’t know the difference between a bill and legislation; representatives that don’t know the real reasons for a debate; a military that does not protect or uphold our constitution; a Police that can’t differentiate between law enforcement and crime prevention; a judiciary of judges who have been on the bench before the constitution they are asked to interpret was enacted; and an executive branch that thinks making excuses and rationalizing failures in public policy….”
Running as a presidential aspirant on the platform of the United Democratic Party (UDP), IIB was motivated by a genuine desire to give his best for all Nigerians and his beloved fatherland. His vision and commitment to serving the nation were unwavering, and he aimed to make a positive difference in the lives of his fellow citizens.His accomplishments spanned various fields.
In a release made available by his beloved wife, Tina Ebe Balogun on behalf of the family, “Isiaka Ishola Balogun’s legacy as a visionary leader, entrepreneur, and advocate for progress will forever be cherished. His contributions to the Nigerian community in Houston and his beloved Nigeria will be remembered as a testament to his unwavering dedication and love for his country and its people. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
He made history as the first African in Houston to be featured on Cable Television, with appearances on Comcast and Dish Network. As the founder of A.M.E.N Networks, he brought African Music Entertainment News to audiences, leaving an indelible mark on the media industry. He was also involved in the Houston Punch Newspaper and AMEN Radio, further demonstrating his passion for communication and connecting people through various platforms. Notably, IIB’s movie, “My Husband’s Secret Life,” became the first African movie premier at an AMC cinema studio, a testament to his creative pursuits and determination to showcase African talent to a wider audience. Above all, IIB’s love for Nigeria was exemplified in his actions. In 2019, he fearlessly campaigned and received a presidential nomination as a candidate for the United Democratic Party, a Third Force in Nigerian politics.
His dedication to the betterment of his country was evident, even in his final days. Tragically, IIB passed away in Nigeria while endeavoring to start a rice farm for the people of Nigeria, exemplifying his commitment to agricultural development and empowering his fellow citizens.
In a release made available by his beloved wife, Tina Ebe Balogun on behalf of the family, “Isiaka Ishola Balogun’s legacy as a visionary leader, entrepreneur, and advocate for progress will forever be cherished. His contributions to the Nigerian community in Houston and his beloved Nigeria will be remembered as a testament to his unwavering dedication and love for his country and its people. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
On Saturday, June 24, 2003, at the RCCG on 8508 West Belfort in Houston, a memorial event will be held to honor the life and achievements of Ishola Balogun. This event starts at 5:30 pm.
For more information about this event, please call Pastor Felix: at 713-296-9491; or Tina Ebe Balogun, at 281-300-0645.
- Texas’ 18th Congressional District Runoff: Amanda Edwards Deserves This Seat - December 18, 2025
- Turnout, Trust, and Ground Game: What Decided Houston’s Runoff Elections - December 14, 2025
- When Power Doesn’t Need Permission: Nigeria and the Collapse of a Gambian Coup Plot - December 14, 2025
“Her persistence and long-term investment make a clear case: she has earned this opportunity.“ —Anthony Obi Ogbo
In the special election to fill Texas’s 18th Congressional District, no candidate won a majority on November 4, 2025, leading to a January 31, 2026, runoff between Democratic frontrunners Christian Menefee and Amanda Edwards. Menefee, Harris County Attorney, led the field with roughly 29% of the vote, while former Houston City Council member Edwards finished second with about 26%. Both are vying to represent a district left vacant after the death of U.S. Rep. Sylvester Turner.
The 18th Congressional District is far more than a geographic area. Anchored in Houston’s historic Black communities, it is a political and cultural stronghold shaped by civil rights history, faith institutions, and grassroots activism. Sheila Jackson Lee represented this district for nearly three decades (1995–2024), becoming more than a legislator—she was a constant presence at churches, funerals, protests, and community milestones. For residents, her leadership carried spiritual weight, reflecting stewardship, protection, and a deep, almost pastoral guardianship of the district. Her tenure symbolized continuity, cultural pride, and a profound connection with the people she served.
Houstonians watched as Jackson Lee entered the 2023 Houston mayoral race, attempting to transition from Congress to city leadership. Despite high-profile endorsements, including outgoing Mayor Sylvester Turner and national Democratic figures, she lost the December 9, 2023, runoff to State Senator John Whitmire by a wide margin. Following that defeat, Jackson Lee filed to run for re-election to her U.S. House seat, even as Edwards—who had briefly joined the mayoral race before withdrawing—remained in the congressional primary.
At that time, Jackson Lee’s health was visibly declining, yet voters still supported her, honoring decades of service. She defeated Edwards in the 2024 Democratic primary before announcing her battle with pancreatic cancer. Her passing in July 2024 left the seat vacant.
Edwards, already a candidate, sought to fill the seat, but timing and party rules intervened. Because Jackson Lee died too late for a regular primary, Harris County Democratic Party precinct chairs selected a replacement nominee. Former Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, a retired but widely respected figure, narrowly edged out Edwards for the nomination, effectively blocking her despite her prior campaigning efforts. Turner won the general election but died in March 2025, triggering a special election in 2025, in which Edwards advanced to a runoff.
The January 31, 2026, runoff will hinge on turnout, coalition-building, and key endorsements. Both candidates led a crowded November field but fell short of a majority, with Menefee narrowly ahead. Endorsements such as State Rep. Jolanda Jones’ support for Edwards could consolidate key Democratic blocs, particularly among Black women and progressive voters. In a heavily Democratic district where voter confusion and turnout patterns have been inconsistent, the candidate who best mobilizes supporters and unites constituencies is likely to prevail.
Amanda Edwards’ case is compelling. Although both candidates share similar values and qualifications, her claim rests on dedication, consistency, and timing that have been repeatedly denied. She pursued this seat with focus and purpose, maintaining a steady commitment to the district and its future. Her path was interrupted by the prolonged political ambitions of Jackson Lee and Turner—figures whose stature reshaped the race but delayed generational transition. Edwards did not step aside; she remained visible, engaged, and prepared. In a moment demanding both continuity and renewal, her persistence and long-term investment make a clear case: she has earned this opportunity.
This race comes down to trust, perseverance, and demonstrated commitment. Amanda Edwards has consistently shown up for the district, even when political circumstances repeatedly delayed her chance. Her dedication reflects readiness, respect for the electorate, and an unwavering commitment to service. Voting for Amanda Edwards is not only justified—it is the right choice for Houston’s 18th Congressional District.
♦Publisher of the Guardian News, Professor Anthony Obi Ogbo, Ph.D., is on the Editorial Board of the West African Pilot News. He is the author of the Influence of Leadership (2015) and the Maxims of Political Leadership (2019). Contact: anthony@guardiannews.us
- Texas’ 18th Congressional District Runoff: Amanda Edwards Deserves This Seat - December 18, 2025
- Turnout, Trust, and Ground Game: What Decided Houston’s Runoff Elections - December 14, 2025
- When Power Doesn’t Need Permission: Nigeria and the Collapse of a Gambian Coup Plot - December 14, 2025
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.
- Texas’ 18th Congressional District Runoff: Amanda Edwards Deserves This Seat - December 18, 2025
- Turnout, Trust, and Ground Game: What Decided Houston’s Runoff Elections - December 14, 2025
- When Power Doesn’t Need Permission: Nigeria and the Collapse of a Gambian Coup Plot - December 14, 2025
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
- Texas’ 18th Congressional District Runoff: Amanda Edwards Deserves This Seat - December 18, 2025
- Turnout, Trust, and Ground Game: What Decided Houston’s Runoff Elections - December 14, 2025
- When Power Doesn’t Need Permission: Nigeria and the Collapse of a Gambian Coup Plot - December 14, 2025
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