The Nation Newspaper

Category: Life – The Midweek Magazine

  • ‘Tourism is all about service’

    ‘Tourism is all about service’

    Akpan Itoro, General Manager of  Success Villa Luxury Hotel in Calabar,the  Cross River State capital, has come a long way in the hospitality industry. Akpan, who started out at Nanet Hotels Limited in Kaduna, has worked at Benue Hotel, Makurdi, Serengeti Hotel and Hotel El–Sasso. He speaks with Assistant Editor (Arts) OZOLUA UHAKHEME on the relevance of tourism to the economy, the impact of Calabar Carnival on the state, tourism and security challenges.  

    How relevant is tourism to the growth of the nation’s economy?

    Tourism generally is all about the provision of required services to tourists. These services may include but not limited to accommodation, transportation, information and entertainment.

    Tourists as we all know are those who engage in traveling for pleasure, researches, recreation etc. Thus, it would be right to state here that tourism plays a paramount role in the nation’s economy. Why do I say so? At any angle one may like to look at nation’s economy, tourism is there. Consider the fact that for tourism to boom convergence of tourists from one place to another is a must. Hence transporters benefit from tourism. It is a known fact that a reasonable number of the nation manpower is found in the transport sector of the economy. More-so tourists feed on information, hence in dissemination of information the Mass Media Practitioners are not left out in the business of tourism. Come to think of the number of hotels eateries, recreational spots, ancient or historic edifices; all these places are maintained or run by people and they earn their living from there. For instance in Cross River State there are about three hundred hotels and these hotel are man by a substantial working population of the indigenes and non indigenes alike. Mention should also be made concerning the middle men in the sector; the contractors, suppliers, tour guides, translators etc. Apart from the sector helping to reduce the rate of unemployment, the taxes, levies etc paid by these establishments go a long way to impact positively on the nation’s economy. To add to the above tourism also play a role in attracting foreign exchange to the economy. The foreigners that visit our shore come with hard currency and this goes a long way to strengthen our economy. In summary, it is on record that tourism employs over 1 per cent of the world labour force.

    Considering the state of security in the country, how best can tourism blossom especially in Cross River State?

    Well we all know this is challenging period in the country security wise. But it is never an excuse for us in the sector to allow tourism die. It is on this note that I wish to thank security establishments in particular and the government in general for always organizing workshops and seminars on the developments in the security situations in the state. By so doing we are kept abreast of the right ways to keep the sector blossoming. In my personal opinion let it be known that that security is every body’s responsibility, in other word all hands should be on desk to ensure the safety of our working environment. Having said thus, it would be myopic of tourism employees to leave the entire job of security to only security agencies. One comes to this submission knowing full well that human being  not spirit works in these establishments. Hence since they are humans just like us they depend on the information at their disposal as directed to them to discharge their duties. Of late, terrorists, armed robbers, etc, activities have become worrisome and have even threatened the peace of the country almost on daily bases. Observations and studies have proved that the insurgents are majorly found in hotels, eateries, transport sectors posing as tourists. Hence we in the industry must at all times be alert to thwart their evil mission. It is on this note that I  wish to suggest that employees of this sector should look for under  listed tools or materials used in manufacturing explosives (bomb) in tourism environment, these are empty metal containers, batteries, wires, carbide, players, match boxes or lighters. Also be on the watch over possible places explosives or ammunition could be kept. These places include Public toilets, waste bins etc also one should be apprehensive of abandoned bags and vehicles. For staff working in the service areas, they should watch out for customers who stays for too long over a bottle of drink or taking nothing at all, unfamiliar guests, do everything possible to discourage two same sex guests occupying one room, guests or customers who patronise service areas at odd hours of the day and guests who stay longer than necessary.

    More so, employees should be advised to be observant at all times. Secondly, the golden role of service should be observed  while every suspicious move or object should be reported to appropriate quarters. In conclusion, staff should be encouraged to know security agencies emergency phone numbers and to feel free to call them as at when due. It is my belief that with the above suggestions tourism shall blossom in Cross River State despite the state of security in the country.

    Calabar Carnival is a yearly feast. How has this advanced tourism promotion in the state?

    First of all permit me to use this medium to thank the government of  Mr Donald Duke for taking the initiative to launch the carnival into existence and the subsequent governments for retaining the festival. It is worthy of mentioning here that the festival has been able to place Cross River State in the global tourism map. Apart from that it has also brought to lime light various tourism areas scattered across the state that were hitherto unknown. This bold step has gone a long way in awaking the subconscioussness of investors both within and without the state to invest their resources in the industry. At the backdrop of this, infrastructural development has been in the increase. For instance, the historic sites or monuments are being visited by tourists periodically and other festivals like new yam festivals, age groups festivals are assuming a higher standard in organising and display thereby attracting the attention of so many interest groups in the sector. The carnival has also made the government to construct new roads, motivate investors to embark in the building of world class hotels, conference centers etc. The carnival has also advance tourism development in the area of manpower training and development, because of high demand of good standard and excellence in the industry,  both the government and private sector are into training of personnel in the industry. For instance the monitoring body of tourism in the state (Cross River State Tourism Bureau) has been doing its possible best to ensure that many hotels in the state operate at world level standard. The body is also in the business of organizing workshops and trainings, these help to reposition personnel in the industry professionally and the end result is for the advancement of tourism in the state.

    What are the major hindrances to hospitality business in the state?

    As I did say earlier, the state and the private sector have tried in taking tourism to a new frontier but much still left to be done. There are so many hindrances to hospitality development in the state but the major one is epileptic power supply. This particular challenge has sent many an establishment grumbling. One of the essential services that customers need while patronizing hospitality outfit is constant power supply but unfortunately in the country we have been experiencing incessant power outage. This acts as a great impediment to the growth of the industry having considered the cost of running generator for a greater period of time just to satisfy customers. Another factor that hinders hospitality business in the state is poor road network. It will interest the public to know that some high class hospitality outfits are located in areas that are not motor-able, hence they investors in such businesses find it difficult to make ends meet as a result of poor patronage. Another issue that acts as obstacle to hospitality business is the mind set of some about working in hospitality industry. A lot of people in Nigeria still have this belief that hospitality job is for school drop-outs, prostitutes, less qualified people of the society and as such many do not want to make carrier  of it. Such that the industry lack highly qualified manpower to man top posts in the business, secondly the few qualified ones are not well paid. More so lack of training materials in some of the establishments couple with lack of exposure to modern equipments in the sector.

    Another hindrance in the business is poor funding. Many investors who have the interest of the industry at heart are incapacitated as result of lack of enough funds to actualize their dreams. Finally, excessive levies and what I may call double taxation on hospitality businesses.

    If you were made the commissioner of tourism in the state, what would be your priority?

    My priority would be very simple and clear. First of all I would identify genuine stake holders in the business of tourism then collaborate with relevant authorities to enable them actualise their dreams in the industry. Why would I wish to identify the genuine stake holders first? The reason is that the business of tourism is all about service, hence it is service first before every other thing but on the contrary some investors in the industry aspire to get every other thing before service. As a commissioner, I would do my very best to convince the state government to open tourism based financial institution that is empowered to to assist both  government agencies, private bodies and even individuals to get loans to fund their tourism projects. If Agriculture has a similar institution why not tourism after all statistics show that tourism is competing very well with Agriculture in employment of labour. Secondly, during my tenure I would do  everything possible to erase the erroneous belief that  tourism is for school drop-outs or for those who are not well sound educationally. These I will do by encouraging proper orientation both in schools and offices. Thus encouraging many to make career in the sector just as what is obtainable in many countries of the world. For instance countries like Brazil, Jamaica, Kenya etc are building their economies around tourism. I would also place as my priority putting square pegs in a square hole to show case professionalism. Apart from that accountability would be my watchword because every fund coming the way of my ministry must be judiciously used to proof a point. In a nutshell there are still much to be done with regards to tourism in the state even though the past administrations have achieved much but the industry is in a state of dynamism hence i would embark on research in-order to bring much dividend to government in particular and the society in general.

    What are the unique selling points of Success Villa Luxury Hotel? I mean what separates it from other competitors?

    In one sentence, I would say rendering satisfactory services before monetary rewards has been our watch-word and recognizes God in all our endeavours.

    What are your lessons in the industry?

    I wish to state here that the factor that plays a very prominent role in the survival of the business is the human factor. What I mean is that beautiful edifices, state – of- the- art  furnishing etc do play part in business patronage but service is the ultimate. Yes it is the service rendered that do attract a lot of patronages to a business concern. Hence, much attention should be paid on how we train our staff and how we take care of their welfare. Secondly experience has also taught me that it is not advisable to nurse sentiment while recruiting or employing staff both in the managerial and lower cadre. In summary, ours is service oriented business, from experience I have discovered that one must strive to satisfy clients first before looking for monetary rewards.

  • Odia Ofeimun and the poetics of creative nationalism

    Odia Ofeimun and the poetics of creative nationalism

    In this tribute, Dr Tunji Olaopa writes on renowned poet and writer Odia Ofeimun’s love for Nigeria and his forthcoming books exhibition holding today in Lagos.

    I need to be clear from the beginning what this essay intends. It is a narrative of celebration of someone who has a unique relationship with Nigeria, and from a perspective that is often not recognised even in his own profession. I am talking of Odia Ofeimun the poet of Nigeria. To place this narrative in perspective, I need begin necessarily from a personal angle that details my relationship of envious longing that is devoid of any negativity. Ofeimun is my big brother or if you like my egbon, and so I am permitted to envy him. He has those outstanding sterling qualities that I desire, so I am permitted to covet them. But this is not just some vain covetousness my Bible warned me about; there is a significant context for it.

    There are two dimensions to my envious adulation of Odia Ofeimun. The first occurred in 1987. Shortly after I had commenced my doctoral programme at the department of Political Science, University of Ibadan, one of my esteemed teachers and mentor, Professor Femi Otubanjo, invited me to an interview for a job as a research assistant. It was later that I got the startling understanding that the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, was looking for a replacement for his erstwhile personal political secretary, the inimitable Odia Ofeimun. I got the job but papa Awolowo passed on before I could take on the challenge of serving the sage though I managed with a word from the late Prof. Ojetunji Aboyade to have a pre-resumption seminar session with him before exit. Odia Ofeimun was at the height of his creativity when I replaced him, but with hindsight now, I just wonder what sort of replacement I could have been then. So, who wouldn’t become envious, or even annoyed, that you better occupied a position you weren’t given the opportunity to try out (even if trying it out would have showcased one’s inadequacy)? Of course I am envious: Odia occupied a position I would have given everything to take; and he has some significant qualities that would have ensured that I survived what I am certain would have been the rigorous requirements of Chief Awolowo. Unfortunately, I doubt if I had those qualities then, or even now.

    Odia’s book exhibition is the second reason for envy—how I wish I have the books Odia has! How I wish I could collect them all in their rich diversity and deep in their contents. I am a bibliophile, and I collect them as fast as I can, but it is clear to me that I have met more than my match in this person who has made it his lifelong pursuit to make his entire house one huge library. Martin Farquhar Tupper, the British writer, once noted that ‘A good book is the best of friends, the same today and for ever.’ Odia definitely understands this better than I do. When I gave upon the greys on his head and his beards, they seem to inform about the experiences which both life and books have taken him through. That is something to be coveted!

    Odia Ofeimun is a rebellious nationalist who comes to the nationalist struggle for the soul of Nigeria from a unique perspective—poetry. Poetry is not a likeable genre, even for the literary profession. After all, if Brian Patten, the British poet, is to be believed, poetry is ‘the monster hiding in a child’s dark room; it is the scar on a beautiful person’s face.’ Who wants to publish a book of poetry when some other genres guarantee commercial success? And who reads a book of poetry about Nigeria when there are countless political essays and commentaries that we consider can do the job better? But Odia cannot be subdued; he combines the voluptuous sublimity and leanness of poetry with the critical directness of the political essay. These two become the deadly weapon that Ofeimun wields against those—leaders, politicians and even poets—who manipulate the society for their own selfish purposes. For him, the poet cannot lie; and neither can the politicians or anyone else who aspires to leadership.

    Odia Ofeimun writes politically charged poems. Of course, this character flows from his belief that a poet is necessarily a citizen; it is vain to attempt divorcing the two roles from each other. But I suspect that rather than being solely hinged to the political, Odia would rather align with Matthew Arnold understanding of poetry as ‘a criticism of life under the conditions fixed for such a criticism by the laws of poetic truth and poetic beauty.’ I consider it a rather huge achievement to be able to enable a beautiful piece of poetry carry the burden of an engaged sensibility. Odia Ofeimun is such a poet. Poetry is a responsibility that goes beyond the mere architecture of words. W. B. Yeats, the Irish poet, captures this responsibility:

    A line will take us hours maybe; 

    Yet if it does not seem a moment’s thought,

    Our stitching and unstitching has been naught.

    Odia has carried Nigeria in the unfolding bowel of poetry for long. Odia’s muse must surely be a militant when confronted with the gross dysfunction that the Nigerian predicament presents. This predicament excites different reaction from all of us. For most people, the most immediate of these reactions is that of cynicism, the terrible pessimistic refusal to see anything good coming out of Nigeria. For some others, it is abject resignation to fate. The trajectory of my own life—personal and professional—has all the ingredients to lead me to profound pessimism. On the contrary, I chose optimism at the personal and institutional levels. And this is an optimism that strives actively to unfold dynamics of reforms and possibilities by which Nigeria can be reformulated. One recurrent methodological index of my optimism is the critical celebration of national heroes as people, from one generation to another, whose fate have been entwined with Nigeria’s, either by choice or by circumstance. There is no nation that does not need the cantankerous queries and effusive energies of the hero who is always at war with the nation because s/he wants that nation to transcend itself and its achievement. And Nigeria has many of these, dead or alive—Claude Ake, Billy Dudley, Obafemi Awolowo, Olusegun Obasanjo, Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, Tai Solarin, Wole Soyinka, Chinua Achebe, Christopher Kolade, Gani Fawehinmi, Bala Usman, Bolanle Awe, and the younger upcoming role models Chimamanda Adiche, Bukola Elemide ‘Asa’, the list is endless.

    In a forthcoming book that ties all these heroes to the project of national integration and development in Nigeria, I had no difficulty in inviting Odia Ofeimun to write the foreword. That choice is inevitable: He shared the same heroic characteristics with all those I have celebrated. In his own words—in the foreword to my upcoming book—he said he is ‘an irredeemable partisan on the side of the Nigerian Project’ involved in ‘an almost occult pursuit of Nigeria the Beautiful.’

    Odia wields the cudgel of performance poetic that narrates the different dynamics of the Nigerian experience. In the poem ‘National Cakes,’Odia contrasts between the concepts of ‘vultures’ and ‘cakes’ to project a national metaphor that speaks to both the leadership and the followership:

    Vultures don’t bake their national cakes

     They just swoop on the ripe carcass

     of maybe, human cattle

     We too, hate to be bakers

     And so, we despoil the sunrise we seek

    His poetry and his essays speak with thunderous loudness that fears no controversies, and which no government can ever hope to escape. Odia Ofeimun is not just a political poet; I am sure he prefers being known as a revolutionary one; a true poet who, according to Wilfred Own, the British poet, must be truthful. He is a poet whose poetry oscillates between the beautiful and the severe. He drags our imagination about Nigeria into the very depth of the imaginable. I salute you my egbon!

  • ‘Stop promoting Boko Haram’

    ‘Stop promoting Boko Haram’

    In the face of terrorism, distrust and disillusionment, a university teacher, Dr Yinka Olomojobi, has written a book entitled: Frontiers of Jihad, Radical Islam in Africa. The book’s presentation drew high-profile guests to the MUSON Centre, Lagos. EVELYN OSAGIE reports.

    Why would anybody choose to write a book on terrorism,” Dr Folake Olomojobi had wondered, when her husband, Dr Yinka Olomojobi of Babcock University, first set out to write the book, Frontiers of Jihad, Radical Islam in Africa. Then, she was consumed in fear. Today, her thoughts have changed from fear to pride.

    “Initially, it was weird. I was asking myself: ‘why would you want to do this; wouldn’t you turn out to be a terrorist yourself?’ But as the world news added more spotlight on terrorism, I saw the need for this; and started supporting and paying attention to the work he was doing.

    “It was very time consuming and challenging. It was not easy for all of us. He put in a lot of work: he stayed away from home most of the time as his research took him far from home; he stayed up so many nights, when others things had to be done.

    “But today, we are happy with how it turned out. Whether we like it or not, it is a present reality. And we need people who have been so trained to go into historical reviews, appraise present realities and project into the future. I not only understand the need for the book at such a time as this, I am proud that my husband dedicated his time and knowledge to write it,” she said.

    Her words reflect the feeling at the formal presentation of the controversial book from the stable of Safari Book Ltd at the MUSON Centre in Lagos.

    Dignitaries from within and outside Lagos thronged Agip Recital Hall of the centre for the event.

    Olomojobi’s book focuses on how and why ‘radical Islam’ finds a breeding ground, especially in Africa. Structured into two parts, it consists of 10 chapters. The first part, Exploring the Frontiers of Jihad, has four chapters, the second, Radical Islam in Africa, consists of six chapters and an epilogue.

    With terrorism on the rise globally, any book, such as Olomojobi’s that seeks to throw more light on ways of curbing it is commendable, guests said.

    Like Dr Folake, many at the event praised the author for approaching the issue from an intellectual point of view. They observed that “guns alone will not defeat the insurgents, neither will nuclear armaments”. Success in the fight against terrorism, especially in Nigeria, “remains an illusion as long as sponsors and godfathers of terrorists occupies government positions, wine and dine with those who claimed to be fighting insurgency”, they said.

    They called for the prosecution of all those allegedly linked to Boko Haram, urging  Nigerians to stop promoting insurgency and the insurgents by calling them “Islamic radicals”.

    On the line-up of eminent guests were Former Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola (SAN); Founder of Latter Rain Assembly, Pastor Babatunde Bakare; Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola, represented by Dr Adeleke Ipaye; Executive Secretary, Muslim Ummah of Southwest Nigeria, Prof Dawud Noibi; veteran journalist, Aare ‘Lekan Alabi; Justice G. C. Okeke (rtd) and Executive Chairman, CEO of Safari Books Limited, Chief Joop Berkhout.

    Also in attendance were the author’s parents, Prof Zach and Justice Rebecca Olomojobi.

    Fashola, chairman of the event, noted that linking acts of terror with criminality gave rise to what is now known globally as “Radical Islam”. Fashola called for a collective fight against the insurgents.

    “The biggest risk of succumbing to this propaganda is to put a religion on trial while expecting its adherents to join the fight against criminals. There is such a word as ‘Radical Islam’. The simple truth is we have allowed the voices of a few criminals to rise above that of billions of law abiding global citizens. I would say it is ‘Radical Dis-Islamisation’. What we are dealing with is a new wave of crime, by criminals who seem to have an edge because of the need for a new global legal order and the gaps created by globalisation.

    “Guns alone will not defeat them, neither will nuclear armaments. It is our collective understanding and our collective agreements that this has nothing to do with religion, it is our development of the appropriate counter-messaging, it is our collective resolve to stop helping to promote their brand, by calling their names, that will expose them for what and who they are, and help us to defeat them,” he said.

    Fashola described Olomojobi’s book as a “seminal work” that answers some burning questions in his heart. The questions, the former governor said, were inspired by a report on Cable News Network (CNN) that North Korea was threatening war on South Korea and an American professor was bought on set to proffer intelligence on North Koreans. And just as he was set to provoke a debate on Nigeria’s university dons/experts and the localisation of knowledge of other African states with the mind of providing intelligence that would form the basis of national security and economic decisions, he got the invitation to attend Olomojobi’s book presentation.

    He said: “I hope it challenges others to respond; because if we take the power of knowledge seriously, we would be reorganising Nigerian universities, encouraging and sponsoring scholars to specialise and do seminal work diverse areas of national and global interests. I am not suggesting that these things do not exist but think if we have more information on terrorism and terrorist groups, it would assist the security services to deal with the terror problems we are currently facing.”

    Bakare, the chief launcher, said the fight against insurgents should be a collective one. He called for the empowerment of more scholars to do such research.

    He said: “I appreciate the contribution of Fashola in separating Islam from radicalism. I was born and raised a Muslim right in the heart of Sokoto; and we still have Muslims in my family. We don’t kill ourselves. Several years ago my uncle was Sarkin Yoruba right in the palace of the Sultan of Sokoto. We live in harmony. And those who are taking advantage of us, we must join hands together to push them out of our quarters.

    “And I trust that we can genuinely do that when we have accurate information so that we do not begin to suspect ourselves. My job is to present the book to you.

    “Thank God for the book has just been presented today. I believe that it would be a good instrument in the hand of those who are in charge of our security. It’d give them insight to look at the mind-set of the people behind the Boko Haram insurgency. “As soon as I held the book, I went straight to chapter eight, Opening the Pandora’s Box of Boko Haram, I browse through and said ‘whoa!’ what an insight.  I pray our nation would begin to focus attention and give tools like Dr Olomojobi to do what they are trained to do so that we can collectively benefit from their genuine efforts.”

    Prof Noibi said the insurgents did not represent Islam. The professor also called for cooperation of all Nigerians to fight insurgency.

    He said: “This well-researched book focuses on the subject which is very important to every Nigerians. Coming from a Christian that is writing on an aspect of Islam, shows that we can live together peacefully with mutual understanding which has been lacking. The important thing to note is that those who carry out evil activities in the name of religion cannot be said to represent Islam which the author has well-explained.

    “I think that this message should be spread across the country so that we learn to show respect one another for the benefit of Nigeria. I believe that if we all unite to fight insurgency and extremism, it is the totality of the Nigerian population that would benefit.

    While blaming the past administration for popularity the terrorist groups have gained thus far, the reviewer of the book, Dr Laja Odukoya said, Olomojobi’s book provides an anatomical dissection of the mode of operations and networks of terrorist groups in Africa.

    He observed further that the book calls attention to the mutation of terrorist and terrorism through exploiting the instrumentality of Internet possibility for training in weapons and self-radicalisation.

    “I find his suggestions of a revised process of de-radicalisation through the same process by which an individual becomes radicalised and the application of African and International solutions to the terrorists challenge logical and illuminating.

    “It is thus apposite to argue that leadership failure, maladministration, cluelessness and corruption of the Goodluck Jonathan administration contributed in no small measure to the monumental crisis and national embarrassment that the Boko Haram has become,” he said.

    The event was steered by Mr Seyi Apampa, a lawyer and colleague of the author.

     

  • Twin brothers’ legacy for media

    Twin brothers’ legacy for media

    In every profession, there are those whose contributions and actions play critical roles in the growth of such human endeavour. Often times, such individuals help shape and define the trends and practices and thereby become masters of the trade. This, perhaps, informed the choice of 50 world journalists that make Mike Awoyinfa and Dimgba Igwe’s book entitled 50 World Editors (conversations with journalism masters on trends and best practices.

    But, who are these world class masters of the pen profession? Your guess is as good as mine. They are drawn from top flight media organisations in Africa, Asia, Europe and the Americas. The 628-page book is a compilation of conversations with the masters on issues ranging from day-to-day schedules of practising journalists to what defines a news, what defines a front page story, quality of news, tips for success as a reporter, core values of a media house, the defining story of a reporter, and many more. In all, the conversations though share many things in common, reveal some interesting stories about some editors and their media organisations, including personal experiences.

    But, the book, which is a result of the authors’ ten years of traversing the globe interviewing key players in the industry, is not all about editors, but top media players some of them at the apex of the media pole-publishers, presidents, managing editors, editor-in-chiefs, editors, bureau chiefs, line editors and correspondents who made great marks in journalism. The scope is all embracing as it covers practitioners in print, broadcast journalism and international news agencies such as Reuters, AFP and Globalpost. The book is ‘ultimately biographical in the sense that each of the candidates featured in this collection shares his or her own journalism story and in so doing, reflects on the diverse aspects of the practice and precepts of journalism in different generations covering different countries.’

    To the authors, the book is a lived experience rather than a pedantic narrative of scholarly exploration, capturing similarities, diversities and sociological nuances of media operations in different countries of the world.

    Published in 2014 by Corporate Biographers Limited, the book is in three sections A to C, with The Americas having 20 of the 50 masters, while Europe has 19 and Africa and Asia share 11 masters. Nigeria’s newspaper legend Alhaji Babatunde Ajose of the old Daily Times led the pack of masters featured in Section C that comprises Africa/Asia alongside Segun Osoba, Nduka Obaigbena Thisday newspaper), John Momoh (Channels TV), Dele Olojede, Bayo Onanuga (The News magazine), Joseph Odindo (Nation Media Group, Kenya), Ferial Haffajee (Mail & Guardian South Africa among others.

    From The Americas and Europe Sections A and B are masters such as Michael Goodwin (New York Daily News), Jill Abramson (New York Times), Chris Cramer (former President CNN), Alan Rusbridger (The Guardian UK),  Robert Thomson (The Times UK), Victor de la Serna (El Mundo, Spain) and Alan Johnston (BBC Correspondent).

    On the challenges of being editor of Daily Times at the era of Nigeria attaining independence, Alhaji Jose said: “We published a paper that was trusted by the readers. To be trusted you have to show the integrity of a leader. The people knew that I had no political ambition. I had access and was consulted by highly placed government functionaries, prime ministers, presidents. So they know that whatever we did, it was not because I am a Yoruba man. They had seen the paper openly attacking Chief Obafemi Awolowo-the leader of the Yorubas.”

    But given the content of the book, it can be described as the ‘most encyclopedic book on global journalism.’ It ranks among publications such as Martin Walker’s 1982 award winning book, Powers of the press: The World’s Great Newspapers. Apart from that, one unique character of the book is that it presents the journalistic views of the world editors in their own words.

    Again, the public presentation of the book at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, Victoria Island, Lagos on September 15 was more than a launch. It brought together veterans in the industry to celebrate a worthy product, an effort that would gladden the heart of the late Igwe in great beyond. However, some oversights were noticed in the compilations. For instance, the retaining of late Dimgba Igwe’s email and telephone number suggests the book had gone to press with all the information before the death of Igwe. But, classifying Gillian Tett (Financial Times, USA) under Europe is an avoidable error of proof reading. If charity, they say, begins at home, 11 masters interviewed in Africa/Asia combined is an under-representation by the book, especially when considered against the conditions under which these media operate. Or is it a case of get one, you get all? Nigeria and indeed Africa deserves more representations in the book.

    Notwithstanding, the book is a legacy of a sort for the media industry, which makes it a must read for all-students of journalism, politicians and other professionals. 50 World Editors is a well-packaged book with clean quality prints and is a collector’s item any day. It will be useful for researchers, media operators and practicing journalists irrespective of generation or region of practice.

  • Exposing the tricks in politics

    Exposing the tricks in politics

    In this book, the author took excursion into the chequered history of Nigeria right from 1914 Amalgamation of the Northern and Southern Protectorates and Lagos Colony into a geographical expression called Nigeria. The country became a conglomeration of people from diverse cultures and orientations, customs and traditions, religions and world outlook.

    Incidentally, the features of ethnic and cultural contradictions rather than become a source of strength and unity seem to have become Nigeria’s albatross as it is still grappling with the problem of nationhood after over 100 years of the amalgamation.  And to address the attendant uneven power equation and distribution inherent in the system which had created tension and fear of domination by any particular group, some phrases had been coined.

    Ozekhome borrowed the title of the book from one of such coinages by Dr. K.O. Mbadiwe, the most grandiloquent politician of the Second Republic who used the term, Zoning To Unzone, in his National Party of Nigeria to address the vexed issue of zoning the presidency in Nigeria as a recipe to douse the fear of the minority groups or a section of the country to lord it over other parts.

    In the book, Ozekhome synthesises the arguments generated by both protagonists and antagonists of zoning, exploring the perspectives of law and national history. He examines the issues of the Fiscal Federalism, Federal Character and the intense competition for power, resource control and derivation by different ethnic nationalities. He also discusses the vexed issues of rotational presidency and devolution of power.

    Ozekhome posits that the continuous controversy generated about zoning is simply a ploy by the political elite to partition the country into fiefdoms and share her booty; that it is all about sharing the national cake, not bothering about baking it.

    The book throws light into the reason zoning had been fervently canvassed and advocated to be the core of political scheme of things in the country, highlighting the remote and immediate causes of the great debate.  The legal luminary writes that while it seems logical to conclude that zoning has been muted by political actors and which was to be in a continual state of political evolution in Nigeria, the word did not come into prominent usage until the death of President Umaru Yar’Adua.  Ozekhome observes that after his death “Political Samurais unsheathed their swords, whipping up ethnic, sectional and regional sentiments to create an atmosphere of political uncertainty while gleefully riding on the word ‘zoning’.”

    Ozekhome warns that the way and manner the concept is used or rather misused has the tendency of creating situations capable of cataclysmic effects thereby leaving the polity at the mercy of regressive forces.

    Of particular interest is the Chapter Four in which he critically examined and analysed the link between Boko Haram terrorism that has been ravaging the North East Nigeria and the politics of zoning.

    Ozekhome points the way forward.  He submits unequivocally that the assumption that the principle of power rotation and zoning are mutually exclusive is patently fallacious.  He insists that one actually presupposes the other, observing that the thought of giving every citizen and zone a sense of belonging and inclusiveness in the government of the country through rotation actually necessitated the concept of zoning.

    He contends that zoning without power rotation is meaningless and irrelevant in the political scheme of things in Nigeria; that zoning standing on its own, is no more than systemic quest to maintain the status quo thereby defeating the actual reason for the evolution of the concept.  He says that even the PDP which saw the wisdom of inserting the word zoning in its constitution never contemplated the subject in isolation of rotation.

    Ozekhome submits that there is no zone in Nigeria that has the exclusive right to access the Presidency of Nigeria to the exclusion of all others.  He argues that though zoning among the six geopolitical zones is not recognised by the 1999 Constitution, the same constitution which allows every Nigerian to aspire to the presidency, does not also state expressly the manner and order it should take.  He contends that the constitution therefore does not prohibit the concept of rotation or principle of zoning, which brings about orderliness and a sense of belonging to and hope by all segments of the society that it would one day be their turn to govern.

     

     

    “This brings about patriotism and a sense of nationalism.  Were we to use majoritorial or numerical strength alone, some of the country would lord it over others for ever, while some other will be perpetually dominated and subjugated,” he says.

    The author concludes by saying that rotational presidency and zoning help to unite the heterogeneous, religious, cultural, linguistic and ethnic diversity of Nigeria that consists of many nationalities.

    He therefore recommends for all Nigerians of whatever gender, religion, language, ethnic group, state in life, circumstances of birth, academic and cultural backgrounds the philosophy of live and let live, and learn the principle of zoning to unzone.

    The book is very relevant in the contemporary politics of Nigeria.  For students, teachers of Nigerian History, Politics and Government, any one aspiring to the leadership of Nigeria and all patriotic Nigerians, Zone To Unzone is a must read.

    The book has the touch of a master. It is written in lucid and easy to understand language which only a person with exceptional communication skills can accomplish. The organisation of facts, printing and layout of the book are superb and done with clinical finesse. All bear the mark of professionalism.

    The book has four postscripts. The first and second deal with the South South Quest for President: The search for Equity, Justice and Fair play and the intrigues that preceded the 2015 General Elections and the limits of President’s power to declare state of emergency.  Postscript four relives the author’s traumatic experience in the hand of kidnappers.

    Chief Ozekhome, a radical lawyer and leading Human Rights Crusader  brought his commitment and dint of hard-work and perseverance to bear in this work.

    The pro-democracy campaigner, public affairs analyst reputed for being the nemesis of many opposing Counsel, Ozekhome, is deep in the knowledge of the Law and procedures and is a flamboyant master of advocacy and researcher who deploys the product of his insatiable appetite for knowledge even in fields outside the Law, to dust formidable opponents in the law courts.

    As a student and lover of philosophy, literature, history and the scriptures, Ozekhome has a way with words and possesses profound oratorical skills which enable him to strike the right chord, while painting mentally-recorded picture with words.

     

     

  • ‘Tourism is the greatest employer’

    ‘Tourism is the greatest employer’

    Director-General Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC), Mrs Sally Mbanefo, has described tourism as the greatest employer. She said the corporation under her would ensure practical development and promotion of domestic tourism, which will propel job creation, develop the nation’s economy and raise social awareness on cultural preservation and environmental protection.

    Mbanefo spoke at this year’s World Tourism Day, with the theme, 1 Billion Tourists, 1 Billion Opportunities, held in Enugu State which  underscored the role  of  tourism  sector  as  a  valuable  and sustainable  source  of  livelihood  for  millions  of  people.

    “Nigeria has a better advantage over so many other countries to benefit from tourism. We have the advantage of population. Tourism contributes 10% to the global GDP but as at now, Nigerian is not fully benefiting from tourism like other countries. For instance, 4,333,000 tourism visited Nigeria in 2013, which contributed about 4 per cent to our GDP, while tourism contributes 17.7 per cent to the GDP of Gambia; 13 per cent to Egypt; 12 per cent to Kenya; 11.9 per cent to Mexico; 9 per cent to South Africa, and 6 per cent to Cuba.

    “We need to know that Nigeria should focus more on tourism as the best alternative to oil, with domestic tourism as the catalyst. I need to emphasise that Nigeria has the best of the ingredient of tourism. We have fascinating tourist sites, enviable cultural festivals, good weather, good and hospitable people. Have you ever wondered why most diplomats, after serving their terms chose to stay back in Nigeria? It is because of the warmth and friendliness of our people, environment and potentials,” she said.

    Mbanefo, who emphasised that the potential of tourism in Nigeria is N4billion prayed that government should take privatisation to the next level, which according to her will facilitate further facilitate an enabling environment for tourism to thrive in Nigeria.

    The NTDC boss lauded the Enugu State government for making tourism alive in the state, describing the state as a hub of eco-tourism.

    Meanwhile, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and National Orientation, Mrs Nkechi Ejele, described tourism as the way forward for Nigeria. She noted that the Ministry is, on a daily basis, intensifying efforts at ensuring the money spinning sector is well developed and promoted in Nigeria, to ensure Nigerians, among the people of other countries, maximally benefit from the potentials of tourism.

    The Group Managing Director, Viko Nigeria Group of Companies Limited, Mr Lucky Kanu, expressed the readiness of his company to further support NTDC in promoting domestic tourism, thereby creating more jobs and wealth in Nigeria.

    “Our partnership with NTDC could be best described as demonstration of a successful practice of public private partnership in Nigeria, as the partnership has yielded opening of information desks in about six states in Nigeria, while we are working on a new project that will create over 500,000 jobs for the youth in every state of Nigeria,” Kanu said.

     

  • Obasanjo, Senator Tinubu for hoteliers’ retreat

    Obasanjo, Senator Tinubu for hoteliers’ retreat

    Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Senator Remi Tinubu and governors of Southwest are among dignitaries expected at the Hoteliers Association of Nigeria (HAN) Southwest zonal retreat holding in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, between October 13 and 15.

    A statement by the association’s Public Relation Officer Mr. Jamiu Talabi said the maiden business retreat which will hold at Indices Suites and Garden, Onikolobo, in Abeokuta, Ogun state is parts of measures towards fulfilling some of the mandates of the association.

    He listed the mandates to include promoting the hotel industry towards sustainable development and efficient resources management, understanding of the principles and practices and effective service delivery through deployment of modern management skills and capacities.

    According to him, the retreat with the theme ‘Promoting industry growth, efficient resource management, service delivery and stakeholders relationship through a virile, functional and responsive regional hoteliers platform is to create a synergy for the growth and development of the industry through a viable partnership business network amongst the various players operating within the hospitality value chains.

    He said, ‘‘it will also create awareness about the existence of the association and promote its immediate and future acceptance by the various stakeholder publics. It will also emphasise on the commitment of the association to the improvement of individual and corporate well–being of its members.’’

    Managing Director, MV Consulting Limited, Mr. Akin Bashiru (the firm in charge of the Retreat) said that the 3-day retreat will feature paper presentations by former President of HOPSEA and Company Secretary EKO Hotel and Suites, Lagos Chief Samuel Alabi and Comrade Denja Yaqub, Assistant Secretary Nigerian Labour Congress while Mr. Tomi Akingbogun, President, Federation of Tourism Association of Nigeria and Mr Bimbo Olaleye of International Breweries are also expected to deliver goodwill messages.

    According to him, the event will also feature dinner and award night, where dignitaries including wife of the governor of Ogun State Mrs. Olufunso Amosun,,and  founder of Uplift Development  Foundation,Chief Alaba Lawson, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Erelu Olusola Obada, and Mrs.Folashade Afolabi, Executive Chairman, SIFAX Off-Dock will be given awards for their roles in the growth of the industry.

     

  • Spectacle as Owo celebrates Igogo festival

    Spectacle as Owo celebrates Igogo festival

    The men wore traditional attires. The women danced and sang the praise of their king. There was exchange of gifts. It was a rich display of culture as Owo indigenes thronged the town from within and outside the country for this year’s Igogo Festival. TAIWO ABIODUN reports.

    THERE was a loud ovation as he came out in his royal regalia. Clad in a beaded regalia, Ewu  Okun, the monarch had four white feathers (Urere Okin) attached to his  plaited hair.

    With coral royal beads on his neck, ankles and wrists, he danced skilfully to the admiration of his subjects. He also had with him his traditional sword (uda maloore), his shining metal gong and a retinue of his chiefs.

    It was the 2015 Igogo Festival and the Olowo of Owo, Oba David Victor Folagbade Olateru-Olagbegi III, came out to be part of it all.

    Some climbed trees and rooftops. Others stood on brick fences and on vehicles as they struggled to have a glimpse of their monarch.

    It was a spectacle to behold as the monarch led traditional chants, with his chiefs chorusing. At intervals, High  Chief  Adeniyi Adewole, the Chief  Eminiken  of Owo,  would  raise his  voice in praises, chanting  panegyrics, such as Ologho! Baba o!  Orisa  ma  dimi s’Ologho,  tu wa pe hin waaa!”, meaning “Long  live  our  King!” The crowd would  respond “Baba O!”.

    Some titled  chiefs – both male and female – plaited their hair. Dressed in women  attires, they danced round the town visiting  their  friends and family members.

    Other chiefs wore wigs and  decorated their necks  and  ankles  with  coral  beads. There was no beating of the leather drum, or gunshots. Caps and head ties were forbidden, only the clanging of iron was allowed.

    Though it lacks the entertainment condiments used in spicing up most festivals, the traditional fiesta continues to feature diverse spectacles and a growing crowd. The yearly festival has become a season of union for the people of Owoland; this year’s edition was no different. It drew many from across the country and abroad.

     

    Festival history

     

    “The Igogo Festival has been in existence for over 600 years. It shows the cultural values that we have for our town. We call it a festival of love. During the period, we exchange gifts. It is an opportunity for those who are far and near to come home and see their parents, friends and beloved ones, and spread love,” the Olowo of Owo said.

    According to the him, the festival began during the reign of Olowo Regenjen. It was held in remembrance of Queen Oronsen, a mysterious woman who was loved by the king more than his other wives because of her beauty and her contribution to the progress of the town. Oral tradition has it that she used to excrete expensive coral beads of which the king used and even sold and which made the town to progress.

    As instructed, men are not to wear caps or women head-ties during the period. There is no shooting of gun and no beating of leather drums also.

     

    Dance at the market

     

    One of the rites of the festival is dancing in market by the monarch. This year, the Olowo danced to the Oja Oba (King’s Market), followed by a huge crowd. He danced seven times with the Akowa, a High Chief and spiritual leader of Iloro Quarters. During the ceremony, market women came out en masse to honour the king. In the evening of that day, a big ram was offered for sacrifice in replacement of human sacrifice used in the days of yore.

    According to Oba Olateru-Olagbegi, Igogo is a festival of peace. A few weeks before the festival, there were rumours that the monarch had jettisoned the festival because of his strong Christian faith.

    The monarch said there had been no attempt to stop the festival, saying:  “Igogo is part of our culture and we pray for the progress of everybody during the festival. It is a period when we preach peace because it is a festival of love.”

    On his part, Prince Lanre Olateru–Olagbegi said they were working on modalities to make the Igodo Festival one of Nigeria’s largest, like the Osun and Calabar festivals.

    One of the side attractions of the festival was 93-year-old Chief Fehintola Famulagun, who, despite her advanced age and health, said she would not miss celebrating the festival with her family. Even though she could no longer go out and dance round the town, Chief Famulagun said: “The festival is important and has to be observed. This is my 54th year I am celebrating it. I have vowed that it must be done. I have never missed the festival since I became chief in 1964. I am among the oldest chiefs that partake in this festival.”

    Like Chief Famulagun, the festival is dear to the hearts of the indigenes, especially those in Diaspora. Mr Tunde Onibode, who  flew  in from  abroad  and  facilitated the Omega  Schnapps sponsorship whereby drinks were offered freely at the palace,  called for government’s support. This, he said would make it richer and bigger.

     

    Dance of bare-chested men

     

    Another attraction at the festival was the display by the Iloro  Quarter  men, called the Ighares.  Half-naked  with  white  caps  on, they danced  round some  areas  in  the  ancient  town. Some held two dried horns of buffalo with which they struck each other. In  place  of  leather  drum,  they clung iron metals,  sang   songs  of  love   laced  with  proverbs  and  chanted  panegyrics  as  they  wriggled  their  waists.

    During their performance, a goat  that  strayed into the exclusive zone, crossed past  them was  chased, caught and became their delicacy. According  to  one  of  the  participants,  any  animal  that  passes during their performance would  be “arrested”  and  slaughtered as  their  sacrificial meat.

    The  aged  chiefs with feeble legs who  could  no  longer go  out celebrated in their homes.  They  cooked food and entertained visitors. Infact, some chiefs who were sick managed to participate. One of them, Chief Olusesi Osenepen, in his royal dress, said he left the hospital bed immediately he was discharged to  participate  in the  festival.

    His words:“I am happy that I am celebrating with Kabiyesi. I was sick but now I’m better.“

     

  • Remembering the ‘Black Scorpion’

    Remembering the ‘Black Scorpion’

    He was one of Nigeria’s Civil War heroes whose exploits hit the mythical realm. In death, he is being celebrated for his contribution to the peace and stability of the nation, Veterian Journalist Oloye ’lekan Alabi writes in this tribute to the late  Brigadier-General Benjamin Adesanya Maja Adekunle. 

    The family of the hero of the Nigeria Civil War, the late Brigadier-General Benjamin Adesanya Maja Adekunle (retired) has, in a full-page advertisement in The Nation on Sunday issue of September 13, announced the first memorial programme for the gentleman officer, who became famous worldwide while commanding the elite 3rd Marine Commando Division of the Nigerian Army during the Civil War (1967 -1970). The four-day programme begins tomorrow.

    The late Brigadier – General Adekunle, alias “Black Scorpion” was my hero, as he was to millions of Nigerians and foreigners alike, and besides was, with due respect, my older friend and guide. I admired and still admire, the professional soldier, sometimes brash when conditions demanded, though.

    When the late hero died on September 13, last year, aged 77, following was the tribute, published in some national newspapers, written by me in honour and remembrance of the great soldier. May his valiant soul continue to rest in perfect peace. Amen.

    “Nigeria’s civil war hero, Brigadier Benjamin Maja Adekunle, alias “Black Scorpion”  died in Lagos, on Saturday 13, September, this year aged, 77 years. May his gallant soul rest in peace. Amen.

    “Typical of Nigeria’s opportunistic class, crocodile tears and absurd tributes will, and indeed have started, be pouring in torrents to the departed professional soldier and gentleman officer, nationalist and self-effacing hero. Genuine heartfelt condolences will be far and in between for the late retired Brigadier – General Adekunle.

    “For a deserving citizen who had contributed so much to keep Nigeria a united country, clear the Lagos port during the self-inflicted, through government planlessness, congestion of the early 1970’s among other patriotic deeds, who was shamefully ignored, out of envy, pettiness and fickleness by successive governments, it is too late to now shed crocodile tears / pour hackneyed tributes to the “Black Scorpion”.

    “In my rejoinder to a former Sunday Punch newspaper editor’s jaundiced and unfair comments on another nationalist, Nigeria’s first Federal Minister of Social Services and Natural Resources, prodigy and ebullient politician, the late Adegoke Adelabu, alias “Penkelemesi”, published in The Punch newspaper issue on Wednesday, 14 November, 2007 (page 13), I wrote inter alia: “Due to reasons that we all know very well, Adelabu and other nationalists in his hue (Adekunle Fajuyi, Aminu Kano, Eyo Ita, Adaka Boro, Mbonu Ojike, Benjamin Adekunle etc) are deprived of history’s fair treatment by an ungrateful country”. That was my comment on Nigeria’s ingratitude to Benjamin Adekunle seven years ago when he was still alive.

    “In choosing a title for this tribune, I struggled with the above, “Don’t Cry for Him Nigeria” and Don’t Cry for Me, Nigeria”, a variant of the 1970’s chart buster, “Don’t Cry For Me Argentina”, dedicated to Isabella, the late wife of the also late Argentinean dictator, General Peron. Why did I drop the Peron variant? One, Adekunle  never begged Nigeria to honour or mourn him and unlike the Perons, Adekunle was a patriot and complete Nigerian, if one considers the fact that his father, Thomas Adekunle, was Yoruba, mother, Amina Theodora, a Bachama from Adamawa and first wife, Comfort Akie Wilcox, from Bonny.

    “In my formative (teenage) years, Benjamin Adekunle was one of my heroes. Others were my late paternal grandmother, Mama Asmau Odunola, the women leader of the now defunct NCNC in Ibadan, under Adegoke Adelabu, Adelabu himself, Obafemi Awolowo, Samuel Ladoke Akintola, Alimi Adesokan, Muhammad Ali, Pele, ’Wole Soyinka, Emeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu and Yusuf Olatunji a.k.a “Baba L’egba”. As seasons fell on themselves, the portfolio of my heroes/ role models grew, and may still grow when individuals display talent, integrity, patriotism and fairness.

    “The Nigeria / Biafra civil war (1967 to Jan. 1970) threw up Brigadier Adekunle as a professional soldier, strategist and myth. I soaked up his warfare fame and made known to him, though letters, ad I did to Professor ’Wole Soyinka, while an untried political prisoner at the Kaduna Prison in 1967, courtesy of the retired General Yakubu Gowon – led Federal Military Government, my admiration of his (Adekunle) war exploits.

    “In 1983, when I became a press secretary to the then governor of old Oyo State (present Oyo and Osun States) the late Chief ’Bola Ige and also to three military successors of Ige (retired Major – General Oladayo Popoola, retired Brigadier – General Adetunji Olurin and retired Brigadier – General Sasaniea Oresanya), the paths of the late Brigadier Adekunle and my humbleself crossed.

    “Of our encounters, I recall here his courtesy visit to me in July 1999, sequel to my appointment as the Managing Director of Sketch Press Limited, Ibadan (although designated as co-ordinator) by the then newly – sworn in Alliance for Democracy (AD) governors of Oyo, Ogun, Ondo, Osun and Ekiti States. Before their election as governors though, Odua Investment Company Limited, owned by the five states named above, had been saddled by the five former military administrators of the states to oversee the affairs of Sketch. I was seconded from ODU’A in 1998, where I was the substantive Senior Manager, Corporate Affairs, to run the affairs of Sketch, pro bono, as Coordinator. Later, ODU’A conducted interviews for a new management for Sketch and I handled over to the new Managing Director, Mr. Biodun Oduwole.

    “But, with the advent of civilian governments in Nigeria in May 1999, ODU’A states inclusive, the five governors of ODU’A states, as explained earlier, sacked the Sketch Board and Management, and asked me to take over the newspaper company’s affairs again – also pro bono. It was during my second coming, as it were, in the capacity as acting Managing Director of Sketch that the late Brigadier Adekunle sent his Personal Assistant to me to deliver his congratulatory message and book an appointment for a courtesy visit. On the chosen day of the visit; my guest in keeping with military tradition arrived the now defunct Sketch Press Limited office on Oba Adebimpe Road, Dugbe, Ibadan, some minutes earlier than the appointed time. The Sketch has since been demolished to give way to a shopping mall.

    “I, with my management team, received him at the gate and led the late Brigadier – General Adekunle to the MD’s office on the last floor of the three – storey building. Protocol over, he asked me to tell him the circumstances that led to my appointment as the Coordinator of the Sketch Press Limited.

    “I narrated the story to him and as I was about rounding off, he asked “Mr Coordinator, do you have a letter of appointment as the acting Managing Director of the Sketch from the governors?”

    “I replied in the negative, as I was verbally appointed by the governors without even any mention of an allowance to me! Brigadier-General Adekunle shook his head and bellowed that I should head the following day of his visit, to the late Governor Lam Adesina of Oyo State (the ‘overseer’ of the Sketch Press Limited, to obtain a “formal letter of authority (appointment”.

    “He told me that his advice was based on his “bitter experience” as the emergency manager (actually Military Commandant) of the Lagos Port, Apapa, from where he was unceremoniously eased out, after cleaning the port (Cement armanda) congestion in the 1970s, after he had been recalled from the war front.

    “Thank God, I heeded Brigadier Adekunle’s advice to demand and obtain a formal letter of appointment, among other words of wisdom (advice, if your prefer) that he gave freely to me.

    “Sometime last year, his wife visited the late Aare Musulumi of Yoruba land, Alhaji Abdul Azeez Arisekola Alao, at his Oluwo, Ibadan home. I was present. She complained to Aare that her husband’s ONLY plot of land on one of the Oyo State Government’s Reserved Areas (GRA) in Ibadan, was about to be acquired or taken over. True to his kind nature, Alhaji Arisekola promised to make enquires about the acquisition threat. When Mrs. Adekunle visited the Aare again early this year on the land matter, I was also present.

    “Alhaji Arisekola Alao had intervened on the late Brigadier-General Adekunle’s behalf on the premise that “heroes/patriots like General Adekunle should not be made to suffer over a plot of land which was legally acquired by him”.

    “May the patriotic and kind souls of Alhaji Alao and Brigadier-General Adekunle rest in peace. Amen. In concluding this tribute, I admonish political leaders and public officers to honour our heroes/patriots in their lifetime. Please put an end to the insultive posthumous ‘oju aye’ (belated and filthy) awards / tributes.

    “A word for our youth, please borrow the “I can – do” attitude of the late Brigadier-General Adekunle, who as a nine – year old in 1945, upon the death of his father, ‘Strengthened my resolve to take matters into my own hands. I resolved to leave home and look for someone to serve, in exchange for educational support”. He ran away from his family’s home in Jos, roamed the streets for several days before finding his way to the home of Reverend Ayiogu whom he (Adekunle) persuaded to employ him (Adekunle) as a domestic servant on a salary of one shilling and six pence a month.

    “Please don’t cry now, Nigeria, for Adekunle. It is too late. May the valiant soul of this great soldier and selfless nationalist rest in peace. Amen.”

     

    • Oloye Alabi is the Aare Alaasa Olubadan of Ibadanland.

  • Socio-cultural relevance of carved monoliths

    Have you ever heard of the carved monoliths? These precious blocks of stones are found in the Cross River basin area now known as Cross River State. Historically, the area once served as the capital of Nigeria before it was moved to Lagos in 1914.

    In 1940 under the colonial administration of Sir Richardson constitution, it was named eastern region and was later zoned under south eastern region 1967 when General Yakubu Gowon created 12 states. In 1976 Cross River was among the 19 states created by late General Murtala Muhammed. Cross River is a multi–lingua ethnic society which comprises of 16 local government areas. Efik is the major spoken language among the cross river people.

    By definition, monolith is a single upright block of stone (as a pillar or monument) that was shaped into column by people living in ancient time that have some religious meaning. It is slow to change. The monolith is believed to represent the ancestors that has been in existence over two thousand (2, 000) years. It tells the story of the origin of the people as well as the significance of facial and body marks. It also tells the story of the belief system of their time, especially about procreation and fertility which is illustrated on the shape and marking of different genders.

    These carved stones found in the middle of Cross River among the Ejagham people locally called Akwanshi or Atal were found across thirty communities. The stones are erected in circles standing in other to prevent them from being tampered with by the weather or human activities. They are found in strategic places such as meeting points in the community or in secret shrines.

    According to oral history, it is the ancestors of Ekoi people that put the stones where they are. It is also believed that the stones are gotten out of the river were smooth by water but the ancestors only cut out the faces with stones and iron. Each faces representing one of the dead chiefs whose names are not known.

    According to the Ekoi people, who live in various villages, there is a sole spiritual head or chief priest called Ntoon, thus, when he dies, he is also represented in Carved Basalt Monolith (Akwanshi).

    Over 300 monolith carved from basalt in this style were created in Cross River between 200 and 1900 A. D. These lithic monuments which vary in sizes ranging from two to over six feet in height are usually found in circular group facing inward. The images of human features on the addition, the scale, number and arrangement of Cross River monolith distinguished them from other grouping of an anthropomorphic sculpture like the Esie soapstone images.

     

    Origin

    Since the first discovery of the monolith in 1903, the origin has remained a mystery, their date of execution and their purposes. It is believed among the Ekoi people that the spirit of the dead returns to live in the stone and also another oral tradition states that the monolith or Akwanshi were carved between the 16th and 20th century A.D.  There are several sites in which monolith or Akwanshi is located in Ikom area of Cross River State among the main sites are as follows: Abayong, Agba, Akumabal etc.

    Though this object has played an important role in the ritual of successive generations of members of local communities. They may represent the spirit of the deceased ancestor. It is also possible that they were created as memorials to important figures. The other version maintains that the stones were created by spiritual powers and emerged out of the ground like trees. It is difficult to ascertain which version of the story is authentic and acceptable.

     

    Description

    They are different sizes, the Monoliths are decorated with geometric designs and stylised human features, noticeable eyes and open mouth, others have heads with rings, stylised pointed beards and elaborate marks navels, two decorative hands with five fingers, nose decorated with various shapes of facial marks.

    The geometric design on these images of the monolith perhaps show that the maker had basic calculations while some also believe that it is the method of Nsibidi writing.

     

    Features

    The Monolith have eyes, nose, mouth, beards and naval portrayed as well as ears, hands, arms, breast and geometric decorations (some of which represent tribal marks). Though the carvings ends at the naval but the beard is an indication that they are all male.

    Some monolith, especially those of the Etina have the neck groove shallower which arms, hands and surface decoration are added. Some also look unusual in lacking a sculptured navel, while others have massive leads on the faces which bears the diagonal cheek marks. At Nkrigor (Nselle), there are Akwanshi that have open mouth wedge, shaped beard and protruding naval as well as facial marks.

     

    Location

    Basaltic stone monolith have been found almost exclusively in the five villages of Nnams, Nselle, Abaanyom, Nde and Akaju, which are located in the middle of the Cross river area of Nigeria and who speak Bakor, a sub-dialect of the large linguistic group known as Ekoi or Ejagham. The monoliths were first discovered by Charles Partidge in 1905 in the Nnam Village of Alok but by 1968, Philip Allison had listed over fhundred mostly arranged in circles in abandoned villages.

    According to Ekpo Eyo, monolith or Akwanshi stone can be found in cluster and some of them feature in their annual new yam festival which represents their dead ancestors more especially, legendary figures.

    Monolith or Akwanshi stones are found in Cross River central upward to the northern part of the state. It has played a significant role in the life of the people, such as ancestral worship which protect and provide for the common man who believed in this ancestral cult. The stone has been distributed far beyond the area where it was first carved.

    These monoliths became crafts for the people of Cross River State therefore provided a means of livelihood. Also, the stone carving became an important trade among them that is why they are found nearly every meeting point of the villages.

    Just like other parts of the country such as Esie, Ife, Igbajo etc. who believed in stone carving that represent their ancestors, who provides and protects them at the time of difficulty.

     

    *Gbaniyi is of National Museum, Onikan Lagos.