The Nation Newspaper

Category: Entertainment

  • Bobby Brown sentenced to 55 days in jail

    SINGER Bobby Brown, former husband of the late Whitney has been sentenced to 55 days in a Los Angeles jail and four years of probation for a drunk-driving case.

    City attorney’s spokesman Frank Mateljan (mah-tell-JIN’) says Brown was sentenced on Tuesday after pleading no contest to charges he was under the influence and driving on a suspended license when he was arrested in October. Brown was on probation for another DUI case at the time.

    The 44-year-old “New Edition” singer was ordered to report to jail March 20. He also was placed on four years of informal probation and will be required to complete an 18-month alcohol treatment program. Brown’s attorney Tiffany Feder had no immediate comment on the sentence.

  • A monarch’s 75 ‘glorious’ years

    A monarch’s 75 ‘glorious’ years

    Oba Adedapo Adewale Tejuoso, the Osile of Oke-Ona Egba in Ogun State, was 75 last Tuesday. The doctor-monarch had a lavish celebration of the day. He also conferred chieftaincy titles on some eminent persons, including former Supreme Court Justice George Oguntade. ERNEST NWOKOLO reports.

    A VISITOR would have mistaken it for a meeting of first class traditional rulers and other dignitaries.

    The gathering was no meeting; it was a ceremony to celebrate a distinguished monarch. The Osile of Oke-Ona Egba, Oba Adedapo Adewale Tejuoso, who turned 75. The doctor-monarch’s expansive palace in Sapon brimmed with his fellow monarchs, friends, associates, captains of commerce, relatives and subjects. Many of them wore the uniform Ankara fabric with the portrait of Oba Tejuoso on it.

    The police and members of Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE) controlled the movement of vehicles and persons in and out of the area.

    The birthday bash coincided with the honouring of Mrs Folasade Noimat Okoya, Justice George Adesola Oguntade and his wife, Modupe, with chieftaincy titles. Their friends and relatives came with them.

    The three-leg event portrayed the people. The event featured a church service; conferment of chieftaincy titles and reception to celebrate “God’s grace and faithfulness” in Oba Tejuoso’s life.

    Freelance drummers and other itinerant entertainers welcomed the dignitaries. Evangelist Ebenezer Obey’s band entertained the dignitaries at the reception.

    At St. James African Church, Idi-Ape, Rev. Emmanuel Udofia, in his exhortation titled “God blesses the faithful,” extolled the virtues of the monarch at 75.

    Udofia said Oba Tejuoso loves God and is committed to the advancement of the knowledge of God on earth.

    The cleric said the monarch is always showing gratitude to God because of His grace in his life.

    In his personal birthday message at the church, the monarch, urged humanity to be grateful to God at all times.

    He said this is the way those who believe and serve God could curry more of His blessings.

    Oba Tejuoso, also talked about a life of discipline and integrity.

    “I am a unique being just like each and every one of us. As regards the secret of my success and looking young, I am sure that you all know that the only thing that can make you look glorious, healthy and fit is the presence of Jesus Christ in your life. I have seen it all. God has led me through every aspect of this world. I have been in the secular and I have been in the spiritual. God has enabled me to have a very good start. Fortunately, I was born into a Christian home and to parents who led us to the right path where the Bible is loved and taught. I have no regrets whatsoever from my childhood days,” he said.

    The celebration peaked by noon at his palace with the conferment of the title of Ajisewa Oke-Ona Egba on Mrs Okoya, wife of industrialist Chief Razak Akanni Okoya.

    The train moved to the Bishop Court, Onikolobo, where friends and relatives including the Deputy Governor, Prince Segun Adesegun and wife of Ogun State Governor, Mrs Olufunso Amosun, eulogised the monarch.

    Mrs Amosun described him as a cheerful, easily approachable honest man and a traditional ruler of integrity.

    The monarch, she said, believes that the people’s tradition should also move with the time and receive a touch of civilisation to enhance societal growth.

    Prince Adesegun described him as a role model and leader.

    To Mrs Okoya: “Oba Tejuoso is a big Daddy and mentor who dispenses Godly counsel to her when occasion demands.”

    She prayed God to grant him long life.

    “Honouring me with the title of Ajisewa of Oke-Ona Egba is a big privilege and honour. I see this as a call to service; it motivates one to do more. I am highly appreciative of His Royal Highness Oba Adedapo Tejuoso’s gesture,” she said.

    One of the Kabiyesi’s wives, Olori Yetunde said: “Kabiyesi is a God fearing man, a very good husband and father. Kabiyesi is an very honest and humble man, an evangelist, a preacher of the word and a man of many parts.”

    According to her, what she also found quite fascinating about her husband is his leadership quality, his unifying power in the family and zeal for Christ.

    In attendance were Governor Ibikunle Amosun, former President Olusegun Obasanjo; Speaker of Ogun State House of Assembly, Prince Suraj Adekunbi; Hon Adijat Oladapo representing Ifo 11 constituency in the Assembly; Secretary to State Government, Mr Taiwo Adeoluwa; Mr Segun Awolowo; the Ebumawe of Ago-Iwoye, Oba Abdul-Razaq Adenugba; Chief Adebutu Kessington; wife of the Awujale of Ijebuland, Olori Kemi Adetona; Chief Abba Folawiyo and Chief Titi Ajanaku.

    Others were the Olu of Itori, Oba Fatai Akamo, ace juju musician, Sir Shina Peters; former Speaker, Ogun State House of Assembly, Chief Titi Oseni and Ambassador Folake Marcus – Bello.

  • Her date with history

    A reception has been held for the Secretary to Lagos State Government, Dr Idiat Oluranti Adebule, who received Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Curriculum Studies from Lagos State University (LASU) last Thursday. TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO reports.

    THE is the engine room of the Lagos State Government. As Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Alhaja Idiat Oluranti Adebule occupies a prime post. Last Thursday, she added a feather to her cap when she obtained a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) from the Lagos State University (LASU).

    Dr Adebule bagged (PhD) in Curriculum Studies after three years of research.

    LASU’s auditorium complex was filled to brim. People in different colourful academic attires were seen moving in and out of the auditorium.

    Majority of the guests were also in academic gowns except for the traditional rulers who shone in colourful attires with royal beads, waxing horsetails to the admiration of guests.

    The event began with a convocation procession led by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof John Oladapo Obafunwa. The graduands were also in the procession.

    Soon as they entered the complex, the convocation package comprising Order of proceedings, Convocation brochure and souvenir magazine were distributed.

    The graduands were robed in the colour prescribed for each faculty.

    The Post-Degree recipients put on their caps, with the tassels placed at the left hand side, indicating that they already have their first degrees. The female graduands showed courtesy when they shook hands with the Vice-Chancellor; their male counterparts bowed with their caps on still their heads.

    Shortly after, LASU Pro-Chancellor, Sir Molade Okoya-Thomas presented the certificates the receivers of Doctors of Philosophy (PhDs)

    Dr Adebule received applause as she exchanged pleasantries with the guests on her way to receive the certificate. Her husband, Alhaji Saheed Adebule watched keenly.

    Decked in flowing blue agbada, Alhaji Adebule, a Computer Scientist later hugged his wife, congratulating her on her feat.

    There was photograph session outside the auditorium before guests joined the celebrator at Sir Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall inside LASU Sporting Complex for a lavish reception.

    The hall was tastefully decorated in yellow and chocolate colour satin clothes.

    The Adebules received guests comprising members of the state executive council, lawmakers, council chairmen, eminent jurists, captains of industry, academicians, party faithful and students.

    LASU band entertained the gathering. Sumptuous cuisine – African and International dishes were at the guests’ mercy.

    Choice drinks were also in abundance to eat in and take away.

    A cake, placed on table at the centre of the hall was later cut by the Adebules assisted by some of the guests.

    “Congratulations, Dr. Mrs. Oluranti Adebule on your great achievements” was boldly written on the cake.

    There were no speech making as the gathering was simply to wine and dine. But those who chose to speak with The Nation showered encomiums on Dr Adebule.

    Her colleague in the state exco, Mrs Olayinka Oladunjoye, described the feat as result of hardwork.

    Mrs Oladunjoye, the Commissioner for Education said: “She deserves today’s honour. She is a hardworking person; very cerebral and passionate about her job. God has crown her efforts; I wish her the very best.”

    Magistrate Sheri Solebo described her as a humble person.

    “She is not just a politician, but a focus one that is academically upright. She is a woman many women would learn from. I love her and wish her more success,” she said.

    Prof Babatunde Oderinde who supervised her thesis described her as a brilliant person.

    Prof Oderinde who came with his wife, Laide said he had no regret for supervising her.

    “She is ever willing to learn, correct her mistakes diligently and argue her way out where necessary. Her humility is another factor. Lagos State is lucky to her among the executive. I’m proud of her,” he said.

    Alhaji Musbau Oyefeso, a former Commissioner with the Lagos State Independent Electoral Commission (LASIEC) said Dr Adebule has added value to state’s affair.

    “She has been mobilising women in Badagry Division to key into the policy of the government even before she became the SSG. Aside this, she usually carry out lot of responsibilities on behalf of the state government diligently,” he said.

    Her earning a PhD, Oyefeso said, has struck a balance between her educational pursuit and political career without influencing her way out.

    “She worked hard for it; that is why she deserved all the honour. I’m not surprise because being a member of the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN) in her school days, the training she received then has continues to influence her way to success,” he said.

    Dr Adebule thanked all for coming to relish in her joy.

  • Mama Dele Giwa goes home

    The remains of Mrs. Elekhia Ayiyi Giwa, mother of the founding editor-in-chief of Newswatch magazine, the late Dele Giwa, was interred along the Auchi-Ekperi-Agenebode Road, Estako Central Local Government Area of Edo State, last Saturday. OSAGIE OTABOR was there.

    The questions on the lips of many journalists that attended the funeral of Mrs. Elekhia Ayiyi Giwa, mother of the founding editor-in-chief of Newswatch magazine, the late Dele Giwa was the shape the burial would have taken if Dele Giwa were to be alive to bury his mother.

    As expected, dignitaries from all walks of life would have graced the occasion but the event was attended by close associates of the late Dele Giwa.

    The funeral for Mama Giwa was held at the Church of God Mission, Ugbekpe-Ekperi in Estako Central Local Government Area of Edo State, a predominantly Muslim community.

    The church was wearing a new look while the remains were laid in a wooden coffin brought to the church by well-dressed undertakers.

    Mrs Giwa died on January 8 after a brief illness. She is survived by five children, 42 grand-children and 12 great-grand-children. She died 26 years after her first son, Dele, was killed by a parcel bomb in October 1986.

    An autobiography of the late Mrs Giwa said the murder of Dele destabilised and shattered her life which led to uncontrollable high blood pressure as a result of thinking and weeping continuously.

    The deceased, born in Udaba Ekperi in 1925, got married in 1946 at the age of 21 to the late Bagadu Giwa.

    The service at the church commenced at 9am and was led by Rev. Abraham Ikpotokin, who spoke on the need to praise and thank God in situations of life.

    Rev Ikpotokin reminded the congregation to live a good life and remain steadfast in the Lord despite setbacks.

    He said death was a necessary end that must come but what is important is the kind of life one leads.

    He said, “Whatever you sow you will reap. Our mother has lived a good life.”

    The interment attended by the late Dele Giwa’s associates evoked the memories of Dele Giwa as Madam Giwa’s remains were buried beside her son’s grave along the Auchi-Ekperi-Agenebode Road.

    Dignitaries led by Dr Yemi Ogunbiyi prayed for few minutes at the graveside and Dele’s sister, Ronke Aboaba wept.

    Kayode Soyinka, who was with the late Dele moments before the bomb exploded said his presence was a necessary thing for him to do because of the close relationship between them.

    According to him, “Immediately I heard of this occasion I made it a point of duty to be here to give that last honour to Mama.

    “I was a victim of that bomb. We know those who did it, those who sent the bomb to us. They are still alive. They are walking freely. Nigerians know who killed Dele. We will all die one day. Dele has done his bit. He did well as a journalist both in Nigeria and internationally. His legacy cannot be erased. For those of us still alive, we will make sure his legacies continued:” Soyinka said.

    Dr Ogunbiyi said the sight of Dele’s grave was a very emotional experience for him. He said he felt close to Dele at that moment said Ray Ekpu: “It is some kind of nostalgia. We were happy the grave has been maintained. We hope to keep his memory in whatever way we can.”

    Ekpu urged journalists to continue with the investigative journalism started by late Dele.

    Last daughter of Ayiyi, Ronke described the last five years of her mother as wonderful.

    A Reception was later held for guests.

    Others in attendance included Dele-Giwa’s widow, Funmi; Yakubu Mohammend; Editor-in-Chief Tell Magazine, Nosa Igiebor; Dan Agbese; Soji Akinrinade and former Media Adviser to Governor Adams Oshiomhole, Mr Tony Iyare.

  • ‘She’s a gift from God’

    Provost of Ogun State College of Health Technology (OSCOTECH) Dr Tunji Dawodu’s daughter, Afolakemi got married to her beau, Ayodeji Adeniji of Etisalat Nigeria in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State. KUNLE AKINRINADE was there.

    There were exotic cars everywhere. They brought guests to the Adeola Odutola Anglican Church, Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State. For the holy matrimony of Afolakemi, daughter of the Provost of Ogun State College of Health Technology (OSCOTECH) Dr Tunji Dawodu, and Ayodeji Adeniji of Etisalat Nigeria. Security men paced up and down to ensure that everything went well at the car park.

    The joy of the groom and bride knew no bounds as they walked down the aisle. Family members, friends and colleagues came to rejoice with them.

    Afolakemi’s father led her to the altar, where the couple was pronounced husband and wife by the officiating ministers led by the former Primate of the African Church of Nigeria, Bishop Abraham Onanuga.

    Quoting copiously from the Bible, Bishop Onanuga urged the couple to eschew bitterness and unholy friendships that may frustrate God’s purpose for their marriage adding that the sanctity of marriage as God’s ordained institution must be respected. The service lasted three hours.

    After the solemnisation, the bridal train moved to the Prime Hall, Ijebu-Ode for the reception. The expansive hall was beautifully decorated in yellow and pink.

    The bride, a graduate of Veterinary Medicine, stood out in a flowing wedding gown as she stepped into the hall with her husband at 3pm.The groom was enchanting in his well-tailored cream suit. They both hit the floor immediately for a dance that lasted more than an hour to the admiration of guests.

    Prof. Segun Odunuga, who chaired the occassion, admonished the couple to employ communication as a vital strategy towards strengthening their relationship. He cautioned them against inviting third parties to resolve their differences.

    Prof Odunuga said: “You have just started your life as a couple. You must be patient with each other and be tolerant as well. But above all, always communicate very well with each other so as not to give room for undue interference by those around you. When we communicate as partners, it prevents unnecessary elongation of differences and in a way strengthens the marriage, hence, I want to advise you to always share views together, iron out issues without necessarily asking for the intervention of outsiders whose counsels might lead to eclipse of your fledgling marriage. May God be with you as you sojourn in your marital life and I pray your union will be fruitful”.

    Shortly after his speech, the couple cut the cake; Afolakemi knelt to do her first assignment by feeding her husband while the groom also fed his wife to the admiration of the audience.

    The bride beamed with smiles all day while the groom, was no less either as he flashed winsome smiles.

    The obviously elated groom, who could not hide his joy, described his wife as the best gift from God.

    “I am so overwhelmed with joy today for walking down the aisle with the love of my life. She is everything a good woman and wife should be; she is caring, dutiful and humane. She is indeed the best gift from God and I am so happy to have someone like her as wife,” Ayodeji said.

    Afolakemi described her beau as a straight forward companion and reliable confidant.

    “He possesses everything a woman can wish for in a man. He is honest, straight forward and a reliable confidant, anytime any day. I am just happy to have someone like him as my husband,” she said.

    The couple with their parents, families and friends posed for photographs.

    The bride’s father, Dr. Dawodu, thanked God for making the day a reality. I pray God should grant them the fruit of marriage, long life and peace of mind. But more importantly, I want to encourage them to be tolerant of each other because that is the secret of a happy matrimony. I also want to urge them to always hold firm to the teachings of the Bible and display maturity in their conduct as husband and wife.”

    Guests included, the Deputy Speaker of Ogun State House of Assembly, Hon. Tola Banjo; Senator Lekan Mustapha; Senior Assistant on Water Resources to Ogun State Governor, Mr Kunle Otunkope and a member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Lanre Ogunbote among others.

  • Union of two soulmates

    Union of two soulmates

    The Chairman of Zinox Computers, Leo Stan-Ekeh, gave out his daughter, Andrea Chigozie in  marriage to Tolu Ijogun, at a colourful ceremony in Lagos, NNEKA NWANERI reports.

    They first met on his way to see a friend at Loughborough University in February 2008. He was travelling from London. It was on the trip that Tolu met Gozy, as she is fondly called.

     ”I met Gozy on that trip and I was struck by her beauty, brain power, kind heart and willingness to help other people. I dare say that it is always easy for like minds to experience instant connection.”

    This is the story of Imo State born daughter of the chairman of Zinox Technologies, Chigozie and her Ondo State beau Tolu.

    A colourful wedding reception to welcome the bride into her new home was held at the Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.

    Their marriage was solemnised at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church on Victoria Island, Lagos with the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Hassan Kukah, officiating.

    The bishop said it is marriages such as this that help build “a strong bridge across ethnic boundaries”. Such marriages, he said should be encouraged as a way of cementing national integration.

    In church were many Christians and Muslims, who are friends of the couple’s families. The couple’s attire was breathtaking. It is one fit for princes and princesses.

    From the grandeur of the church, guests moved to the splendour of the reception held at Eko Hotel & Suites.

    The colour of the day was purple and the venue was draped in a carnival-like display of different shades of purple. From the hallway, there was a ceremonial route where big shots took.

    The walkway was adorned with exquisite pictures of the couple which were displayed to the admiration of guests.

    Gozy and Tolu walked through this ornamented aisle before being ushered into the grand ballroom of Eko Hotel for the reception. The couple made a dramatic entry into the hall.

    The high point of the occasion was the live performances of top Nigerian artists Akin Sugar, Tiwa Savage, Nato C and Iyanya.

    The Chairman of the occasion, and Chairman of MTN, Mr Pascal Dozie, spoke on the choice of colour and the majesty of the hall as a symbol of how the minds of the couple work: an expression of their intelligence.

    A documentary of how the journey of the couple started and commentaries and impressions of their friends and parents were shown.

     The hosts left no stone unturned as they ensured that their guests had a memorable outing. From the decor of the venue, to the guests’ dressings, it was a spectacle. There were lots of wines and assorted dishes.

     Ace comedian Ali Baba was on ground to ensure there was never a dull moment.

    Tolu and his bride both share the same vision. Even before they met, they had established and begun their different Non-governmental organisations (NGOs).

     Genteel Plea, Gozy’s NGO serves as a means of providing quality education for indigent students to develop a mathematical foundation and build a science oriented young generation.

     Tolu runs Access for All, a project that empowers the physically challenged through Information Communication Technology (ICT) educational skills and empowerment.

    The ICT background of Mr Ekeh and his son-in-law underscored the digital props that attended the event.

    In attendance were former governor of Lagos State Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his wife Oluremi; Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola; senior Pastor of Fountain of Life Church Taiwo Odukoya; wife of former president Olusegun Obasanjo, Bola; Senator Chris Ngige and House of Representatives member Hon Abike Dabiri-Erewa; Director General of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) Ms Arunma Oteh; former Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta Affairs Timi Alaibe and former Chirman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) Ernest Ndukwe.

  • Mass Communication

    Communicate with yourself and you will develop a strong self-confidence and personality. Communicate with a few other persons and you will become influential. But, what happens when you communicate with a mass audience? Wait for it, that’s what we shall discuss today. Mass communication is a lot more than the course you merely study in school. The theory of it may help you pass examinations, but the application of it is simply beyond your wildest imagination.

    Let’s start simple. The word “mass” in this context means a large number. Therefore, we can simply define mass communication as the communication between a source and a mass audience through an impersonal medium. The medium is impersonal because there is no direct contact between the source and the receivers, and since it reaches a great crowd of people, it is referred to as a mass medium. Have you watched television lately? If you have, you have come in contact with a mass medium. Have you listened to radio or read a newspaper? If you have, then you are familiar with the mass media. While these are not the only ones, they are generally referred to as the traditional media. But what exactly is your business with all these? To answer your question, let’s check out some elements of mass communication:

    •It has heterogeneous audience: mass communication, through the aid of the mass media, has the ability to reach divers people in different locations. When a programme is on TV, there is no limit to the gender, race or social status of those who can watch it. Same goes for radio, newspaper or magazine. In fact, if you don’t want something to be seen by the general public, you better not put it in the media. Someone mentioned to me that his parents mustn’t know that he was into music, yet he wanted to appear on TV and be seen across the nation! When you are in the media, everyone who has access will know you. Consequently, if you want your business or activities to be seen by a vast number of people, mass communication is a good idea.

    •It is larger than life: if you see your neighbour or your close friend on TV, he/she suddenly increases in your estimation. As a matter of fact, you may even start to tell everyone around that you know that person on TV. That is because the mass media make ordinary things seem big. Can you now imagine what you will do if your own face should appear in a newspaper! I can bet that you will keep a copy of it for life. You may even call all your loved ones to get a copy. Because of the number of people who have access to it, information in the media tends to spread fast. Let me give you another example. This very article you are reading now seemed ordinary on my computer. Several people saw me writing it but it didn’t catch their attention at all. But after it has been published by this highly reputable newspaper, it suddenly became a subject their interest. That is because the mass media magnify messages.

    •It aids credibility: there is this general feeling that everything you listen to, watch or read in the media is credible. We wait to hear the announcement of public holidays from the media. We believe what we hear about other parts of the country or the world from the media. We even believe that celebrities (actors or musicians) are really the way they are portrayed in the media. Whether we like it or not, the mass media have the aura of credibility around them.

    •It breaks through barriers: information placed in the mass media can get to places that the source may never dare to venture into. For instance, a politician may not be liked by members of an opposing party, but that does not stop his/her campaign messages on TV, radio or newspaper from coming into their very homes or even into their bedrooms. While you may display aggression towards a source if he/she is physically present, the most you can do to a media message is to refuse to expose yourself to it, but one way or the other, the information still gets to you.

    It makes you famous: to develop a strong personality, use intrapersonal communication. To become influential, use interpersonal communication. But to become famous, the only option you have is mass communication. Think of your favourite musician. Would you ever have known him/her if not for the media? How many times have you actually come in physically contact with him/her? For such a musician, doing without the mass media is like performing on a stage without light or sound- an exercise in futility for sure. Have you ever listened to some celebrities’ interviews and they claimed that they had been active for several years, but you only heard of them recently? They are not deceiving you; the time they got media attention was the time you became aware of them. Mass communication is very powerful, use it smartly.

  • Cheers to the golden boy

    Chairman, Committee on Energy and Mineral Resources and Waterfront Infrastructure Development of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon Lanre Ogunyemi clocked 50 last Saturday. He celebrated with friends and family members. NNEKA NWANERI reports.

    With praise and thanksgiving, he stepped into the golden age. The chairman, Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Energy and Mineral Resources and Waterfront Infrastructure Development Hon Lanre Ogunyemi was full of gratitude to God for his life.

    Ogunyemi, who represents Ojo constituency, said: “I am nothing without Him who formed me.”

    The atmosphere at the K and G centre, where the reception was held was calm. If not for the dainty cars parked by the road side on Kudirat Abiola way, nobody would have known that such a big event was on.

    It was a two in one celebration. Ogunyemi;s 50th birthday and book presentation.

    The entry of the celebrator with his wife and children, all decked in blue Yoruba attire, dancing their way to the front of the hall, kick-started the programme. Well-wishers followed them.

    The Chief Imam of Oto-Awori, Taofiq Arogundade said the opening prayers; gospel saxophonist, Rev Kunle Ajayi, played scintillating praise and worship tunes.

    Daughter of the celebrator, Ayomide also did a special number for her father with the trumpet.

    Chairman of the occasion Oba Olatunji Hamzat described Ogunyemi since year 2000, as a loyal and disciplined Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), member and urged those who want to succeed in politics to emulate the lawmaker.

    The book was reviewed by Prof Olu Akinusola of the Michael Otedola College of Education. He said the book is in the prosaic and narrative style and on dedicated to the former Governor Bola Tinubu.

    Akinusola, who has been friend with the author for over 30 years, said many thought the celebrator will be a professor.

    The book was presented by deputy speaker of the House, Hon Musbau Taiwo.

    Many described Ogunyemi in superlative terms. The celebrator’s wife, Yemisi was full of praises for him.

    “Oloworimi, the man I met 19 years ago and every day, I know new things about him. And because he never takes no for an answer, he has impacted positively on my life.”

    More accolades came from Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola, who praised Ogunyemi for not turning his back on his political family.

    Secretary to the State Government (SSG) Dr Aderanti Adebule described Ogunyemi; as an honest man who keeps to his word.

    “He does not turn from his word, very passionate about the growth of the party. So, this is just the beginning of more successes in life.”

    Hon Ogunyemi studied at the Lagos State College of Education where he read English and holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Lagos State University. He is also a member of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) and holds a Masters in International and Strategic Studies.

    After he cut the birthday cake, Majority Leader Lola Akande proposed the toast. She described the celebrator as amiable and tolerant.

    The celebrator thanked his mother and late father for protecting him in the 60s in Kaduna during the Civil War.

    The Ijebu born politician thanked his wife. “She was with me even when I was nothing. She believed in me and even as a classroom teacher, she stood by me,” Ogunyemi said.

    With talented gospel maestro, Yinka Ayefele on the bandstand, there was no dull moment as guests took to the dance floor till late into the night.

    In attendance were: Cardinal James Odumbaku aka Baba Eto; Secretary to Osun State Government Alhaji Moshood Adeoti; Hon Bisi Yusuf; Commissioners Taofiq Tijani; (Energy); Cornelius Ojelabi (Rural Development) Lagos State Lateef Ibirogba (Information); Mr Sunny Ajose; State Organising Secretary of ACN, Alhaji Shakiru Akani; the Onijanikin of Ijanikin Kabiyesi Momodu Ashafa; Hon Alawiye King; State Secretary of ACN, Hon Charles Odubesi; Special Adviser to the governor on Education Hon Fatai Olukoga; wife of the Speaker of the House, Mrs Mayowa Ikuforiji, among others.

  • Hip hop artiste Damoche shot dead in Lagos

    Hip hop artiste Damoche shot dead in Lagos

    Hip hop artiste , Damino Damoche , an undergraduate of the Lagos State University (LASU)  is dead.

    He was shot dead earlier Thursday in front of the LASU gate  by suspected cultists.
    Though, it is not clear why he was shot, sources say his assailants  who operated on a motor bike opened fire on him several times before he gave up the ghost.
    Christened Olaniyan Damilola Ibrahim at birth, Damoche was a 400 level Banking and Finance student of LASU.
    Damoche began his music career with a group known as Middle Guys before he decided to pursue a solo career.

    The ‘Obo to che’ crooner has collaborated with others artistes on the music scene such as Drama, DJ Zeez, Prince Banton, Shanko Rasheed, Konga and B.O.Y.
    He was planning further collaborations with established artistes such as Durrela, 2face, D’Banj and other A-list musicians before his untimely death.

    His last self titled album Damino Damoche was released in 2011.

  • Official statement from Esiri’s family

    Official statement from Esiri’s family

    We are heart broken as we announce the passing of Chief Justus Esiri (OON) popularly known as the “Village Headmaster”, following a complication from Diabetes.

    Chief Justus Esiri OON, was a loving husband, father, grand father, brother, uncle and friend. An Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), The Otun Amuludun of the Source in Ile-Ife Osun State, and Veteran Nollywood Actor.

    He died in the late hours of the 19th of February 2013. Chief Esiri, born on the 6th November 1942 hailed from Oria Abraka, Delta State. He was a strong believer in family values, and a great supporter of Nollywood.

    While we mourn the loss of a great man we also celebrate his remarkable life and hope that it serves as an example to the youth to work hard to achieve their dreams, and play their own part in building a greater nation.

    For those who may ask what they can do to honour Chief Justus Esiri, we simply request that you honour his example of service, accomplishment and modesty and the next time you turn on your Television and see his face we ask that you keep his memory alive.

    He survived by wife, Mrs Omiete Esiri, Children, Mrs Ophlia Edewor, Mrs Ejiro Efijemueh, Mr Justus Esiri Jnr, Dr Sidney Esiri (Dr Sid), Mr Andrew Esiri, Miss Tobor Esiri and Grand Children.

     

    Dr. Sidney Esiri and George Esiri

    For the Esiri Family.