The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • All hail new chiefs

    All hail new chiefs

    •Tinubu women’s day of glory

     Lagos monarch Oba Rilwan Akiolu has marked his 70th birthday and 10 years on the throne in grand style. He installed Mrs Folasade Tinubu-Ojo, daughter of All Progressives Congress (APC) leader Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as the Iyaloja-General of Lagos and Alhaja Bintu-Fatima Tinubu, widow of the late police chief, Kafaru Tinubu, as the Iyalode of Lagos. TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO reports

    For those familiar with the history of Lagos and Abeokuta, the name “Tinubu” will always ring a bell because of the exploits of one of West Africa’s greatest women liberators, Madam Efunroye Tinubu.

    Madam Tinubu was born around 1805 at Ijokodo in Egba forest. Ijokodo is in the Gbagura homestead of the Egba. Her father’s name was Olumosa and her mother’s, Nijeede. The name of Nijeede’s mother was Osunsola, who was a big trader in her days. She sold herbs, barks and root and animal skin. Nijeede used to follow her mother on trading trips. Returning from one of these trips in a canoe, she fell into labour and was delivered of a baby girl. The child was named Efunporoye by her father and Osuntinubu by her mother. The name Osuntinubu rose from the mother’s belief that it was the Osun goddess that gave her the child. The name was broken down to Osun-ti-inu-ibu-wa, “Osun goddess has come right from the depths of the water (to present this baby to them).

    Madam Tinubu rose to become a successful businesswoman and female political figure in Lagos and Egba (Abeokuta). She was decorated with the title of Iyalode of Egba.

    Today, Madam Tinubu has several monuments dedicated to her. In Abeokuta, one stands in the town square named after her called ‘Ita Iyalode (Iyalode plaza)’. Likewise the Tinubu Square in Lagos Island attests to her bravery.

    Centuries after, Madam Tinubu’s dynasty is waxing stronger. Last year, the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo installed Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as Aare Ago and his wife, Senator Oluremi as Yeye Aare Ago of Egbaland.

    Aare Ago is a war title equivalent to Field Marshal in the military. It bestows supreme eminence on the holder. The title was initially known in Abeokuta as Aare-Ona-Kakanfo, the type given to the late Chief M.K.O. Abiola by Alaafin of Oyo.

    The Balogun of Ika from Gbagura, the late Chief Anoba was allowed to import this title from Ibadan into Egbaland by the Aare of Ijaye, late Chief Irum.

    Chief Anoba became the Aare-Ona Kakanfo of Egbaland.

    When he died in 1910, the title was modified to Aare – Ago of Egbaland and the stool became vacant. Palace sources said the 102 years interregnum was due to enormous power/responsibilities associated with the title. The title is reserved for great men.

    Oba Gbadebo gave Tinubu the title in recognition of the invaluable services of the Tinubu family to Egbaland and the South west.

    Last Tuesday, another history was made in Lagos.

    Lagos monarch Oba Rilwan Akiolu as part of activities marking his 70th birthday and 10 years on the throne formally installed Mrs Folasade Tinubu-Ojo, daughter of All Progressives Congress (APC) leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as the Iyaloja-General of Lagos.

    Alhaja Bintu-Fatima Tinubu, widow of the late police Chief, Kafaru Tinubu was installed as the Iyalode of Lagos.

    The installation was held at the Iga Idunganran palace in Lagos Island amidst fanfare.

    The carnival-like event was witnessed by political big wigs, market leaders, business moguls and heads of corporate organisation.

    Mrs Tinubu-Ojo succeeded the late President-General, Association of Nigerian Market Women and Men, Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji, who died on June 15.

    As a mark of honour, markets in the state were shut, with hundreds of traders flocking the palace to felicitate with their new leader.

    Clad in white lace, Mrs Tinubu-Ojo, was congratulated and blessed by the monarch.

    To Akiolu, the honour bestowed on the Tinubus is a pay back for the support he received from the family while vying for the stool following the death of Oba Adeyinka Oyekan.

    Oba Akiolu urged the new Iyaloja to be diligent in her duty.

    He said the position was important to the development of market activities in Lagos State and Nigeria at large.

    He prayed for her success.

    Also eulogising the new Iyaloja and Iyalode, Oba Gbadebo prayed God to grant the duo long life and prosperity.

    “I pray Lagos to witness more developments during your reign,” he said.

    Senator Oluremi Tinubu thanked the monarch for honouring her family.

    She congratulated Oba Akiolu on his 70th birthday and 10 years on the throne.

    “I pray our new Iyaloja-General would always know it for better; the marketers will derive more joy during her reign just like our former Iyaloja-General,” she said.

    Senator Tinubu said the new Iyaloja is capable of coordinating market activities in the state.

    She said Mrs Tinubu-Ojo was under the tutelage of her predecessor, the late Alhaja Mogaji for years.

    “The position of Iyaloja comes with lots of duties and responsibilities. It is expected that she will succeed with her sense of maturity, respect for elders and diligence,” she said.

    Senator Tinubu also advised the Iyaloja to use her office to ensure traders’ prosperity in the state.

    Wife of former Lagos State Governor Mrs Abimbola Jakande thanked God for making the day a reality.

    Mrs Jakande prayed God to give the new chiefs wisdom to discharge their responsibilities.

    She congratulated Oba Akiolu on his birthday and coronation anniversary.

    Senator Hassan Fasinro congratulated Oba Akiolu and the new chiefs.

    Senator Fasinro urged them to be more humble and humane.

    The new Iyaloja and Iyalode thanked the monarch and Lagosians for the honour.

    They promised to be upright and open in the discharge of their duties.

    Alhaja Tinubu described it as an act of God.

    “I give glory to God for making the day a reality. I was surprised when I received the news. Tomorrow (Wednesday) is my birthday; this is a perfect birthday gift. I am grateful to our monarch,” she said.

    After the installation, guests converged on The Haven for a lavish reception.

    King of Fuji Music Alhaji Wasiu Anifowoshe popularly called K1 was on the band stand.

     

  • A reunion of Ijesa indigenes

    The Ijesa have honoured same of their own for contributing  to the development of Ijesa land. The event took place  at the Metropolitan Club in Lagos. OLATUNDE ODEBIYI reports.

    It was a reunion of the indigenes of Ilesa in Osun State when they gathered at the Metropolitan Club, Victoria Island, Lagos for an induction and awards.

    The event was organised by the Ijesa Society, a socio-cultural organisation devoted to the pursuit of suitable development in Ijesaland.

    The Ijesa met in a fully air conditioned white-painted hall with wooden ceilings and wooden floor tiles.

    The white and coffee brown decorated chairs were set around the gold decorated square shaped tables, which had cream and green flowers in transparent vases at the centre. The backdrop and ceiling had sparkling lights with the same colour of designs for the chairs and tables.

    Most guests wore native attires whose colours blended with the decoration of the hall. Very few wore choice colours.

    The ushers were dressed in black and white. They were all smiles as they welcomed guests who came in exotic cars to the event.

    The Ijesa people could not hold their joy on seeing each other. They moved from one table to the other exchanging pleasantries amid high life music supplied by Niyi Ajetunmobi Productions.

    Mr Obafemi Aluko was the emcee on the ocassion.

    The event began at the entry of Owa Obokun of Ijesa Oba Adekunle Aromolaran who came in company of his Olori, Olanike and some others. All guests stood as Oba Aromolaran, clad in all-white with red royal beads, entered the hall with dancing, to songs of his praise supplied by the band. Many stretched their necks to see the king’s dance steps; he did not disappoint the guests as he danced in his own style.

    The opening prayer was said by Prince Adelowo Adedeji.

    The event barely started when the State of Osun Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, arrived.

    Aregbesola, an indigene of Ilesa, entered in company of his crew, amid songs praising him by the life band.

    The National Anthem and Ijesa Society’s anthem followed.

    Welcoming the gathering, the President of the Ijesa Society, Lagos, Chief Olatunde Aluko, thanked all for their contributions to the development of the town. He said the aim of the society was the upliftment of Ijesaland.

    He congratulated the governor for his good works in the state. He said it was the responsibility of Ijesa people to give their total support and encouragement to the governor in transforming the state.

    He thanked Oba Aromolaran for the peace, unity, and socio-economic development he brought to Ijesaland, saying the society is happy he graced the occasion.

    He congratulated the inductees and the honoraries on the joy of the day, adding that the celebration is to set them for greater accomplishments.

    Chairman on the occasion, Dr Festus Adebisi Ajayi prayed God to strengthen and reward all Ijesa people.

    Seven Ijesa indigenes were honoured and 14 new inducted.

    Oba Aromolaran urged the Ijesa people to live a life of service.

    He hailed Aregbesola for turning the state around.

    Aregbesola encouraged the people to embrace hard work, commitment and dedication, saying that maximum effort is required to get maximum profit for you to be effective and efficient in the society.

    He said the day’s celebration was hinged on devotion and service to humanity by some men and women who have distinguished themselves n the society.

    He urged the Ijesa people whom he described as men and women of value, to always unite and restore the beauty of the land and never allow division in the land. He also told them to see the land as a place for investments.

    “Come and build houses, industries and invest in the state,” the governor said.

    Present at the event were Osun State Deputy Governor, Otunba Titi Laoye-Tomori; former Military Administrator of Lagos State, Brig-Gen Raji Razaki (rtd); former Minister of Foreign Affairs Prof Bolaji Akinyemi; Ambassador Dapo Fafowora and wife Bose; Prof Wale Omoniyi; Prof Wale Omole; Hon Justice Samuel Omotunde; Ambassador Idowu Fadeji; Prof Soji Ilori; Chief Ebenezer Babatope; Dr Niyi Adeniyi; former University of Lagos Vice-Chancellor Prof Oye Ibidapo-Obe; Prof Jide Alo; Prof Duro Oni; Prof Mopelola Omoegun; Chief Felix Fagbohungbe (SAN) and Commissioner for Special Duties Mr Ajibola Basiru.

    Others included the Special Adviser for Women Affairs and Social welfare, Mrs Willams Eso; Director General, Office of Economic Development and Planning, Dr Charlse Akinola; Interim National Legal Adviser (APC) Dr Muiz Banire; Human rights lawyer Mr Femi Falana (SAN); Director General, Bureau of Social Services, Femi Faturoti; Mr Vincent Maduka; Chief Kunyi Oluwafemi; Chief Tunde Olojo; Chief Kunle Oluwasanmi and wife Fehintola; Oluremi Oshinaike; Chief Olusola Dada and Mr Olu Maduka.

  • A painful exit

    A painful exit

    The eighth day prayer for Alhaja Idiat Aroyewun, mother of Alhaja Taofikat Danmole, has been held. Alhaja Danmole is the wife of Lagos State Commissioner for Home Affairs and Tourism, Alhaji Oyinlomo Danmole. ABIKE ADEGBULEHIN, who was at the Eko Club in Surulere, Lagos Mainland, writes.

    If only the dead could see, Alhaja Idiat Aroyewun would have been proud of the crowd that came for her eight day Islamic prayers. The children of the late Alhaja Aroyewon brought their friends together to celebrate her passage.

    She was 68 years.

    Guests attested that she was a hardworking woman who touched the lives of those she came in contact with.

    It was not all that fun as all were still in grief over the death of their beloved mother, sister and friend.

    The late Alhaja Idia Aroyewun was the mother of the Legal Officer of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Alhaja Taofikat Danmole.

    Most of those who were in attendance were those who had a personal relationship with her. The children of the deceased as well as the members of their family were adorned in green and pink dresses.

    The prayer session started at noon, just as soon as the Imams arrived.

    Prayers were offered for the deceased, her family members and all those in attendance.

    Dr Kabir Paramole, Chairman, Lagos State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, urged all to live exemplary lives.

    He hailed the deceased for her humanitarian gesture.

    The prayer session ended with special prayers for the family of the deceased.

    The hall was immediately transformed into a reception arena. Some guests had their family names on different tables. They settled on the ones meant for them while others moved to sit outside where canopies were decorated in white, red and gold.

    The son-in-law of the deceased and Commissioner for Home Affairs and Culture, Alhaji Oyinlomo Danmole, described her as a God- fearing and nice woman who always attended to other peoples’ problems.

    The children of the deceased include: Alhaja Monsun Paramole, Abdul Taofik Abidemi Ajose, Alhaja Taofikat Omolara Danmole, Alhaja Rashidat Adetoun Jaiyeola, Mrs Modinat Adetayo Asheta and Abdul Azeez Adeyemi Aroyewon.

    Among the guests were Hon Gbenga Basanya; Princess Olajumoke Jimbo Ademeyin; some members of the Lagos State House of Assembly.

  • Reward for men of design

    Reward for men of design

    An award to reward excellence in designing and architecture has been held at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos. NNEKA NWANERI reports.

    ON Saturday October 5 , the maiden edition of the Interior Designers and Excellence Awards (IDEA) held at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.

    It was to advance the profession through international recognitions and reward those who have excelled in the field.

    Earlier, the second yearly IDEA conference held at the same venue. Notable speakers from across the globe discussed issues affecting the sub-sector.

    Founder of IDEA in Nigeria Mrs Titi Ogufere said the conference was necessary to promote interaction and exchange ideas.

    The dinner that evening was what they needed to relax and unwind. It was exciting, informative and entertaining.

    The ambience was right. It was a black tie occasion and guests were resplendent in their dressings. While the men wore black suits, white inner shirts and black bowties, the women were charming in black, long and short gowns. Those who came with their spouses clutched them close to their sides and walked through a black carpet that was laid for them. Some others stopped and posed for snap shots by the paparrazzis.

    Soon, an artiste, Dare Art-Alade brought guests back to reality with his sharp voice. He led others in the rendition of the National Anthem. From then on, he became the Master of Ceremony (MC) for the evening.

    The cultural group of the Crown Troupe of Africa set the tone of the event with a colourful performance.

    There was also a documentary on IDEA.

    It was followed by the first set of awards:The Architecture Awards, which came in quick succession.

    The Design Group, which built the Intercontinental Hotel, got the award for Best Hospitality Architects; Best Institutional Architects went to James Cubitt for designing the Civic Centre on Ozumba Mbadiwe Street, Lagos. It also received the award for commercial architects for Diamond Bank Drive.

    Other awardees were: Tarino Towers, Ikoyi, Lagos, which recieved Consultants Collaborative Partnership Award for Best Architectural Flats. The Hagin got the ACCL Best Domestic Architects and the Young Architect of the Year was MIA with his Home project.

    There was a break, during dinner where a pretty diva, Zaina, performed. She appeared in a shiny white gown and thrilled guests with her sonorous voice.

    There was laughter galore when award-winning comedian Bovi mounted the podium; he thrilled with his rib-cracking jokes. The audience gave a resounding applause.

    The second part of the awards was for interior designs.

    The Best Interior Architects award was bagged by AD Consultant for its housing project in Victoria Garden City (VGC); Best Show room award was won by Agatha Interior Designs; Best Retail Designer went to Episode Interiors; IO Furniture bagged the award for Best Residential Designer, Best Hospitality Design with Pearlwort Hotel and Best made-in-Nigeria furniture.

    Omar Gardens went home as the Best Garden Designer. It designed the Residential Development in Lekki while the best Product of the Year is Ill Bagno Showroom in Lekki.

    The climax of the occasion was the musical presentation by Olubankole Wellington with the stage name Banky W. He thrilled with his ‘Yes-No’ hit, which guests hummed.

    Among personalities at the event were President of the International Federation of Interior Architects/Designers, Shashi Caan; National President, Nigerian Institute of Architects, Ibrahim Haruna and others.

  • Mark, others bid Senator’s mum ‘bye’

    Mark, others bid Senator’s mum ‘bye’

    The Senate virtually relocated to Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, last Friday when Senator Olugbenga Obadara and his siblings buried their mother, Mrs Lucinda Ayoka Obadara, the Ekerin Iyalode of Trinity Methodist Church in the ancient town. NNEKA NWANERI was there.

    Though I am the 12th child of the family, I suffered with my mother from the age of 10 when my father died. She refused to let me trade and insisted I went to school. It was tough. But, today, we are vindicated.

    This was the testimony of Senator Olugbenga Obadara, at the funeral of his mother, Mrs Lucinda Ayoka Obadara, before a crowd of sympathisers in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, last Friday.

    He went on: “My mother, I can say today, has been duly honoured because she died in my arms and her last words were: ‘Don’t fight with anyone. God will bless you.’

    “I cannot say it all, but to thank her for all God made her do for me,” Obadara said.

    The guests were not gloomy; they were in a celebratory mood as they bade Mama Ake final farewell.

    The late Mrs Obadara died on July 27. She was 94.

    Despite the downpour, people came from far and near to honour her. Political heavyweights and Obadara’s colleagues in the Senate were there. Senate President David Mark led the Senate team, which included his deputy, Ike Ekweremadu.

    If eulogies could bring the dead back to life, Mama Obadara would have risen from the coffee-coloured casket bearing her remains.

    Family members, the Methodist community and friends, who wore pink aso ebi, were seated by 10am for the scheduled 11am service at the Trinity Methodist Church in Itesi, Abeokuta.

    Family members, sat in a corner of the church in their red aso oke.

    The Bishop of Oyo Diocese of the Methodist Church of Nigeria,the Right Rev. Titus Omoniyi, gave the sermon. He urged all to live worthy lives.

    “Let us begin to number our days and live in wisdom,” he preached.

    Rev Omoniyi urged Christians to have hope as Jesus Christ lives on.

    The late Mama Ake’s children and grand children went before the cleric for a special prayer. The family was led by the 81-year-old first daughter, Mrs Waleolu Kehinde-Ajayi and the 74-year-old first son.

    The burial site in the family home of the Obadaras was restricted to family members. Senator Obadara and other family members performed the dust-to-dust rite before the remains were lowered to the grave.

    Senators sent condolence messages. They extolled the virtues of the deceased.

    Mark described her death as an “irreparable loss”, urging Obadara to count it a privilege burying his mother.

    Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun said the deceased lived a fulfilled life having touched many lives and served selflessly in the Lord’s vineyard.

    The Alake of Egbaland Oba Michael Gbadebo, in a letter, said: “She lived well for 24 years above the biblical 70, thus, befitting a special grace of God. Besides, she lived to see her children occupy enviable positions in the political economic realm of life. She was also a prayer warrior, despite her age.”

    Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his wife Senator Oluremi said the late Mama Ake’s faith was her strength. They thanked God she gave the country Senator Obadara, whom they described as a cerebral lawmaker and consummate soldier of democracy and rule of law.

    As the reception held at the MKO Abiola Stadium, Kuto, Abeokuta, two large tents were erected.

    The venue was decorated with pink and white rose flowers. Glittering table decorations added to its beauty. The uniformed Ankara fabric was sewn in trendy styles. The women ensured they made fashion statements with theirs. The organisers and family members left no stone unturned in ensuring that the deceased had a befitting burial.

    Renowned Juju musician Chief Ebenezer Obey and his band electrified the venue, singing the praises of guests, who went home with various souvenirs.

    In attendance were: Senators Hope Uzodinma; George Sekibo; Ibrahim Abu; Isiaka Adeleke; Smart Adeyemi; Gbenga Ashafa; Ganiu Solomom; Tunde Ayeni; Hon Olumide Osoba, Ogun State Deputy Governor Segun Adesegun; Lanre Edun; wife of the Alake, Olori Tokunbo Gbadebo; the wives of Oba Dapo Tejuosho; Iyalode Alaba Lawson.

    Others were: Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Global Trust Savings and Loans, Olaitan Komolafe; Deputy Managing Director of IGI Insurance Rotimi Fashola; former Ogun State Governor Chief Segun Osoba; Ogun State Commissioner for Commerce and Industry Hon Bimbo Ashiru and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Education Dr Tunji Abimbola; the late Chief MKO Abiola’s daughter and Special Adviser to the governor on MDGS, Hafsat Abiola-Costello and former Minister of State for Defence Chief Demola Seriki.

  • For Alake… the beat goes on

    For Alake… the beat goes on

    FOR the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Michael Adedotun Gbadebo, the celebration of his 70th birthday, which he marked with fanfare on September 14 in the ancient town of Abeokuta, continued last Sunday in Lagos. He was hosted in the Victoria Island, Lagos home of Erelu Abiola Dosunmu.

    Before 9a.m., the Erelu and her guest were already seated in the right front pew of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Victoria Island, waiting for the special thanksgiving mass to begin.

    Everything looked shiny.

    The pews; the marble floors; the altar and the silver railings that led worshippers upstairs.

    After the ringing of the bell, the congregation rose as the priests and his man-servants filed into the church in a procession.

    It was the full Latin Mass. It felt like being in Rome, the Vatican City.

    The first Bible reading for the day was taken from Habakkuk 1:2-3; 2:2-4 and the gospel reading from Luke 17:5-10. The central theme for all the readings was ‘Faith’.

    The Parish Priest, Very Reverend Father Henry Omonisaye, spoke on faith being the central life of every Christian, urging the faithful to always be patient enough to trust the action of God.

    Faith, the cleric said, brought other godly virtues as patience, humility and constant communion with God.

    Other proceedings for the Mass continued after which the monarch, his friends and some of his children filed out for a thanksgiving.

    Only a few invited guests moved to the Erelu’s home for the reception. They were taken from the ground to the top floor in an elevator. The house was breath-taking. It spoke affluence. The living room had every touch of class and beauty. Flowers, decors, wall paintings, art works and picture of her youthful days were enough for guests to feast on. A trumpeter supplied jazz music from the background.

    It was a small but mighty gathering. There was no formality. Every attendee got an opportunity to interact with the monarch. Some also rejoiced for the opportunity to take a pictures with him.

    Choice wines and food were served as guests were treated to a three course buffet. She did in no small scale.

    Soon after, a table of full of cakes was wheeled out. A large white and purple cake stood distinct in the midst of smaller coloured cupcakes. Seven lit candles were on the big cake. The Alake, was like a young kid, asked to make a wish and blow out the candles. His utterances were: ‘Eko o ni Baje; Egba o ni daru and Nigeria o ni baje o’ as he blew the candle lights out.

    All sang to him: ‘For he is a jolly good fellow’.

    Oba Gbadebo thanked Erelu Dosunmu for the gesture, revealing a small detail that seemed to go unoticed. He said: “You see those purple flowers on the church altar, they were not there by chance. It is significantly royalty. I thank her for the Latin Mass, being the highest and is cherished by all Catholics.

    “Each time I keep wondering how she has been able to blend her staunch nun upbringing with tradition. This goes to show that she is a true daughter of Egbaland, her maternal home and Lagos where she is married to.”

    The Oba prayed God to grant Erelu long life and the country visionary leaders to lead us to the promised land.

    He was presented a little token of a birthday gift.

    In response, the host thanked Alake for honouring her little token of affection.

    She described Oba Gbadebo as a rare breed who has been God-fearing since the onset of his reign despite his position.

    “I wanted him to come to that beautiful church where all my prayers are answered. Oba, thank you for the pride you give to the traditional institution. The honour is mine communing with you today, she said.

    Former Lagos Commissioner for Finance, Mr Wale Edun; Publisher of the Vanguard newspapers Mr Sam Amuka-Pemu; Bashorun of Lagos Chief Jaiye (JK) Randle; Dr Ademola Folarin-Williams and Egba chiefs were there, playing the role for which they were appointed.

  • Giving for a living

    The Ikeja Viva L’Amour Lions Club has held a dinner to mark the investiture of Mrs Gertrude Akihimien as its eighth president. NNEKA NWANERI reports.

    They gathered to give a helping hand to the needy and downtrodden. Over the years, the Lions Club has been in the forefront of touching the lives of the needy.

    Last Sunday, the Ikeja branch of Viva L’Amour gathered at the Lagos Sheraton Hotel and Towers to install Mrs Geretude Akihimien as its president for next year as well as raise funds for its projects.

    The day of the week did not hinder guests, who came in their numbers. Smartly and stylishly dressed men and women came to lend a helping hand to their friends.

    Officers and members of the club stood out. They wore the same Ankara fabric, sewn in different styles.

    The members of the club were there to give their time, resources and talent. They were excited to take up their various posts. With the way they went about their work, the bond of brotherhood and unity was felt; they were like a small family unit working together for a common good.

    The immediate past president, Mrs Gloria Moweta, in her valedictory speech, outlined some of the laudable projects of the club during her tenure. She urged the members to support her successor, saying: “I hand over with relief.”

    The District Governor of Lions Club, Mr Yinka Bolarinwa, urged them to do more. He said October was membership month so old members should bring in new ones with fresh ideas to keep the club healthy and enhance the ability to serve. “Our dream, Our Future’.

    “Follow your dream, aim high and look to the future as you bring succour to the underprivileged, visually impaired and empower youths,” Bolarinwa said.

    Installing Mrs Akihimien, he asked to beat the gong as the president to call the gathering to order.

    Later, she performed her first task of swearing-in her officers. This was done with the officers’ sponsors standing behind them.

    Thereafter, the new president read her acceptance speech, imploring all to use their resources to serve the communities and put smiles on many faces this year.

    Usually, the spouse of the president is silent. But, Pastor Davidson Akihimien spoke. He lauded the Lions Club for its projects and recommended it as a veritable platform for good deeds and meeting the needs of the less-privileged.

    Also, the husband of the outgone president, Mr Moweta spoke. He spoke of how his wife juggled the task of being the club’s president, mother to their children and a wife to him. He was given an award for his steadfastness.

    There was music and excitement. The serene atmosphere became enlivened as everyone, young and old, took to the dance floor in celebration.

  • 94 cheers for Fasinro

    Senator Hassan Babatunde Fasinro has celebrated his 94th birthday in his Victoria Island, Lagos home, MONSURAT AJAO reports.

    THE Victoria Island, Lagos home of Senator Hassan Babatunde Fasinro was a Mecca of sorts when he turned 94. People turned out in large number to share in the joy of the day with him. That Friday, a special prayer was held for him. It was led by the Chief Imam of Anwar-Ul-Islam Society of Nigeria, Abdul Kareem Lawal.

    Popularly called HAB, Pa Fasinro, a Senator in the Second Republic, moved unaided acknowledging cheers from his family and well-wishers.

    The Baba Adinni of Lagos, Sheikh Abdul Hafeez Abou, led dignitaries to the occasion. He sat close to the celebrator, who was wore a white lace agbada .

    The event featured prayers, goodwill messages and the cutting of the birthday cake.

    Members of the Anwarul-Islam Society of Nigeria recitated Quran to seek for a long and good life for the celebrator.

    After the prayer, gifts were presented to the ‘birthday boy.’

    The women wing of the society presented him a cake which they happily cut with him. The cake was cut after the pronunciation of ALLAH.

    Sheikh Abou described the celebrator as a man of noble character who is living a worthy life.

    “He lives a good life; a life worthy of emulation; my prayer for him is to live more fruitful years on earth with good health,” he said.

    The celebrator described the day as joyful and fruitful.

    “I am very happy; I thought I would not attain 94 years on earth,” he said.

    He decried the state of the nation, saying it is languishing in problems because the leaders refused to be selfless in their activities.

    “The only problem rocking the nation is lack of contentment and interest for selfless service to the people by our leaders; during the period of Awolowo and our past leaders, their intention was service to the masses not for their own selfish interest,” he said.

    A book, The faults of the faulters: Response to the critics of Ahamadiya as I see it, by the celebrator, was presented to the public. It is a follow-up on his book Ahmadiya as I see it, conflicts within the moment.

    In attendance were the National President of Anwarul-Islam Society of Nigeria, Alhaji Mustapha Oshodi; Justice Jinadu Yahya; former Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Federal Mortgage Bank, Alhaji Remi Onabule; Alhaja Kudirat Kekere-Ekun; Alhaji Nurein Yusuf; Alhaji Sulaiman Ibrahim and Alhaji Muftau Adisa Salau.

  • Characteristics of Technical Speech

    Welcome to the boring side of public speaking. Just kidding. It is the business side of speaking, and you know that business aims at making profit. If you can perfect the art of technical speaking, you will do well in your business, academic and other formal presentations. Last week, we defined technical speech as a speech that is designed to communicate specialised information. It is the type of speech that presents information that only the people within a particular group can understand. Today, we shall examine some of the characteristics of technical speech.

    Technical speech is unique in its nature and delivery. The very name of it betrays its level of seriousness. The following are some of its characteristics:

    •It is Informative: can you remember that we mentioned earlier that some speeches can have attributes of other speeches? Yes, this is one of them. Technical speech aims at informing its audience about a specific subject. This is done in such a way that at its conclusion, the audience knows more about the subject matter than it did at the beginning of the speech. It is true that we said this type of speech is formal and full of professional language, but if it does not communicate, the speaker will not succeed. The speaker passes across information useful to the particular people he/she is communicating with. While an ordinary informative speech can be useful to and be comprehended by any audience, the technical speech is not for everybody. For instance, if you see the advertisement of an academic conference with the theme, “New Technologies in Bio-informatics in Nigeria,” are you likely to attend? Even if attendance is free, in as much as you don’t understand what the theme means, you’d rather spend your time on something else.

    •Research based: one of the major characteristics of a technical speech is that it is research based. This is not just about the background information you gather so as to enrich your speech; the speech itself is a scientific (so to speak) report. You must have conducted an inquiry in your field and you wish to share the findings with your peers. You may be given the task of assessing the performance of your company’s products in the market. Or, you may be asked to create a new brand for the Nigerian market. For both cases (and others), you can’t just sit in your office and cook up some figures; you must actually go to the field to interact with relevant segments of the public who will provided you with the needed information. When you are done with all the investigation, you will be expected to present a technical speech on your findings. Research gives technical speech its validity.

    •The use of technical aids: though it may seem obvious, it is still important to mention that the “technical” in the name of the speech does not only refer to the complexity of the idea being discussed; it also refers to the technical assistance needed for conveying the message. Because of the nature of the speech, there is usually the need to substantiate the abstract idea being discussed. Hence, technical aids such as handouts and multi-media presentations are needed for easy dissemination of the information. The handouts are usually distributed to the audience so that they can follow the presentation and also make meaningful contribution. I’m sure you will agree with me that this does not happen in most other types of speech. Can you imagine a persuasive or an entertaining speaker distributing the text of his/her presentation?

    •There is opportunity for questions or contributions: this is one of the few types of speeches that allow the audience to ask questions from the presenter after the presentation. Because it involves sharing professional knowledge, there is also an opportunity for fellow professionals or senior colleagues to make contributions. During the Annual General Meetings (AGM) of corporations, the President of the organisation makes a presentation on the activities of the company for the past one year. The accountant also presents the financial details of the report. Copies of the reports are given to the stakeholders because these presentations are technical in nature. After listening to the speeches and carefully studying the documents, the listeners are encouraged to seek for clarification in any area that such is desired.

    •The use of statistics: this may not be compulsory, depending on the subject matter. Nevertheless, if the report is based on some research findings, there will always be need to present the data in tables and graphs. This will help the audience to easily grasp what is being discussed. Here, it should be noted that statistics should not be used for the sake of impressing the audience; rather, it should be used for the sake of simplifying the information being presented. The use of statistics in technical speech will be discussed in details subsequently.

  • Death so cruel

    The remains of the Executive Director of Tastee Fried Chicken, the popular Lagos eatery, Mr Oluwabunmi Adedayo, have been interred at Vaults and Gardens, Ikoyi, Lagos. The interment followed a funeral service at Our Saviour Church, Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), Lagos. OLATUNDE ODEBIYI reports.

    To his parents, it was the pain of losing an only child, who was so hardworking and diligent.

    To the army of youths at the funeral, it was the pain of losing a good friend, a colleague and a jolly good fellow. So, the tears came in torrents as the remains of the Executive Director of De Tastee Group, the parent company of Tastee Fried Chicken, Mr Oluwabunmi Adedayo, were buried last Thursday.

    The late Adedayo died on September 25, after a brief illness. He was 36.

    The deceased is survived by his children,Iyanuoluwayimika and Morolaoluwa; wife, Oluwayemisi and his parents, Mr Adekunle and Mrs Olayinka Adedayo.

    Friends, relatives and sympathisers, who came from within and outside the country to pay him their last respects broke down when the late Adedayo’s remains were taken out of the church after the funeral service at 12:23pm.

    The silver coffin with cream and green flower on top was conveyed in a black Escalade. It was lowered into the grave around 1:00pm at the Vaults and Gardens in Ikoyi.

    Oluwayemisi, the widow, dressed in all black, whispered inaudible words on the coffin of her husband, crying till the grave was cemented. Priests, friends and family members consoled her.

    He’s gone too soon, many said.

    Most guests wore black. Some wore T-shirts, which had the late Adedayo’s picture in front and “Forever in our hearts” written at the back.

    Members of the staff of Tastee Fried Chicken were there in large numbers. The eatery closed operation on October 2 and 3 in honour of their late director.

    At the funeral service, Rev Gbemi Olaleye and Efe Nathan (singers) sang to lift souls.

    The church choir took the hymns. Femi Band was the brigade.

    Vicar and Archdeacon of Ikoyi Ven Igein Isemede assured the people that God who hears, cares and heals would intervene in the situation.

    He urged Oluwayemisi (the widow) to take heart, saying that God is her refuge, strength and ever present help in times of trouble.

    At the wake-keep held on Wednesday, Rev John Nriama told the people that God would never forsake, abandon, hurt or leave his own.

    “God will comfort and heal our hearts,” the cleric said.

    Many were too depressed to talk to The Nation but some relatives, friends and co-workers did in tears.

    The Personal Assistant to the late Mr Adedayo, Mr Tunde Sokoya, described his death as sad. He said the late Adedayo contributed greatly to the organisation’s success. He described him as ‘’intelligent, goal achiever and a success’’.

    His best friend, Mr Yinka Adepoju described him as a man who brought joy and happiness to all.

    His cousin, Mr Mayowa Ogunnusi, said the late Adedayo was an embodiment of entrepreneurship who cherished family union.

    A worker in the Quality Control Department of Tastee Fried Chicken, Mrs Olawepo Ololade, said the late Adedayo lived a simple life, adding that he was a man for all. “He had human feelings, very humble and down to earth,” Mrs Ololade said.

    A relative, Mr Yisa Saheed, said the late Adedayo was gentle, generous and had a listening ear.