The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • A monarch’s double celebration

    A monarch’s double celebration

    Penultimate Saturday, a crowd of admirers gathered at the Mushin Sports Centre (formerly ArchBishop Aggey Memorial School), Lagos, to celebrate with the Olu of Mushin, Oba Abdulfatai Aileru, who marked his 75th birthday and 35 years on the throne, NNEKA NWANERI was there.

     

    It was a two-in-one event when the Olu of Mushin, Oba Abdulfatai Ayinla Aileru, celebrated his 75th birthday and 35th coronation anniversary.

    Many of his subjects turned out in purple Ankara Aso Ebi for the occasion. They also showcased their fashion and style with the way they sew their dresses.

    The women complemented their dressings with headgears, necklaces and earrings.

    The expansive Mushin Sports Centre venue of the event brimmed with activities. Those who were not allowed in defied the scorching sun, the armed personnel, and other risks to climb the walls and watch through the fence.

    A large white tent was erected in the middle of the field. A dozen more stood at other corners of the arena. Posh cars were orderly parked and there was decorum throughout the event.

    The organisers left no stone unturned to ensure a hitchfree ceremony.

    Present were some of the celebrator’s fellow traditional rulers, chiefs and members of his club, the Eko Suprimus Club.

    Kaabiyesioooo the people kept chanting. The proud birthday ‘boy’ waved his horsetail and smiled at his loyal subjects.

    On the band stand was King Wasiu Ayinde Anifowoshe (aka KWAM 1) who entertained guests.

    Primate Jacob Akinsilo said the opening prayer.

    Chairman of the occasion, Hon Michael Akindele, Senior Special Assistant to the governor on Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), congratulated the monarch for his years of on the throne.

    There were cultural displays and dances from the three major ethnic groups. The Igbo troupe was led by the Asiwaju Eze Ndigbo of Mushin, Eze John Nwosu. The Yoruba Ayelewu Theatre Group performed a dance drama and the Hausa did theirs with the flute.

    Oba Aileru thanked his chiefs and subjects for their love over the years. He promised to ensure that peace continuous to prevail in his domain.

    Oba Aileru’s son Prince Yahaya described his father as one of the few noble men he has ever known. He praised his father for his humility and selflessness.

    “He is a rare personality and an embodiment of everything it means to be a father. I am really proud to be his son and I wish him many more years in life and on the throne in good health,” he said.

    At the event were Justice Adedotun Onibokun; member of Local Government Chieftaincy, Chief Olaseeni Lamina; Onifako of Ifako Oba Taofeek Fatusi; Baale of Matori, High Chief Sesan Akintunde; Oniba of Iba, Oba Goriola Oseni; Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) Legal Adviser Dr Muiz Banire; Onilogbo of Ilogbo, Oba Olaleye Moses; Onijale of Ijale in Abeokuta, Oba Michael Ajibola; Onitire of Itire land, Oba Lateef Dauda; Ologudu of Ogudu, Oba Waheed Fashola and Oba Mudashiru Salawudeen.

  • A royal wedding

    A royal wedding

    The Elegushi of Ikateland, Oba Saheed Elegushi, hosted eminent personalities when his younger sister, Princess Adetoun, a medical practitioner, and her heart-throb, Oluwaseun Adebule, tied the nuptial knot. Assistant Editor DADA ALADELOKUN reports.

    THE Elegushi of Ikateland, Oba Saheed Elegushi (Kusenla III) was the cynosure of all eyes as he did his thing on the dance floor. His heavily embroidered Agbada was no hindrance as he moved his legs in perfect response to traditional drumbeats.

    It was at the reception of the wedding of his medical doctor younger sister, Princess Adetoun and Oluwaseun Adebule, also a medical practitioner.

    “I never knew Oba Elegushi was this good a dancer,” a woman wondered aloud. But she got an answer from another guest, who replied: “You should not be surprised; he so much loves ‘Toun (the bride).”

    He was again, a spectacle when he rose to dance with the bride. His dance steps were simply graceful. His fellow monarchs joined on the dance floor and a naira rain followed.

    Captains of industry, politicians and other eminent personalities exchanged banters at the Ruby Garden, Lekki, venue of the classy reception. They were resplendent in embroidered Aso Ebi and other traditional attires which were combined with yellow lace fabrics.

    The reception kicked off with tunes from the Disc Jockey (DJ); then, guests waltzed in. All that was required to get into the venue, was for a guest to appear in the Aso Ebi for the occasion. The security arrangement also ensured that there were no gate-crashers.

    The arrival of Oba Rilwan Akiolu of Lagos caused a stir. Virtually everyone was on his feet to catch a glimpse of the stylish monarch, the Olowo Eko Baba Fuad, as he was ushered in by Oba Elegushi, alongside his delectable wife, Olori Sekinat.

    The couple’s entry into the reception arena was grand. The bride wore a wedding gown; the groom was on suit.

    From his mien, it was a moment long-awaited by the groom’s father, Dr Gbolahan Adebule, a former Chief Medical Director of the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Igbobi, Lagos.

    Tee A emceed the reception. When the venue became hot, no thanks to a power surge at the beginning of the reception, his rib-cracking jokes came to the rescue.

    The cake-cutting and signing of the dotted lines over, another dance spree began. Members of a musical ensemble, Faith Band, gave good account of themselves. It was then the couple and their parents knew how much they were loved. Seats became empty as everyone took to the dance floor. Oba Elegushi’s chiefs were not left out.

    The wedding was consummated at the Chapel of The Healing Cross, Idi-Araba, Mushin, in the presence of a huge crowd.

    Personalities present at the holy solemnisation include: Wife of Lagos State Governor, Dame Abimbola Fashola; Lagos State Deputy Governor, Mrs Ajoke Orelope-Adefulire; her predecessor, Mrs Sarah Sosan; Senator Olorunnimbe Mamora.

    Others are: Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji; Olofa of Ofa, Oba Mufutau Gbadamosi; Olu of Itori, Oba Fatai Akamo and Olu of Ilaro, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle.

    Clerics took turns to admonish the couple to make the fear of God the pillar of their marriage.

    While Oluwaseun gleefully described the day as “a very special one for me,” an elated Adetoun said: “It is a moment I have for long, waited to see; I thank God for this day with my God-chosen man.”

  • Laurel for a political tactician

    Laurel for a political tactician

    National Leader of the Action Congress of Nigeria Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and three others were conferred with doctorate (honorary) degrees in Science (Honoris Causa) at the third convocation of the Kano State University of Science and Technology (KUST) in Wudil last Saturday, reports KOLADE ADEYEMI

     

    Wudil, a sleepy and serene town between Kano and Jigawa states came alive last Saturday. The town holds the honour of hosting the Police Academy and the 21-year-old Kano State University of Science and Technology (KUST). It was the third convocation of the University that made Wudil tick that day. The highlight of the convocation was the conferment of honorary doctorate degrees in Science (Honoris Causa) on the National Leader of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) Asiwaju Bola Tinubu and three others.

    Tinubu’s political associates and friends came to share in the joy of the day with him.

    By 10 am, KUST asthetically adorned with one million trees, which is providing shade from the sun, for people had lost its serenity to heavy human and vehicular traffic. Security operatives had a hectic time controlling the crowd.

    The event had no political or ethnic colouration. Nigerians from different ethno-religious backgrounds and political leanings came to celebrate with the “Asiwaju of Nigeria” as Tinubu was addressed by one of the speakers at the event.

    Clad in a brown caftan with a red cap to match and his trademark eye-glasses, Tinubu beamed with smile as he stepped onto the podium for the reading of his citation.

    One of the university’s orators told the gathering how Tinubu struggled to make it in life. Presidential candidate of Congress of Progress Change (CPC) Gen Muhammadu Buhari nodded in agreement when the orator addressed Tinubu as “the champion of the opposition merger.”

    Then, came the moment the crowd had been waiting for—the decoration. Asiwaju Tinubu bowed as a team comprising members of the university Senate, led by the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Umar Garba Dambatta, decorated him in the regalia of a Doctor of Science (Honaris Causa).

    Others honoured were Senator Hamisu Musa and the Emir of Daura, Alhaji Umar Farouk Umar. Alhaji Mudi Spikin, was honoured post-humoursly.

    Tinubu’s associates, mostly who came from Lagos, gave him a standing ovation and also sang his praise. The crowd watched in awe as personalities posed for photographs with the Jagaban Borgu amid shouts of “Asiwaju of Nigeria”.

    Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, the founder and Visitor of the university, and the Chancellor, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, were the first to step out for a photograph with Speaker Aminu Tambuwal; Gen Buhari, governors of Ogun and Oyo states Senator Ibikunle Amosun and Senator Abiola Ajimobi; former Ogun State Governor Olusegun Osoba; Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; ACN National Chairman Chief Bisi Akande; Alhaji Lai Mohammed; Emir of Dass Alhaji Biliaminu Usman, former Governor of Benue State, Senator George Akume; Hon. Bashir Adamu, Senator Kabiru Gaya; Hon. Kawu Ismaila; former Minister of Labour Musa Gwadabe; Deputy Governor of Kano State Abdullahi Ganduje; Chairman of Kano Elders’ Forum, Magaji Dambatta; former Deputy Governors of Kano State, Abdullahi Gwarzo and Magaji Abdullahi.

    Tinubu described the award as a symbol of unity, saying Kwankwaso realises that, “we are one in Nigeria regardless of cultural, religious and political differences. I am touched to the heart by this expansive gesture. In doing this, you ignored the imaginary divide between North and South because of your nationalistic courage; you recognise no such divide exists except in the minds of those who would keep us down, divided and at each other’s throats.

    “In your wisdom, you realised that we are one. Come what may, we shall remain one. I commend your courage and wisdom. You must maintain this standard because we need this type of courage and wisdom to see our nation through its current tumult.

    “Although storms break all around us, we shall not faint. We shall not cower in fear for our purpose is right and our ways are democratic and just.”

    In his acceptance speech entitled: To Develop a Nation, We Must Educate It, Tinubu said to lift Nigeria from its low state, there was the need to equip the people with the knowledge to face the challenges at hand.

    Education, he said, is not an inanimate tool like a hammer that one can simply buy or borrow from elsewhere.

    He said: “Education is a practical dynamic thing that must be adapted to our needs to reflect our circumstances. Education must give us the skills needed to become architects of the destinies we seek and not become idle bystanders in our own lives. An effective educational system must turn people into positive social and economic actors. We should not abide by a system whereby 1.7 million candidates seek admission to the universities and only 500,000 places exist in private and public universities.

    “It is a costly waste to educate our children with knowledge irrelevant to our society. It makes little sense to give our people skills for jobs that do not exist while the real work at hand remains undone because of lack of able labour. Often, we mimic too closely the ways of other nations. Thus, we educate our children to fit into the processes of those nations but not into our own. Too few of our youths are taught how to start their own business and make it grow into something that can hire and provide jobs for countless other people, thus enabling many to fend for themselves and their families. Too many of our youths have Law degrees. Through the desperation of chronic unemployment, many a prospective lawyer will join the ranks of the lawless.”

    Quoting Publilius Syrus, Tinubu reiterated that: “Anyone can hold the helm when the sea is calm,” pointing out that as leaders, “we can travel through the stormy sea and arrive gloriously at a safe shore. That is why I salute men like Governor Kwankwaso for his courage and vision.”

    Kwankwaso described Tinubu as a renowned political figure, skilful administrator and champion of justice whose contributions to politics and business are innumerable.

    “He deserves this honour; and the history of modern politics in Nigeria, particularly the emancipation of the masses, must reckon with his political personage,” he said.

    Alhaji Dangote urged the honorees to be good ambassadors of the institution.

     

  • Demonstrative Speech

    While checking out some materials on the different types of speeches, I came across the demonstrative speech. Demonstrative speech was defined (in those materials) as a speech that is similar to an informative speech, but which goes further to illustrate how to do something. I thought about this definition for a while and then arrived at my own conclusion that demonstration can be a part of any of the five major speeches I mentioned some weeks ago; informative speech, persuasive speech, entertaining speech, technical speech and brief remark. Hence, it may not be necessary to put it in a class of its own.

    The WordWeb Dictionary defines demonstration as a show or display. The dictionary also defines it as the act of presenting something to sight or view. Ok, I agree that not all speeches possess enough show or display to fall into this category, but then, that is simply the speaker’s choice. If we see demonstration as a step-by-step execution of a project before an audience so that the process can be learnt, we may be working by a very narrow view of the term. But if we see demonstration as also meaning illustration, then we will see that any topic can be illustrated, thus demonstrated.

    Demonstration is one of the major strategies I recommend for any major presentation, particularly if it is a relatively long one. This will help to sustain the attention of the audience as well as ensure that your listeners get the gist of the presentation. There are, of course, several types of demonstrations in relation to public speaking. However, we shall limit ourselves to four:

    •Physical Demonstration: this is the type of demonstration that makes use of the speaker’s body as its instrument of attraction. What I mean here is that the speaker makes use of body moments and gesticulations to pass across the message. I’m sure you are familiar with this type of demonstration. This is actually one of the most natural ways of demonstrating (if used effectively) because it flows with the information being passed across. Imagine a speaker delivering a career talk on carpentry. You may find such a person demonstrating the use of a hammer, saw, etc while the audience watch and imagine what the experience would be like. There are some speakers who exude such charisma that they find it difficult to stand at a spot while speaking. Such speakers tend to demonstrate their speech with their actions. It is, however, noteworthy that not all speakers move around while speaking and not all of them demonstrate or gesticulate conspicuously. This does not suggest that they will be interesting or boring. A lot of times, it depends on personal techniques and how you apply them.

    •Mechanical Demonstration: this simply refers to the type of demonstration that takes the audience through the stages of developing something. It may require the use of tools and devices or it may simply involve the application of principles or techniques in designing something. Whatever be the case, the idea here is that the audience is not only supposed to become enlightened about something, skill must also be acquired. Speeches in this category may include how to build a website, how to trade online, how to produce a movie, how to sing or dance, etc. Let’s just say that most of the “How to do” speeches fall into this category.

    •Dramatic Demonstration: this is an interesting one that you may not see all the time. The speaker introduces some dramatic elements into the speech so as to paint a graphic picture in the minds of the audience. Sometime ago, I made a presentation on peer pressure and self identity. To make my point clear to my audience, I asked for five male volunteers to step up to the podium. They were asked to stand shoulder-to-shoulder and sway from side to side. After keeping up the motion for a while, I asked the person in the middle to stand still while the two on both sides continue the movement. What we discovered was that no matter how much he tried, the forces on both sides were too great for him to stand. My point was that an individual cannot remain in a group and expect to be different. If he really wants to be different, he must step out from among them. In the midst of all the laughter and excitement, they got the point.

    •Technical Demonstration: in this type of demonstration, the speaker makes use of technical aids to pass across the message. Demonstrations can be done using multi-media such as projector to illustrate the speech. Power Point presentations can also be used. A speaker may also choose to use a white board and marker. What matters is for technical aids to be used.

    One way or the other, we get to demonstrate our speeches. Whether we make use of some of the ones presented above or other ones, the most important thing to keep in mind is that the demonstration must complement the speech and not obstruct it. Everything must work together to help you achieve your ultimate goal, which is to communicate.

  • Farewell to ‘ father in a million’

    Farewell to ‘ father in a million’

    The remains of Chief Michael Obayemi, father-in-law of former Military Governor of Lagos State Brig-Gen Raji Rasaki, have been interred in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, writes SULAIMAN SALAWUDEEN.

    The late Chief Michael Obayemi, father-in-law of former Military Governor of Lagos State, Brig-Gen Raji Rasaki, was as great in death as he was in life.

    Chief Obayemi, member of the defunct National Party of Nigeria (NPN) in the Second Republic and a successful businessman, died on December 3, last year at 97.

    His remains, in a transparent casket, were brought into Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, in a chartered airbus which landed in Christ’s School field penultimate Thursday for lying-in-state.

    The remains, laid in state for a whole day.

    On Friday, the remains of Obayemi were moved into St. Andrews Anglican Church, Okeila, in a silver coated casket for a church service. The interment soon followed at a mausoleum specially built for him inside Obayemi Estate in Adebayo area of Ado-Ekiti.

    The deceased’s four widows, Felicia, Victoria, Rachael and Juliana Obayemi, sat on special chairs. They looked reserved and withdrawn. Clearly, in their late 80s and early 90s, they wore a uniformed Iro and Buba made of striped Aso-Ofi.

    His children over 20 grandchildren and great grandchildren, filed out in traditional dresses. They looked resplendent and beaming smiles. They were led by the eldest daughter, Evang. Ibiwumi Ebun, who with three other immediate siblings, including Chief Julius Abiodun Obayemi, Mrs. Funmilayo Ajibike and Fatima Raji-Rasaki sat on the last row of chairs next to their mothers during the service. They were also dressed in same striped Aso-Ofi.

    As early as 10 am, the church had become filled up, with legion of dignitaries and extended family members, including political and business associates of the deceased.

    Amid songs by the choir and exchanges of pleasantries, the cleric, Rt. Rev. Christopher Omotunde, Anglican Bishop of Ekiti Diocese, mounted the podium and offered a message which extolled the virtues of the deceased and condemned the greed and violence which, according to him had become prevalent in the society lately.

    Rev. Omotunde urged political leaders to observe limits in material acquisition, saying “life is a zero sum game, vanity upon vanity, all equals vanity.”

    According to him, “what enduresin life are legacies of selflessness, patriotism, and commitment to humanity in all regards.”

    Omotunde recalled the times of Chief Obayemi, the Baba Ijo of St. Andrews Anglican Church, Ado-Ekiti, noting: “he forgave all his political adversaries and eventually triumphed over them all. He died an accomplished man at a ripe old age.”

    “Baba Obayemi had his properties destroyed and vandalised during a political turmoil here in the town and he had to relocate to Iyin-Ekiti. When the then Vicar, Bishop Awelewa Adebiyi, came here and heard of his great and noble deeds, he went to Iyin-Ekiti to meet him.

    “After much persuasion, Baba agreed to come back to Ado-Ekiti and rebuilt his properties. Funny enough, most of the people indicted by the police in the destruction of his properties were from this church.

    “As a godly person, Chief Obayemi agreed that the matter be withdrawn from the court and he forgave those indicted and that did not stop him from continuing his support for the church and the people,” he said.

    The reception held at the Christ’s School field was no less intimidating with about seven gigantic canopies each occupying a minimum of 1,000 guests.

    The itinerant drummers were on hand to make quick fortune, singing praises and doing funny stunts with the drums. The Juju music maestro, King Sunny Ade, was also on hand to tickle the ears with his Juju music, drawing his hosts, Fatimo and her husband, Brig-General Rasaki to the dance floor.

    Chief Obayemi’s first child, Ibiwumi, described him as “a father in a million, one who cherished his children more than gold and silver, a father who doesn’t like being cheated and would not cheat anyone.

    Hon Raji-Rasaki recounted how she went “blank” on being told to write a tribute, saying this was “not because I did not have anything to say but the harsh reality of his being gone hit me and it hit me real hard.”

    She said: “Dad, it was your love which kept me going in those bleak times that seemed really bad. You always had an answer to every question I had, the right word for every doubt and the perfect solution to every challenging situation.”

    The deceased’s first son, Abiodun, described him as “an icon and rare among men. Your life and times would remain an enviable case study and a good research material for the questing academic.”

    In an attendance at the reception were the Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Alhaji Abdul-Azeez Arisekola-Alao; Chief Lateef Oyelade; Akogun Lekan Alabi; Alhaji Muibi Akanbi Yusuf; Former Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Alhaji Hazeem Gbolarumi; Dr Rauf Masa, Ibadan tyre dealer, Alhaji Lamidi Ajadi and Hon Kabiru Adesokan.

    There were former Military Administrator of Ogun, Ondo and Ekiti States, Rear Admiral Joseph Olaseinde; Rear Admiral Abiodun Olukoya; Commodore Kayode Olofinmoyin, Navy Capt. Atanda Yusuf, former Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose, his deputy, Mrs. Biodun Olujimi; Wife of former Oyo State Governor Alhaja Mutiat Ladoja and former ace broadcaster, Mrs Ronke Tanko Ayuba.

    Others were the Senate’s Chief Whip, Senator Hosea Agboola; Senator Grace Bent; former speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon Moruf Atilola; former secretary to the Oyo State government, Alhaji Sarafadeen Abiodun Ali; former commissioners in Lagos and Oyo states, Architect Kayode Alison and Dr. Olu Alabi.

  • All hail the new chiefs

    All hail the new chiefs

    Governor Abiola Ajimobi and his wife Florence, were on Saturday in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, installed as the Aare Atunluse and Yeye Aare Atunluse of Ibadanland by the Olubadan, Oba Samuel Odulana. Dignitaries thronged the ancient city to share in the joy of the day with them, report BISI OLADELE and TAYO JOHNSON.

    The crowd at the palace and the stadium was huge. The palace was the first port of call for Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi and his wife, Florence who were installed as Aare Atunluse and Yeye Aare Atunluse of Ibadan by the Olubadan, Oba Samuel Odulana, last Saturday.

    It was unique honour because the Olubadan rarely confers chieftancy titles on people, particularly politicians.

    By 9am, there were telltale signs of the ceremony. At the popular Iwo Road interchange, police and other security personnel and YES-O cadets lined both sides of the road leading to the palace where the Ajimobis were installed.

    Members of the Olubadan-In-Council; members of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), security personnel and journalists arrived to avoid rush.

    The first guest to arrive at the palace was Senator Oluremi Tinubu and the Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon Monsurat Sunmonu who donned ankara uniform bearing the honourees portraits. They were received by some members of the Olubadan-in-Council and the CCII leaders including Chief Bayo Oyero and Alhaji Gboyega Arulogun.

    They were later joined by Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola and some traditional rulers such as the Olugbon of Ile-Igbon, Oba Adegboyega Osunbade and the Aseyin of Iseyin, Oba Ganiyu Oloogunebi; Senator Ayoade Adeseun and other members of the National Assembly from the state who also wore the ankara uniform.

    The street leading to the palace was agog with itinerant drummers, trumpeters, acrobats and others. Residents filled both sides of the road watching as dignitaries arrived in posh cars.

    At 11:25 am, the governor and his wife arrived into the warm embrace of guests and well-wishers.

    The accolades of: “Action Governor. Action Governor. Atunluse” rent the air.

    Decked in Yoruba traditional wear, Sanyan, with a brown cap to match, Ajimobi and his wife, who also donned the same attire with a white top and Sanyan headgear to match, were received by Prince Gbade Lana, on behalf of the monarch.

    They came with the National Chairman of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Chief Bisi Akande, who donned a white agbada.

    The ceremony began in earnest and within 40 minutes, Ajimobi and his wife became the Aare Atunluse and Yeye Aare Atunluse of Ibadanland. They were also presented their certificates.

    While performing the installation on behalf of his father, Prof. Femi Lana said the governor was honoured for transforming the state.

    In his acceptance speech, Ajimobi described the Olubadan as a highly revered and principled monarch who would not confer chieftaincy title on anybody who did not deserve it, no matter the person’s status.

    He said he was proud of the Olubadan pointing out that he had been offered several chieftaincy titles which he turned down.

    The Aare Atunluse said: “I have no choice than to accept this honour, coming from the highly revered royal father – Olubadan. I know that he doesn’t just dole out chieftaincy titles anyhow. He is a man of no mean achievement and he is highly principled. He has done us, the sons and daughters of Ibadanland proud. I am, therefore, very pleased with this.”

    Mrs Ajimobi said the recognition would make her and her husband work harder.

    “I really appreciate the Olubadan for honouring us,” she said.

    The celebration train moved to Liberty Stadium where guests were entertained by Evangelist Ebenezer Obey and King Wasiu Ayinde.

    The venue of the reception was decorated in yellow and maroon which are colours of the state’s logo.

    Ushers dressed in native attires directed guests to their seats.

    Royal Spices, a caterer ensured that the food and drinks were in steady supply.

    Former Governor of Ogun State Chief Olusegun Osoba said Ajimobi deserved the honour because in less than two years, he has made landmark achievements in Oyo State.

    “Transformation is boldly written in all nooks and crannies of the state and this shows that he is a visionary leader who wants to reposition the state,” Osoba said.

    Chief Adeniyi Akintola (SAN) said: “Ajimobi has been doing a wonderful job in Oyo State and I hope he will not be distracted by the criticism of the opposition party. There is peace in Ibadan now and that alone is something we should celebrate in the history of this state. The last time we witnessed this type of transformation in this state was during the era of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Maj-Gen David Jemibewon. Ajimobi deserves to be praised, it is not about politics but people need to have a rethink and support this wind of change blowing in Oyo State.

    Senator Tinubu said: “I believe that this title given to him will act as an incentive for him to do more and we can only wish and pray for good health for him and long life to do more for this state. I urge the people of this state to be patient and to be supportive and embrace all the projects that the governor is putting in place for the state. We thank them for their cooperation, because without their cooperation he would not have done this much and we want their continued support so that he can do more.”

    At the reception were Edo State Governor Adams Oshihomole; his Osun and Ekiti state counterparts Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola and Dr Kayode Fayemi.

    Others included an ACN leader and former Minister of Foreign Affairs Chief Tom Ikimi; Oba Rilwan Akiolu of Lagos; the Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, AbdulAzeez Arisekola-Alao and former governor of Oyo State, Dr Omololu Olunloyo.

    Governors of Kano, Niger, Cross River, Plateau and Ogun states were represented.

    Also there were National Assembly men from Oyo State, including Hon Abiodun Awoleye; members of the Oyo State Executive Council led by the Deputy Governor Chief Moses Alake-Adeyemo.

    Members of the Oyo State House of Assembly, ACN State Chairman, Chief Akin Oke and top civil servants also graced the occasion.

  • Reward for selfless service

    Reward for selfless service

    The Kosofe Local Government chapter of the League of Chief Imams and Ulamau installed new Islamic chiefs last Saturday at Agape Place, Kosofe, Lagos. WALE AJETUNMOBI and BUKUNMI OGUNDARE report.

     

    Araromi Gbagada in Kosofe Local Government Area of Lagos State last Saturday was a beehive of activities. The area’s League of Imams and Ulamau held its maiden Installation of Islamic Chiefs and Awards.

    By 10am, the average-size hall of the Agape Place, the venue of the event has been filled with guests, who were clad in various attires.

    The Oloworo of Oworonshoki, Oba Bashiru Oloruntoyin Solihu, added a royal touch to the ceremony when he walked majestically into hall with his chiefs and subjects, beaming smiles in his white regalia.

    Leading the pack of the new Islamic chiefs is the Deputy Chairman of Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Alhaji Safiriyu Abiodun Sunmola, who was installed as the Baba Adinni of Kosofe.

    Other recipients included Alhaji Muftau Ayinla – Asiwaju Adinni; Alhaji Muftau Ayinde Fashola – Otun Baba Adinni; Alhaji Musliudeen Aigoro – Otun Aare Adinni; Alhaja Muheebah Osifeso – Iya Adinni; Alhaja Hassanat Shobayo – Ameeratu-l-Muslimat; and Alhaja Bushirat Balogun – Arowosadinni.

    Also, an ACN stalwart, Alhaji Busura Alebiosu and his wife Alhaja Hairat, were given awards of recognition with Alhaji Safiriyu Oladepo, a shipping magnate, and Alhaja Basirat Akinsanya, a politician.

    General Secretary of the League Imam Sherif Idris congratulated the awardees.

    The award, Idris said, was meant to galvanise a generation of faithful that would play active roles in all fields of human endeavour.

    Islam, he said, is not averse to any legitimate means of livelihood, but cautioned Muslims that their material acquisition must not make them derail from the path of the Almighty Allah.

    Lagos State Governor Mr Babatunde Fashola who was represented by his Special Assistant, Alhaji Hakeem Kosoko, noted that the responsibilities placed on the shoulders of the beneficiaries were enormous, urging them to live exemplary lives according to the Sunnah (examples) of Prophet Mohammad.

    He urged parents to inculcate religious teachings in their wards warning the youths against thuggery and hooliganism.

    Pa Sunmola, whose philanthrophy him the honour, thanked the League for selecting him, promising to do more to uplift the poor. He told the Imams to get a parcel of land for him to build a six block of classrooms for indigent students in Kosofe.

    Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji, promised to build four block of classrooms in addition to the six promised by Sunmola.

    Accompanying Sunmola to receive the turban were Senator. Gbenga Ashafa; Hon. Sikiru Osinowo, Chairman of Kosofe Local Government Area, Hon. Mikail Sofola, his predecessor, Hon. Tunde Braimo and chairmen of Agboyi-Ketu and Ikosi-Isheri Local Council Development Areas (LCDA), Hon. Monsuru Durosinmi and Hon. Abdulfatai Oyesanya respectively.

    Also in attendance were Osun State governor, Rauf Aregbesola, represented by the Secretary to Osun State Government, Alhaji Moshood Adeoti; former Lagos Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Titles, Prince Rotimi Agunsoye, chairman of Surulere Local Government, Hon. Tajudeen Ajide, chairman, Remonic Manufacturing Company, Alhaji Mutalib Ogunnoiki among others.

  • Their day of joy

    Their day of joy

    Daughter of former Minister of Agriculture Otunba Bamidele Dada, Omolade and her beau, Dr Adebisi Oluwaseun Araba, have got married at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, reports OSEHEYE OKWUOFU.

    IT was a gathering of who is who. They came to witness the marriage of Omolade Adebimpe, daughter of the former Minister of Agriculture and Assistant Director-General, Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) Otunba Bamidele Dada and her beau Dr Adebisi Oluwaseun Araba penultimate Saturday. The parents of the bride and the groom could not hide their joy on the occasions.

    The event began the previous day with the traditional engagement at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan.

    It ended with a reception after the church service at the Oritamefa Baptist Church, Agodi, Ibadan.

    Scores of female ushers in uniforms were everywhere receiving guests.

    The guests sat quietly while awaiting the couple’s arrival. The couple was ushered into the church with a special song, accompanied by dozens of bridesmaids and groom’s men in colourful attires. They were was preceded by their parents.

    Intermittently, the church choir selected songs from the hymn book directed by Dr Olu Onifade.

    In his sermon, Reverend Kayode Oladele enjoined the couple to make God the third person in their union, and apply His principles always.

    The cleric urged the groom to always love his wife, and advised the wife to cherish her husband.

    Reverend Oladele said: “Firstly, marriage was ordained for companionship, help and comfort which husband and wife ought to share with each other both in prosperity and in adversity. Secondly, marriage was ordained in order that the natural instincts and affection implanted by God should be hallowed and directed aright so that those who are of God and His estate would continue therein in lureness of living. Thirdly, marriage was ordained for the procreation of children who should be brought up in the fear of the Lord and for the praise of His Holy name.”

    After the couple took the oath and exchange rings, the priest pronounced them man and wife.

    Otunba Dada said:“We thank Him for His mercies. My daughter is the last born of the family, the baby of the house; we thank God for making this day a reality. We pray to God to bless this marriage and grant them the joy and all the blessings of a happy married life.”

    Former Minister of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Olu Adeniji described the couple as a wonderful match and prayed God to grant them the joy of a happy marriage.

    Prof Sunday Ajayi, formerly of the Department of Fisheries, University of Ibadan, who chaired the occasion, described the two families as rare breed. He expressed hope that the couple would continue with the values of their parents.

    “I have known Otunba Dada since 1982 when he was the Federal Director of Fisheries and when he joined the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) where he rose to the position of the Assistant Director-General until his retirement. I rejoice with the couple and pray that God will continue to grant them joy and happiness in their married life,” Ajayi said.

    There was more than enough to eat and drink. Female musician Queen Ayo Balogun entertained guests.

    Among dignitaries at the event were President Goodluck Jonathan, represented by Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Oloye Jumoke Akinjide; Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi represented by the Commissioner for Lands, Mr Bimbo Kolade; former military governor of Lagos State Brig-Gen. Raji Rasaki; Chief Medical Director, University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, Prof Temitope Alonge; former Secretary General, Nigerian Baptist Convention, Reverend Ademola Ishola; Otunba Olafisoye Adebiyi; former Managing Director, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) Mr Richard Aisueseogun; former Director of Administration, FAAN Mr Adeniyi Ajakaiye; former Commissioner Accident Investigation Bureau, FAAN Mr Sam Oduselu; Chief Dayo Odutola and Chief Olasehinde Afolabi Ishola, among others.

  • ‘He always makes me laugh’

    ‘He always makes me laugh’

    The families of former Supreme Court Justice George Oguntade; the late Dr Jimi Okunola Aina and Victor Tokunbo Bali celebrated the union of their children, Olujimi and Ibijola, at Ruby Gardens Event Centre, Lekki-Ajah, Lagos last Thursday. OLATUNDE ODEBIYI writes

    Yoruba culture was on display during the introduction and engagement of Olujimi Aina, son of the late Jimi Okunola Aina and step son of of former Supreme Court Justice George Adesola Oguntade and Ibijola, daughter of Victor Bali.

    Dignitaries, family members, friends and well wishers came from far and wide to share in the couple’s joy.

    The decor in the Ruby Gardens Event Centre, Lekki-Ajah, Lagos blended with the colour of the day. The hall was decorated in white, gold and wine. Light sparkled across the hall.

    The hall was filled to capacity and guests looked resplendent in their traditional attires.

    The groom, Olujimi, looked charming in black and gold stripes of Agbada and sokoto. The bride was dazzling in her cream lace buba with black and gold striped gele and iro.

    She dazzled guests with her infectious smiles.

    Olujimi, who is into real estate, was accompanied into the hall by his friends.

    He and his friends prostrated for his family and his in-laws and they prayed for him.

    Ibijola was also escorted into the hall by her friends and some family members amid songs.

    She knelt to greet her in-laws and parents.

    She later joined her lovebird on the bridal chair; they kissed and hugged each other.

    A minute silence was observed in honour of the groom’s late father.

    Emibalomo Iretemide Cultural Dance Group from Owo in Ondo State charged the atmosphere with traditional songs and dances. Decked in native attires with red beads, the groups ensured that there was no dull moment.

    Pastor Moses Bali prayed God to give the couple everlasting joy in the marriage.

    Justice Oguntade urged the couple to always tolerate each other.

    ‘’What joined you together will not separate you, God will guide you in all you do and grant you a successful marriage’’.

    The bride’s father couple prayed God to provide all they need to make the union successful.

    Olujimi prayed for everlasting joy in their home.

    He said: “What attracted me to her was intelligence and pretty face. We always connect to each other, she is a part of me and I love her so much,” he said.

    Ibijola described her beau as her brother and best friend.

    “What attracted me to him was that he always laughs and he always makes me laugh, he is the kind of man I deserve,’’ she said.

  • Saving a nation’s future

    Saving a nation’s future

    The sixth anniversary of Rhesus Factor Day Lecture/Fundraising organised by Rhesus Solution Initiative, a non-governmental organisation (NGO), was held at the MRC Hall of the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Ikeja. TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO reports

    ONLY a few believed the organisation would stand the test of time when it was founded in 2007. Six years after, Rhesus Solution Initiative (RSI), a non-governmental organisation (NGO), initiated by a businesswoman and wife of Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) National Legal Adviser Mrs Olufunmilayo Banire, is waxing stronger.

    Mrs Banire, who almost fell victim of the Rhesus disease, has taken the campaign against the deadly syndrome to many parts of Lagos.

    Rhesus disease is an ailment which affects an unborn baby when its mother’s immune system generates antibodies which attack the baby’s red blood cells.

    If such babies die in Yorubaland, they are called Abiku.

    The babies can be saved if the expectant mothers get RhoGAM injections.

    Last Thursday, RSI celebrated its sixth anniversary otherwise called Rhesus Factor Day.

    The event was held at the MRC Hall of the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Ikeja.

    The anniversary began six days earlier with Walk for Life.

    Wife of Lagos State Governor Mrs Emmanuela Abimbola Fashola led eminent personalities including Dr Muiz Banire and Special Adviser to Lagos State Governor on Public Health Dr Yewande Adeshina to complete the 18-kilometre walk from Maryland to Jibowu and back to Maryland. The awareness campaign was attended by no fewer than 500 people.

    Six days after the walk, many of the guests converged on LASUTH MRC Hall for the anniversary lecture and fundraising, it was green all through.

    Aside from the green décor, the organisers were in uniformed green Ankara fabric.

    The event featured a lecture, blood donation and fundraising.

    In her welcome address, Mrs Banire thanked God for sparing “our lives to witness this day and this event again this year. I must also register the point that this year’s Rhesus factor day has been remarkable.”

    According to her, the organisation was founded to create and promote awareness on Rhesus Incompatibility and its associated complications, which contribute to high infant mortality and maternal morbidity rates.

    Mrs Banire said: “We have adopted awareness, counselling, intervention, training, advocacy and research to achieve the set goals. In the area of awareness, we have visited churches, mosques, local governments, corporate organisations and pubic places to create awareness on the importance of Rhesus factor.

    “By the grace of God and through your past financial support, we have donated free Rhogam injection to about 600 financially challenged rhesus negative mothers across general and private hospitals, primary health centres and maternities, traditional and religious birth homes in Lagos and Ogun states.

    “At our office in Ikeja GRA, over 800 women who were referred to us from different health facilities have benefited from our free counselling. We have also trained over 50 volunteers and almost 500 traditional and religious birth attendants on the importance of blood group and Rhesus factor and all its associated details.”

    She thanked the Lagos State Government, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Mrs Fashola and many other individual and corporate firms for their support.

    She described Dr Banire as her “wonderful husband of 20 years, my soul mate and guarding angel.”

    Dr Adeshina hailed the organisers for the vision and foresight in selecting the theme, “Rhesus Factor Awareness: A contributory effort towards improving maternal and child health.”

    Dr Adeshina said the theme could not have come at a better time than now that the government is in the process of scaling of laboratory services for basic tests, including Rhesus Typing, as part of its Primary Health Care Revitalisation Policy towards improving child health and reducing maternal mortality.

    She urged stakeholders to make Rhesus incompatibility a thing of the past, adding that they should emulate RSI founder and assist the government to provide affordable care to its citizenry. The government alone, she added, cannot provide free health for its 20.5 million population.

    The guest speaker, Dr. Ann Ogbenna a Lecturer/Consultant Haematologist at College of Medicine University of Lagos/Lagos University Teaching Hospital CMUL/LUTH, said in Nigeria, Rhesus disease contributes to the death of 144 women daily from pregnancy and childbirth complications.

    Dr Ogbenna, said only two per cent of women are aware of complications related to negative blood group during and after pregnancy; while 94.3 per cent are not aware of precaution , if they are negative.

    She said precautions must be taken to reduce preventable causes of maternal and child mortality from rhesus blood group.