The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • Basketmouth still in the eye of storm over rape joke

    Basketmouth still in the eye of storm over rape joke

    RECENTLY, comedian and Glo ambassador, Bright Okpocha, alias Basketmouth, shared a joke on his Facebook page, which a lot of his fans frowned on.

    Though he has apologised to his fans, some women activists are insisting that he join in the ongoing campaign against rape in the country.

    According to them, it is necessary for Basketmouth to correct the wrong impression that his joke has made on Nigerian youths by leading a campaign against rape.

    The coordinator of the Walk Against Rape and Project Capable, Esther Ijiwere, says that despite Basketmouth’s apology, his post on the Facebook might has gone a long way in promoting the vice, especially date rape.

    Ijiwere tweeted: “It’s totally wrong for you (Basketmouth) to post a comment on your Facebook wall and make rape the highpoint of it! I am highly disappointed in you for sharing this kind of joke. How would you feel if your mother, sister, aunt or daughter had been raped? Would it be funny?

    “You are meant to be an advocate of good behavior and not the other way round! Women are your biggest fans; yet, you bring us down. You should use your platform to advocate women causes and join us in fighting rape rather than promoting it, please.”

    A sexuality education strategist, Praise Fowowe, also lent his voice to the call for Basketmouth to be involved in the campaign.

    Reacting to the development in a tweet to Basketmouth, Fowowe said, “Popularity and the ability to make jokes isn’t the same thing as role- modelling. I am glad you (Basketmouth) retracted the joke and apologised. However, you need to join the fight against the crime. Remember, many young people look up to you; hence, the need to be mindful of what comes out of your mouth.

    “No more jokes about cripple, imbeciles and albinos. We must stop this madness and force comedians to think up and make wholesome jokes. Well, since he has apologized, we will forgive him. But he needs to be more careful.”

    Also, a former Minister of Education, Obiageli Ezekwesili, has joined other Nigerians in demanding that Basketmouth become an anti-rape campaigner.

    The former minister said she was shocked by the rape joke from the comedian. She, therefore, asked Basketmouth to make use of the sad episode as an occasion for good by becoming a visible anti-rape activist in the country.

    “That joke was grossly inappropriate and nothing justifies rape. I urge you to work with some groups to become a great anti-rape advocate. I do not know Basketmouth’s history on such jokes, but if this is a one-off for which he has apologised and will offer to advocate, we should heed.

    “We all make mistakes at one time or another and when it happens, the measures we take to minimise the damage it causes our community matters! Advocacy against the rising scourge of rape in Nigeria would definitely benefit from the voice of a very talented gentleman like Basketmouth.

    “Our entire entertainment industry, Nollywood, and music should decisively take a stand against rape and violence against women, every one of them.”

  • It’s not my fault I’ve big hips–Nollywood actress ‘Crystal Okoye

    It’s not my fault I’ve big hips–Nollywood actress ‘Crystal Okoye

    Crystal Okoye, a 300-level student of Business Administration at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, is a fast-rising Nollywood actress. The Nnewi, Anambra State-born movie star, in this interview with GBENGA KUTELU, talks about her passion for acting, challenges and more.

    WHEN precisely did you join the movie industry?

    It was two years ago when I went to see a friend at a movie location in Asaba, Delta State. The cast members were just getting ready for the shoot. They waited for an artiste who, unfortunately, did not show up. So, they decided to feature me in the movie: Though I had wanted to be an actress before I got on that location that day, I didn’t know how to go about it.

    What does it feel like being a movie star?

    I feel like a star already. You can’t imagine what I go through in the public. There was a time I went to a shop, where prices were fixed to all the items. I paid for all the stuff I bought; but to my surprise, the owner said that as a movie star, I should pay a different price. She said, ‘You actors have money, so you should be able to afford whatever I price I give you.” I was speechless at that moment. Also, most of the time, people stop me on the road and request for photographs with me. At times, I feel shy, but that is the prices of stardom.

    How did your parents react initially when you were coming into the industry?

    Yes, I had the support of my parents until they passed on in 2010. It was a painful moment for me when that happened.

    Who are your role models in the industry?

    My role model is Pete Edochie. He plays a fatherly role in my life. He was one of first set of people I met when I joined the movie industry. My other role model is Stephanie Okereke.

    Do you get sexually harassed by men in the movie industry?

    It’s a choice you have to make. If you decide you want to sleep around with men in the industry, it may favour you or turn the other way round. Everyone has his or her own choice to make in the industry. I’ve heard about sexual harassment in the industry. There are also stories about ladies who really go out to have sex with producers just to appear in their movies. My belief is that if God does not want you to be in a movie, you won’t. But if you are fated to be in any movie, you will surely get it. So, I believe that becoming a star is about destiny. If God says that is your destiny, then, it will be.

    How do you manage advances from men?

    All my life, I get several men who admire me. I’m a beautiful lady and I know it; so, it depends on the way it comes.

    What part of your body do you treasure most?

    I treasure and protect my whole body. I spend lot of money to maintain my skin, just to keep me sparkling.

    What’s your unique selling point?

    I know I’m blessed with my shape. Some girls have walked up to me to ask how I gained the figure. They say: “I want to be curvy like you”. And my simple answer is: it is the way that God created me. It’s natural. People admire me for my height, looks and figure. When you talk of Crystal Okoye in the movie industry now, people always describe me as being beautiful and curvy. I know my figure, height and beauty opens the doors for me easily. There’s no way people will walk past me without noticing my waist. It’s a gift from God.

    What attracts you most to men?

    I go close to people that are intelligent and people that I can learn something from.

    Can you talk about the movie that has transformed your life?

    It is The Priceless, a Ghanaian movie. The storyline caught my attention. It was the only movie that I have ever made, which made me shed uncontrollable tears.

    What was growing up like for you?

    It was interesting. My parents were there all along before I lost them few years back.

    Could you recall your first experience in the first movie you featured in?

    It was in Speak the words. I was very young then. My dad introduced me to his friend, who then referred me to his brother. This was a long time ago. I was much younger then, but my hips were there. My hips have always been a major attraction for me. It’s one of those things that attract men to me. It isn’t my fault that I’m curvy in figure.

    What would you have been doing if you were not an actor?

    I would have gone into importation of female clothing.

    Doesn’t your profession affect your education?

    No, it doesn’t in any way. I run a part-time programme (CEP). I go to school only on weekends. When I’m sitting for examination, I don’t accept acting jobs. I have my textbooks, which I study even while I’m not in school.

    Would you mind if any of your children go into acting?

    I think a child has the right to choose a career for him or herself. You have to give your children the support they need, so you don’t have to impose any profession on them.

    Have you won any award?

    No, but I know it will happen soon.

    Which is your choice: sex or money?

    (General laughter) Money is good. With money, I’ll be able to build the houses of my choice and buy the best of cars. Without money, you can’t do anything. Sex is a momentary enjoyment that does not translate into anything. With money, I’ll invest into things that will help and not a few seconds of enjoyment.

    What brand of car do you like?

    Porsche because I like classic things.

  • Singing sensations who may rule 2014

    Singing sensations who may rule 2014

    Sean Tizzle

    SEUN Morianfen, famously known as Sean Tizzle, is definitely one artiste to watch out for this year.

    Following the release of his hit single, Sho le, the young music sensation became the toast of party rockers and gigs early 2013.

    Consequently, he has literally hugged success with both hands and has even gone ahead to release Mama Eh, International Bad Man and others.

    He revealed his plans for this year, saying, “Hoping to consolidate and do more tours, more hit singles, videos and then my album sometime next year. Gbam!”

    Black Magic

    AMONG the music acts that may rock the entertainment scene in 2014, the Repete crooner is certainly one of them.

    The talented rapper, singer and songwriter burst into the Nigerian music scene with his debut singles, Tomorrow and Rainbow, in 2010 under the Syndik8 umbrella.

    He later released his debut album, Blackmagic Version 1.0 the following year.

    The Repete crooner has finally released his sophomore album, Version 2.0, to rave reviews.

    The standard 15-track album boasts world-class productions from T-Flava, Remi, Kid Konnect, Ikon and Xela.

    This is in addition to the stellar collaborations of Banky W, Oriste Femi, Sasha P and M.I.

    Jesse Jags

    SOME pundits have said that Jazg’s Nation Vol. 1 is one of the best albums of 2013.

    No doubt, the album has received rave reviews from music critics and fans alike.

    As a result, he is being seen as one of the revolutionary artistes to watch out for this year.

    Jazgs Nation Vol.1 was released under his own ‘Jagz Nation’ imprint.

    Niyola

    NIYOLA, First lady of EME, has succeeded in carving a niche for herself, musically.

    Since the release of her hit single, Toh Bad, which is definitely one of the favourite songs of 2013, her profile has notched higher and put her on the list of artistes to watch out for in 2014.

    Following the success of her breakout singles such as Crazy and Toh Bad, the Empire Mates Entertainment act followed with a video for Toh Bad. This video aptly illustrates the powerful and captivating message behind the love ballad.

    Toh Bad was shot on locations in New York by prolific cinematographer, Kemi Adetiba.

    Seyi Shay

    SEYI Shay is currently making waves for herself in the Nigerian music industry with a remix of her single, Irawo, featuring Vector.

    Seyi already has been tipped to be one of the next big female acts in Nigeria.

    Yemi Alade

    FOR Yemi Alade, last year was quite an eventful and highly productive year.

    The Johnny crooner was among the artistes that rocked 2013.

    The award-winning act gives more insight into her new single, Johnny, saying it is an ode to an elusive man in her life.

    The new song, which she did with Selebobo, is already enjoying massive air play.

    Harrysong

    THE Five-star Music recording artiste, Harrysong, a.k.a Mr. Songz, towards the end of last year, made an impression with a tribute song to the late South African leader, Nelson Mandela.

    Immediately the tribute dropped, it was made exclusively as callertune for MTN subscribers. It eventually emerged the most downloaded callertune in 24 hours.

    With this success, Harrysong sits well among artistes to watch out for in 2014.

    Harrysong also followed with a video shot in South Africa and directed by Nic Rouce.

  • Laide Bakare shares intimate moments with hubby

    Laide Bakare shares intimate moments with hubby

    ACTRESS cum producer, Laide Bakare, who recently got married to her second husband, Alhaji Tunde Oriowo, marked her birthday recently in a romantic way.

    On that occasion, the beautiful actress shared a photograph of an intimate moment, after several months of keeping her new husband out of the press.

    She presented her family at the premiere of her movie, Alhaja ti o common, in Lagos, recently.

    It will be recalled that Laide broke up with her first husband, Olumide Okunfulire, in 2013 and got married to Alhaji Oriowo within the same year in a controversial circumstance.

    Meanwhile, the US-based businessman, Okunfulire, is still spoiling for war with the actress over the paternity of the child she claimed to have born for Oriowo.

  • Man seeks to donate kidney to Pa Kasumu

    Man seeks to donate kidney to Pa Kasumu

    Looking resolute, Akinmade Chukwudi (not real name) made true his promise on telephone, when he arrived The Nation office in Lagos, yesterday, stating his readiness to donate one of his kidneys to ailing actor, Kayode Odumosu, aka Pa Kasumu.

    Accompanied by a woman twice his size, the young man, who said he is 38-year-old, said he was not given to much talk, but needed a medical check to determine his eligibility, and the kidney will be for the actor free-of-charge.

    Spotting a sleeveless singlet atop a pair of jean trousers, he said he desired no publicity on his intention, and would not want his picture taken. Reluctantly, he agreed to tell us a little about himself, on the proviso that his identity will not be revealed.

    “If you are going to record me and publish this, then I am pulling out. You can only publish this, after it has been confirmed that I am medically fit to donate my kidney. I believe that before any recording, I need medical advice. The reason I am saying no is because I don’t want to say something else and see another thing. I am only doing this for the sake of the man,” he said.

    What could have attracted the young man to the actor? He said the actor had helped him with N100 a long time ago. “It was a long time ago, and I doubt if the actor himself will remember. He met me at a junction in Fadeyi area of Lagos, when I had an argument with an Okada (commercial motor cycle) rider over change of N100. I was in a hurry to catch the next bus to Yaba, and the Okada man was making a fuse of the issue because I had a higher denomination, the balance of which he did not have. Pa Kasumu was passing by when he asked what the issue was. I explained to him; and immediately, he brought out N100 from his breast pocket and handed it to the Okada rider. Apart from seeing him in the movie, I have not sighted him again ever since, until I read in the papers that the man is sick and needs help,” he narrated.

    When he was told that the actor’s ailment does not require a kidney, he looked disappointed. So was the woman in his company whose identity he also said was not necessary. According to him, the woman was just a witness.

    He, however, disclosed that he is married with a kid.

    Asked if his family members knew he was coming to donate a kidney, he said, “I have not informed them because I need to be sure that I am fit for what I want to do. If the medical report gives me 100 percent confirmation, then I could have taken the next step. But I still believe my decision is final.”

    At that juncture, The Nation put a call through to the actor and asked if he would want to speak with the old man but he declined. When the actor asked that we help take his contact, he also refused, saying it was not necessary since his intention was not for profit.

    Asked what he would have desired of the actor should he donate his kidney, he said, “First and foremost, apart from donating for him, every individual deserves thanks and reward for any favour. I was not going for negotiation. But I believe that, even if you give somebody a cup of water, you deserve appreciation. That would have been it for me.”

    Pa Kasumu is down with a partial stroke, that is telling on his heart, liver, brain and sight. He requires N12 million as total package for treatment and logistics to an Indian hospital.

    The 60-year-old actor has been battling with the sickness since 2009, and has been receiving treatment for secondary prevention of repeat stroke, after battling cardiovascular disease.

    So far, he has received close to N6 million, out of which Lagos and Ogun State governments donated N1.5million and N2million respectively.

  • CNN’s African Voices eyes Omotola Jalade

    CNN’s African Voices eyes Omotola Jalade

    Today, a five-day broadcast on CNN on Nigerian screen goddess, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, begins, as she talks about her rise to fame, upbringing and passion for activism.

    The actress’ turn on the international news platform follows a recent streaming of Kunle Afolayan, a young filmmaker, touted as one of the fore-runners of what many regard as the new Nollywood.

    With publicity already flying high, Omosexy, as the actress is fondly called, will be taken on in line with her resume as a Nigerian top actress, singer, television star and philanthropist.

    The platform, African Voices, is CNN International’s weekly half-hour programme highlighting Africa’s most engaging personalities.

    The interview, with CNN correspondent, Vladimir Duthiers, is expected to feature Omotola in her element, talking also about her future plans.

    Promo for the CNN session described Omotola has not only an icon in the Nigerian entertainment industry, but also a UN ambassador and activist with Amnesty International.

  • Pay royalties to COSON, NBC orders broadcast stations

    Pay royalties to COSON, NBC orders broadcast stations

    Rising from its mediation on the ongoing royalty tussle for which Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria (BON) and Independent Broadcasters Association of Nigeria (IBAN) asked members to boycott songs belonging to members of Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON), the National Broadcasting Commission has said that there is no escaping the issue of royalty payment, if the stations must adhere to the provision of the law.

    In a statement signed by the commission’s Head of Public Affairs, Awwalu Salihu, yesterday, the Commission noted that it would be difficult for the stations to achieve 80 percent compliance for local content, if the songs of COSON members are boycotted.

    The Commission also ordered BON to suspend the ban it placed on broadcast of musical works by some Nigerian musicians and advised all parties to discontinue all ongoing legal proceedings regarding the payments.

    “This is to provide an atmosphere conducive for negotiations”, the statement said.

    Salihu said a joint committee, representing the disputants, will review all copyright tariffs within the next three months.

    The Commission, however, advised the Copyright Society of Nigeria (COSON), to determine mutually acceptable tariffs with the broadcast industry in order to facilitate the payments.

    The Director General of NBC, Mr Emeka Mba, on Dec. 12 and Dec. 13, led the Commission’s management team to meet with representatives of COSON and BON respectively, in a bid to resolve the matter.

    The outcome of the meeting, the Commission said, is the reason for its position on the issue.

    NBC advised all parties to adhere to the reconciliation plan to ensure the development of both the nation’s broadcast and music industry.

  • ‘He’s a committed family man’

    The Grand African Ballroom of the Intercontinental Hotel on Victoria Island in Lagos was the venue of the 50th birthday of the Managing Director of VDT Communications, Mr Abiodun Gideon Omoniyi. AMIDU ARIJE was there.

    The 50th birthday of Managing Director of VDT Communications, Mr Abiodun Gideon Omoniyis, was celebrated in style at the Grand African Ballroom of the Intercontinental Hotel on Victoria Island in Lagos.

    For the celebrator, it was a day of double celebration as the day coincided with Christmas.

    Family members, friends and colleagues came to share in the joy of the day with him. Family members and friends exchange banters as they saw again after a long time.

    The Demola Olota Band entertained guests. The occasion was anchored by the popular comedian, Gbenga Adeyinka. It started on a prayer note.

    The traditional troupe of Biola Williams mesmerised guests with sterling performance. The praises of the celebrators lineage delighted not only him, but everyone who were present. They were ‘sprayed’ with crips notes.

    The compere also added glamour to the occasion. He kept the guests laughing at every interval when he grasped the microphone. His jokes were greeted with applauds.

    A 10-minute documentary on the celebrator’s life was shown. Guests watched with rapt attention, every scene of the documentation caught everyone’s attention. They clapped.

    The celebrator’s wife, Folashade, was beside him all day. She radiated joy and excitement.

    Guests eulogised the virtues of the celebrator. They described him as an honest and generous man.

    Former Inspector -General of Police and Chairman of VDT Communications Limited Alhaji Musiliu Smith chaired the occasion.

    Alhaji Smith described the celebrator as sociable.

    “I have always monitored Biodun. He is a type of man who once he is close to you, he is always close to you. He is humble and industrious and his love for people and family is unprecedented,” he said.

    Alhaji Smith supervised the cutting of the cake. He counted from 1 to 50 before the cake was cut. The celebrator with his wife stood hand in hand by the side of the two- layer cake with satellite dish designed on it.

    The celebrator’s children joined them on the podium for group photographs.

    In her tribute, the celebrator’s wife, Folashade, described her hubby as committed and terrific.

    “Your commitment to both the nuclear and extended family and the sacrifices you make to ensure that you spend time with us is deeply appreciated. The children and I are so blessed to have you. The way with which you commit to the children’s education inspires me; the patience with which you bring to difficult matters is worthy of emulation; indeed, you are a terrific husband,” she said.

    His father–in-law, Alhaji J.. K. Yusuf described him as a hardworking and intelligent man.

    “A very quiet, amiable, intelligent and hardworking man, Biodun has strived; it was not that rosy at the initial stage of his life, but due to God’s favour and his dint of hard work, perseverance and blessings from God, he was able to raise his head high among his peers,” he said.

    When it was time for the celebrator to speak, all listened with rapt attention. They gave him a standing ovation.

    Omoniyi said he felt on top of the world for the opportunity given him to attain 50.

    “I feel quiet overwhelmed on what I witnessed today; for this large turnout of family members, friends and colleagues. I am really overwhelmed,” he said.

    He described Alhaji Smith as a man who has been playing a fatherly role to him since they met 30 years ago.

    He specially thanked his wife, saying she is truly his better half.

  • Love at first sight

    All roads led to the ancient city of Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, when Adefemi, a lawyer and son of former Osun State Commissioner of Works, Chief Soji Longe, got married to former Miss Adepeju Onikoyi. OSEHEYE OKWUOFU reports.

    It was, indeed, a memorable day when Adefemi, a lawyer and son of former Osun State Commissioner of Works, Chief Soji Longe, took his jewel, Adepeju Onikoyi to the altar.

    The elaborate wedding, which took place in Ilorin, was preceded by an engagement on Friday, where the two lovebirds received their parents’ blessings.

    Before the dignitaries filed out to the reception Hall, there was a service at the Living Faith Church, popularly known as Winners Chapel, situated a few metres away.

    Inside the church, colourful tapes and beautiful linen were used to decorate the inner part of the church.

    The parents of the couple who were decked in Aso oke, sat in the front roll; next to them were the couple – the bride wore a white flowing wedding gown and the groom, a well made black suit.

    The bridal train wore a colourful dress. The women adorn a uniform red head-gear and a yellow strip buba lace. But the young men put on red caps to match. Others wore light brown yellow ankara.

    For more than two hours, the dignitaries at the sprawling church edifice listened to counsel from the officiating minister, Pastor Segun Oni, and his co-Pastor, Abraham Adeyemi, who interpreted into Yoruba language.

    The cleric reminded the couple that marriage was instituted by God; hence it should be honourable because God is honourable.

    He said: “That is why a husband and wife must treat each other with honour. Honour is the opposite of shame. Another virtue expected in marriage is joy, love, goodness and favour, which brings peace.

    “Love is what cements marriage. Husband and wife should live a healthy prayer life and cast everything unto the Lord. They must pray together. Marriage is not a traditional institution, not man-made; therefore to get the blessings of God in a marriage, you must honour and celebrate God, the owner of marriage institution.”

    Members of the church choir rendered gospel songs intermittently.

    At the reception hall, guests marvelled at the well-decorated tall wedding cake and two royal chairs prepared for the couple. The stage was decorated in white linen.

    Soon, the couple were ushered in with dance and music rendered by the Nigerian Police Band. Other family members joined the chorus to welcome the couple to their seats.

    The arrival of the couple kicked off the reception. There were various local and continental dishes as well as assorted wine.

    After cutting the cake, the couple hit the dance floor.

    On how the two lovebirds met, Adefemi said: “Well, I came to Ilorin for the first time ever in April, last year with the intention to relax and to attend my friend’s introduction and she happened to be the friend of the bride and so my friend introduced her to me and since that day, the whole thing developed. That is how it happened.”

    Chief Longe was full of joy and gratitude to witness the day.

    “I feel very extremely good because it’s a long journey for this young boy. He is a lawyer and he has been a very good son to us in the family. So seeing him getting married is a very joyful moment,” he said.

  • A union of learned friends

    A consultant, Mr Bola Enilari of BOEN Consult, has given out the hand of his daughter, Fatimah, in marriage to Babajide, son of a retired surgeon at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Prof Bolaji Akinsanya. The event was held at Haven Events Centre in Ikeja, Lagos. OLATUNDE ODEBIYI was there.

    THE Haven Event Centre in Ikeja, the Lagos State capital, was agog last Friday when two lawyers – Fatimah and Babajide, got married. They met in the line of duty and formalised their relationship after a year of courtship.

    Fatimah, daughter of a consultant firm personnel, Mr Bola Enilari of BOEN Consult, was all smiles in her white flowing gown with silver design around the waist. Her beau, Babajide, son of a retired Surgeon at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Prof Bolaji Akinsanya, was charming in his black suit on top of a white shirt, grey inner jacket with bow tie and a pair of eye glasses. His best man wore the same outfit while Fatimah’s best lady wore a pink long dress.

    The couple’s mothers, Justice Dolapo Akinsanya (groom’s mother) and Mrs Ronke Enilari (bride’s mother) wore orange buba and iro with gold head gear and ipele to match. Their fathers looked elegant on their complete white agbada with cap.

    Most guests were in traditional outfits of gold and pink colours.

    The venue was decorated in white with lights.

    The white chairs were set around glass tables, which had a glass flower vase with white and green flowers on it.

    There were lots to eat and drink.

    The hall had blacking with white centre rug.

    Dignitaries made a stopover at the red carpet outside the hall greeting each other. Photographers had ran after dignitaries to take their shot.

    Itinerant drummers were not left out as they sang the praises of arriving personalities, who amply rewarded them.

    D Jewel ushers, dressed in wine life with gold design around the waist handled guests’ welfare. They were led by Mrs Bukky Kayode.

    The hall was filled to capacity; there were huge screens in strategic places, beaming the event to guests.

    The groom’s parents were the first to enter the hall followed by the bride’s. They both entered in the company of family members and friends amid songs by Bee Jay Sax and his band.

    The couple came next. They came in from the entrance to the centre stage in company of family members and friends amid hip pop songs by the band the dance until they couple took their seat.

    The opening prayer was said following which the Chairman of the occasion, and Interim National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Alhaji Lai Mohammed, mounted the stage.

    He said it was a great joy for him to see the couple married.

    Alhaji Mohammed described marriage as a unique institution where you get your certificate before you start and you spend the rest of your life in it.

    The chairman told Babajide to always exercise patience and Fatimah, not to listen to gossips about Jide.

    “Let him be your best friend, brother and confidant,” he told the bride.

    The gathering laughed when Alhaji Mohammed told Babajide to “answer your wife on time and we will come back soon to rejoice with both of you again”.

    The event continued with the cutting of the cake. It was led by Pastor Kunle Onafowokan and his wife, Wunmi. The couple cut their three-step white cake after the spelling of ‘JESUS’.

    The couple performed their first assignment of feeding each other with the cake. The bride knelt down to feed her husband; the groom responded sitting. They kissed afterwards.

    Replying the Master of ceremony, Jonathan Georgewill, Fatimah said Babajide proposed to her at dinner.

    “He told me that he was tired of my being his girl friend but wants me to be his wife. He got down on one of his kneels and brought out a ring which he put on my finger,” she said.

    “I thanked her and we sealed it up with hugs and kisses,” he interjected.

    After the toast, the couple took to the dance floor, where they were joined by family members and friends.

    Earlier in the day, the couple was at The Redeemed Christian Church of God, City of God Parish in Ikeja, Lagos for the Holy Solemnisation.

    Pastor Onafowokan urged the couple to stay together in love and be patient with one another.

    “Love yourselves and do it all to make each other happy even in the times of trials and temptations,” the cleric said.

    Speaking with The Nation, Babajide said his wife is everything to him.

    Fatimah said she loves everything about him.

    The bride’s father, Mr Enilari uged the couple to put their trust in God always.

    The groom’s father, Prof Akinsanya told the couple to love each other.

    The sister of the groom’s mother, Alhaja Amatul-Kafeel Oshodi, said the couple should allow God in all they do.

    Lagos State Commissioner for Education, Mrs Olayinka Oladunjoye, urged the couple to be patient.

    “Hold on to God amid all ups and downs, help each other and always be willing to bring out the best of each other,” Mrs Oladunjoye said.

    Present at the event were Lagos State Solicitor-General Alhaji Lawal Pedro (SAN), who stood in for Governor Babatunde Fashola (SAN); Prof Oladele Akinla; Chairman Nampala Nigeria Limited, Otunba Matthew Akinlade; Senator Femi Lanlehin; former interim Administrator Nigerian Stock Exchange, Mr Emmanuel Ikazoboh; wife of Oba Ikorodu,Lagos State, Olori Muibat Oyefusi; Mrs Tomi Asenugi and Prof Kunle Wahab, among others.