The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • ‘I never thought I would be 80’

    The two-in-one event featured presentation of the book entitled: Grace of his Life, a Biography of Chief Benjamin Abimbola Adigun and the celebration of Chief Adigun’s 80th birthday.

    It was held on a working day (Tuesday), yet it was well attended. Many important people in the society thronged the gathering in their numbers. The celebrator, Chief Adigun was the cynosure of all eyes; he was dressed in a flowing agbada with a black pair of shoes to match.

    The event began after guests were led in by the ushers. It started with prayers.

    Rev Bosun Ayinde gave the opening prayer.

    Former Group Managing Director of the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), Chief Funsho Kupolokun, chaired the event.

    In his address, Chief Kupolokun described Chief Adigun as a humble and honest man.

    “We are here to celebrate and rejoice with a gentleman, an ambassador, a pioneer and pillar of the Nigerian oil industry,” he said.

    Chief Kupolokun said Chief Adigun’s life was that of selfless service for his father land.

    “He is a pleasant man, kindness and humility run through his vein,” he said.

    Describing the celebrator further, Chief Kupolokun said, he is a man of courage.

    “He is a man of courage who has emerged from so many battles, his pioneering effort in the oil industry made it boom today, his role in the oil industry is fascinating, however, his role in the church is more fascinating,” he commented.

    Former Dean of Education University of Lagos (UNILAG), Prof Duro Ajeyalemi, reviewed the book.

    He described the book as a compendium that truly x-rays the life of Chief Adigun.

    The book contains 249 pages with 10 chapters and gallery and Appendix.

    “I recommend the book to you all,” he said.

    Prof Ajeyalemi commended the efforts of the writer for painstakingly looking at the life of Chief Adigun keenly.

    The book, he said, is well illustrated with pictures of the past of the celebrator. The book was presented by Chief John Odeyemi and Chief Segun Aina amidst funfare.

    The celebrator thanked the guests for honouring him.

    Speaking on his life, Chief Adigun said he never thought he would live to celebrate his 80th birthday.

    “I never thought I would reach 80 years on earth, I have passed through many types of situations in life, I have passed through thick and thin, but God being on my side, I survived and in His miraculous way scaled me through the hurdles of life,” he said.

    He urged all to live with fear of God and give their all to the service of God.

    He advised people to show love in whatever they do.

    His wife Madam Cecilia thanked God for the life of her husband and appreciated everyone that had come to rejoice with the family.

    “He has a large heart, a caring husband, a mentor and he is very hardworking,” she said.

    Chief Adigun’s, son Kola considered it a special privilege to be his son.

    “I have a special privilege to have him as a father, he is very caring and kind to all of his children and people around him,” he said.

    Guests gave their donations and bought copies of the book.

     

  • The ‘jolly good’ fellows

    Last Thursday, some people became the fellows of the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM). It coincided with this year’s edition of the Institute’s Spouse’s Day Luncheon, reports NNEKA NWANERI

    As they filed out, one after the other as they were called. They were filled with joy and pride. Their faces glowed. Their citations were read and certificate of Fellowship of the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM) given to them.

    It was another busy day at the Muson Centre, Onikan, Lagos, venue of this year’s NIM Spouses Day . It was a day to celebrate both old and new fellows of the institute.

    It was an event graced by royalty, uniformed men, political moguls, captains of industry and entrepreneurs.

    They were dressed in either English or traditional attire. The titled men were in their full regalia. They were led by the Olugbo of Ugboland and Chairman of Obat Petroleum, Oba Fredrick Obateru Akinruntan, who came in company of many of his red cap chiefs.

    His entry into the Shell Hall was heralded by trumpets and drumbeats. He wore a glittering shiny apparel.

    His orange Rolls Royce was parked at the foot of the stairs leading into the hall. Guests on entry stole a look at the car.

    Every fellow had a table to himself and his/her guests. Some came in company of their family members.

    Others came with their friends and business associates. Before long, the hall was filled to capacity and those who could not get tables sat on available spaces at the back.

    Following the recitation of the National Pledge and NIM Code of Conduct, the event kicked off. The President and Chairman of Council, Chief Michael Olawale-Cole congratulated the 52 fellows, who have been found worthy to join the 660 existing ones.

    Olawale-Cole told them that the fellows upgrade is not an end in itself but a call to higher service in the management profession and the nation.

    A transformation strategist and a one-time President of NIM, Dr. Lugard Aimiuwu, delivered a paper titled: Nigeria: Transformation of a centenarian.

    The thought-provoking lecture invoked laughter with guests nodding in agreement with the presentation. Aimiuwu said: “Give Nigeria a chance and she will rule the world.”

    He implored the awardees to be good ambassadors of the institute, having been found worthy in character and content.

    The processes of electing new fellows and the criteria for choosing those who won the merit awards were highlighted by the Okega of Ibadanland and fellow of the institute, Aare Kolawole Adegbola.

    Those who scaled through were said to have rendered significant service to the institute.

    Elder statesmen and Mogaji of Ikorodu Dr Tajudeen Bawa-Allah and Mr Samuel Imasuen were conferred as life members of the institute.

    Oba Obateru spoke on behalf of the awardees. His twenty-five or more chiefs stood behind him as he took the microphone, thanking the institute for the worthy recognition.

    Those who bagged awards were: Hon Muhammed Mukhtar Ahmed; Navy Commodore Abimbola Ayuba of the Nigerian Navy; former Lagos State Deputy Governor Princess Sarah Sosan; Lagos State Auditor-General for Local Governments Mr Muhammed Mubashiru Hassan; Registrar, Yaba College of Technology Dr Nkechi Akubuiro; Managing Director, Chenix Oil and Gas Services Sir Chuks Nwaononiwu; Lagos State Commissioner for Housing Mr Bosun Jeje and former Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Prince Rotimi Agunsoye.

    In attendance were: former Minister of Internal Affairs, Odien Ajumogobia (SAN); former Lagos State Governor Alhaji Lateef Jakande; Senators Ganiyu Solomon; Olorunimbe Mamaora and Deputy Chief Whip, House of Representative, Alh Muktar Idris.

  • A royal farewell

    A royal farewell

    The funeral rites of Mrs Caroline Agbonma Ejieh, the mother of Prof. Mike Ejieh of the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) in Ile-Ife, Osun State, were held at Ngodo Nise in Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State. ODOGWU EMEKA ODOGWU reports.

    At 93, she had what everyone prays for: children, wealth and long life. Mrs Caroline Ejieh,  the mother of Prof Mike Ejieh of the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) as at her demise on May 13, had 30 grand children among whom were lawyers and pharmacists and 14 great-grand children.

    Her four children, Prof Ejieh, Helen Udeh, Adeline Nwolisa and Chibuike Ejie are successful.

    Guests came from Osun, Abia, Lagos states and Abuja and abroad to bid the matriarch of the Ejieh Family farewell.

    The life of the late Mrs Ejieh spoke volumes; there was a massive turnout of sympathisers who came to bid her a final farewell.

    At 8:25am penultimate Friday, a convoy arrived at her family home in Awka. Many of those who came sang her praises in heart-rendering songs.

    Also, canons reminded the gathering that they, like the deceased, will depart someday so they should be ready for the afterworld.

    As part of the rituals before her final resting, guards of the Women’s Guild and Mothers’ Union of the Anglican community of Awka, decorated her with white linen, while making supplications to the Almighty on her behalf for a smooth transition.

    The military-like rendition of the Boys and Girls Brigade of St. John’s Anglican Church, Nise led her casket to the church auditorium, where showers of prayer rained on the deceased. The massive hall of the church was filled with worshipers; others stood in the scorching sun.

    Members of the church choir sang hymns.

    It was, however, a sweet- sour and nerve-freezing moment when Revd Nnamdi Ezeabasili of St John’s Church mounted the pulpit. As he spoke, there were tears. He thrilled his congregation with spiritual implications of life after death.

    After the sermon, the family members of the deceased, joined by other members of the congregation and guests, filed to the altar for thanksgiving.

    Prof Ejieh, who gave the vote of thanks, was grateful to all who attended.

    At 12:55pm, the church recessed. The sun appeared to have stood still while the remains of the late Madam Ejieh were wheeled out of the church by the funeral attendants.

    By 1:45pm she was laid to rest from her 93-year sojourn on earth.

    Many praised the late Mrs Ejieh for her goodness and charity and the fear of the Lord.

    Prof. Ejieh and Lady Adeline Nwolisa, who are the deceased’s first son and daughter, in recounting her lives and times, declared that the entire family would miss her love and elderly advice.

    Lady Nwolisa added that every wife who came to the Umuono kindred after her (Caroline), occupied a place in her heart as her daughter; adding that the community would miss her,

    Her remains were interred in her compound in Ngodo Nise Local Government Area of Awka.

     

     

  • ‘The last soldier standing’

    ‘The last soldier standing’

    Chief Olumuyiwa Sosanya, the founding president of the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN), celebrated his 70th birthday at The Grandeur Event Centre, Oregun, Lagos. TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO writes.

    EVER seen a 74-year-old man taking to the stage to sing.

    Do you mean 74? Yes, 74. Otunba Jide Sonubi, despite unsteady gait, caused a stir at an event when he ordered the master of ceremony (MC) to give him the microphone.

    Everybody inside the hall wondered what the septuagenarian was up to. He took the microphone and gave a good account of himself.

    It was at the 70th birthday of the founding President of the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN), Chief Olumuyiwa Sosanya.

    The Grandeur Event Centre, Oregun, Lagos, venue of the celebration, was jam-packed with eminent personalities and family members of the celebrator.

    Otunba Sonubi delighted guests inside the tastefully decorated hall with oldies and a mixture of modern day R’n’B.

    Though he looked his age, his performance belied his age.

    His solo presentation was all the ceremony needed to bubble. Earlier, before he asked for the microphone, guests engaged in banters and waiters went from one table to table, serving, while the emcee recognised some personalities on their arrival.

    Some of the guests sang along with Otunba Sonubi. Others just stared at him throughout the over 10 minutes performance.

    At a point, he switched and started singing the praise of the celebrator to the amusement of all.

    After his performance, Otunba Sonubi spoke glowingly of the celebrator whom he described as “My Aburo” (younger brother).

    He told the gathering how Chief Sosanya paid his hospital bill at the Lagoon Hospital when he had an accident.

    “My legs were almost paralysed, but God used Mike Adenuga and Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola to restore these legs. So, I walk Fashola right, Adenuga left,” the hall burst into laughter.

    Not done, Otunba Sonubi praised former Ogun State Governor Aremo Olusegun Osoba for paying his physiotherapy bill.

    “May you all not be put to shame,” an elated Otunba Sonubi prayed.

    He did not forget the role of All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain Otunba Busura Alebiosu whom he described as the “father of rascality.”

    “Baba Alebiosu taught us rascality when we were young. He usually led us to Fela Anikulapo-Kuti’s shrine to dance and enjoy our lives. That’s why I always say that the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) does not have what it takes to take over Lagos. If they want to be rascal, that is the father of rascality there,” he said.

    It took the intervention of Aremo Osoba before Otunba Sonubi could drop the microphone for the event to continue.

    The principal guests were later called to cut the cake with the ‘birthday boy.’ It was supervised by Aremo Osoba.

    The celebrator’s immediate family members and grand children were the first to pose for a photograph with the cake before other groups including the Remo Club 1937, Fountain of Faith members, All Saints Church, Yaba, friends of the late Funsho Williams, Lagos Country Club and others took turns in the cutting of the cake.

    Osoba thanked God for the life of the celebrator.

    According to him, Chief Sosanya has celebrated his first 70 years on earth, the second 70 years starts the following day.

    Otunba Sonubi prayed for the celebrator to become older than his late mother who died at 120.

    Proposing the toast, the celebrator’s son, Tunde Sosanya, a chartered accountant, thanked his father on behalf of other children “for the wonderful things you have done in our lives.”

    “You sacrificed a lot for us to be what we are today; you gave us the best of education. Thank you, Daddy, for being there always. We pray God will continue to bless you,” he said.

    King of Juju beats Sunny Ade subsequently entertained guests.

    The next day, accountancy gurus and captains of industry gathered to witness the public presentation of Chief Sosanya’s book titled: Revolution of Accountancy Profession in Nigeria at the Sheraton Hotels and Towers, Ikeja, Lagos.

    Many of the guests were witnesses to his struggle to ensure that the ANAN became chartered.

    Former military President Gen Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, who was to chair the occasion, was represented by former Lagos and Ogun states’ governor Brig- Gen Raji Rasaki. In a note, read on his behalf, Babangida said: “I am happy to honour a good brother and friend; a man of vision, mission and accomplishment who nurtured ANAN to its maturity. He is a dogged fighter who ensured ANAN was chartered even in the face of difficulty and made it an institute to be reckoned with. I salute the courage of him being another last soldier standing after the war.”

    Kaduna State Governor Alhaji Mukhtar Ramalan Yero, represented by his Commissioner for Finance, Sunday Katung, described the author as a true fighter and an epitome of doggedness and selflessness. “He is, indeed, incredibly credible,” he said.

    ANAN founding Vice-Chairman Alhaji Mogaji Mohazu said he had never met anyone like Sosanya; otherwise he would have abandoned the struggle when it all started.

    “Then, it was a big battle between ICAN and ANAN but he fought a very good fight,” he said.

    He thanked him for impacting on the country through his book years after serving.

    A member of The Nation Editorial Board, Mr Olakunle Abimbola, reviewed the 20, chapter, 387-page book.

    Olakunle noted that the book met many great expectations, saying the book would benefit ANAN rather than the author.

    In attendance were: Vice-Chairman of the APC, Delta State Mr Ernest Okotie-Oboh; a former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) director Mr Moses Adeniran; Vicar of All Saints Anglican Church Ven Louis Akinwande; former Comptroller of Nigerian Immigrations, Mr Bamidele Okunowo and former Director of Engineering Services at the Radio Nigeria Demola Elegbude, among others.

     

  • Public speaking Icon (2)

      If I have seen a little further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.” This quote is credited to a man who made his mark in the world as a physicist, mathematician, astronomer, alchemist, theologian, philosopher and inventor. He is generally considered the most influential scientist in history. This great man is none other than Isaac Newton, the man who discovered the Law of Gravity. Newton’s famous 1676 quote was inspired by John Salisbury’s work in 1159, in which he wrote, “We are like dwarfs sitting on the shoulders of giants. We see more, and things are more distant, than they did, not because our sight is superior or because we are taller than they, but because they raised us up and their great stature add to ours.” When we learn from great public speakers, we benefit from their experiences and avoid their mistakes. Today, I bring you a speaker I personally admire. Over the years, I have come to respect his composure, articulation, charisma and persuasive skills. I present to you Professor Charles Ogbulogo.

    Professor Charles Ogbulogo

    Charles Ogbulogo was born about 52 years ago in Uturu, Abia State. Due to the Nigerian Civil war, which affected the educational system in the Eastern part of Nigeria, he had to begin his primary education afresh in 1970. After he completed his primary education in 1974, he proceeded to secondary school, then the university, where he took a degree in English Education. His Masters in English Language was obtained at the University of Lagos, and shortly after, he got a Ph.D. in the same field. Professor Charles Ogbulogo has been in the university system of about 27 years, and he is currently the Dean of the School of Post Graduate, Covenant University. I hand you over to the Professor now.

    Developing interest in public speaking

    I realised that the whole world is dominated by those who can give information and really communicate. My earliest experience was between 1964 and 1965, when my mother angrily bought me an Igbo Bible because my uncles and aunties won’t let me use the family Bible for fear that I would tear it. So, I started reading early. After the war, in 1970, I had my first public reading; I read Jeremiah 18, the entire chapter. My father who was not really educated, but who had travelled widely knew a few things about how to influence people, so he tutored me on how to make the day great. After the presentation, people started to make comments about the positive things I could do. Interestingly, in 1972, my father bought me a big dictionary and the Oxford Anthology of Literature, and I was still in primary school! He said, “Son, I learnt that if you are able to master these books, anywhere you go, you’ll be an expert.” That was how I developed my desire for reading.

    Also, while I was in secondary school in Abakaliki, present day Ebonyi State, the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) in Enugu organized a debate, and the senior students in my school were to represent the school. At their rehearsal, the youth corper who was in charge asked if anyone from the audience had a comment. I put my hand up, congratulated the team and made a few suggestions, not knowing that I was marketing myself. Immediately, our teachers decided that I must join the team, and though I was a junior student, I became the chief speaker. Eventually, we won the competition, competed with other schools in the neighborhood and won, and later extended our victory to Cross River State.

    Speaking and Influence

    In my first year at the university, I was elected the president of our student association and my town, Uturu, was very strategic then because the Chief Whip for the State Assembly was from there. So, I kept on moving round people of power. As a student leader, I was called upon to speak at every rally. Governors and everyone who wanted to contest elections started coming to see me in our home, as young as I was, to the extent that my father asked me to be careful. But in 1983, the military struck and everything about politics ended. When I decided to take a degree in English, my mentors felt I made a mistake by not going for Law, or majoring in Political Science, which was my minor, but despite the fact that I was the best student in all my courses, I stuck to my English and pursued it to Ph.D level.

    Experience with stage fright

    During my first experience, my father taught me many things. He said, “You must have chunks of time to break everything. Your eyes must be fixed on everybody’s eyes; with that in mind, you’ll be in charge of them.” He taught me that having been singled out meant I had something to say, so I shouldn’t get scared. He schooled me and rehearsed the presentation with me several times until I could read it publicly. Yes, it is normal to have some degree of anxiety. Without anxiety, you can’t move; there must be some kind of anxiety to get you to do your homework, but a good speaker must, of a necessity, overcome that anxiety. Don’t become self conscious.

    We shall continue our lesson from Professor Charles Ogbulogo next week. He has more brilliant insights to share on public speaking, so please make it a date. Main while, I have been receiving some great questions from you wonderful readers and I would love to address them soon after we are done learning from our icons. So, if you have any question, please send them as soon as you can. Stay blessed.

  • A toast to peoples’senator at 57

    A dinner was held for the former Kaduna State Governor and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance Senator Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi in commemoration of his 57th birthday in Kaduna. TONY AKOWE reports.

    IT was August 25, some 17 days after former Kaduna State Governor Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi, who is now a Senator celebrated his 57th birthday. There was nothing to suggest that the dinner was to honour him for clocking 57.  The dinner was    a gathering of those who worked with Makarfi as governor. The invitation was terse “You have been invited to cover a dinner in honour of Senator Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi”.  The decoration was simple and the hall was small. A large crowd descended in the small hall to the organisers’ surprise. Mukthar Sirajo, who was Makarfi’s Director of Press while in office as governor set the stage for the day’s event when he described the celebrator as a brother, father, leader, mentor and friend.

    He said: “We are here today to celebrate Makarfi because we believe he is our friend and he believes that we are his friends. We are here because we love him. The last time an event like was held was when he was in office and his friends gathered at the Eko Le’Meridian Hotel in Lagos to honour him. You could say he was in position of authority then. But today, he is not in any position to influence anything”.

    Chairman of the occasion and Yeriman Zazzau, Alhaji Munir Ja’afaru said: “We are here because of our love and affection for him. He came, he saw and he conquered. In 1999, it was a difficult time when he took over the leadership of the state at a tender age. His age did not prevent him from discharging his duties as he steer the affairs of state with utmost humility and that is why we are here today to celebrate him.”

    Hon. Yakubu Umar Barde, who served as Makarfi Commissioner for Health said the National Assembly cannot move forward without people like Senator Makarfi.

    Barde who is now a member of the House of Representatives, said Makarfi mentored most of them saying: “He is sincere and believe in dialogue and does not listen to gossip, but believe in fair hearing and is prudent in the management of resources”.

    Ambassador Sule Buba, who was nominated as an Ambassador by the Makarfi administration said: “My relationship with Makarfi date back to the when he was a student. I was the Secretary of the Peoples Redemption Party and Makarfi was a member of the party. He was innocent and nobody thought he will graduate to be a first class politician. I was not surprised when he became governor because before he went into the race, he had a mission and a blueprint for the development of the state.”

    Abdulmalik Durunguwa who served as the Executive Secretary of the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) under Makarfi likened the former governor to people like Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Lagos, the late Olusola Saraki in Kwara and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso in Kano.

    Kaduna State Governor, Mukthar Ramalan Yero who said he has had the opportunity of being in all the places Makarfi has been said the former governor has course to thank God for his life and be patient with people.

    Yero said while Makarfi studied Accountancy at the Ahmadu Bello University, worked with the defunct Nigeria Universal Bank and as Commissioner for Finance in Kaduna State before becoming governor, he (Yero) also worked in such places before becoming governor. He noted that since 1999, Makarfi planted a tree which has grown with several branches, saying “he is the tree and it has grown to have several branches which are fruitful. People come and go, but the problem is that when the time for people to go comes, they feel that their time is not yet up”.

    On his part, Makarfi said he was not comfortable speaking before the gathering even though he is very familiar with the people present. He attributes this to the fact that “by my nature, birthday celebrations are hardly my hobbies. Often, I don’t remember when they are due without being reminded by family or friends. Most of you here would recall that for the eight years that I was governor, but for one or two occasions, that just like this one, I was literally arm twisted into accepting, there was no time that I engaged in a public celebration like this”.

    While expressing appreciation to the organisers for their persistence until they broke his resistance, he said “I believe I also owe them an apology for putting up the resistance in the first place because coming here has brightened up my day in more ways than one. For one, I have seen so many faces that for one reason or the other, I have not seen in a long while and also, it has brought us together with friends and associates with whom we may even have cause to disagree on one issue or the other. This is how it should be because it shows that our friendship and political understanding are matured enough to accommodate our various shades of opinion and our proclivity to look at and see issues from different points of view. Hardly surprising though, because in matters of political enlightenment, sophistication and accommodation, we, in Kaduna, have always tried to show the way. We show by our conduct such as this that we respect individuals’ and groups’ right to dissent in a democracy and that we don’t allow such dissents to, in any way impact negatively on our relationship. I am so happy with the happiness that I see radiating in all the faces that are here”.

     

  • A union made in office

    A union made in office

    Doifie Buokoribo, the Chief Press Secretary to former governor of Bayelsa State Timipre Sylva on August 10, got married to his long time friend Violet Obutor Agwana. The wedding attracted the cream of Rivers and Bayelsa politics, who came to honour one of their own in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital. SEUN AKIOYE was there.

    THE wedding, those who know the couple say, was long on coming. They met over 12 years ago at work and on all those years there were “break ups” and “make ups” before they ended up at the altar on August 10. This is the love story of Doifie Ola Buokoribo and Violet Obutor Agwana. As the couple made their way into the expansive hall of Recneps Events Centre in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital, the hit song: “You don make me fall in love,” blared out from the music box. The hall became charge and the guests stood, making a ring round the couple, who danced all the way to the podium.

    The event was colourful both in execution and attendance; the hall was tastefully furnished with the right colours and lighting. There was no musical band but a standby disc jockey was on standby.

    There were beautiful and smartly dressed ushers who ensured that things went well. At the opposite ends of the hall, were two long tables lined with a sumptuous three-course-meal, where guests had their fill.

    Ola, as the groom is fondly called, and Violet met over 12 years ago at the Environmental Rights Action/Friends of the Earth Nigeria (ERA/FoEN), an environmental justice organisation, which is the forefront of the fight for environmental justice, especially in the Niger Delta. While Ola was the head of the organisation’s Lagos office, the bride,Violet, worked in Port Harcourt office.

    “The first time I saw him was during an international conference we both organised for our organisation. He has strong character and he is very intelligent. I wasn’t at all intimidated by his presence, but I also engaged him intellectually. We later became good friends and we used to debate a lot about many things and we found we have a lot in common,” Violet told The Nation.

    Buokoribo was lavish in his praise of his bride. “We met more than 12 years ago but our relationship began about 10 years ago. We actually met while we were both planning an international conference. So you can say it was a partnership that began in the office, Violet is special, she combines beauty and brain and she is one of those few people I really can debate with. I can say I am blessed to have her as a wife.”

    Their moving love story was amplified by Dr. Isaac Osuoka, who gave the toast. Osuoka is Buokoribo’s colleague.

    Violet worked directly under him when the couple met.

    “One evening in Lagos 10 years ago, amid an international conference we were both organising, Doifie whispered to me that he has found his woman. Her name – Violet. Violet equally confided in me that she had met a man in my friend. So, the friendship of Doifie and Violet blossomed. I waited for this day, it was a long wait within which time there were breakup and makeup. One thing I have learnt from all these episodes is that neither Doifie nor Violet would let go,” he said.

    Some people say the couple left it a little late to do the needful but according to the chairman of the occasion, Hon. Uche Onyeagocha, “the soup left to cool overnight is actually most delicious.” The long courtship helped the couple to mature and be determined to make their marriage work.

    Former Bayelsa State Governor Timipire Sylva under whom Buokoribo served as chief press secretary, came with his wife Alayingi. Sylva described his former aide as a man to trust. He said: “It’s a day we have expected; finally Doifie Ola and Violet have gotten married. I have some experience in government and in tribulation. My advice to those who are in tribulation is to give you one prayer, that the gracious Lord should send them a Doifie Ola.” The hall clapped to a public endorsement of the groom by his boss, but he was not done yet.

    “He has shown himself to be a solid human being who would stand with you in plenty and lean times. My prayer is that this marriage, though coming a little late will be sweeter than other marriages; this soup will be sweeter than all the other soups, “he said.

    Praying for a stable marriage for the couple, he threw a jab at Onyeagocha when he told him: “You will be the chairman of the 50th wedding anniversary,” leaving the audience in a fit of laughter.

    The wedding also brought together people from different political leanings in Bayelsa and Rivers states. Sylva described the union as a marriage of unity.

    “Nigeria and the Niger Delta have not been more divided in history than now. Today in Bayelsa State, a group of Bayelsans are being ostracised even though they are Bayelsans. Doifie and Violet are a symbol of unity. Today, the celebration of their wedding has brought people together on the high table; the APC and the PDP are sitting side by side. Let us turn a new leaf. What we need in Nigeria is equal rights and justice,” Sylva said.

    The couple and guests later hit the dance floor. Sylva and his wife and the couple delighted guests as they danced to the rhythms of classical and contemporary songs, joined by others.

    Many of the guests expressed joy at the union. Tony Iyare, former aide to Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole said: “This is the day the Lord has made. I am very happy that after a long time the couple has come together in a union. Doifie is so dear to me; I had to bring all my family here. We pray for fruitfulness and prosperity for the couple.”

  • The Lord’s ‘General’ at 70

    The Lord’s ‘General’ at 70

    The General Overseer of Christian Pentecostal Mission (CPM), Dr Obiora Ezekiel, has celebrated his 70th birthday at the church headquarters in Ajao Estate, Mafoluku, a Lagos suburb. NNEKA NWANERI reports.

    The auditorium of the Christian Pentecostal Mission (CPM) in Ajao Estate, Mafoluku, a Lagos suburb wore a new look. The members of the church could not believe their eyes when they saw it. The evening wasn’t for casting and binding the devil; it was for wining and dining.

    A mini-red rug lay on the central aisle and the blinking disco colour light.

    What was happening? many wondered. CMP’s founder and General Overseer Dr Obiora Ezekiel was marking his entry into the septuagenarian club.

    With his wife, who calls him the Lord’s ‘General’, Dr Ezekiel danced into the hall and went straight to the altar, where other guests were seated.

    It was a dinner to climax the week long events to celebrate him.

    People came from far and wide to honour him.

    He does not look like a septuagenerian; he looked 20 years younger than his age. Decked in a black suit and red tie, he sat beside his wife, who donned a pink hat.

    It was worn on a shiny black blouse.

    The General Overseer of Trinity House Churches, Pastor Ituah Ighodalo, anchored the event.

    The church ushers stood out. The men and women were clad in black suit. The men had on white inner shirt with red bow ties; the women used red scarves.

    There was a performance from Ethans Mass Choir, after which the celebrator cut his cake with his family members, friends and brothers in the vineyard.

    Bishop Mike Okonkwo gave the toast. All guests raised their hands and just before the clicking of glasses began, Bishop Okonkwo said: “To joy and gratitude to a man who is an icon and committed to the gospel; a man with heart for humanity and a man that has left a legacy”.

    The celebrator’s wife, Dr Mercy Ezekiel, believes that their union was an act of God. “I wasn’t expecting to be married to him since we had nothing when we met. The first day I set my eyes on him, I looked at him as nobody. As a young girl that was just coming up, I had great dreams…my head was full. I wanted to do this and that. I really wanted to be a detective or an air-hostess. Suddenly, the Holy Spirit grabbed me and told me he was the man for me. It wasn’t palatable or easy for me to accept. The suffering was much because he had just began the ministry. No honeymoon on the Saturday we wedded because he went back to the field the next Wednesday,” she recalled.

    She enjoined women looking up to get married to be led by the spirit and listen to God before judging what they see.

    “Do whatever the spirit leads you to do and one day, you will have God to thank for it .“

    Pastor Enoch Adeboye of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) described Dr Ezekiel as a friend. He said the wife, Dr Mercy, like the biblical Esther.

    Pastor Adeboye said: “I have many sons and daughters and I have less than 10 friends; he is one. Though there are very few men of God and many I have met with titles, my testimony of him is true. He is a man that is consistent and that is why I celebrate him.”

    The only daughter of the celebrator, Ogechi, said the tribute she and her siblings can give their father is to thank him for the love and lessons he has instilled in them.

    The celebrator was full of thanks and praises to the Almighty. He described the celebration of his 70th birthday as remarkable.

    “My soul, mind, strength and body give glory to God. I feel it that Heaven honoured me because this anniversary is a flower I didn’t know will come true…this flower is a commendation.

    “This is a new level of life God wants me to do and at 70, this is a new beginning and it carries blessing.”

    Dr Ezekiel knelt at the altar and gave a very long prayer and prophesy.

    Also in in attendance were the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) President, Rev Felix Omobude; Rev Helen Akpabio from Calabar; Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Masters Oil and Gas, Dr Uche Ogar, among others.

  • New President for Rotary

    New President for Rotary

    The Rotary Club of Ikoyi District 9110 has installed its 29th President at the Golden Gate Restaurant, Ikoyi, Lagos. OLATUNDE ODEBIYI reports.

    The Rotary Club of Ikoyi district 9110 has installed a Manager with the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN), Mr Loye Akinbami, as its 29th President.

    The ground hall of the Golden Gate Restaurant was a beehive as members and well-wishers of the club gathered for the event.

    The day also featured investiture of new Board of Directors and a fund raiser for the club.

    Many of the guests shone in native attires; a few wore English dresses.

    With the hotel decorated in the Rotary blue and yellow, friends and various cliques occupied a table each.

    Beautiful ushers welcomed guests into the expansive hall. They wore Ankara dress of the same colour with the club.

    Jolly Jay Entertainments supplied music.

    Shortly after the opening prayer and Rotary Anthem, chairman of the occasion, Christopher Okonkwo, welcomed the guests.

    To him, it is a matter for joy to witness the event.

    The immediate past president, Jimmy Evbuomwan, in his farewell message, said the year had been exciting with the club’s attendant expectations and accomplishment of projects.

    “The club enjoyed the privilege of having a very strong and supportive council of past presidents”, he said.

    Evbuomwan also gave a summary of the club’s achievements.

    The investiture the new President followed. It was done by Evbuomwan.

    All eyes were fixed in one direction as Evbuomwan installed Akinbanmi.

    Claps, screams and a session of photographs followed.

    Akinbami clad in blue agbada with cap to match was all smiles as he read his acceptance speech.

    Akinbami expressed gratitude to God, the members and friends of the club.

    An elated Akinbami promised to take the club to greater heights.

    He listed some of the clubs projects to be undertaken during his tenure. He also spoke about what the club stands for, saying that the members and friends should be ready and willing to take the club to the next level.

    He sought for their supports.

    After the speech, Akinbami installed nine Directors of the club, saying: ‘I charge you to go forth and change lives’.

    The guest speaker Adegboyega Osideinde took the microphone.

    Osideinde, the General Manager (marketing and commercial services) Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN), an engineer and a Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers spoke on the topic, Where are the glibertarian and their friends.

    He hailed the spirit of selflessness that has been demonstrated in the club, saying that they should more.

  • Change of baton at Rotary

    Change of baton at Rotary

    The Best Westown Hotel on Allen Avenue, Ikeja, Lagos was agog when the Rotary Club of Ikeja inducted Mr Olagoke Olayinka as the 47th President and Directors of the club. AMIDU ARIJE reports.

    The supreme quality for leadership is unquestionably integrity. Without it, no real success is possible, no matter whether it is on a section gang, a football field, in an army, or in an office.” These words of Dwight Eisenhower aptly captured the investiture of Mr Olagoke Olayinka as the 47th President and the induction of the 2013/2014 Board of Directors of Rotary Club of Ikeja.

    The event drew dignitaries from far and near.

    The Rotarians came with their family members for the once-in-a-year event.

    They looked resplendent in their attires.

    Olayinka, who was the cynosure of eyes, was dressed in black suit with bow tie to match.

    Pleasantrieswere exchanged as guests crept into the hall.

    The hall was beautifully decorated in various colours.

    The opening prayer was said and the club song was sang to kick-start the occasion. It was followed by the recitation of the National Anthem.

    The crème de la crème of the society were invited to the high table.

    Among them were Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Olugbenga Ashiru; Chairman, Guinness Nigeria Plc, Mr Babatunde Savage and the Paramount Ruler of Yewa Land, Ogun State, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle.

    Savage, who was the guest speaker presented a paper on Integrity in service.

    The paper focused on restating the core values of the Rotary Club and to challenge the leadership pattern in Nigeria to refocus its attention on values and ethics that guides leadership ideas.

    He reminded guests and well-wishers of the tripod that holds Rotary Club. Rotary Club, he said, represents the greatest potential for transforming Nigeria from poor to great.

    “I say this because Rotary, among other clubs in the world, represents great principles and great values,” he said.

    Savage added: “You have something that is very unique, which is the four-way test, which members are expected to apply in all situations. You are expected, no matter the type of situations you find yourself, to ask: is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and friendship? Will it be beneficial to all concerned? What a wonderful set of questions to ask for a decent person who wants to do a decent work. You have one of the greatest policy thrust of any civil organisation I have ever heard of”.

    He urged Rotary members to remain on track and extend their noble service and values of integrity and leadership in service into the fabric of society.

    This, he said, would begin to have positive impact and inspiration that brings excitement that invariably creates the power to change our society for good.

    The investiture was conducted after the lecture.

    Amid flashing of camera lights, the new president, Olayinka took the ‘staff of office’ from his predecessor, Niyi Osidele. It was followed with cheers.

    Olayinka promised to consolidate on the works on his predecessor and to better the lives of the less-privileged.He also promised to visit the schools in the area.

    He applauded the successes of his predecessor and further restate his readiness to work above board with every member of the club to deliver service that will benefit humanity and promote the ideal society that support equality and moral values.Some of the projects, he highlighted include education, health, environmental development as well as developing human capital to support economic growth.

    Guests were treated to choice food and drinks.

    They took to the dance floor till the light faded.