The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • A monarch at 80

    It was a joyous moment for the Oloja of Igbogbo, Ikorodu, Oba Johnson Ola Fatola, when he celebrated his 80th birthday. The event, held last Saturday at the Civil Defence Model College field, Igbogbo, drew personalities from far and wide.  YETUNDE BASHIR was there.

    The Igbogbo community in Ikorodu, Lagos was in a celebration mood.

    The inhabitants, joined by visiting dignitaries, celebrated the entry of their monarch, Oba Johnson Ola Fatola, into the octogenarian club on January 12.

    The monarch marked his birthday in style.

    The Civil Service Model College playing ground, Igbogbo, venue of the event, was agog all day.

    Scores of itinerant drummers welcomed guests with praise songs.

    There were three big tents, ornately decorated in royal blue and white. The tents were big enough to accommodate thousands of guests who thronged the school pavilion.

    Waiters moved in and out of two smaller canopies with local and foreign dishes.

    Two live bands – a gospel musician and Juju music singer – ensured there was no dull moment.

    The music of King Wasiu Ayinde Marshall (KWAM 1) blared from the end of the left side of the giant canopy in the centre.

    Make no mistake, the Fuji king was not present but his music was played to the delight of guests.

    Waiting for the arrival of Oba Fatola, the compere, Mr Olayiwola Arowolo of Radio Lagos thrilled guests with jokes and exciting stories.

    He welcomed those who arrived early enthusiastically. Among them were the Chairman of Igbogbo-Bayeku Local Council Development Area, Hon. Oluwagboyega Basanya, his wife, Olusola; Mr Adebimpe Akinola; Founder of Homat Group of Schools, Mr Olawale Hamzat; prominent politician Chief Reuben Olorunfunmi Bashorun; Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs Hon. Ademorin Kuye.

    The event began with an opening prayer by the Chief Imam of Igbogbo, Sheikh Sikirullahi Tanimose, and Revd Ubenme of the Methodist Church, Igbogbo.

    The Oba, who was the cynosure of all eyes, looked resplendent in his royal blue aso ofi. He was accompanied to the field by the Obateru of Egbinland, Oba Richard Ogunsanya; Oba of Ibeseland Oba Akeem Oyebo and their wives. The Oloris (Queens) shone in lace and aso ofi with blue ipele and headgear to match.

    The event started with prayers and thanksgiving service in a church and a mosque in Igbogbo on Thursday and Friday.

    Saturday’s event was a double celebration – Oba Fatola’s 80th birthday and conferment of chieftaincy titles on some Igbogbo indigenes.

    The celebration was unique in many ways. There were traditional ornaments placed in the open for all to see

    Many of the guests appeared in uniform lace sewn in different styles. The women were resplendent in their headgears with Ipele.

    Chief Bashorun welcomed guests, thanking them for honouring the monarch.

    He described Oba Fatola as a humble, honest and loving monarch.

    The celebrator’s reign, he said, has brought tremendous development to Igbogbo community.

    Bashorun added that the town has witnessed peace and harmony.

    Shortly after his speech, he supervised the cutting of the cake.

    The three-step purple and white cake was cut by the monarch.

    An elated Oba Fatola was grateful and delighted with the success of the occasion.

    He thanked God for his sojourn in life.

    “I am grateful to God who has been good enough to give us this day; I am also happy that Igbogbo has developed extensively in the last decades, with peace reigning supreme. At this juncture, I will like to heartily express my unalloyed gratitude to the immediate past Governor of Lagos State, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Sogunro of Igbogbo, for his care for me and Igbogbo community,” he said.

    He expressed appreciation to Lagos State Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola for his support.

    “To all the citizens of Igbogbo, I thank you for the cooperation in maintaining peace and tranquility which has given the town the enviable motto ‘land of cool beauty.’ I urge you to continue to do us proud and all of us shall prosper in all our undertakings,” he said.

    Immediately after his speech, the conferment of chieftaincy titles on six people of the community began.

    They included Dr. Omotunde Olawale Ogunlaja – Bawosan of Igbogbo; his wife, Mrs. Adebola Oluwatoyin, – Yeye Bawosan; Mrs Bolanle Bashorun – Yeye Asiwaju; Hon. Nosimot Akinsola – Olu Omo of Igbogbo, Alhaji Tahir Amusa – Atunluse of Igbogo and Mr John – Ajisetoba of Igbogbo.

    He promised that the certificate of office will be given to them next month.

    Fashola, represented by Hon Kuye, congratulated the monarch, wishing him more fruitful years.

    He assured the Oba of his administration’s commitment to bringing more development projects to Igbogbo and its environs.

    The Governor urged the Oba to continue engaging the people on public enlightenment programmes on the need to be law abiding.

    Guests later took to the dance floor before the monarch returned to his palace, leaving his family to continue with the celebration.

  • Going after a rewarding career

    It was double celebration for the immediate past provost of the Television College, Rayfield, Jos, Plateau State, Aare Ayo Fasan. He marked his 60th birthday and retirement from service. YUSUFU AMINU IDEGU reports.

    It is always wise to quit when the ovation is loudest. This popular saying best described the scenario at the 60th birthday party of Aare Ayo Fasan, the immediate past provost of the Television College, Rayfield, Jos, Plateau State capital.

    He also celebrated his retirement from the service of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA). The two-in-one event was held at Novel Suites and Resorts, Rayfield.

    It was an event full of reminiscense about the celebrator, from his childhood, education, career, relationship, philosophy, family life, leadership style and social life.

    Encomiums were poured on the celebrator by well wishers. There were so many of them, ranging from serving and retired politicians, serving and retired rectors, staff of NTA, former general managers of NTA, bosom and distant friends, students and relations.

    Who is Aare Ayo Fasan? The outgoing rector of the Nigerian Television College served the college for four years. He began his career with NTA Ibadan in 1978 and ended as the Provost, NTA College, Jos in a colourful style.

    He attended Ibadan City Academy. He left in 1971 to Ilesha Grammer School where he obtained his Higher School Certificate (HSC) in 1974. He was admitted to the University of Ibadan (UI) where he obtained his Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) in Sociology and later a Masters in Sociology Management. Not done with that, in 1986, he returned to the same university for another Masters Degree in Industrial and Labour Relations.

    Fasan joined the services of the NTA in 1978 at 28. He was posted to the pioneer TV station in Ibadan. He rose to the rank of Controller of Administration at the Ibadan zonal headquarters. He was later moved to the Lagos headquarters of NTA as an Administrative Manager.

    It was in the light of his dedication to duty that the then Director-General of NTA, Ben Murray-Bruce, appointed him the pioneer General Manager, NTA Osogbo in 2000.

    Fasan, like a golden fish with no hiding place, was appointed the rector of the television school in Jos in May, 2009.

    The UI alumnus is not only an icon in the civil service; he is a fan of traditional institutions across the Southwest which earned him several chieftaincy titles. The most popular are Atunluse of Ojo and Aare Baroyin of Ilajeland in Ondo State.

    One of his members of staff in Jos, Terkimbi Manyam, Head, Television Journalism Department, said of him; “Some are great, some are born great, others become great while others are made great. You are great, born great, became great and made great.”

    The college’s Principal Admin Officer, Justin Davwed, said: “The students and staff call him (Fasan) Baba; his contemporaries call him ‘the eagle’, his greatest admirers call him ‘Mr. Fix it’. All together, he is “Baba Eagle that fixes it”

    What more, his beloved wife, Mrs Fasan described him as a “wonderful husband, partner, outstanding father and mentor.”

    The celebrator said: “If you handle anything in life fairly, honestly and objectively, you will never have problem in life.”

    Fasan was born in November, 1952 in Ilesha, Osun State. His father was a pastor. Little wonder he grew up propagating the message of peace anywhere he found himself.

  • A celebration of gains

    A dinner marking the 10th anniversary of Tusen Consulting has been held at the Civic Centre, Ozumba Mbadiwe Avenue, Victoria Island, Lagos. AMIDU ARIJE reports.  

    It was a motley gathering of business moguls, civil servants, clients and of course staff members of the Tusen Consulting Limited when the company marked its 10th year anniversary with a dinner.

    The Panoramic View Hall of the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, venue of the event was filled to the brim.

    Members of staff of the company stood out in their chosen orange and black attires. Some were in suits while others shone in shirt and trousers. They looked cute.

    The company’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr Babatunde Johnson was clad in a well tailored suit. He moved from place to place to greet the guests with cheers and praises. He was accompanied by his Finance Director, Mrs Nike Osinibi.

    The gathering was a three-in-one affair – to mark a decade of existence, appreciate the clients and to present the company’s new logo.

    The band of Flaming Tips Musical Band led by Serah Onyeke was on stand, entertaining guests. It was never a dull moment as his melodious songs kept the people turning their heads, some stood to dance.

    A comedian, Black Saint emceed the occasion. He thrilled people with jokes and jaw breaking discussions. It was fun all day.

    The rendition of the National Anthem by the members of staff of the Tusen Consulting kicked started the programme. This was followed by an opening prayer led by Mrs Osinibi.

    Her prayer was followed with a speech by Mr Johnson.

    He thanked everyone present with a special praise for the clients and staff for their resilience in moving the company forward.

    “It is really a celebration of the last 10 years which have been blossoming for us; we are looking forward to the future in terms of further development and expansion of the company, we have a strategy to continue to grow even in the current economic challenges in our country, “ he said.

    To him, the journey of the company has been a wonderful and successful one.

    “It has been a wonderful journey because we have been privileged to work with fantastic people; I am so proud of every one; I will just say we are blessed,” he said.

    A 15-minute documentary was played. It narrated the journey of the company for the past years. The guests paid attention to the details of the documentary. The documentary was accorded applauds from the guests when it was concluded.

    Mr Johnson was assisted by Mrs Osinibi and their clients from various companies to unveil the new logo.

    They removed the satin clothes used to wrap the logo, after prayers was said, the logo was revealed to the admiration of all. They clapped and congratulated the company.

    A well designed cake with the Tusen Consulting Company’s name and new logo with inscriptions of the company’s name and tenth year anniversary was cut afterwards.

    All members of staff were on the stage to do the cutting.

    Guests on the occasion included the Minister of Communications, Mrs Mobolaji Johnson, her husband, Mr Seyi; Mrs Adenike Pearce; Elaine Hall; Mr David Edwards; Mrs Kofo Awonga among others.

    Guests were treated to delicious choice food and drinks.

    After the closing prayer, guests stormed the dance floor and danced.

  • Farewell to a sweet mother

    Banker-turned-business magnate Anthony Fagbuaro was joined by his siblings, relations and friends for the funeral of his late mother, Madam Elizabeth Oladunni Fagbuaro. Though a modest outing, it was a memorable moment at the All Saints Anglican Church, Housing Estate Road, Ado-Ekiti, writes SULAIMAN SALAWUDEEN

    State-of-the-art automobiles competed for space in and outside the premises of the All Saints Anglican Church, Housing Estate Road, Ado-Ekiti. It was the same picture – a keen contest of sorts among select guests who shared grand moments – in the sanctuary. And one message was clear: the dignitaries were not there to mourn; they gathered to celebrate the life of a departed mother.

    At the centre of the memorable outing was Mr Anthony Sunday Fagbuaro, a Lagos-based banker-turned-businessman and philanthropist. Joined by his equally successful siblings, relations and well-wishers, he hosted dignitaries from far and wide at the funeral of his mother, Madam Elizabeth Oladunni Fagbuaro.

    In their uniform, blue-coloured traditional attires, the celebrators and other members of the Fagbuaro Family were the cynosure of all eyes during the service. Their sprightly mien affirmed Fagbuaro’s view that the service was specially organised in honour of their sweet mother.

    Former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Alhaji Musiliu Smith, who led other dignitaries at the event, later chaired a lavish reception at the Fagbuaros’ country home. He showed no sign that he would leave his host, even days after the outing.

    Aside members of the church’s choir who gave a good account of themselves with soul-lifting numbers and complementary drumbeats that caused waists to wriggle, the officiating minister at the thought-provoking service, Ven. Clement Daramola, with his gripping delivery, held all the guests spell-bound. He centred his sermon on the need for people to embrace a holy lifestyle which, he said, was the hallmark of a real human being.

    The exhortation and sermon by Ven. Daramola would register long in their memory as well, touching at the very core of the whole essence of humanity, demystifying the fight for vanity among men in a world filled with the certitude of death as of life.

    In the sermon which lasted nearly an hour, Ven. Daramola said paradise and hell-fire exist.

    Ven. Daramola warned the congregation not to be deceived by the fleeting allures of the world, asking: “Where is your own focus in a world which will soon end; where will you rise on that day.

    “I congratulate you, Mama’s children, for her life and times. Imagine the pains she must have gone through, having 12 children. Among them, only two survived. Imagine her experience. This is a lesson for people on the number of children they should have. Raising children is not a joke,” Ven. Daramola added.

    Radiating satisfaction, everyone responded joyfully in total obedience when a call for offering and donation to lift the church was made.

    But the greatest financial contribution to the church at the service came from the son of the deceased, Fagbuaro, who humbly announced a donation of N2.5million for the procurement of an important music instrument for the church. Thunderous ovation rented the air. But to the donor, “it was in appreciation of God’s love for my entire family.”

    At the Fagbuaros’ home, where the guests retired for a sumptuous reception after the service, lips were busy with stories about the late woman’s exemplary virtues as all were treated to assorted meals and drinks.

    The two children of the late “woman of virtue” later evinced their dance prowess to the irresistible beats of the musical ensemble led by Adewale Ayuba, a popular Fuji musician. Adedoyin, Fagbuaro’s delectable wife, used the moment to show her stuff as a dancer. Above all, the moment gave some guests and close associates an opportunity to overwhelm them with naira notes.

    Smith led tributes galore in honour of the late woman. He said: “With what people have been saying about this good woman, it goes without saying that she was a model. Her life and times offer one lesson – that we must all live in such a way that on departing, we will live in people’s hearts.”

    To Niyi Sangotade, a retired Major-General, the children of the late woman were lucky to have her as their mother. “By their account, the woman cared for them. That means she was a mother of no means order,” he said.

    In his tributes, Fagbuaro said his late mother was everything a mother should be to her son. In a groundswell of accolades, as the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo once said of his wife, he described his mother as “a jewel of inestimable value.”

    According to him, the late Mrs. Fagbuaro would go to any length to satisfy any child’s needs, even if it meant sacrificing her comfort. He added: “No one would come approaching my mother for anything and go empty-handed. My wish is for the Almighty God to accept her and make her an inhabitant of paradise.”

    Guests at the event included former Ondo State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Kenny Adedeji; High Chiefs Yomi Orimoloye and Ayo Ariyo, among other traditional rulers; Oba Abayomi Owulade of Shangisha, Magodo, Lagos State; Otunba Reuben Famuyibo; Prof. Eddy Olanipekun, Dr. Kayode Fayetinu; Mr Shina Alabede and Mr Kola Amodu.

  • Celebrating a ‘worthy life’

    The sleepy Iruekpen-Ekpoma community in Edo State hosted dignitaries as the remains of Mrs Maria Ezekiel-Ikhureigbe, mother-in-law of Senator Jubril Marti-ns-Kuye, were interred. SULAIMAN SALAWUDEEN was there.

    It was a show of class. The gold-edged white casket was gleaming; the zebra patterned Ankara clothes were sewn stylishly; chauffeur driven posh vehicles ferried guests; the canopies enclosures festooned in attractive linen which dot several spaces. And the cuisines served at various points – all bore stamps of class and trend.

    Tradition was recognised as apparent in the moving ancestral songs rendered by local bands at the Christian wake and in the outfits worn by some people.

    The lively faces decked in attractive wears showed that it was an occasion essentially for the blue bloods and not mere mortals.

    While the men among the grandchildren appeared mostly in white, the women enjoyed some freedom in their choice of colours as reflected in their handbags, head ties, shoes and other accessories that complemented their looks.

    It was all for the late Mrs. Maria Ezekiel-Ikhureigbe (aka Odede) whose funeral was held at Iruekpen-Ekpoma, Edo State.

    According to the second daughter of the deceased, Mrs. Tekobo Dongo, “mama deserved all these. She loved her children and enjoyed fashion even though she was not in any way worldly.”

    Odede, which means ‘grandma’ in Iruekpen’s version of Edo language, as fondly called by everyone, died in November, last year at 97. She was born into the noble Egbondion family of Ehor Quarters in Iruekpen-Ekpoma.

    She married the late Pa Ezekiel-Ikhureigbe in Lagos and had two children, Otunba Iyabo Martins-Kuye and Mrs Dongo.

    A good dancer in her youthful days, Odede reportedly brought under her care and successfully mothered more children than just her two biological daughters.

    She would often tell anyone who cared to listen that “doing good is good business. The good you do today is an investment for tomorrow.”

    Recognising the attributes of the deceased, Revd Fr. Mathew Ihensekhien from All Sants Seminary, Ekpoma, said, at the service held at Stella Marris Catholic Church, that most people fear to die and wish to live endlessly not because of the uncertainties of life after death but perhaps essentially because of the evil they had done.

    Revd Ihensekhien said: “We love to live endlessly because of the pleasures of the world, the pleasures then blindfold us to the ultimate wealth of eternity. We want to go to heaven but don’t want to die.”

    He said even at 97, the children, family and other associates of the deceased would have preferred she lived longer.

    The cleric enjoined all to emulate Mama’s hardwork, friendliness and hospitality.

    After the sermon, Dr. Christopher Abebe said the people gathered to celebrate a woman who lived a good life and single-handedly gave the Marian Grotto to Stella Maris Catholic Church.

    Abebe, father of the former First Lady, the late Mrs Stella Obasanjo, described Iruekpen as a wonderful community where people irrespective of tribe and religion love one another.

    After the service, the pallbearers went into their stunts, doing acrobatics with the coffin. They stopped at two places said to be Odede’s ancestral homes before proceeding to lay her remains at the family residence. It was a charged moment as Iyabo and Tekobo, wept uncontrollably.

    At the Abia Primary School, venue of the reception, the guests were treated to exquisite local and continental dishes.

    They also engaged some of the children and family members in a dancing competition of sorts, spraying them with naira notes as the popular music maestro, Yinka Ayefele and Eno Loius’ Afro Jazz Band dished out irresistible tunes.

    In her tribute, Mrs. Martins-Kuye said: “How could I adequately describe my mum. She was beautiful, adorable, vibrant, kind, honest, loving, and above all, she was virtuous.

    “Odede was one of the best mothers in the world. She spent her life caring for us and other people around her. She did not discriminate. She took everyone as her own.”

    Mrs. Dongo said: “My dearest mum, you were the greatest thing that happened to me. I shall always remember how you shaped my life. I am grateful for the life you lived. For those you touched; for the love and care you always showed; for your generous spirit and big heart.”

    Others including mama’s in-law, Alhaji Kehinde Dongo; Elder Tina Amzart; Folakemi Banire; Bukola Aboderin and others joined in the rain of tributes to a “mother of mothers.”

    Dignitaries at the event included former Minister of Commerce and Industry, Senator Jubril Martins-Kuye; former Chairman, Ikole Local Government and successful business woman, Chief Titi Oluwatuyi; Alhaji Kehinde Dongo; the Olomo of Iyin-Ekiti Chief Michael Ogundare; Mrs. Bola Ogundare; the redoubtable iconoclast, Chief Ebenezer Babatope; Otunba Doyin Ogungbe; Mr Wole Koya and Mr Kayode Otitoloju.

  • ‘Our school passed through us’

    Eko Boys High School, Mushin, Lagos mainland, has celebrated its 100th anniversary. The week-long event climaxed with the Old Boys Association holding an award and fund raising dinner on Victoria Island. NNEKA NWANERI writes.

    How does it feel for a school to clock 100? Attaining that age seems to come with pride as displayed by old students of Eko Boys High School (EBHS), who rolled out the drums to celebrate their centenary.

    The week-long celebration featured a novelty match, foundation laying, visits to traditional rulers and a public lecture, among others.

    A dinner, held on January 13, at the Nigerian Law School, Victoria Island, Lagos, was the high point of the celebration.

    The old boys turned out in their numbers to celebrate their alma mater. Earlier, a thanksgiving service was held at the Hoares Memorial Methodist Church, Yaba, Lagos.

    ‘Though the dinner was supposed to be an all boys’ affair, many came with their wives.

    The ‘boys’ were decked in red and white striped caps made of Aso-Oke. It blended with their cream and white Agbada and Sokoto. The younger Ekorians (as they are fondly called) did not wear their caps. Their Aso-Oke was thrown across their necks and worn like a muffler.

    Blue and white were the dominant colours. The centre stage was decorated with fabric of the same colour.

    Before the event began, the boys moved from table to table, greeting one another.

    It was a gathering of “grey haired young boys”.

    In attendance were two members of the 1948 set, Akin Lawrence and Olu Pen. Though they looked old, they felt like the boys they once were.

    Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola, also an ‘Ekorian’, was represented by his Special Adviser on Education, Otunba Fatai Olukoga.

    Also present was Group Managing Director of FirstBank Mr Bisi Onasanya, who bagged an award. He looked different from his everyday banking wear of suit and tie. He was decked in a white native attire like others and mingled freely with them.

    Hon Sanai Agunbiade and Hon Adebimpe Akinola of the Lagos State House of Assembly; President, Old Boys Association of Igbobi College, Murphy Ipaye and a former Lagos State Commissioner Hon Akeem Gbajabiamila were also present.

    Music was supplied by the Nigerian Navy Band. Popular saxophonist and an old boy, Pastor Kunle Ajayi, not only led the opening prayer but also entertained with some melodious tunes.

    Though the ‘boys’ are aging gracefully, they sang their school song heartily.

    An old boy and Nollywood movie star Yemi Shodimu anchored the event.

    National President of Eko Boys High School Old Boys Association Chief Idowu Sofola (SAN), extolled the founder, the late Rev William Euba and his compatriots.

    Sofola gave a long history of the school.

    Those who were awarded for their contribution to humanity were Fashola; Onasanya; Navy Captain Rasheed Raji who served in Bauchi and Sokoto states during the military era; Alfred Thomson; the school’s 1965 Senior Prefect Theo Ola Ayeni; Commisioner of Police James Caulcrick; Prof Aderemi Kuku; Permanent Secretary, Lagos Television and Radio Services Mr Lekan Ogungbanwo and Alhaji Santos Anjorin.

    All the awardees were present to collect their plaques.

    Fashola said the award would serve as a challenge to do more, encouraging others to emulate the good they portray.

    Captain Raji, who was the chairman, Planning Committee, promised to ensure that the school waxed stronger.

    Going down memory lane, he said: “This gathering has enabled me to meet people. It feels good seeing people I passed out from school with in 1970. I remember us still running around in school with nicknames. I remember how our then principal, Rev Akin Adesola’s discipline has kept us till now. The school has made us what we are today and especially for me. We not only passed through the school, the school passed through us.”

  • Rector’s daughter finds love

    The expansive Olatinwo Family House in Offa, Kwara State was agog for the Aqdun Nikah between Khadijat, daughter of the Federal Polytechnic, Offa, Rector, Dr. Mufutau Olatinwo and her beau Mohammed Adebowale, an Air Force officer. YETUNDE BASHIRU and JUMOKE IDOWU report. 

    For the Rector, Federal Polytechnic, Offa, Kwara State, it was honour all the way. Academics, politicians and Armed Forces personel were present in large number for his daugther’s wedding. The

    armed forces were there to honour the groom, Mohammed Adebowale, an officer of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).

    The event began on Friday with a special prayer held for the couple at the expansive Olatinwo Family House, Offa.

    The following day witnessed the Aqdun Nikah at the same venue.

    The Chief Imam, of Offa Town, Imam Muideen Salman Al-Imam led a retinue of clerics to the event. The Olofa of Offa, Oba Mufutau Gbadamosi came with a large number of other traditional rulers and chiefs to the occasion.

    The couple dazzled in attractive attires.

    Khadijat looked resplendent in a flowing white gown, beautiful laali (a common form of body-beautifier in Hausaland), wrist watch and chain dangled on her hands. She capped them with lovely earrings and held a bouqet.

    The groom was decked in a ceremonial uniform of the Air Force.

    After opening prayer and recitation from the Holy Quran, Imam Salman took over the proceeding.

    Marriage, the cleric said, is ordained by Allah.

    He enjoined wives to be obedient to their husbands so as to secure the favour of the Almighty.

    The couple, he said, must respect each other and always pray together.

    After observing the necessary rites of marriage, Imam Salam declared them husband and wife.

    This was greeted with a loud Allahu Akbar (God is the greatest) and Allihamdullilahi (Praise be to Allah).

    Guests later joined the Olatinwos and the Adebowales at the Nigerian Navy School of Health Sciences, Offa for a reception.

    A military Guard of Honour was staged by the groom’s colleagues and junior officers with full military compliments as the couple walked in.

    The hall reflected class.

    Former Military Administrator of Osun State Col. Leo Ajiborisha who chaired the reception, urged the couple to guide their home jealously and always discourage external interference in their affairs.

    Col Ajiborisha praised their parents for raising them well.

    He wished the couple success in their endeavours.

    The couple expressed delight ending their relationship with marriage.

    Khadijat, a first class graduate of Agriculture at the University of Ilorin was full of joy.

    She smiled all through the event.

    On her husband, Khadijat said that she loved him for his strength of character and discipline.

    “He is handsome, caring and loving. I could not wish for a better man. I’m happy he is mine,” she said.

    She thanked her parents and in-laws for making the occasion grand.

    The groom, Muhammed, also thanked their parents, friends and relations, promising that he and his wife will not disappoint them.

    She described Khadijat as a brilliant, beautiful and humble woman.

    The train later moved to the groom father’s house in Ede, Osun State in the evening where the King of Fuji Music, Alhaji Wasiu Ayinde Marshall (KWAM 1) thrilled the couple and guests.

    The event was attended by military top brass from various military establishments, members of the Polytechnic Expanded Management Committee (EMC) including the representative of the Minister of Education on the committee, Mrs Uwem Asomugha and her NBTE counterpart, Alhaji Baba Idi Bamamu.

    Principal Officers, members of the executive committee of the various unions in the institution, Deans from different institutions, Directors, Heads of Departments/Unit and the Students’ Union executive were not left out.

  • ‘Mother in a million’

    The remains of  Madam Dinah Onyebuchi Igbokwe, mother of Lagos State Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) spokesperson, Mr Joe Igbokwe, have been interred in her country home, Uruagu, Nnewi, Anambra State. NNEKA NWANERI was there.

    In tears, Mr Joe Igbokwe, Lagos State Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), spokesperson, told guests how his late mother, Madam Dinah Onyebuchi Igbokwe toiled for the family. He was giving the vote of thanks at the funeral of his mother when he broke down. With every word he uttered, he sobbed.

    “Today’s success has wiped away years of pains and tears,” he said.

    Madam Igbokwe died at 85.

    Uruagu, Igbokwe’s country home in Anambra State was brimming with sympathisers who came to bid the Igbokwe matriarch farewell.

    The late Madam Igbokwe had five children; 23 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren.

    Her residence was creatively decorated in purple and gold satin. Guests, family members, colleagues and associates of her children came in large numbers. There was an influx of people from Lagos. The state’s ACN executives were led by the Assistant Publicity Secretary, Chief Funso Ologunde.

    Anambrans were led by Governor Peter Obi and his wife. Others were: former Minister of Information Prof Dora Akunyili; Deputy Speaker, Anambra State House of Assembly, Prince Chukwudu Orizu; Commissioner for Works Mr Calistus Ilozu; his Agriculture counterpart Ndubisi Melakaye; and Education Mrs Uju Okeke; Chirman, Yaba Traders Association, Pastor Okey Anorue; JP Ekwilo; top military personnel and royal fathers.

    Members of St Bartholomew’s Anglican Church, Surulere, Lagos brought their members and women guild, who turned up in uniforms. The women wore white blouses and green wrappers with their insignia. The choir members were decked in black regalia with yellow embroidery.

    Other sects turned out in their own uniformed attires. There were about 10 different types.

    Anglican Bishops of Ihiala; Ideato and Oru led clergymen to the funeral service. Hymns were sung. Bible readings were taken; a brief sermon on the parable of the 10 virgins was explained. All were encouraged to have faith in God.

    The late Mrs Igbokwe’s first son, John, described his mother as a woman who stood for the truth and fought against injustice.

    “My mother singularly raised us. She had a passion for clean environment. My brothers and I earned awards as the neatest pupils while in school. She is indeed a virtuous woman,” he said.

    Her third son, Joe said he never knew she would live up to 60 because of what she went through in life.

    “She was fought in the church, in the stream, the community, at family meetings, in the market… she was a sheep to be slaughtered but she endured it and came out triumphant. My mother is a living testimony that tough times don’t last but tough people do. The only mother I have known for 56 years died on August 18,” he said.

    He recalled how his family lived a good life till the Civil War began in 1967 and they lost all they had.

    “I inherited the activism I now portray from my mother. She taught me to convert problems to opportunities. She was an incredible story teller. We always laughed until tears came out of our eyes. My mother is a walking history, a story that must be told.”

    Former Governor of Lagos, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu described the late Mrs Igbokwe as one who lived a fulfilled life by leaving a legacy of activism in her children, one that is worth more than silver and gold.

    Governors Babatunde Fashola of Lagos; Adams Oshiomhole (Edo); Kayode Fayemi (Ekiti); Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola (Osun) sent condolence messages. Governor Fayemi, represented by one of his special assistants, Mr Biodun Akinsafe, extolled the late matricah as one who lived a life of fulfilment and impact.

    “Though I was not privileged to know her quite intimately, the testimonies concerning her pious life shows Mama Igbokwe was a mother of great virtue, who came quietly but left gloriously with resounding victory at every stage of her life,” he said.

    Governor Obi said the deceased was not only blessed with longevity, but was also fortunate to raise her children to enviable positions.

  • Nigeria on their minds

    Academics, politicians and business tycoons gathered in Lagos to brainstorm on the state of the nation. AKEEM ALAWOKI and JUMOKE IDOWU were there.

    The gathering was for a few invited guests. They comprised academics, politicians and successful businessmen. It was put together by Chief Tunde Temionu.

    The idea was to discuss the state of the nation in a cheerful atmosphere.

    Though the symposium was to discuss Nigeria; it was also an avenue for merry making.

    The event took place on December 31, last year, at the Private Event Hall of TEM Hotel, Ojota.

    Guests were served with choice foods and drinks immediately they got to their seats.

    For some, it was a re-union of sort. Old time memories were recalled with laughter. They equally exchanged banters.

    The hall glittered with various kinds of ceremonial lights as highlife music was played underground.

    Chief Temionu, clad in a red shirt and a fitting black pair of trousers set the ball rolling. He thanked the guests for honouring his invitation.

    “By this time last year, he said, we talked about the fuel subsidy removal…we agreed that it should be deregulated. This edition is going to be another interactive get-togethere because we are discussing states’ creation,” he said.

    He then introduced the quartet speakers.

    Prof. Kolawole Adebayo from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, was the first to make presentations.

    He gave a concise history on the birth of Nigeria and state creation within her territory. Afterward, he said, “No civilian administration has sat down to create a state.”

    Adebayo brought to the fore opinions of some Nigerians who are against the creation of more states and those who support the move.

    “Some of those who are against the creation of more states argue that the existing states are faced with many challenges which include: environmental, industrial and erosion cum agricultural challenges and augmenting the existing states to becoming bigger entities is the solution rather than splitting them further,” he said.

    He said: “Those in favour of state creation opined that it will mean bringing the government closer to the people and that some of the existing states are too large and need to be split into smaller entities”.

    Adebayo, however, advised that whichever path the government chooses to follow, they should ensure that the country returns to agriculture.

    He said:”Agriculture offers the highest level of commerce any country can get. You will recall that when Nigeria used to be an agrarian country, Kano’s groundnut pyramid was feeding not just Nigeria but other countries. Cocoa industry in the South-west did well to build a strong economy for the Western region. Oil palm dis same in the South-East,” he said.

    Prof Adebayo advised the government to put in place a uniform agricultural policy for the development of the country.

    Other discussants were Kwara State University senior don Prof. Innocent Okoye; University of Lagos Head of English Department, Dr. Adeyemi Daramola; and former Deputy Vice Chancellor, University of Lagos, Prof. Olushoga Shofola.

    Prof Okoye thanked the organiser for giving them the opportunity of expressing their views on a national issue.

    “I want to thank Chief Temionu for the opportunity to rub minds even as we enjoy ourselves.”

    He said Nigerians believe in togetherness but some things must be corrected.

    “Most Nigerians are still interested in living together, but they want some changes in the following areas: creation of more states, true federalism, resource control, good leadership; among others,” he said.

    He said the ongoing constitutional review will not solve the problem rather a national conference should be convened.

    According to him, the constituent state must be given the right to control their resources.

    Dr Daramola thanked his fellow speakers for a thorough job and astute delivery.

    Prof. Daramola maintained that more states should not be created.

    “If we create more states, he said, people will keep clamouring for more states that every family will want to have its own state.”

    Prof. Shofola acknowledged other speakers before making reference to the defunct USSR.

    The former Deputy Vice-Chancellor was very brief with his presentation. To him, creation of more will not solve the problem if the states are not autonomous.

    “I believe there must be an resource control (by the state). We should see how to restructure the state to be independent federating unit where each unit has control over everything,” he said.

    Former Lagos State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Prince Rotimi Abisoye said: “I do not want anymore state, what I want is good leadership, because if we have good leadership, we will have regular power supply; good roads. What we need to do is to weaken the centre. If we can’t weaken the centre, we can’t move forward.”

  • From boys to men

    The end-of-year party of the 1977/78 set of Anwar-Ul Islam College, Agege Old Students Association (ACAOSA) has been held in  Lagos. AMIDU ARIJE and KEMI OKUNADE were there. 

    IT was as if they were still in school. Although they left Anwar-UL Islam College, Agege, Lagos, over 35 years ago, they have not forgotten some of the pranks they played in those days. On sighting each other, nicknames rang out and they burst into laughter, as they remembered what it used to be like while in school. It was full of fun and reminiscences. Their wives watched as the ‘boys’ ran rings round themselves. The looks on the women’s faces said it all: don’t they know that they are no longer boys. The ‘boys’ ignored their wives’ looks as they were in a world of their own last Saturday at the end-of-year party of the 1977/78 set of Anwar-UL Islam College, Agege Old Students Association (ACAOSA).

    There was no dress code, so they turned out in different attires. But they found uniformity in the school cap of gold and navy blue.

    Before the event started, guests were served small chops and drinks.

    The compere, Jide Morounfolu, thrilled the old boys with jokes. The event took off with the recitation of the National Anthem.

    It was followed by opening prayer by Alhaji Shakiru Yussuf.

    Dr Afolabi Abiodun took his colleagues down memory lane. He also conducted the American auction.

    The association’s president, Alhaji Lawal Pedro (SAN), Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Justice, led members to recite the school anthem.

    Peddy as he is fondly called thanked God for keeping the members alive.

    He praised members for keeping the association moving.

    According to him, the essence of the old boys association is to give back to the school which groomed the members.

    “Our gathering is to ensure we do not forget our alma mater, that is the school which has done so much for all of us. When we were growing up, we went through the school, we cut our tooth there, we were trained to be able to stand on our feet,” he said.

    Peddy lamented the deteriorating state of the school, urging members to do work awards the restoration of its glory.

    “The college that you and I attended between 1973/74 and 1977/78 is not the same again. My brothers, our school is facing hard times and it needs us now more than ever before in order to restore its glory. Our coming together will amount to nothing if it cannot be of benefit to our school,” he said.

    “The school has given us what it has, good education and sound upbringing. It is time for us to give back to the school so that the dream of the founding fathers will not die,” he added.

    His speech attracted a rousing applause and all stood until he returned to his seat.

    In attendance were: Rahman Alarape, Alhaja Aminat Pedro, Wasiu Bawalah, Hammed Rasaq, Mufutau Ottun, Yomi Ojo, Gbenga Ojo, Suraj Olowo, Bolanle Ahmed, Tunde Adeniji, Ahmed Ogunnaike, Hakeem Ogunniran, Nurudeen Bello, Bashir Shittu, Taofeek Colley and Dipo Oyetayo, among others.