The Nation Newspaper

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  • FIKAYOMI AGBOLA: Showcasing Afrocentric fashion my passion

    FIKAYOMI AGBOLA: Showcasing Afrocentric fashion my passion

    UK-based Nigerian, Fikayomi Agbola, is passionate about fashion design and is determined to ensure that African fashion remains prominent on the global stage through her brand, Bittany. Inspired by a high school moniker and fuelled by childhood frustrations with local tailors, Bittany embodies perseverance and creativity. She shares insights with David Bolarinwa on her brand’s origins, challenges, and future vision. Excerpts:

    What or who inspired the creation of Bittany and why the name?

    The journey of Bittany began with frequent disappointments from tailors, especially for custom-made outfits—a common frustration for many Nigerians and non-Nigerians. This frustration became an opportunity to create something beautiful, transforming it into a hobby and then a passion for fashion design.

     I started learning to sew female designs at 16 and made fashion a side hobby while focusing on my studies in Economics at the University of Ibadan. During holidays, I practised sewing with my mum’s fabrics. The name ‘Bittany’ originated from my high school moniker, which stuck and evolved into a full-fledged identity, symbolising perseverance, transformation, and the celebration of African heritage and style.

    What’s your start-up story?

    Bittany’s startup story began in 2017, right after my NYSC programme. Despite starting my career in a consulting firm, my passion for fashion never waned. I managed a fashion house for a year, gaining invaluable insights while also becoming a chartered accountant. I believed that my background in accounting, economics, and fashion would eventually align perfectly.

    Read Also: Abundant Nigeria Renewal Party

    Bittany started with me making clothes for friends and family, locally sourcing all fabrics and producing in Nigeria. One highlight was making outfits for female hosts on a TV show airing on Africa Magic. Using my mum’s old sewing machines, I crafted designs in my parents’ house, eventually turning a hobby into a business.

    What was your mission from the outset and what is it now?

    Initially, I wanted to make beautiful, well-fitting designs for women. Over time, I aimed to shine a spotlight on the rich tapestry of African fashion, showcasing its beauty and diversity. Bittany now designs for men and children as well.

     After moving to the UK, I rebranded Bittany to bridge the gap in bringing contemporary Afrocentric fashion to the forefront. We now incorporate sustainable methods like upcycling to ensure ethical production. Bittany is about creating stunning garments and empowering people to embrace their individuality confidently.

    My vision includes establishing a youth empowerment programme, and offering free sewing vocational training to young people, especially women from less privileged backgrounds, enabling them to gain financial independence and positively impact their communities.

     What makes your brand unique?

    We pride ourselves on fabric fusion and creating contemporary styles that celebrate African culture. Blending traditional African aesthetics with modern design sensibilities, we offer customers captivating designs. Bittany ranges from everyday wear to occasion wear, including ready-to-wear and custom-made pieces. This variety empowers customers to curate a wardrobe reflecting their unique style, promoting a sustainable ethos and conscious consumption.

     Who is Bittany for?

    Bittany primarily caters to women, empowering them to look and feel confident. However, our tagline, ‘Be unapologetically unique,’ reflects our inclusive approach. Bittany is for anyone who dares to express themselves boldly and authentically through fashion, regardless of gender or age. From custom-made designs to ready-to-wear, there’s something for everyone at Bittany.

     What are your greatest achievements so far?

    Bittany has achieved milestones I’m incredibly proud of. Designing outfits for female presenters on a show airing on Africa Magic was a significant highlight. I’ve also designed for notable celebrities like Temi Otedola, Don Jazzy and DJ Cuppy. In 2021, we started serving the UK market, launched our e-commerce website www.bittany.co.uk  and opened our first physical store in Lagos, Nigeria. Showcasing at Africa Fashion Week, London in 2023 was also a major accomplishment.

     Can you share some success habits or tips that have helped you?

    Perseverance, adaptability, and continuous learning have been crucial. Surrounding myself with a supportive network of professionals, family, and friends has been invaluable. Staying true to my values, maintaining a positive mindset, and embracing challenges as growth opportunities have propelled me forward.

     What can we expect from Bittany going forward?

    I aim to introduce Bittany to a global audience via our e-commerce website and collaborate with brands with a similar ethos. I look forward to partnering with retailers to stock Bittany’s designs, and potentially opening another physical store soon. Bittany’s sister company, Kayomi, is also in development, so stay tuned and join us on this journey.

     What advice would you offer to someone just starting?

    Embrace the idea of starting small and refining your approach as you go. Dive into resources like ‘The Lean Startup’ by Eric Ries for valuable insights. Don’t be afraid to ask for help; people are often more willing to assist than you might think. Above all, never lose sight of your vision and believe in yourself. Entrepreneurship is a journey filled with ups and downs, but staying true to your purpose and persevering through challenges is key to success.

  • Battery Dance returns to Nigeria

    Battery Dance returns to Nigeria

    The Battery Dance Company, famous for captivating choreography and breathtaking performances, returned to Nigeria this month. And the New York-based company is determined to connect cultures through dance.

    It held a live dance performance in partnership with the Society for the Performing Arts in Nigeria (SPAN) last Saturday, at the Eko Hotel & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.

    The event, which was part of its Nigerian tour that began July 5 and would run till the 16th, drew dance enthusiasts, emerging dance artists, dance instructors and diverse professionals from Nigeria’s creative industry. The audience were treated to breathtaking choreography and compelling narratives.

    With support from the United States Mission and in partnership with SPAN, the dance company is visiting Nigeria for the “Dancing to Connect Programme”. 

    While in Nigeria, they are offering free workshops in Abuja and Lagos for emerging dance artists, instructors and stage lighting professionals focusing on contemporary dance techniques and cultural exchange.

     In addition, the team of Battery Dance instructors will engage youths in creativity and team building through the art form of modern dance.  Following the workshops, the dance company showcased artistic brilliance through captivating performances in Lagos last Saturday from where the performance train will move to Abuja on July 15.  

    U.S. Mission Counsellor for Public Affairs Adnan Siddiqi noted that the ”Dance to Connect” initiative is aimed at promoting cultural exchange, artistic collaboration, and the enrichment of local communities through the universal language of dance. 

    Siddiqi explained that the company’s tour is not only a great opportunity for audiences to enjoy their artistry, but a key aspect of the U.S. Mission’s cultural diplomacy.

    “The U.S. Mission is proud to bring Battery Dance to Nigeria to showcase American innovation and diversity in the performing arts. The upcoming workshops and dance performances promise to be an exciting, inclusive experience that will expand people-to-people dialogue and cultural ties between Nigeria and the United States,” Siddiqi said. 

    Founder and Artistic Director of Battery Dance Company,Jonathan Hollander, said: ”Coming to Lagos is a dream come true for all of us.  We’ve taken so much inspiration from the talented Nigerian dancers and cultural leaders over the years since our earlier visits in 2011 and 2013.

    “With Sarah Boulos and SPAN in New York and Lagos, we found a parallel mission of artistic excellence and social impact.  We’re grateful to the U.S. Consulate in Lagos and the U.S. Embassy in Abuja for believing in the power of people-to-people engagement through the Arts.”

    Battery Dance Company, founded in 1976, is recognised for its artistic excellence and commitment to cultural diplomacy. The company has performed in over 70 countries and collaborated with various artists from around the globe. Through its performances, educational programmes, and workshops, they aim to inspire, educate, and connect people through the universal language of dance. 

  • Rotary pledges hope in new year

    Rotary pledges hope in new year

    Rotary International District 9110, which comprises Lagos and Ogun states, has promised to offer hope to the less-priviledged in its consituency in its new year.

    President of Rotary Club, Onigbongbo, one of the clubs in the district, Babatunde Adesina Salau, stated this on the sidelines of a Fellowship by the club last Thursday.

    He said the offer was indeed Rotary’s theme worldwide in the 2023/24 service year, which is “Create Hope in the World” and that they would work towards its fulfilment. 

    Salau, a general manager, at the Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA), who was re-elected by the club, promised to execute outstanding programmes and projects.

    He said funds for projects were often raised in-house from members, urging public-spirited Nigerians to support them.

    He also urged the government to assist Rotarians, saying they were helping the government as progress partners to make life better for the people.

    Salau scored the club high in performance in the past year. It would be recalled that the the club won many awards.

    He said: “The Rotary Club of Onigbongbo has done well in attaining its set goals as they relate to the Rotary seven areas of focus. In addition, the club sponsored and also participated actively in the various programmes of our District 9110.”

     Some of the programmes were the District Inter-School Quiz Competition, the Zonal Inter-Club Training Programme, the Disaster Relief Fund for victims of the Earthquake in Turkey, the Medical Mission, the District Team Training Seminar, the District Training Assembly, the President-Elect Seminar, the District Conference and the Women in Rotary Conference. 

     The club, he also said, laid the foundation of its proposed Rotary Health Post at Odo-Ogun Community, Irawo, Ikorodu, Lagos, which German floor has been completed.

    However, he urged his colleagues not to rest on their oars in the new year. Rather, he advised, they worked towards restoring the club to its glorious days. He added: “The reward for hardwork is more work.”

  • Obey rules, Rector urges students

    Obey rules, Rector urges students

    The Rector The Redeemer’s College of Technology and Management (RECTEM), Redemption City of God, Mowe, Ogun  State, Dr. Stella Mofunanya, has urged students of the College not to take  laws into their hands as any violation of  rules and regulations will not go unpunished.

      She said the College has zero tolerance for cultism and hooliganism, corrupt practices and other vices.

    Mofunanya, who spoke at the fifth matriculation of the College last  week, stressed that the institution will not award its diploma to students who are found wanting in character and learning.

     “I need to advise you to show respect to your colleagues , staff and the Governing authorities in the College to make your stay fruitful and productive,” she said. 

     She reassured the 326 fresh students  admitted into the College that the institution will continue to work round the clock to ensure the security of lives and properties of its students. 

    “You are aware that there is CCTV camera at every nook and cranny of the Redemption City, including your hostel and the lecture arena. You are expected to be security conscious throughout your stay at the Polytechnic,” she added.

    The Rector also urged the students to attend lectures timely and shun deviant behaviours/vices that could expose them to danger.  Assignments and projects, she said, are to be taken seriously.

    “In RECTEM, attendance at lectures, College Chapel programmes and other special events are of top priority; you are, therefore, encouraged to attend all lectures timely and ensure you shun deviant behaviors/vices that can expose you and others to danger.  Assignments and projects are to be taken seriously,” she added.  She urged the students to dress according to acceptable standards.  “Be modest and decent in your dressing. Undue exposure of body parts that have the potential to infuriate the sensibilities of others  is condemned and not cordoned,” she noted.

    Appreciating the great height the institution has attained and the brilliant champions raised, she gave the credit to the vision and mission of the founding fathers in the Redeemed Christian Church of God, which she said, has come to fruition. 

    “I feel highly honoured for the commendable feat RECTEM has achieved. We have been rated as the fastest growing private Polytechnic by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE),” she said.

  • Fresh fillip for reading culture

    Fresh fillip for reading culture

    How can a country desire development and not read? How can development happen without reading infrastructure like libraries that are well stocked with books?

    These questions formed the conversation at the Dr. Tony Akpokene-led Abuja Book Fair, that ended recently.

    It had as keynote speaker, Mr. Dare Oluwatuyi, who is the President, Booksellers Association of Nigeria (BAN) and Chairman, Nigeria Book Fair Trust (NBFT).

    Oluwatuyi spoke on Towards a Reading Culture Renaissance in Nigeria, a topic in sync with the theme of the book fair. He stated that many things could be done to return to Nigeria’s golden era of reading for book-reading renaissance to be real. The proverbial all hands being deck, according to him, is what is needed to return to a national pastime that has suffered a dysfunctionality and why Nigeria is headed in the wrong direction development-wise.

    According to him, “It (reading) is a task for all. Industry players, the government and the reading public. A lot of deliberate advocacy, lobbying, publicity and awareness are needed. Events like this (Abuja Book Fair) are very welcome part of the mix. We must keep pushing the book in the faces of all of our people, both big and small. This is why NBFT, for example, has, for 22 years without fail, also conducted the Nigerian International Book Fair (NIBF).

    “Governments’ policies pertaining to book development and the reading culture have to be rejigged and given fresh or renewed impetus. Libraries must be better funded to become very attractive go-to centres for the population. The National Book Policy has to urgently and formally come into effect. Given its import as a core directional driver for the ecosystem and reading culture enhancement, NBFT is already contemplating working towards this being done within the next three years. It can even be earlier. We invite all lovers of books and the reading culture in Nigeria to support us in achieving this goal.

    “Librarians, in particular, have to stand up from their chairs and take their front row spot in leading the rest of us into taking the reading culture campaign to the marketplace, to estates, to communities and neighbourhoods.”

    Oluwatuyi harped on the need for book clubs across the country, as a path already being trodden with significant results, and urged stakeholders to take steps to be part of it to broaden the book-reading and take it to communities and neighbourhoods. According to him, “Publishers, booksellers, and again librarians, must become more vibrant and deliberate in the reading promotions arena. One easy route to follow is to key into the activities of Network of Book Clubs and Reading Culture Promoters in Nigeria (NBRP) that has, in the past three years, been uniting book clubs across the country and setting up new ones for even broader field coverage and effectiveness. NBFT and BAN have identified with them and are already working with them. We and other stakeholders were part of their Lagos Book Walk mega-advocacy street reading promotions exercise in April. We need to pull all the stops and grow to become a country that is reading again, a country that has at least one book club and library per LGA, in the first instance, and thereafter, one book club and reading space within five to ten kilometres of all of our geography.”

    Akpokene stressed the importance of books as agents of development without which a society progresses in error, saying that Nigeria was on that negative path. He said he came from a family of readers and teachers, from his great grandfather, his grandfather, his father and mother, and so had no choice but to read books as first commandment in his early years.

    He expressed gratitude to his parents for inculcating in him reading habits, saying he would have become a hoodlum like most of his friends in Obahor Street, Warri, Delta State, who derided school and never progressed beyond becoming ‘area boys’.

    He said his mates who abandoned reading and school were part of those who ruined that once famous oil city with needless civil strife that has made Warri a shadow of itself. Akpokene went on to study petroleum engineering and worked with Shell for many years before venturing into selling books to satisfy an irresistible innate passion.

    Akpokene said any country that neglects book-reading culture is doomed, noting that Nigeria’s problems stemmed from a largely illiterate political class that was yet to imbibe the art of reading books, the only facility that leads to statecraft, which ultimately, drives development.

    He called on like minds to not despair, but  forge on regardless and lead the way to a book reading renaissance to liberate the country from the clutches of darkness and under-development.  

  • No respite as Southwest communities groan under herdsmen attacks

    No respite as Southwest communities groan under herdsmen attacks

    In spite of the enactment of anti-open grazing law in the Southwest states, armed herdsmen have not stopped attacking and kidnapping residents of some communities in the region, reports KUNLE AKINRINADE.

    ALL that was on Fasasi Olanigan’s mind when he left Abeokuta on Wednesday September 8, 2020 was how to get to his destination in Joga area of Yewa North Local Governemnt Area of Ogun State. But two hours after he left his home in Abeokuta, the state capital, Olanigan, a retired lecturer at the Federal Polytechnic, Ofa, Kwara State, he had not arrived his destination, having been ambushed and abducted by four Fulani herdsmen on the Imasayi-Isaga Road in Joga, Yewa-North Local government Area, Ogun state.

    According to reports, his wife, Ireti Olanigan, said a man who was travelling with her husband had escaped from the kidnappers and rushed to their home to inform her that her husband had been abducted.

    “He was kidnapped on Joga Road by four  herdsmen who were fully armed.

    “I was told that as he was being dragged into the bush, someone came and shouted ‘thief’, so, the other person escaped while they took my husband away into the bush,” she said.

    She added: “I have gone to the scene and the hunters have helped me to search the bush but they could not find him.

    “I left the spot to report to the police at Lafenwa police station, and when I went back to the spot, I did not see my husband’s car that was abandoned. I was told the police came to take his car.”

    Same day, gunmen suspected to be herdsmen were said to have kidnapped three workers of former President Olusegun Obasanjo at a Seseri village in Abeokuta.

    The hoodlums allegedly ambushed the Hilux car conveying the three workers at the Obasanjo Holdings in the Kobape area of Obafemi-Owode Local Government Area.

    The workers regained their freedom three days after they were abducted, due to what the police described as ‘intense pressure’ from operatives deployed to comb the adjoining forest and rescue the victims.

    Police spokesman Abimbola Oyeyemi said: “Yes, we mounted a lot of pressure on the kidnappers.

    “Since yesterday (Thursday) our anti-kidnapping operatives have been in the bush searching for them.

    “They were able to trace them to the bush behind the Day Waterman College, along the Kobape Road.

    “This evening, they released them (victims) unhurt without any ransom,” he said.

    Read Also: Herdsmen kill two, abduct one in Benue community

    Also, on August 7, gunmen believed to be herdsmen attacked a convoy along the Ibese- Itori Road around 5 pm and abducted a Swiss national and his driver and injured two other persons.

    Houses of Assembly in the Southwest states —Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo and Ekiti— recently passed the anti-open grazing law outlawing herders who have been linked to the gale of kidnappings in the region in recent times.

    In April this year, Ogun State governor, Dapo Abiodun, like his counterparts in the Southwest zone of the country, inaugurated the Ogun State Security Network codenamed Operation Amotekun, during which the governor also commissioned scores of patrol vans and motorcycles to aid the operations of the Amotekun Corps.

    No fewer than 12 travellers returning to Lagos in a commercial bus on September 9 this year were abducted around ldoani/lfira in Akoko South-East Area of Ondo State by suspected herdsmen.

    It was said that the bus was conveying passengers from Abuja to Lagos when it was ambushed by the armed herders at a failed portion of the road.

    It was also reported that the armed herders shot at the Toyota Hiace bus and forced the driver to stop before abducting the passengers.

    The Southwest regional security outfit in the state, Amotekun, however rescued nine of the 18 passengers in the bus.

    In Ekiti State gunmen suspected to be herdsmen killed a man and abducted his wife and daughter on August 6, 2021 in broad daylight.

    The unidentified victim was said to be travelling with his wife and daughter in his Lexus 330 Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV), along Ewu-Ayetoro-Ekiti Road in Ido/Osi Local Area of Ekiti State when the kidnappers shot at their car.

    Police spokesman, for Ekiti Command, Sunday Abutu, said: “The report we got was that the family was travelling along that route. Suddenly, suspected gunmen fired gunshots at them, killing the husband and taking away the wife and their daughter.

    “The police mobilised to the spot and combed the surrounding forests with other agencies such as the Amotekun Corps, the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps and the local hunters and vigilance group.”

    How police burst kidnappers, killed suspects in shootout

    In the two months, no fewer than three suspected herdsmen involved in abductions died during shootout with the police in Ogun State, while one of the suspects was arrested.

    Anti-kidnapping operatives on August 31, 2021 killed three suspected kidnappers within 24 hours in Itoriarea of Ewekoro Local Government and Imala area of Abeokuta North Local Government.

    Two of the suspects were killed at Itori during a gun battle which lasted 40 minutes and killed two suspected kidnappers on Sunday August 29 at Itori area of Ewekoro local government.

    Police said that four Ak 47 rifles were recovered from the kidnappers.

    One other suspect was gunned down at Imala while another member of the syndicate was arrested.

    Police spokesman, Abimbola Oyeyemi, said in a statement that the kidnappers engaged operatives in gun duel.

    Oyeyemi said that operatives had “another bloody encounter” with a kidnap syndicate at Ilala forest in Imala area of Abeokuta North Local Government Area of Ogun State.

    “The gun battle between the police and the kidnappers was as a result of information received by the police at Imala divisional headquarters that six armed kidnappers were sighted in the forest.

    Read Also: Fed Govt urged to resettle 1.5m victims of herdsmen attacks

    “Upon the information, the DPO Imala division, CSP Bernard Ediagbonya, mobilised his men, the hunters, vigilante men, So-safe corps as well as Fulani youths and stormed the forest.

    “On getting to the scene, the hoodlums, who sighted the team from afar, opened fire on them, following which the team engaged them in gun duel,” the statement reads.

    Oyeyemi said that one of the suspects was shot dead, while another one identified as Usman Maidama was arrested.

    Operatives of the Ogun State Police Command also apprehended a herdsman who simply identified himself as Mohammed with one AK-47 rifle on August 11.

    •Another kidnapper, Usman Maidama arrested in Itori area of Ewekoro Local Government in Ogun State.

    According to a statement issued by Oyeyemi, the armed herdsman was arrested following intelligence received by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of Imeko Divisional headquarters that two young Fulani boys were sighted at CAC Oha forest, Iwoye Ketu in Imeko Afon Local Government Area with Ak 47 rifle.

    Oyeyemi said: “Upon the information, the DPO mobilised his men and other stakeholders like the hunters, vigilante men, So Safe Corps and stormed the said forest.

    He explained that ”after hours of combing the forest, one Mohammed was seen hiding in the bush with one AK 47 rifle and was promptly arrested.”

    Oyeyemi added that the young herdsman was strongly suspected to be a member of a kidnap syndicate who has been terrorising the area for quite some time now.

    ”The State Commissioner of Police, Edward Awolowo Ajogun, has ordered the immediate transfer of the suspect to State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department for discreet investigation,” he added.

    He also directed that the entire forest be properly combed with a view to apprehending other members of the gang.

    It will be recalled that on June 8, 2021, four persons were allegedly abducted by men suspected to be herdsmen in Ayetoro-Ekiti in Ido/Osi Local Government Area of Ekiti State.

    It was said that the herdsmen invaded the community in the night and attacked a hotel. The hoodlums numbering 30 were said to have entered the community through the route where a traditional ruler, the Elewu of Ewu-Ekiti, Oba Adetutu Ajayi, was attacked earlier in the year.

    They were said to have shot a worker at the hotel and abducted three persons.

    The source added that Idowu’s brother, Sunday, who is a guard at the hotel, received machete cuts on his head and was in critical condition in the hospital.

    Meanwhile, a 28-year-old herdsman, Abdullahi Bande, was on Wednesday September 1 arraigned before an Ado-Ekiti Magistrates’ Court over alleged kidnapping of one Adebusuyi Ebenezer at Ilawe-Ekiti.

    Police Prosecutor, Inspector Bamikole Olasunkanmi, told the court that Abdullahi committed the offence on August 26.

    He said that the victim was able to identify the defendant and that there was fingerprint evidence.

    Olasunkanmi said that the case file would be sent to the Directorate of Public Prosecution (DPP) for legal advice.

    The offence, according to him was punishable under Section 3(a) of the Kidnap and Terrorism (Prohibition), Laws of Ekiti State, 2015.

    In his judgment, the presiding Magistrate, Abdulhamid Lawal, ordered the remand of the defendant in a correctional centre while the case was adjourned to September 15 for hearing.

  • Gunshot victim, others relive ordeal with taskforce in Niger

    Gunshot victim, others relive ordeal with taskforce in Niger

    Commercial motorcycle riders who were brutalized by members of the joint security taskforce deployed by the Niger State Government to enforce the ban on okada due to its illicit use by bandits and other criminal elements shared their ugly experiences with JUSTINA ASISHANA.

    WHEN the Niger State Government announced the ban on motorcycles in Minna, the state capital, there was a huge sigh of relief among many of the residents, especially as the government attributed the move to an attempt to curb the insecurity that was bedeviling the state and was gradually creeping into the state capital. Included in the taskforce were members of the Nigeria Police Force, the Civil Defence, the Army, and the local security operatives.

    During the flag-off of the exercise, the state governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello, who was represented by his deputy, Alhaji Ahmed Ketso, said the constitution of the taskforce was necessitated by the need to ensure the safety of lives and property of the people of the state on who bandits and other criminal elements have unleashed terror in recent times with motorcycles as their main means of transport. He, however, enjoined the joint security task force to carry out its activities in accordance with the rules of engagement. “I urged you all not to carry out this exercise with impunity. Maintain the rules of engagement,” Ketso had said.

    The governor said whoever violated the ban would be prosecuted while he assured the joint taskforce of government’s unalloyed support.

    “Anybody who resists or disobeys the order, the person should be made to face the wrath of the law. We cannot afford to enact a law for the protection of lives and property and people will violate the law,” he added.

    The deputy governor’s words would have to have spurred the taskforce into hyper action, so much so that the joy and relief expressed by the people over the ban on motorcycle was short-lived. The mode of the taskforce’s operation has since become a cause for concern in different parts of the state. Many owners of private motorcycles who ordinarily are permitted to ride them without passengers have become victims of overzealous members of the taskforce who are in the habit of impounding any motorcycle they sight. The situation now is such that private motorcycle owners are rushing to hide them at the sight of the taskforce’s vehicles, and this has resulted in a lot of accidents.

     

    Victims relive experience

    Ishiaya Audu was returning home from an errand in Koropkpa in Paikoro Local Government Area, Niger State when he was shot by the taskforce enforcing the ban on commercial motorcycles. Everyone thought he was dead as he was bleeding profusely while he was being rushed to IBB Hospital for treatment.

    Recounting his experience, 17 years old Audu told The Nation that he was only lucky to remain alive after the incident.

    He said: “As soon as I entered the community, I saw people running up and down but I did not even know what was going on. Then I started hearing gunshots and decided to run also. But before I knew it, I was shot and I fell. The pain was much and I lost consciousness. I woke up in the hospital and that was when I learnt about what happened.”

    It was learnt that the Koropkpa incident was a clash between the residents and the joint taskforce. Eyewitnesses told The Nation that the joint task force had pursued some motorcycle riders into the town, but when they could not catch them, they started apprehending any motorcycle rider they saw in the community.

    Irked by the development, the residents of the community started booing the taskforce, throwing sand at them and in return for the shootings. But the taskforce became even more aggressive, beating and shooting at residents as they moved from house to house to force people out in a bid to arrest them.

    While some residents were lucky to get away, others were not. They were apprehended and taken to the police station where some of them were tried in the mobile court and made to pay some money before they were released. Some victims of the arrests said that they sustained serious wounds from the beatings they received from members of the joint taskforce.

    Ibrahim Tanko, an eyewitness of the Koropkpa incident, said: “The taskforce was not supposed to get to our site. They are meant for Minna town. That is why when they came here and wanted to start seizing motorcycles that were parked and were not in use. We protested because Koropkpa is not in Minna; it is in Paikoro.

    “We are peaceful people here. It was the insistence of the task force to take the motorcycles that made people to start shouting and throwing sand at them. That was when they started shooting and everyone ran away. I ran very far to ensure that they did not catch me. ”

    Mallam Umar, who sells vegetables on Okada Road, also had a bitter experience with the task force.

    He said: “On that day, I was coming from the market and had used all the money I made for a week to buy the vegetables I would sell in the new week. But as I got down from my motorcycle in front of my shop and was untying the vegetables, the taskforce men just came down from their vehicles, pushed the vegetables into the gutter and took my motorcycle away without any explanation.

    “What did I do wrong? I am only looking for something to eat and feed my family with. Is it now a crime to ride a motorcycle?”

    In Maikunkele, another Niger community, Haruna Musa had just returned from a neighbouring village he had visited a friend and parked his motorcycle in front of his shop when the taskforce came and took the motorcycle away with others parked in the area.

    “Does it mean that because there is a ban on commercial motorcycles an individual cannot have a motorcycle and use it for private means? The harassment is just too much. The government has to do something about the overzealousness of the taskforce,” Musa lamented.

    Mark Praise’s encounter with the taskforce was one that almost earned him a beating.

    He said: “The day my motorcycle was arrested, it was a thug of war. The taskforce treated me as if I was a suspected bandit or they had a tip-off about a crime I had committed. I ended up laughing.

    “A member of the special vigilante corps almost hit me because I asked for my house and office keys attached to the bike’s key. But immediately I got on my voice and started shouting, some soldiers came to calm down the situation. The special vigilantes are the problem of the task force. They overdo everything.”

    Read Also: PHOTOS: Lagos Taskforce seizes 410 motorcycles

    Janet Adams, an eyewitness to one of the incidents involving the task force, said: “I witnessed one at Kpakungu Road and I could not hold back tears. You need to see how a uniformed man hit the young man on his head with a stick. Honestly, the way this taskforce is operating is getting out of hand.

    “I was also an eyewitness when one motorcycle man was chased into Abu Turab School in Bosso. All of us there were shouting and begging them to leave the man as he had already escaped into the school, but they did not listen at all. They forced the gate of the school open and collected the bike.”

     

    Niger Assembly warns against taskforce’s overzealousness

    Worried by complaints against the activities of the task force on the ban of commercial motorcycles, the Niger State House of Assembly set up a committee to interface with the Ministry of Transportation to find a way of curbing the excesses of the task force.

    During the sitting of the committee which had the presence of the Permanent Secretary and other officials of the Ministry of Transportation alongside some of the victims, the Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Mohammed Abba Bala, said that the task force was spoiling the good work the government had done in banning motorcycles in the state capital.

    He noted that some of the people in the task force were overstepping their bounds in the course of carrying out their assignment.

    “We are individuals and everyone should be given his respect and dignity. Degrading people just because you want to confiscate their motorcycle will not get your work done,” he said.

    The Member representing Bosso Constituency, Hon. Abdulmalik Madaki Bosso, who recounted several incidents he had witnessed, including that of the vegetable seller along Okada Road, said that the inhuman treatments meted out by the task force was uncalled for.

    He said: “Some of them have weapons, like sticks, and use them the way they like against any motorcyclist that refuses to stop. Some of the drivers driving the vehicles are so reckless that they ride against the motorcycles and push them to make them fall. And when they fall, they arrest them and seize their motorcycles.

    “We appreciate the government for taking the bold step in banning motorcycles and constituting the task force, but there may be a mistake in issuing out the policy because the taskforce should know that some people own motorcycles for individual use and not commercial. They should have a tag or card to enable them to identify that motorcycles are for individuals private use and not commercial. There are even situations where they arrest people riding rubber-rubber claiming they suspect he is using it for commercial. How sure are they about it?

    “Something needs to be done about the task force. They should be cautioned. A lot of people have been wounded and battered by them and we would no longer accept it. They are causing damage and it should not get to the time the people would renege that they would stop.”

    Defending the activities of the task force, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport, Ibrahim Garba Musa, said that the task force may have arrested or confiscated the motorcycles and their owners for crimes other than riding motorcycles for commercial purposes.

    “Some of the motorcycles may have violated one rule or the other. The drivers would have committed other offences that would have mandated the taskforce to seize their motorcycles,” he said.

    Musa explained that even though people are accusing the task force of overzealousness, they have not reported them. He said the taskforce is also often attacked by people, and when they try to protect themselves, people claim they are the ones that attacked them.

    The Permanent Secretary said the ministry had generated more than N13 million from 2,452 motorcycles, 572 vehicles and 258 tricycles arrested.

  • ‘Why I dumped my accountant husband, got pregnant for jobless graduate’

    ‘Why I dumped my accountant husband, got pregnant for jobless graduate’

    By Linus Oota, Lafia

    • Says ‘he’s crap in bed; I had no choice but to look outside’ Husband, lover lay claim to baby

    The seven-year-old marriage of an accountant with the Nasarawa State Government is in crisis after his wife got pregnant for an unemployed graduate.

    Mr Jonathan Zugu is in a battle to save his marriage to Mrs Patricia Awu who, ironically, appears determined to say goodbye to their union because her husband cannot offer the satisfaction she desires in bed.

    Zungu, an indigene of Kokona Local Government Area of Nasarawa State had studied Accounting at Nasarawa State University Keffi where he met Patricia, a student of Biology.

    They took their romance to a higher level seven years ago by getting married after the mandatory national youth service and resided in Lafia. But while Jonathan got a job with the state government as an accountant, his wife was unable to get a job until recently.

    In an exclusive interview with our correspondent, Zungu, who said he is the only son of his parents, disclosed that he was involved in a fatal accident that damaged his private organ, hence his inability to impregnate a woman.

    According to him, Patricia had experienced a stillbirth in the first two years of their marriage but was unable to conceive again until crisis set in between them.

    He said before the crisis between them began in January this year, his wife denied him sex for close to two years because she said he was not satisfying her sexually.

    “Then within this period, she suddenly took in, and I knew that I was not responsible for the pregnancy. When I asked how she came about the pregnancy, she became angry and hostile, but I remained calm.

    “One day, I went to work and forgot my laptop at home. So I suddenly returned home at about 12 noon to pick my laptop and found a young man by name Fabian Agi on top of my pregnant wife right in my bedroom.

    “I decided that I would not accept that kind of attitude in my house, so I asked her to leave the house. She left and got a little apartment where she was delivered of a baby boy.

    “I was actually preparing to take a second wife. All arrangements were in place before the ugly accident happened and damaged my private organ, and I will not be able to impregnate a woman any longer.”

    But Zungu, who shed tears intermittently as he spoke with our correspondent, says she wants Patricia back and the baby boy to be adopted as his son since there is no marriage between her and Agi.

    But while Zungu has threatened to take the matter to court, Agi said he was prepared to meet him there, saying that Zungu can take his wife but the son belongs to him (Agi).

    Patricia has, however, pitched her tent with Agi in the matter, saying that Zungu should forget about the baby because it belongs to Agi and not him. She also told our correspondent that she would prefer to spend the rest of her life with Agi.

    Already, she has moved out of her matrimonial home into an apartment with her new lover in Lafia. She told our correspondent that since Zungu decided to make the matter public, he should have been bold enough to tell the entire story that led her to get pregnant for another man and even moving out of his house before the accident.

    Noting that Zungu hid the facts and she was prepared to expose all, Patricia said: “I got married to Jonathan (Zungu) seven years ago. When I met the guy, I thought he was the one. His sweet words made me to believe in him.

    “He loved me and eventually, I fell for him. We were already in our third year in the university. We eventually graduated and went for 9national youth) service and we got married after our service year.

    “I did everything to please him. I went all out to prove my love for him. I sacrificed my life for him but he was too blind to see all that. The best he could do was to suddenly stop having sex with me and he kept telling me how beautiful other girls are and how my hair style made him sick. He complained about almost everything in my life.

    “This was after I became pregnant for him and had stillbirth. He changed completely from me. He stopped caring for me or treating me like a housewife. I started having low self esteem, feeling unworthy and unattractive.

    “One day, he made a mistake by calling me a desperate woman. He told me that I was not the type of girl he wanted to get married to, and that broke me into pieces. I felt sad and dejected and even felt like committing suicide. But I thank God because I summoned courage to teach him the lesson of his life.

    Read Also: ‘Protecting children from domestic, sexual violence’

    “I stood in front of the mirror and looked at the beautiful woman in it. I pulled myself together and decided that I would not complain to either my parents or his parents.

    “Since he was starving me of sex and insulting me, I must have a way of giving it back to him. I decided to toast a young man, Mr Fabian Agi, who just graduated from the university and usually came around to conduct evening lessons for our neighbours’ children. He obliged and we were having good time on his matrimonial bed whenever he was away to work.

    “It was either I visited him or he would come around. Within three months, I got pregnant for the young man.”

    She explained that she left her marriage because she and her husband were unable to get a child after the stillbirth she had during the second year of their marriage, adding that her husband was not taking good care of her.

    She alleged that apart from her husband bringing young girls into the house whenever she travelled, he was terrible in bed and had been so for seven years.

    Agi

    She said: “I used to like him, but I find him physically repulsive. His lovemaking is so boring and always has been. I have tried to explain to him and resorted to calling me a harlot and a prostitute, and it goes in one ear and out the other.

    “I don’t want to hurt his feelings by saying he is crap in bed. But our sexless marriage has become a thorn in my flesh, and I had no choice but to look outside.”

    “When he was dating me and up to the first year of our marriage, he was the best man I could ever think of getting married to. He was very caring and loving.

    “But since I had a stillbirth in the second year of our marriage, he became sexually inactive. He never initiated any kind of sexual gesture and never responded to any.

    “I have tried seducing him but he avoids me in a very polite and funny manner so that I don’t feel bad. It’s been about four years that we have had any intimate movement.

    “I loved him at first. But right from time, I was utterly unsatisfied sexually.

    “When he first started dating me some years ago, I gently brought this matter up to him a handful of times during the course of regular conversation

    “His answers to me seemed to imply that he was the type who took some time to warm up to new ideas and  with this in mind, I moved forward with him, believing that eventually our sex life would become more adventurous. But it hasn’t.

    “It has been seven years since we became a committed couple, and if anything, our sex life has become more boring and certainly less frequent.

    “Any small thing triggered his anger and he became enraged and verbally abusive in a matter of seconds. He would say some truly terrible things to me. So for peace to reign, I decided to get a sweet boy to service me, and right now, I’m ready to settle down with him

    “Don’t forget, all this took place before he had an accident. He was toasting girls up and down and starving me at home. Now that he is disabled, he wants me back with a son that does not belong to him. It can’t work.

    “I have largely lost confidence in him having my best interest at heart. Before my relationship with my husband, I had a very successful relationship, and we were exceptionally good, enjoying each other’s company.

    “Fabian (Agi) is able and willing to provide that sexual satisfaction, love and care.”

    When our correspondent contacted Agi on the matter, he simply said: “The child belongs to me but the wife belongs to Jonathan. If he likes, we can go and conduct a DNA test to ascertain the father of the little boy.”

  • US-based Gambian Professor John Loum: I want to trace my roots to Ijebu-Ode

    Professor John Loum is a professor of Theology and Director of Seminary at Ethnic Immigrant Institute of Theology in St. Louis, Missouri, United States. He is an easy going and simple man whose perpetual African attire shows his love for Pan Africanism. Although he is a Gambian by birth, he believes that his great grandfather hailed from Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State and the Theology professor says he is willing to   trace his roots to the ancient town. In this interview, he speaks about the good old days of Nigeria, the country’s battered economy, his memories of the University Teaching Hospital, Ibadanand his love for the late politician Chief Obafemi Awolowo, among other issues. TAIWO ABIODUN met him in St. Louis, State of Missouri, America.

    You said you are partly from Ijebu-Ode in Ogun State and partly from Gambia. How come?

    So I was told. My great, great grandfather was from Ijebu and he migrated to Gambia where he eventually settled and made it a home. I will trace my roots there any time the country is settled. I have contacted my sister who will put me through. I am planning to trace my roots when all these problems like banditry, Boko Haram and abductions must have gone down.  I will visit Nigeria. I love Nigeria. It was once a very peaceful country.  I need to trace my roots. I have travelled all over the world and do you know that the Yoruba have a good culture and moral values which they still maintain? They are the best in terms of values.’

    Can you speak Yoruba?

    Yes, of course, but little. Se alafia ni? E se, a dupe. Awon ara ile nko? (laughs)

    You were in Nigeria in the 60s, 70s and 80s.Tell us your experience

    Indeed, in the 60s onwards, Nigeria was the shining star of Africa. University Teaching Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, for example, was unique. There was none to be compared with the hospital on our African continent. In fact, the great hospital was a place where hardly any type of surgery humanly thought of was done perfectly. I was a living witness because I didn’t only live in Ibadan but had occasion to visit a Gambian medical student at the time, doing his residency. Kings and Queens from other countries used to come to UCH for medical help. The Saudi Prince and his household used to come for medical tourism. But the news I am hearing from Nigeria now is painful. I was a student of Emmanuel Theology School in Ibadan then while in Nigeria, going back soon after the Nigerian civil war with Biafra and continued in the 80s. Experience wise, those were the glorious days. The naira had much worth and high power and buying power.  True democracy, freedom of expression, civil debates about almost everything. You could travel freely, no harassment or trouble at all. I travelled many times between  Ibadan and  Lagos in hours and safely.

     

    And after the civil war….

    I wasn’t there during the civil war, but I saw the appalling consequences. I experienced lots of Easterners- I mean the Igbo would come looking for jobs. I had a dear friend, young, who shared some of the sufferings of his people. There were lots of women/girls engaging in prostitution around Ibadan. All was as a result of the civil war. I was a student in the early 70s and continued being a student in the 80s. All through my stay, I was a student studying Theology in Emmanuel College of Theology, Ibadan’.

    What is your take on the level of corruption in the country?

    It is not only Nigeria that is corrupt. Corruption is not limited to Nigeria, but it was a growing phenomenon in the 80s. My only experience of corruption was at the  Murtala Muhammed International Airport , Lagos. I will give two instances. First, at the Immigration point, the officer, a lady, held on to my passport. She looked at me and was still asking whether it was me that was on the photo passport on which she held me up. So I figured she needed money but was disappointed I wouldn’t offer.

    Read Also: I don’t accept what life throws at me – Surah Olayemi Animashaun

    The second one was with my boarding pass. Before we got there, it had been sold to someone else. Again this happened in the 80s. I remember a Briton that gave her passport to an officer for verification, but before you know it, the man she gave her passport to had disappeared with her passport into the thin air.

    You seem to have a lot of admiration for the late Nigerian politician, Chief Obafemi Awolowo…

    (Shakes his head) I recall going to listen to the late politician at Wesley College, Ibadan. Subsequently, I heard him speak on national radio, TV during his campaigns. He was a man of great skills, exposure, knowledge and integrity. He was an orator, a good leader, a visionary leader, a tactful and brilliant politician. He was unequalled. He was a crowd puller. I missed him. I loved to hear him speak to the extent that I copied a lot of his vision.

    What are your memories of the Liberia and Sierra Leone wars and why did they escalate?

    I knew of the Liberia/Sierra Leone civil war because we were there from start to finish. There were more than one specific factors that caused and elongated the war besides greed, tribalism, etc . But one major factor was the diamond. The experience was nothing less than inhuman, evil and some political too. The outcome was beyond human imagination.

    What is your take on the Boko Haram crisis?

    On Boko Haram, I cannot comment a lot except to say they are an outlaw. A civil group hid itself under the name of Islam. What I see is that they are anti-Western and terrors; quite barbaric in every way. Religion shouldn’t be sensitive. Why must it? All religions have their theology, thoughts, emphasis and ways of expression. I guess it’s only sensitive in the context and ways of expression.

    As theologian, do you believe in miracles?

    The idea of miracles is not new. In formal terms, miracles are biblical. Christ performed them and so were His disciples. In modern times, it has become an issue, especially its commercial aspects, which can be rather disturbing.  I read the Koran from the first chapter to the last page; the theology, philosophy of Islam. I am a convinced Christian. There are lots of similarities in Islam and Christianity. We are all worshipping the same God; what we call the Abrahamic religion. From Nigeria and from Gambia, we have many families that are Christians and Muslims. Religion should not divide us. In fact, I  was a specialist in Islam.

    Who is Dr. Leum?

    (Laughs)Briefly, I am Rev. Dr. John  Loum. I was born in Gambia where I was raised. At an early age, I left for Sierra Leone where I gained human education and have had real life experiences which helped shape me. God blessed me and my family. I travelled far and wide. I studied in the UK , Oxford, Birmingham and USA. We are blessed with  four blessed boys and a wife. I  just live a regular life. I lived by myself as a Pan Africanist and also like giving back by sharing my expertise and experiences!

    How long have you been in America?

    I came to the United States of America with my family after the Sierra Leonean civil war. I studied, earned my MA and  PHD and  also worked among refugees. I am a  pastor and professor of Theology. I love African fabrics, I am a Pan Africanist.

  • I don’t accept what throws at me – Surah Olayemi Animashaun

    I don’t accept what throws at me – Surah Olayemi Animashaun

    Princess Surah Olayemi Animashaun is the newly elected Executive Chairman of Epe Local Government . She was part of a group called ‘Young Kolanuts’ , a community of creative people that took it upon themselves  to explore the rich history of Lagos State  and also celebrate its cultural heritage and traditions through theatre and stage performances. In this interview with Yetunde Oladeinde, she talks about her motivation and how wearing  many hats  at a very young age moulded her  into a highly-motivated and astute businesswoman.

    What does being the newly elected Chairman of Epe mean to you?

    Being the Executive Chairman of Epe Local Government means service. As a daughter of the great Epe Town and being accorded the privilege to represent my people is a vote of confidence and in many ways, humbling. In my personal capacity, I have always pushed initiatives that promote the socio-cultural development of this great community, so this office just provides a much needed platform for impact and growth and it is one I do not take for granted.

    What motivated you to join politics and what has been your experience?

    The dream of bringing a new outlook for Epe. All untapped resources tapped.

    I wasn’t always politically inclined. My first stint in politics was when I held office as the Supervisor for Environment for Epe Local Government Area. Afterwards, I was encouraged by my superiors and a good number of constituents to contest in the elections and the rest, as they say, is history. I am truly grateful for their belief in me.

    Epe is bursting with natural potential. As the fish basket of Lagos state, we have our indigenous annual fishing festivals amongst others.

    Epe is also blessed with large bodies of water, hiking trails, beautiful resorts and very rich ancient monuments and history.

    With a good number of possibilities at our disposal, one of our major plans is to effect strategic urban development that will transform the community and highlight its offerings. The end goal is to encourage investor buy-in and promote trade for the economic growth of our community and people.

    Tell us about your leadership style and the things that inspire what you do ?

    My father, and by extension, my upbringing have huge influences on my leadership style.

    The importance of respect and being accommodating regardless of social standing were instilled in me from an early age. I was also raised to work hard, stand my ground and always speak my truth. To a large extent, this has shaped my leadership style which is result-driven and revolves around service and determination.

    What are some of the memorable moments in your life and career?

    Emerging as the first female chairperson for Epe Local Government area: it had never been done and did not seem like it was going to happen anytime soon. It was indeed a significant moment in the history of Epe and in my career as a whole and I intend to ensure that I do not let the people who believe in me down.

    Let’s talk about your memories as the Supervisor for environment, Epe Local Government?

    In 2017, I took on this position and went about setting up several environmental and waste management structures. Because first impressions are important, I was very concerned with the general outlook of the Epe community and focused on keeping it green and clean at all times.

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    It was especially easy because I worked with very diligent people.

    Everyone from the management team to cleaning and waste disposal played vital roles in bringing Epe to where it is today. This amongst other things made it easy for me to carry out my duties properly.

    In the course of carrying out these duties, Tourism was added to my portfolio by my superior as an acknowledgment of my involvement and passion for the positive portrayal and promotion of our town.

    What are some of the challenges?

    To me, challenges are opportunities to break glass ceilings and because of this, I never acknowledge the negative connotation of that word. Where people see challenges, I see potential for solutions, opportunities to take on new frontiers and avenues to garner new experiences.

    You are also passionate about tourism, what has been the experience running Epe Ancient City, a travel and Tour Company?

    My passion for tourism is inherent. However, I was guided by the experienced Hon. Samson Nunayon Apata from Badagry who owns and runs Badagry City Tour. We worked together on a few projects and he taught me how to see beyond the obvious which helped open my eyes to the hidden gems in Epe.

    I started off by bringing people into Epe for familiarisation visits, selling the region far and wide.

    We organised regular domestic tours, several others around Africa and Middle East Asia.

    Olayemi Animashaun

    As an avid football fan, I leveraged on more than a few Sports Tourism opportunities in partnership with some of the local football clubs in the area. They participated in annual football tournaments in Dubai, Al Shabaab, Al Taawon and were the first in Nigeria and Africa as a whole to participate in these middle eastern tournaments at that time. In the course of doing this, I was listed amongst the top 100 tourism experts in Nigeria and obtained a series of awards in the sector.

    What inspires your ability to do things differently and moulded you a successful businesswoman?

    Dependence on God and the tenacity to succeed. I do not believe in sitting around and simply accepting what life throws at you. You have the power to shape and design the course it will take and must be bold enough to go after what you want. The moment you sit around, waiting for a saviour is the moment you lose the plot. Once you take the first step, the people that are meant to contribute to your journey and all other things will fall into place.

    Tell us about your involvement with the stage and theatre performance group, ‘ The Young Kolanuts’?

    Young Kolanuts was an extracurricular club founded by the late Mr. Raphael, one of my teachers in Jubril Martins High School, Ebute-Metta. It was his way of providing a platform for the very creative students he identified. I loved to sing and dance and I remember visiting LTV several times to perform live.

    For me, it was the perfect opportunity for self-expression. I learnt a lot about our various cultures and grew to appreciate the ethnic diversity and traditional values of all the tribes that make up our country, Nigeria.

    In retrospect, this experience shaped me as a young woman, broadened my perspective and influenced my ability to connect cross-culturally.

    So far, these have proven to be valuable in carrying out my duties as the Chairman of Epe LGA which is a melting pot in its own right.

    What are some of the other things that occupy your time?

    I am a very religious woman. When I am not working, I am seeking the face of God. I also enjoy cooking a lot and tending to my family. It is not in my nature to stay idle and I always ensure I am engaged in something productive during my spare time.