The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Oreoluwa Olusola: Perfume making is for dreamers

    Oreoluwa Olusola: Perfume making is for dreamers

    Oreoluwa Olusola is passionate about perfumes. She manages Seinde Signature and the Salon perfume. In this encounter with Yetunde Oladeinde, she talks about working on luxury items, rewarding loyal customers, traveling to Milan, Italy, and UK as well her collection of exclusive niche fragrances.

    What does managing a place like this mean to you?

    It is a family business and more than just making a profit. Also, it’s a passion carrying on with what my dad was able to start. Just creating something that we hope we can continue with. As long as I have known my dad has always had a huge perfume collection. It was during COVID that he started posting on Instagram and people would come around. 

    How has this influenced or changed your personality?

    I didn’t use to pay attention to scents before. It had helped to strengthen my nose and then it has also opened me up to a lot of things that I did not know about. How humans smell, and how humans think about smell. For example, your nose is actually trained. Biologically, what you smell first are things that smell bad. That way, your nose is telling you there is danger around. That is why bad scents can affect you more than good ones.

     How would you describe the business of perfumes, luxury items?

    There has been a lot of growth and I think people are becoming more and more interested because they are tired of smelling like everybody else. A lot of customers come in and say that they don’t want something they would wear and be predictable, that someone would know what they are wearing. We have over 30 brands and just signed on a few brands as well. They are niche perfumes, not popularly circulated. They make them in small quantities and they have higher quality materials.

    Who are your targets?

     Our targets cover the average person to the top class. At the end of the day, we have people who come in and buy like ten bottles. We also value the customers who would come in and just want to get something to trip their personality.

    What do you look out for to make a difference?

    In terms of business, it is definitely the quality, the history, and the reason why the brand was started.  As long as I have known, my dad has always had a huge perfume collection.  It was during COVID that he started posting on Instagram and then people would say they want to see this perfume or that. So people would come in to talk about the perfume, which was before we decided to create the studio. In the beginning, I had no idea where we were going with it. It was really about him then. I was learning and hearing about perfumes, and then I started to understand what they see.

    What has it done to your personal style and taste?

    I am a bit more refined. I have a better nose for quality now. I feel like back then, I would not have been able to tell the difference but now I can. If it’s fake or something else, I can tell from the smell. A lot of improvements, also when it comes to meeting people.

    Do you have a collector’s club?

    That is actually a good idea. We have people who are collectors but we do not call ourselves a club. We have people meet up to talk about perfumes and have group chats and my dad is part of these people.  Social media has helped a lot. It is our main source of marketing and advertising. It’s a very affordable way to reach people and it also helps you to target specific people.

    You had a competition last year, what was the outcome?

    It was a wonderful experience. We took the winners to Milan and London for the perfume fair. When you go there, you will see all the perfumes that you can possibly imagine. We took them to London where we were hosted by one of our brands Electimuss and they also gave out free perfumes. It was very interesting. This year we have rolled out plans for our Scentiversary and we are also going to reward loyal customers the same way we did last year.

    Would you say that the perfume world is a dream world or a reality?

    It’s for dreamers. When you go somewhere, you may think that you know all this but when you go out, you will see things that you have never seen before. Also, some of the ingredients are things that you have never heard of before.

    What advice do you have for Nigerian women?

    I think they should spoil themselves a little with luxury items such as this. Something a lot of them tell me is that they wouldn’t buy perfumes themselves. Instead, they would rather men buy perfumes for them, so they don’t need to. However, I think that the person buying may not know your taste. You may not be able to find what is individually yours. I think that we should from time to time pamper ourselves and go out of our way to find something unique for ourselves.

    What are the other things that occupy your time?

    Work occupies a lot of my time, I go out with my friends. I am very interested in fashion and I am hoping at some point when the brand is stable I could possibly incorporate fashion into it or collaborate with someone. I haven’t fully fleshed it out but I know that there is a possibility.

    Are there challenges in the sector?

    A lot. There is a lot of competition with other retailers. There is this thing called the grey market, where there are a lot of fake perfumes, unlike the original brands. As distributors, we sell at the same price as our brands in different parts of the world. Sometimes, we look at the price and may have to change the price tags

    Where do you see the business in the next few years?

    I see us having a lot more stores. We opened in Abuja last month and then we are opening another in Ikeja on  Awolowo Road. We are hoping that in the next few years, we would have expanded and have stores in the major cities across the country and a few others outside.

    Tell us about your favorite travel destinations.

    I have not been to as many places as I would have liked but of all the places that I have been to, I think Milan is the best. My favorite. I like how in the middle of the day, they all stop working and just relax. They don’t do the 9 to 5 thing. Even restaurants are closed and they just relax and then go back to work. Even, just how they live their life. They are not just focused on, work, work and work the way we do here.

    What type of books do you like to read?

    The last book I read was Animal Farm by George Orwell. I really like reading prose. I used to read a lot of marketing books but now I am more interested in stories, stories that have a point.

    Do you also write?

    Yes, I studied Mass Communications. At the time, I wanted to be a scriptwriter. I would then write a lot of stuff and give my lecturers but I never really developed it. Later on, I hope I can still go back to that. I don’t have favorite actors, instead, I have favorite directors, especially American producers. If I see a scene in their movie, out of context, I would know it. In Nigeria, there is a guy who does horror and I feel that he is very unique.

    What advice do you have for young Nigerians now?

    To be honest, I think Nigeria is a very difficult place and I feel like whatever you get, make the best of it. I have friends who are looking for jobs.

  • Patience Ikiroma-Owiye: How I decided to be voice for my people

    Patience Ikiroma-Owiye: How I decided to be voice for my people

    Patience Ikiroma- Owiye is a youth activists model, beauty pageant host, International Peace Ambassador, and first female Councillor in Ward 10 Degema Legislative Assemblyin Rivers State.  In this interview with Yetunde Oladeinde, she takes you into her world, motivation, challenges, breaking boundaries and more.

    Tell us about your experience as the first female councilor of Ward 10, Degema LGA.

    My journey to becoming the first female councilor of Degema Ward 10, Tombia was not an easy one, especially in a male-dominated environment. All I can say today is that the grace of God has been my guide.

    How many people will believe that a young girl like me could have come out victorious in a battle against other influential aspirants of 14 persons that included  11 men? I was the youngest amongst them, there

    were Ward leaders whose interests were in other aspirants other than me because they preferred a male candidate considering the peculiarity of the ward.

     It was a wonderful experience and I have always thanked God for the victory. In reminiscing about the events that led to my nomination and consequent victory at the polls, I will like to mention and appreciate the immediate past Governor of Rivers State, His Excellency Chief Barr. Nyesom Ezenwo Wike for his support to women in the State.

    What inspired you to go into Politics?

     I am a very vocal person. So, as a vocal woman, I was moved by the misfits we had in the system before now. Hence, I decided to be a voice for my people by being a Youth Leader which made me the First

    Female Youth Secretary of Tombia Youth Federation. I also didn’t want to be an onlooker and complainer. So, I went further by contesting as a Councillor in my Ward and I emerged as the First Female Councillor of my Ward. I believe that this is the best way for me to take part in

    the business of change. This I like to link with President Nana Akufo Addo of Ghana who advised Ghanaians in his first inaugural address this way: “Don’t be a spectator but be a participant”. I, therefore, thought it was wise I participated in the process together for a new Rivers vision.

    What are some of the achievements and challenges?

    I will like to begin with the challenges. First, I will say that I do not see these challenges as barriers or setbacks. But they were rather to equip me because, in everything one does in life, there are bound to be challenges. The only difference is the form, way, or manner in which these challenges come to us. And we get the better part of it rather than the challenges getting a better part of us.

    I started facing challenges in my current position right from the beginning. I contested with men of caliber and thereby had difficulty in acceptance as a woman to rule in a male-dominated environment. Luckily, I have gotten past that stage now.

    Currently, my challenge is giving my best to the good people of Delga Ward 10, Tombia which I represent in the Legislative Assembly. I have a lot of programs mapped out for my people but the requisite resources are lacking coupled with the steady inflation rate which today stands

    at 22.7  percent or thereabout. If you draw a budget for a constituency project with a total cost within feasible means and you are certain of success. Then suddenly, everything would skyrocket and the budget would be far beyond the actual price of materials and services.

    Also, the expectations of the people are quite at their peak as well.Most constituents feel much is given to everyone with the title “Honourable” whereas, the only thing attached to the “Honourable” title is my first name and nothing else. There is no constituency project allotted to me of any sort. Whatever project or program I carry out is absolutely from my basic salary.

    In terms of achievements, the topmost responsibility of any lawmaker at any level is responsible representation. The main aim of being the voice of my people in the Degema Legislative Assembly is purposefully passing people-oriented bylaws which are in review. Also, anti-people policies have been vehemently taken care of accordingly.

    Nevertheless, I have been able to put smiles on the faces of my people every month in terms of cash gifts. I look forward to empowering more people from the Ward in the coming months as well as carrying out a human capacity development program for the people.

    We don’t receive extra packages as Councillors yet we would strive towards making lives better for our constituents at all times. Their happiness should be enough achievement for us.

    What is your assessment of the performance of women in the area?

     In assessing the performance of women in the Local Government, ethnic or even Senatorial area, I  rate them very high. From various levels, my area has been top-notch, especially in the aspect of politics.

    Women don’t just occupy offices but they also perform expediently, effectively, and efficiently.

    For instance, if you look at the profile of the immediate past deputy governor, Dr. Mrs. Ipalibo Harry Banigo who’s from my LGA and now the Present Senator Representing Rivers West Senatorial District, and also Sen. Betty Apiafi, the immediate past Senator from my District, you would understand what I mean. You can see the number of bills sponsored in the Red Chambers and their track records.

    We are never intimidated while defending our rights and the interest of the good people we represent as well as Nigerians at large. In this case, I refer you to ask more about the person of Hon. Boma Goodhead, Member, House of Reps. representing my other home, Asari-Toru/Akuku-Toru Federal Constituency. I can go on and on. Women are doing very well in my area.

    In business too, I would refer us to the likes of Dr. Mrs. Seinye Lulu Briggs who is doing wonders with La Sien Waters. Still, away from the political arena, we also have our human rights amazon Annkio Briggs,

    Princess Deborah Abbey, Mercy Akide (former Super Falcons star), Hilda Dokubo, Agbani Darego, and lots more.

    Generally speaking women in my area especially Degema Ward 10, are resilient, industrious, and very hardworking. They strive to excel in everything they put their hands and minds to do.

    What has been the experience of breaking boundaries as an International Model?

     It actually feels like going over hurdles to attain certain things unimagined. The experience is good and fulfilling, especially considering the days of little beginning and the times you stood alone without support and some people who didn’t believe you’ll make it this far. But I must say that we are not there yet and we’re still pushing. God willing, we’ll get there.

    Breaking these boundaries and going above limits is quite a competitive one like that of the IMUN where you have to debate on international issues with over a hundred countries and then finally be recognised as one of the Top Ten countries and be given an Award. That’s a great achievement! It’s just about me adding value to my existence.

    I am still striving to break more boundaries because I intend to be a model to my generation, especially in this era where morals are been washed down the drain and there are lots of misconceptions about

    thriving young ladies. I belong to the generation of women who can achieve whatever they set their minds on without having a dent in their image. I want to be the difference the World wants to see.

    How would you describe your experience as a Manager at 13 Fatman Films and how it influenced the things you do?

    The thought alone gives me some nostalgic feelings. It gives a lot of lovely memories and flashbacks. This reminds me of how I began my hustle as a movie production crew member. These were the days I worked as a manager for 13 Fatman’s Film which birthed an AMVCA’s Award Winning Movie “A Dagogo Diminas Film STIGMA” and “The Camera Girl behind the scene in the making of Hilda Dokubo’s movie ASAWANA” and so on. This was before I ventured into politics.

    So, being a manager at 13 Fatman Films really built and spurred me into the entertainment world and I  cherish every experience I had then as a manager. This was the beginning of how I got the enthusiasm

    to be hosting red carpets and taking part in organizing showbiz events.  I later went on to organise and host beauty Pageants in my home town Tombia in 2013 and 2014. It did influence me to realise my interest and passion in media and entertainment which I took as a part-time career.

    You have a number of recognitions like the International Peace Ambassador. What does this mean to you?

    The reason why I hosted beauty pageants in my community, Tombia was to bring togetherness after the pronouncement of Amnesty by the late President Musa Ya’r Adua and other volunteer Support. So it’s not much of a surprise to be recognised as one, especially from an International body like Relief International Africa.  It’s a rare privilege which I appreciate greatly.

    Secondly, I feel great about these recognitions because it comes with a sense of fulfillment and encouragement to push harder. It means a lot to me because it’s not entirely about me, it’s more of

    an encouragement to others to toe the path that’s worthy of reckoning. I am the most awarded Councillor in Rivers State. So, you see it’s something that we’ve put in so much work and integrity backed with the special grace of God as a Christian.

    It’s a Win for everybody as I represent a community, a tribe, a state, and the nation. It’s good to be celebrated when one is alive and thriving. As this gives more hope and strength to strive further.

    What are the other things that occupy your time?

    Aside from going for my Legislative duties because I am still in office, I love to write in my quiet times. In my spare time, I do event management and a little bit of media. I also love to take a tour of some good restaurants in town as am known as the Celebrity Choplife Councillor because of my social life, free-spiritedness, and love for good food, especially swallow.

    What are some of the changes that you would like to see in the country today?

     Obviously nothing short of seeing a country where the system works better. Even though it’s almost impossible to work perfectly. Hence, I wish to see a country where citizens abide by the rule of law regardless of status.

    A country where women are respected and given whatever is due to them, especially the 35 percent affirmative Action in government. A country and government where our fundamental human rights are highly respected and protected. A country where our security system is reformed for the better.

    An Industrialized country.A country where merit, skills, and hard work are appreciated. A country filled with peace, unity, love, and progress.

    Did you have mentors at the beginning? What has been their impact?

     Yes, I did have mentors and still do. My mentor of all time is Prof. Ngozi Okonjo Iweala. Though from afar, I’ve studied and learned how she maneuvers through her career, politics, and family without being

    broken but rather breaking barriers and grounds Internationally.  This has inspired me greatly to keep my head up.  In entertainment, I admire Genevieve Nnaji. Politically, my present Senator Dr. Mrs. Ipalibo Harry Banigo. As a young activist, I admire Mummy Annkio Briggs. Though there are other persons including men, like my Spiritual father, Pastor David Ibiyeomie whom I learn from every day. I draw inspiration from all these people and this has had a great impact on the different areas of my life and career.

  • INEC to Security agents: Take decisive action against purveyors of violence, undemocratic activities

    INEC to Security agents: Take decisive action against purveyors of violence, undemocratic activities

    Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, on Friday asked the nation’s security agencies to take decisive action against purveyors of violence and other undemocratic activities such as vote buying, attacks on election officials and disruption of the electoral process.

    Speaking at a meeting of the Interagency Consultative Committee on Election Security in Abuja, Prof. Yakubu said the security agencies can achieve this while still maintaining strict neutrality.

    He expressed concern over reports of violent clashes between opposition political parties and their candidates ahead of the governorship elections in Kogi, Imo and Bayelsa states.

    He said the commission and the security agencies need attention on the off-cycle governorship elections in the three states, especially with the commencement of campaigns ahead of the elections.

    He said: “As you are aware, election is a multi-stakeholder activity. Although INEC drives the process, a secure environment for the conduct of peaceful elections is the responsibility of the security agencies working in partnership with the Commission.

    Read Also; I have buried so many young people as a priest

    “The synergy enabled us to overcome many of the challenges prior to the 2023 general election, including the targeted attacks on INEC offices nationwide.

    “Indeed, the concern that the perennial insecurity in some parts of country before the election may make our deployment of personnel and materials, and consequently the conduct of polls, impossible did not materialise.

    “We wish to place on record our appreciation to the security agencies and other members of ICCES for the largely peaceful conduct of the polls.

    “We should draw lessons from the challenges that occurred for improved performance not only in the next general election but also in the by-elections, the eight off-cycle governorship elections and other electoral activities to be held over the next three years.

    “Similarly, during our interactive meetings with political parties, civil society organisations and the media, some specific security issues of concern were identified.

    “We assured them that their concerns will be tabled at this meeting for appropriate remedial action”.

    In his remarks, National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, commended the commission for conducting a successful general election, describing it as the best ever in the history of the country.

    Ribadu assured the commission of the continued readiness of the security services in ensuring the success of future elections in the country.

  • Shettima commends Nigerians in Russia on patriotism

    Shettima commends Nigerians in Russia on patriotism

    Vice President, Kashim Shettima has commended Nigerians in Russia for their patriotism and urged them to keep hope alive for a better Nigeria.

    Shettima made the commendation when members of the Nigerian Community in Russia met with him on the sideline of the 2nd Russia-Africa Economic and Humanitarian Summit.

    He said that the Federal Government is committed to the well-being of Nigerians and urged them to always be good ambassadors of their country.

    Earlier, Prof. Maurice Okoli, President of, Nigerian Community in Russia, appealed to the Federal Government to explore the opportunities provided by the Russia-Africa partnership forum to drive economic prosperity of the country.

    The 2nd Russia-Africa Economic and Humanitarian Summit took place in St. Petersburg, Russia on Thursday and Friday.

    While congratulating the Vice President on the outcome of the polls, Okoli said he would use his office to accomplish great things for Nigeria.

    “We have high expectations from you and we believe you will be able to use your skills and expertise to make Nigeria a global success.

    “We sincerely hope that the Vice President will use this opportunity to push forward Russia-Africa relations and specifically Russia-Nigerian economic cooperation,’’.

    In terms of Nigeria’s bilateral relationship and cooperation with Russia, Okoli appealed to the Federal Government to focus on oil and gas as well as the Ajaokuta steel complex,

    He listed other areas including agriculture and agro value chains, trade preference for the Nigerian producers and exporters, housing and road infrastructures and marine engineering and shipbuilding.

    “Others are defense and security, parliamentary ratification of Abuja Agreement (2009), exchange of prisoners and energy and energy-intensive industries,’’ Okoli said.

    He, however, expressed concern that Nigerians in Russia were experiencing difficulties due to Russia’s   special military operation in Ukraine.

    Read Also: Nigeria at new dawn, repositioned for greatness – Shettima

    “This is following the unprecedented sanction in the history of mankind slammed on Russia by the United States and European Union members and their close allies.

    “We are, therefore, humbly appealing for urgent assistance especially the domestication in Russia, some of the consular requirements that warrant us to travel to Nigeria,’’ he said.

    Okoli, however, applauded the cordial relationship between Nigerians and Russia.

    He said, “as the President of the Nigerian community, I would like to take this chance to inform you that Russia is playing host for more than 10,000 Nigerians.

    “And we as Nigerians live in peace and harmony in the Russian Federation.

    “Among us we have students, entrepreneurs, workers professionals and technocrats. Many of us have mixed families with the Russians.

    “We thank them for their love, kindness, professionalism and dedication to duty,’’ Okoli said. (NAN)

  • NNPP dissolves seven states’ EXCOs over anti-party activities

    NNPP dissolves seven states’ EXCOs over anti-party activities

    The New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) has dissolved the entire leadership of the party from the ward to the state levels in seven states of the federation for anti-party activities.

    The affected states are Enugu, Ekiti, Rivers, Niger, Katsina, Kaduna and Zamfara.

    The party also suspended its governorship candidate in the last general election in Enugu state, Cajetan Eze and the senatorial candidate for Enugu North, Prof. Onyeka A. Onyeka.

    Addressing a Press Conference after the National Working Committee meeting on Friday, National Publicity Secretary of the party, Dr. Agbo Major added that the party had, however, suspended action on the leadership of the party in Imo State because of the forthcoming governorship election in the state.

    He said the decision to dissolve the party leadership in the various states followed complaint from members of the party in the states and the report of the disciplinary committee which investigated the petitions.

    He said serious cases of gross anti-party activities were established against critical officers of the party in the affected atates.

    According to him, a 5-man Caretaker Committee had been constituted for the affected states with immediate effect.

    Read Also: Kano Election Tribunal: NNPP closes case without calling any witness

    He said in view of the forthcoming governorship election in Imo State and Local Government elections in Oyo State from where serious petitions were also received, the National Working Committee decided to step down action until the elections were conducted.

    The NWC, he added, had directed that all vacant positions in Imo State be immediately filled in accordance with the provisions of the party’s constitution.

    He appealed to members of the party in the affected states to remain calm and loyal as the party was being repositioned and strengthened in the quest for a new and better Nigeria which citizens desire and deserve.

    He asked the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct free, fair, credible and inclusive gubernatorial elections in Kogi, Imo and Bayelsa States, adding that “Nigerians expect transparent and generally acceptable elections in these states as we strive to deepen the nation’s emerging democracy.”Meanwhile, the party has also said it is considering appealing the judgment of the Federal High Court in Abuja sacking its governorship candidate, Musa Mubarak and ordering that Hassan Abdullahi be restored as the party’s candidate.

  • Hajj 2023: Last batch of Kwara pilgrims returns

    Hajj 2023: Last batch of Kwara pilgrims returns

    All the 3,550 Muslim pilgrims from Kwara, who performed the 2023 Hajj in Saudi Arabia, have returned.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the last batch of pilgrims arrived at the Ilorin International Airport at 9 a.m. on Saturday.

    An Air Peace aircraft that transported the 272 pilgrims departed Jeddah International Airport in Saudi Arabia at 2.30 a.m. on Saturday.

    Read Also: NAHCON airlifts over 40,000 pilgrims in two weeks

    NAN reports that the pilgrims were received by their relations and well-wishers at the airport.

    The Executive Secretary of the state Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, Alhaji AbdulSalam AbdulKadir, confirmed that: “A total of 272 Kwara pilgrims were on board the Air Peace aircraft from Jeddah Airport.

    “With this last return flight, the 3,550 pilgrims that performed this year’s Hajj through the Kwara State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board have all arrived in Ilorin.” 

    (NAN)

  • Resident doctors reject FG’s 25 percent salary increase

    Resident doctors reject FG’s 25 percent salary increase

    The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has rejected the Federal Government’s 25 per cent increment in the basic salary of doctors, as well as the N25,000 accouterment allowance per quarter.

    The rejection comes in the wake of the association’s national indefinite strike which it started at noon on July 26, saying the government had failed to meet its demands.

    NARD’s National Executive Council (NEC), according to a statement by the Association’s President, Dr. Emeka Orji, said: “We observed the paltry 25 per cent increment in the basic salary of doctors as contained in the circular released by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC) in the wake of the strike, as well as the accouterment allowance.

    “NEC vehemently rejects the paltry 25 per cent increment in the basic salary of doctors, as well as the accouterment allowance, adding that her earlier demand is for full restoration of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure to its right value as at the time of the approval of the structure in 2009.”

    The current salary structure was approved in 2009 and implemented in 2014. Hence, the resident doctors are demanding a restoration to the value of the salary as at 2014, saying inflation, exchange rate increment and fuel price had eroded the value.

    The Nation had earlier reported Dr. Orji as saying, “Initially, before the removal of the subsidy, we demanded a 200 per cent salary increase. With the removal of subsidy and the fuel price, we have done the math again, which will be in the neighbourhood of more than 600 per cent as the increment required to take us back to the value of that salary in 2014.

    Read Also: Strike: Niger NMA urges FG to fulfill doctors’ demands

    “Right now, we are not talking of percentage again; let the government do the calculation and tell us what we are getting because what we are asking is full salary restoration, and not even an increment. This will help us tackle the brain drain in the country.”

    Other demands of the doctors include immediate payment of the 2023 Medical Residency Training Fund (MRTF); issuance of a circular by the Federal Ministry of Health for replacement of doctors and nurses that have left the system with new ones; payment of salary arrears, improvement in hazard allowance by state governments; a call on the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) to reverse herself on the downgrading of the membership certificate.

    Others are rejection of the casualization of doctors in all tertiary health institutions in Nigeria; and the immediate unconditional release of one of its trainers, Prof. Ekanem Philip-Ephraim of UCTH Calabar, and the need for the government to beef up security in the country to forestall such occurrences.

  • Davido’s music video: Four times entertainers raised religious eyebrows

    Davido’s music video: Four times entertainers raised religious eyebrows

    Popular artist David Adeleke, also known as Davido, recently received criticism from Muslim fans after posting a music video of new DMW signee Logos Olori on his social media platforms.

    The music video was shot in a mosque-like scene that some Muslim faithful found offensive.

    It depicted scenes where men in white Jalabiya, after observing Salah prayers, switched to dancing as they recited some Quranic verses and prayed.

    Following increasing criticism, Davido bowed to pressure and deleted the video.

    Here are three other examples of entertainers’ content causing religious issues:

    Falz

    In June 2018, Award-winning musician and actor, Folarin Falana popularly known as Falz, received backlash over a music video titled “This Is Nigeria” which some Muslims thought was disrespectful to their religion.

    In the video, Some girls were seen dancing to the then-popular “shaku shaku” dance while dressed in hijab.

    A Muslim group, Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), warned Falz to take down the video and offer an apology to Nigerians or risk legal repercussions.

    Falz responded to the criticisms that stemmed from the video by explaining that the girls were an image of the abducted Chibok girls still held captive by Boko Haram.

    Read Also: Alleged side chic Anita Brown drags Davido over Chioma

    Nedu Wazobia

    In January 2021, comedian and On-Air personality Chinedu Ani Emmanuel, also known as Nedu Wazobia, was accused of “tarnishing and disrespecting the sanctity of Islam” in his skits, where he played the “role” of Alhaji Musa.

    Many Muslim organizations and individuals across the nation found it offensive to see the comedian flirting with busty and scantily dressed women in many of his social media videos while donning his signature Islamic attire (white Jalabiya with Arabian muffler and cap).

    A Muslim group, Ta’awunu Human Rights Institute (TOURIST), in a statement, criticized the comedian’s character as Alhaji Musa, saying it was “a disturbance to public peace” adding that it was capable of inciting “religious violence in the country if nothing was done about it.”

    The organization urged the comedian to be detained and questioned for “parading himself as Alhaji Musa in an attempt to disrupt public peace and incite religious violence or produce himself within 30 working days for a fair chance of being heard, failure of which we shall be obliged to institute legal action against him.”

    Beverly Osu

    In September 2018, Nigerian actress and model, Beverly Osu, who’s most known for her participation in reality TV show Big Brother Africa in 2013, offended a number of people after she took photos wearing in a nun outfit while smoking a cigarette.

    Many people disapproved of the photographs, especially Catholics who thought she was disrespecting their religion, but the entertainer had a different opinion.

    In a chat with Saturday Beats, Osu revealed that she was the creative director of the photo shoot and defended the shot by saying, in her view, the church had not established smoking as a sin. She advised critics to focus on other important issues.She also said, “I received a lot of death threats in my direct message on social media. I also received phone calls, saying I shouldn’t come out. People called my mother to threaten her life but I felt that they were all bluffing. Sincerely, I didn’t expect it, and there was nothing to cope with because I wasn’t bothered. I was not scared because I’m not afraid of anybody.”

  • Subsidy Removal: Residents in Osun, Ekiti urge FG to speedily implement palliatives

    Subsidy Removal: Residents in Osun, Ekiti urge FG to speedily implement palliatives

    Residents in Osun and Ekiti states have appealed to the Federal government to provide special funds to states to assist in ameliorating the effects of the fuel subsidy removal on the economy.

    The Federal government had at the twilight of the President Muhammadu Buhari administration announced that the country could not continue to sustain subsidy on fuel importation.

    Subsequently, at the inauguration of President Bola Tinubu’s government on May 29, he announced the removal of fuel subsidy while the official pump price of fuel increased from N185 to N500 per litre and barely two months later increased to N617 per litre.

    The increase in pump price of fuel and its attendant effect led to rise in cost of transportation, foodstuffs and other services thus affecting every sphere of the nations life, on account of which some state governments directed that civil servants should report to work only  three days in a week.

    A survey conducted by the News Agency of Nigeria  (NAN) in the three state shows that many Nigerians have abandoned the use of their vehicles as a result of the exorbitant cost of petrol preferring to commute to their destinations.

    Respondents to the survey appealed for  speedy implementation of government palliatives including provision of commercial buses by to cushion the effect of the removal of fuel subsidy.

    Malam Olawale Rasheed, the spokesman of Gov. Ademola Adeleke, said that the state government would soon unveil palliatives to cushion the effect of the recent subsidy removal.

    Rasheed said that  the planned intervention would  include support to public transport owners, monitoring of fuel stations and review of public sector work time.

    He said top officials were finalising the state palliative plan in line with the directives of Adeleke.

    “The  governor’s plan is to be sustainable, impactful and result oriented.

    “Mr Governor is set to announce the state plan to cushion the effect of the hike in fuel price. Our Governor is pro-people and pro-worker.

    “He wants an all encompassing intervention in which all strata of the society will benefit,” he said.

    Rasheed also stressed that the governor was working tirelessly to make life bearable for the people of the state.

    He also explained that the meagre resources available in Osun were being used to provide social amenities across the state.

    In Ekiti, a member of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs),  Mr Gbenga Ilori, urged the government to strive to revive its moribund transport company,  “Ekiti Kete Transport Company”.

    This is just as he also called on the Federal government to evolve a system or programme to help states in this direction in order to cushion the effect of the removal of fuel subsidy on Nigerians.

    He described the hardship the removal had caused the masses as unprecedented, saying something drastic needs to be done to alleviate it.

    According to him, many residents, especially workers are currently finding things difficult as they now spend more money on transportation to their work places than what they earn while many others have resorted to trekking long distances.

    Also,  an engineer with the state Ministry of works, Mr Fatai Alaba, suggested adoption of alternatives to fuel powered vehicles for Nigerians.

    ” Federal government can import or make gas powered vehicles for Nigerians, to cushion the effects of hardship on the people ” he said.

    A civil servant, Mrs Sola Kehinde, advised the state government to resuscitate transport companies in their states and ensure they pick their staff at different locations to their work places.

    “We don’t have such facilities in Ekiti state, though there used to be one called “Ekiti Kete Transport Company.

    “I am using this medium to call on our governor to resuscitate the moribund company, so as to make life easy for the common man.

    ” I spend more on transportation these days and this is fast affecting my family. At times, I walk far distance before I can get to work” she said.

    Read Also: Nigeria’s fuel subsidy removal hurting Europe’s refineries – Report

    Another resident, a retired teacher, Mr Isaac Adewale, urged the Federal government to urgently put in place measures to assist the people most affected by the removal of the fuel subsidy and prioritise addressing widespread hunger, high unemployment and the rapidly falling standard of living.

    He said that government at all level should consider implementing targeted subsidies, saying these subsidies can be directed towards vulnerable groups, such as low income earners and the unemployed people.

    The retired teacher further said that by providing financial assistance to those most affected, the government would help ease the burden and ensure that basic needs of the citizens were met.

    He also suggested to government to put in place price stabilisation measures to prevent excessive price fluctuation on essential goods and services, saying this can be achieved, through mechanism such as price control or regulations that prevent unjustified price hikes.

    Adewale said that by ensuring that price remained reasonable, and within the reach of the average Nigerian, the government would be doing the populace a lot of favour towards cushioning the impact of fuel subsidy on the cost of living.

    REPORTERS/AOS

  • 5,000 Christian professionals get ‘global relevance’ success tips

    5,000 Christian professionals get ‘global relevance’ success tips

    No fewer than 5,000 participants, including top Christian business and financial experts, converged at this year’s edition of The Youth Aflame Conference (YAC), hosted by relationship expert and wealth creation agent, Pastor Daniel Olawande.

    In attendance at the event with the theme: ‘The King’s Envoys’ were former Education Minister,  Dr. Oby Ezekwesili; Founder, Daystar Christian Centre, Sam Adeyemi; CEO of Opportunik Global Fund, Kola Oyeneyin;  senior Pastor and founder of The Covenant Nation (TCN), Pastor Poju Oyemade and a gospel saxophonist, Beejay Sax.

    According to the organisers, this year’s event held in Lagos, was aimed at empowering participants to dominate their sphere of influence and take centre stage of global relevance. The event saw participants receiving knowledge and impactation to succeed.

    The 2023 conference, which was third in a series, witnessed the sharpening and grooming of over 5,000 Christian professionals, both in person and virtually, to become believers with great competence backed up with consecration.

    Other speakers included the Founder, Premium Trust Bank, Emmanuel Emefienim;  Lead Pastor of RCCG Living Seed Church and senior team lead at Expert Beam Nigeria, Pastor Abolaji Adeola; Pastor Oluwanifemi Daniel Olawande, a fashion entrepreneur and Coordinator of the Prophetic Maidens Group; Minister Sunmisola Agbebi Okeleye, a gospel singer and multi-talented musician and psalmist, Adebola Shammah.

    Read Also: Christians should not be criticized for watching BBNaija – Bamiloye

    Speaking during the conference, Pastor Daniel Olawande laid emphasis on how believers should develop their competence and consecrate themselves to the service of God and humanity.

    According to him, “the cycle of revival is only complete when it leads to societal transformation.”

    Pastor Olawande has a vision to empower youths, foster growth, and transform societies. He also runs the Young Ministers Retreat (YMR), a global annual retreat for the equipping and raising of a burning generation of giants.Others include, the Envoys which is a new expression of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) committed to raising Kingdom Emissiaries who are burning for God, are anointed and stupendously wealthy and will carry the mandate of the king into every sphere of influence and sector, the Flaming Youth Empowerment Initiative, amongst others.