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Category: New Woman

Iluyomade: Member hits RCCG over ‘use and dump system’

Following the unconfirmed resignation of one of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) Trinity Towers’ Senior pastors, Idowu Iluyomade, a church member, Funsho Olufemi, who resides in Lagos, has expressed his displeasure towards the development.

Speaking with journalists in Lagos, Olufemi noted that the Iluyomades have done so much to build the church of God and to strengthen Christianity in Nigeria, hence they should be reconsidered.

He cautioned the church to desist from politicking which he assumed forced Iluyomade out of RCCG.

He stated: “I wish to make it crystal clear that this use and dump system did not start today. What happened to the Iluyomades is a culture in RCCG. The RCCG has long been rewarding its good and diligent members with frustration and punishment. Those who helped the church to grow are cast away like worthless orange peels.”

He buttressed: “I will give some indisputable examples among many. The first is the case of Pastor Tony Rapu, who pastor This Present House presently.

However, further checks, however, revealed that Pastor Tunde Bakare (now of the Citadel Global Community Church) pioneered the model Parish of the RCCG in 1988 before Pastor Rapu was seconded to assist him.

“But what happened? Once RCCG gained ground and became popular and influential, the church leadership went after him. They sent Pastor Rapu away to London to start a new parish. It was a calculated ploy to cut his soaring popularity. And from there, they tactically brought him back to Nigeria, left him without a parish, and finally forced him out of RCCG.”

The RCCG member remarked that past pastors had gone through the phase the Iloyomades are experiencing.

He noted: “I heard that Pastor Rapu’s successor Pastor Agu Irukwu is facing the same fate today. He is the son of the late insurance mogul, Prof. Joe Irukwu. Pastor Agu as he is popularly known, built Redeemed church into the second biggest and most influential church in London, so big that the current King of England, King Charles III worships there occasionally and even celebrated his birthday at the church. But how was Pastor Irukwu rewarded?

“He was allegedly forced to step aside last year and a young Pastor of Yoruba extraction was used to replace him. This made some members to start saying that it was because both Pastors, Rapu and Agu were Igbos and that the Redeemed church under Pastor Adeboye is Yoruba in heart and mind.

Read Also: Kpandei replaces Iluyomade at RCCG City of David

“But if you perceived tribal sentiment in their ouster, what about Pastor Ituah Ighodalo? He is practically Yoruba even though he hails from Edo state.

“Though, his mum is Yoruba and some say she was even related to the G.O. Once Ituah, a most likable Pastor turned Christ Church parish of RCCG at Gbagada into a celebrity and youthful parish, the RCCG hawks from the Camp came after him, as the Governing Council, doing a hatchet job, said he was divorced and so should not head a parish.”

Olufemi stressed: “Idowu Iluyomade whose leadership of City of David has made RCCG a truly global church, especially because of their corporate social responsibility (CSR) which cuts across many countries.

“How can a Pastor build a structure like Trinity Towers, RCCG’s best building in the world and the best way to appreciate his effort is to force him out of the church in a deceitful manner that seeks to humiliate him and his wife? With a lame reason that his wife had a birthday party after the death of a member of the church, although very sad, as an excuse to force them out.”

He queried, “Where is God in all these acts of man’s inhumanity to his fellow man? Why is RCCG looking so political, so devoid of soul and human feeling?”

He added: ”It is true that Herbert Wigwe’s death was tragic and painful. But nobody talks about the fact that the same Pastor Iluyomade-led COD held two special services in his honour, two services fully dedicated to the memory of Wigwe.

“Pastor Iluyomade and his wife wept endlessly over his passing. But all that we read was about how the late banker donated so much money to the ‘ungrateful church’

“The hard truth that must be told here is that Wigwe indeed raised a significant sum with his friends during fundraising for the Trinity Towers which he chaired.

“Now that they have taken over Trinity Towers, can they now leave the man and his wife at peace while they celebrate their unkind and temporal victory?

“Hence, the discontent in the church presently is sizzling. It is easy to see.

“The disillusionment in RCCG in general is worsening. People who love Pastor ID and his wife, other Pastors who have been oppressed and suppressed and their voices silent, are bracing up to challenge this cruel determination to humiliate Pastor Idowu Iluyomade and his wife, Pastor Siju Iluyomade because they see it as an opportunity to speak out. And there are many of them,” Olufemi averred.

June 19, 2024
Party Jollof and family planning wahala

Imagine enjoying a hot plate of party Jollof rice on a beautiful weekend with some personal buddies at another friend’s housewarming ceremony. And while you were about sampling the full-size turkey wing, pandemonium breaks out, disrupting the serenity of such sumptuous enterprise, leaving you staring angrily at your plate and turkey on the floor while guests try to ensure peace returns to the party.

That was the experience last Saturday when the Women’s Corner gang were at an outskirt of Lagos, Agbado to be precise for a housewarming ceremony by one of our members who is now based abroad – Mummy Innocent.

Before I continue, happy Children’s Day in arrears to our mothers and fathers. That funny yet serious incident that ensued forced all who witnessed it to reexamine the notion of family planning in securing the future of one’s children. It was so coincidental that just while we were preparing to celebrate the day with our children, Mummy Innocent announced that they were holding a housewarming at Agbado. It also left us with an unresolved question over who should undergo family planning measures between the man and the woman.

Remember that Daddy Innocent who, during our Naija and Ghana Jollof saga, complained about the vacuum created by wife, a former banker that got caught up in the Japa fever, relocating to Canada with their kids. Remember him saying he didn’t see the rationale behind her quitting her job in search of greener pastures abroad.

Well, it appeared that his wife’s travel adventure had paid off – barely few years after she travelled, they now have two units of two bedroom flats in Agbado. And trust us girls of the Women’s Corner, we were there live to share in their joy and help facilitate the whole event. She was our girl and we went all out to show it, taking over the planning and execution of the entire event on behalf of our friend. And if you ask me, we did a great job so much so that you won’t believe she wasn’t on ground.

Read Also; Between Naija and Ghana Jollof (2)

The day began on a very sunny note and everyone was in high spirit. We woke up at dawn to supervise the cooking which was contracted to Mummy Yinusa who finished in record time. And before you could say “Jack Robinson”, we were there. Our men had already set up the whole place by the time we arrived and music was blasting, announcing to the entire neighbourhood that Lagosians who knew what’s up have come. Our gele was popping with marching shoes and bags. We were ready to party, and party we did. But nothing prepared us for what was to follow.

Barely 30 minutes into the party, we heard some voices and thought nothing of it. Daddy Innocent had just finished sharing with us the story behind the building and the amazing role his wife played. Mummy Inoo, as we jokingly teased her, who was on Zoom, was projected for all to see. She kept smiling and nodding as her hubby spoke on. Sexy Jola had just whispered that she was looking very great – fresher and younger than when she was here when a man pursued by a crowd of people ran into our gathering. Pandemonium ensued.

Without asking what was pursuing him or what the matter was, we threw away our table, our food, drinks, shoes and gele, and ran to nowhere in particular, colliding with each other as we tried to escape….

June 19, 2024
‘It’s time for transformative leadership’

Chinonso Clark, the CEO and founder of Lead for Good Africa and social entrepreneur with a die-hard vision for women empowerment, is also the founder of The Well Woman Warrior. Nonso, a transformative leadership development coach speaks with EVELYN OSAGIE on her passion for women and more.

My childhood

My parents were very intentional with my upbringing. Although they were strict like many African parents of their generation, they ensured I was surrounded with the right materials and routine that shaped my character, giving me the foundational stones that have helped me become the woman that I am today. My dad in particular made sure I understood that I was a woman of worth, and this perception of myself continues to guide my interaction with the world around me. Regardless of the challenges I may encounter, I know that having the right perspective is key to a life of purpose and impact.

I read a lot while growing up, in fact, I still do. My dad had a library and he encouraged me to read books by John Maxwell, Zig Ziglar, Benson Idahosa, TD Jakes, Kenneth Hagin, Robert Greene and the likes. He also encouraged me to think, dream and to write. So, from earlier on, even before my teenage years, I was being groomed as a leader and a woman of worth. And I’m thankful for where that upbringing has led me to.

Being a woman

For me, being a woman is about creating, nurturing and giving life to people and things. Women are life givers, and I don’t say this only with respect to children. I’m talking about nurturing ideas, businesses, organisations, and institutions for positive impact. Women bring improvement whenever they are allowed to flourish, and although society has tried for many years to prevent that from happening, I’m glad that more women are being awakened to the power they carry within. I’m also grateful for the work that I do in equipping women with the knowledge required to wield the power that they carry within, in a way that it contributes to our collective prosperity as a people. It’s true what they say, if you educate a woman, you educate a nation.

Managing family life with work

I must say here that I am truly grateful for my husband. Every time I think about him, my heart lights up with joy and gladness. To create harmony in my life and with all the responsibilities that come with my work, I have created a structure around my time. This structure helps me with managing responsibilities on the home front. I also understand my priorities and this helps me with making the decisions in alignment with my priorities in every given season. I shared more about how I manage my family and work in one of my books; The Well Woman Warrior.

Inspiration behind Lead for Good Africa

For me, I want my world to be better because I lived. And I am committed to doing my part in serving; empowering and equipping others with the gifts I have been given as an individual. I believe Africa’s greatest potential lies in her people. We’ve been blessed with tremendous natural resources. However, we need the right mindset and skillset to harness the resources we have, for our collective good and prosperity. I’ve seen firsthand how poverty cripples the ability of our youths and women to fulfil their potential and attain prosperity. When they are empowered with the right mindset, skillset and toolset, they can overcome the challenges of poverty and live productively – impacting on our collective advancement as a society at all levels. And that is the vision driving Lead for Good Africa. We are investing in people, empowering them with the right mindset and skillset relevant for sustained economic advancement through our core programmes.

Bottlenecks and surmounting them

I always look at challenges as opportunities for growth. Starting Lead For Good Africa, and getting it off the ground was tough. It’s still tough now that it’s off the ground, don’t get me wrong. But at the initial stage I had to show people, including prospective partners that the vision was viable. However, I understand that the bottlenecks I face on my journey increase my capacity to be an effective leader. I never allow anything crush my spirit. I take my lessons, and keep on moving. I have a mantra which I’ve held on to for a long while. It is to ‘Love God, Love People, and Change the World.’ This is how I continue to live my life. I believe each one of us has been given a gift with which we can wield to make our world better, to serve others.

On woman president for Nigeria

Well, anything is possible. However, I believe that we still have a lot of work to do in increasing female representation in leadership positions in the public sector. Advocacy programmes that raise awareness about women’s participation in politics both at grassroots level and party level must continue. Mindset reengineering that addresses the patriarchal nature of our country will be one of the biggest hurdles to cross. We must continue to encourage conversations aimed at dismantling the societal stereotypes that prevent women’s participation in politics and leadership, while giving opportunities to qualified women.

On the need for transformative leadership to reposition Nigeria

In the course of my journey across multiple sectors, I have witnessed the power of Transformative Leadership in creating long lasting solutions that impact individuals, organisations and the society at large. It inspires and empowers people to achieve extraordinary results. They focus on communication, inspiration, and positive reinforcement. This in the long run fosters loyalty, innovation and creativity, which improves well-being and increases productivity. Transformative Leaders are authentic, self-aware, and humble. They encourage collaboration and interdependence.

Imagine if we had more leaders with these qualities I have described across the different sectors in Nigeria. I believe embodying these qualities of transformative leadership is one way through which we can increase our productivity, and empower more people with the skills for meaningful contribution, that has an overarching effect on socio-economic development in Nigeria and even across our continent.

My greatest influence

Honestly, I’d say Jesus. My parents are both pastor, and I was introduced to him very early on in my journey. Every time I read about him and the great impact he had on the lives of the people he interacted with, it leaves me in awe and wonder. He embodies the spirit of leadership in every sense; a life of compassion, service, selflessness, humility, purpose, and impact. These are the qualities I want my life to reveal as I live here on earth and lead others through my different expressions.

What I do for fun

I enjoy reading, and listening to music. Though my husband thinks I sleep for fun. (I find this hilarious). I love visiting new places, as this helps with expanding my mind.

Read Also: New stockbrokers’ leadership capable of driving growth, says Ekiti Governor

My favorite style to wear

I will describe my fashion style as Simple, Elegant and African. If its Elegant, African, Colorful, and makes me look like a lady with class, I’d consider wearing it.

Fashion item I cannot do without

Honestly this one is difficult, as I’m not captured by any one item per se. Perhaps statement earrings maybe…

My newest project

I recently released a new book entitled: The 7 Pillars of Personal Leadership Success. I am also working on two new books and training more people in our skill empowerment center at Lead for Good Africa, while preparing for the setting up of our second skill empowerment center. There’s still a lot of work to be done in investing in people and improving human capital development.

June 19, 2024
Tinubu keen on political development of Southeast, says Kalu
- Deputy Speaker inaugurates regional peace fund committee
House of Representatives Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu has said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is interested in the political development of the Southeast.

He said the President had directed the leaders of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to make the party stronger in the region.

Speaking at a meeting of APC stakeholders in the 17 local government areas of Abia State, Kalu said President Tinubu wanted the party’s leaders and members to jettison their differences and unite to boost its fortunes.

He said: “I don’t believe in factions. Everyone is my brother and friend. We are one family. Those talking about factions should have a rethink. Stop talking about factions and allow people to mingle. This is the beauty of party politics. Everybody must come together; let’s work together. That’s the message from Mr. President. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu said the party should work together. Nothing else matters.

“I can tell you his body language is to make the party stronger in the Southeast. This should start from us in Abia State.

“Please, let’s work together. That’s the message I have for you. No other agenda but just to greet you. Collapse also those factions and come, let’s work together.

Read Also: Tinubu vows to enhance quality of life for Nigerians

“President Tinubu is not interested in the factionalisation of the party. You think he will clap for you because you have small factions? No. He will only clap for you because you are working together.

“So, collapse the factions; let’s work together. The doors and windows of this party should be open. Let’s bring everyone on board. We should reconcile with everyone and make peace so that we can work as a formidable force.

“If you want to make peace with me, I am ready to come and see you. Let us make peace and you, too, should be ready to make peace. Let’s work as one body. Once we unite, other political parties should be afraid. As you know, united we stand but divided we fall.”

Abia State APC Chairman, Dr. Kingsley Ononogbu, expressed appreciation to Kalu for his magnanimity, assuring the Deputy Speaker of his commitment to make the party stronger in the state.

“I will say that today is my happiest day as the chairman of APC in Abia State. I came in at a time people were more interested in themselves; divisions here and there. But despite all those divisions, God has continued to lead us.

“Today, this APC in Abia State has produced the number six figure in Nigeria. We have every reason to thank God and be proud of that. It hasn’t happened in Abia State before. So, I give God the glory it’s happening under my leadership.”

Also, Kalu has said Africa needs to reduce dependency on other parts of the world to overcome global economic challenges.

He urged the continent to utilise its foreign exchange judiciously and implement robust industrial policies.

Kalu spoke yesterday in Abuja at this year’s edition of Africa Economic Summit with the theme: Africa: Riding the Crest of Global Economic and Political Volatility through House Spokesman Akintunde Rotimi.

In a statement by his Special Assistant on Press Matters, Udora Orizu, the deputy speaker advised the continent to learn to ride on the crest of the current global economic volatility to attain economic sovereignty.
June 4, 2024
‘Your character is your beauty’

If passion was a piece of clothing, Princess Sayo Adenle, a farmer and entrepreneur, would have worn hers for all to see. This Ekiti-born princess is a woman of culture with a die-hard passion for her homeland. This has earned her the coveted title of the Iyalaje-General in Ikere Kingdom; and, come August, she would be conferred with the title of Erelu of Aaye Kingdom in Ekiti State. In this interview with EVELYN OSAGIE, she speaks on her passions and how she is empowering women in the state.

Growing up that impacted the woman I became

Childhood is a phase in life that is irreversible. Therefore, I appreciate my grandmother whom I spent my childhood with. I owe a lot to her because I learnt so much from her.

My childhood experiences influenced my emotions. As a result, I always consider other people’s feelings and support them whenever I can. I was born and brought up in Ikere; a daughter of High Chief Odunro. But, I have always liked challenging tasks and to set goals for myself. I am always looking for opportunities that can be beneficial to people around me. I have a dogged disposition that makes me think at first glance that I am hard but I am very kind in nature and an easy going person.

My connection to my roots

I love my town, and I care for my people. I love Ikere more than any other place in the world, and I am comfortable living in Ikere. Some have asked me despite being a widely travelled businesswoman, why did I choose Ikere. I tell them, it’s home sweet home. I am passionate about my town. My aim is to make Ikere Kingdom a town to be envied by neighbouring towns in terms of success, wealth and prosperity in our businesses. I pray to God to grant my request. These led to the establishment of the Women Farmers Association in Ekiti State (WAFAES) and the Saver Shopping Village.

My take on the Japa fever that has taken over Nigerians

There’s an economic crisis everywhere. Therefore, eko gbigbona nfe suru.

My memorable achievement as a woman of culture

One of my greatest achievements is that I was able to bring my people together in Ekiti State using the women farmers association platform.

Being the Iyalaje-General of Ikere Kingdom

I thank God for His mercy. Incidentally, I am the first Iyalaje General in Ikere Kingdom. My journey to Iyalaje began 7 years ago when I decided to contribute to the development of my town and to create job opportunities for the youths. This led to the establishment of my companies. I run a boutique, fish farm and animal husbandry (goats and ram farming). I love farming, and it’s one of our traditions in Ekiti. Many people cannot distinguish between Iyalaje and Iyaloja. Iyaloja is the leader of the markets in the town to coordinate trading activities. My role as Iyalaje is to assist in wealth generation, success and prosperity in businesses in Ikere.

My passions for women and agriculture

My grandmother was a very hard working farmer, who never depended on her husband. I used to follow her to the farm when I was young. As a result, I developed an interest in farming and have passion for women. Since women are the home builders and they form the majority of the state population, it becomes reasonable and proper to empower such groups as catalysts for development. Supporting women in agricultural farming in Ekiti State is meant to boost the state’s economy and ensure their proper participation in the agricultural transformation agenda of the government.

Inspiration behind the establishment of Women Farmers Association in Ekiti State (WAFAES)

After COVID-19 pandemic, the world had never been the same. I realised food items became expensive all over the world. As a result, we need to support ourselves and the government in order to boost our economy. Women farmers feel lifted and very happy seeing a woman farmer like them bringing them together with words of encouragement. Women farmers face considerable barriers to accessing financial services, which restricts their ability to reach markets at various stages of the agricultural cycle. To help women access markets and overcome barriers to entry into more profitable value chains, public funding needs to be targeted toward supporting or subsidizing innovative financial mechanisms.

Read Also: Minimum Wage: Labour rejects govt’s ₦54,000 proposal

Targeted financing for training modules on personal initiative and socio-emotional skills for women could also be added to extension training and has been shown to increase women’s likelihood of adopting more valuable crops

My greatest challenge

The greatest challenge is finance. The women farmers need capital to get their businesses off the ground and to grow them into successful operations. It is so unfortunate that public investments that promote the use of agricultural inputs and mechanisation are not reaching value chains where women are concentrated.

Insecurity, lack of motivation and access to credit or improved seedling, storage challenge and poor access to market are some of the reasons the state and by extension, Nigeria is facing food insecurity. When some of these food items are available in the market, their prices are sometimes outrageous due to low production that is when demand outstrips supply. These are some of the motivation WAFAES.

On the Saver Shopping Village

Saver Shopping Village is an NGO. As our name suggests – Saver Shopping Village -aims to develop new markets by providing high quality products and services to Ekiti State communities at reasonable prices. Although, we are still struggling to achieve that, but it has created job opportunities for the youths.

Combining work and family life

The Lord has been my strength.

Being a woman

I thank God for being a woman of substance.

Beauty to me

Your character is your beauty.

Secret behind my looking elegantly young

If you are passionate towards your day to day activities, you will find it enjoyable, and it will be stress free.

My favorite style to wear

Some call me a fashionista, I am. I like dressing gorgeously. I love English clothes.

My relaxation when not doing business or Iyalaje work

I enjoy being in a quiet place.

My hobbies

I love eating healthy and keeping fit.

My new project I am involved in

I’m thinking of supporting children with special needs.

May 22, 2024
10 tips to staying fresh in hot weather
It is summertime again and the heat can affect your body and the way you feel.

The upshot is an increase in perspiring through the day, odour and general uneasiness in one’s skin. You’ll need a foolproof routine to counter it.

Read Also: Army probes attacks on soldiers at Abuja Banex plazaa

Give your body the care it deserves by staying fresh and irritation free all day long. Check out these ten tips to stay fresh in hot weather…
- Jump in the shower; upgrade your shower routine
- Control perspiration as much as possible; wear deodorant. Avoid dousing yourself in perfume or cologne.
- Use body powder to absorb moisture.
- Slather on a lightweight lotion
- Wear breathable fabrics
- Stay hydrated
- Use sanitary wipes to quickly cleanse yourself
- Be prepared in case your period starts.
- Take care of your feet
- Keep your breath fresh, too.
May 22, 2024
Rivers pepper soup…hot and steamy

‘Na pepper soup o! What is the best way to eat Rivers pepper soup? Is it with eko/agidi (a corn meal), starch or fufu…? Which would you prefer?” Christabel asked that afternoon as we were relaxing on Tamara’s balcony.

She was making preparations to host the women of her social club and called an emergency meeting of the Women’s Corner a night before asking us to meet at Tamara’s place the next morning to help her plan for the day. She had a notebook and a pen in her hand as she sat between Tamara and Ada.

“Eko… I prefer eko or agidi or whatever it is called!” Sexy Jola stated.

Tamara shook her head and said: “Eko ke, abegi! As a typical Niger Delta babe, give me pepper soup with starch any day and I’m good to go.”

“I prefer fufu and pepper soup,” added Tinu.

“I think you should consider the tribal base of most of the people coming for the party. If you ask me, I support Jola. Eko is usually generally accepted,” interjected Mummy Fawaz, who just walked in with some bottles of soft drinks for us from Tamara’s kitchen.

“Eko it is then!” Christabel concurred.

And as we continued with the deliberations, I turned to Lola and whispered, “What I didn’t understand is why she called it Rivers pepper soup.” And as if she read my mind, Mummy Fawaz asked: “But Christabel, why did you call it, Rivers pepper soup…? Pepper soup na pepper soup na.”

“Looks like Christabel is trying to go creative… The usual thing is to qualify it with the protein you intend to use with it, such as fish, goat meat, beef or mushroom; why qualify it with the name of a state,” questioned Barrister Ada.

Laughing Christabel said, “Na Tamara o!”

“Na Tamara wetin…wetin Tamara do again?” Tamara asked, raising her hands in quick surrender.

“No be you give me pepper soup chop wey I come dey see am for dream,” Christabel’s reply made us laugh. But suddenly Tamara took her eyes from the groundnut snack she was sharing, and said, “I thought you were joking.”

“No be joke o? Since I ate your pepper soup, I’ve not stopped thinking about it. I’ve tried preparing it myself but I haven’t been able to get the taste like the one you made. That’s why I’ve asked that you help us prepare it for the get-together I’m having. Like I’ve said you would be paid for it. And that was why I named it ‘Rivers’ pepper soup in honour of the state you are from.”

Read Also: Minimum Wage: Labour rejects govt’s ₦54,000 proposal

At her last statement, Tamara’s face became serious, as she replied: “I’m not from Rivers o, I am from Bayelsa State. And the pepper soup you ate is called Ukodo; it’s a delicacy in the South-south, particularly in Urhobo. It’s a yam pepper soup. It is usually steamy. If that’s what you want, you don’t need any other accompaniment other than yam or unripe plantain,” leaving behind a pin-drop silence that was broken by Ada’s thoughtful food for thought.

“Hmmm. There is a certain taste that the words, ‘Rivers pepper soup’, leave behind in one’s imagination. Abi, Evelyn D’Poet, isn’t it poetic.” As if seeking my approval, her eyes found mine. By then my mouth was filled with Tamara’s groundnut, I nodded my approval, and she continued. “With all the ‘clash of the titans’ going on in Rivers right now, that is the best way to describe it – in Tamara’s words, it’s hot and steamy River pepper soup,” she said while laughing at her own joke.

We laughed too. But her words made me think of Rivers and inspired a poem. I made a mental note to revisit it. I’ll probably call it…hmmm…I’m sure you want to know! Wait for my collection (laugh.)

“So what drink would be best to accompany our ‘Rivers pepper soup’,” Christabel’s words cut into my thoughts.

“Na hot drink na. No be Rivers,” Ada stated. We all laughed.

May 22, 2024
Woman love yourself, regardless of prejudice

Tosin Adeyemi, a co-partner of B/Rated Productions, is one Edo woman who is proud of her heritage. Tosin, who is an alumna of the La Cinefabrique Film School, Lyon, is one experienced stage actress with guts. She rose from being the “Queen of the night” at the Lagos Theatre Festival (LTF) 2014 to becoming the festival producer 10 years after. Her directorial debut entitled The X Chromosomes, a five-woman play on things unsaid and what women want in their lives, has continued to receive nice reviews. She shares her journey with EVELYN OSAGIE

My pursuit of acting as a career

I always loved acting. For me, acting has been interesting and fun. It’s what I hoped for and more. I actually owe it to my dad and my sister. At a time I wanted to study Law, then I changed and said Mass Communications, but my dad and our first born said: ‘You already do all these performances (singing, dancing, and acting), why don’t you just do Theatre Arts’. That was the beginning of my journey towards becoming a professional. I studied Creative Arts at the University of Lagos, and went further to other institutions to study for Film and Television. I am an alumna of the La Cinefabrique Film School, Lyon in France. Today, I am the festival producer for the Lagos Theatre Festival. And I’ve since steered the wheel of theatre and film industry at a steady pace, and here I am.

I am also into modelling voice audiobooks, audio dramas, acting in films and television series, and in commercials.

Growing up impacted the woman I became

Growing up for me was interesting. I’m from a family of four girls and one boy from Edo State; and I am very proud of my heritage. I am from a strict background. You can’t imagine how strict our parents were. My Mom brought us up in a very disciplined way; and now that I am married I still practice her teachings till date. I remember as early as when I was nine years old, I had already joined the Sunday school choir; and there were seasons where we would have to go to other parishes for overnight competitions. I remember my mother not being comfortable with releasing me to go out for the ministrations but I was an integral part of the performances. She would always hand me over to someone older in the choir and then, she would let me go after much pleading from the choir members almost every time. Eventually, she became more comfortable, especially as she saw how much progress I was making and got to watch me perform.

My passion

I am passionate about a few things. Whether it’s my work as a thespian, God, love or justice, the desire to thrive and live a life of happiness and fulfillment is what fuel my passions.

Being a woman

Being a woman is instinctively being a giver, a caregiver and a nurturer. For some, that may be a lot but for me, it simply means that as a woman I have been blessed with the ability and capacity to love myself, regardless of societal prejudices, and give love to my surroundings and to have the understanding that the energy I give out will impact my life positively, if not in the immediate but, eventually. And I bring that love into my work as a thespian.

My most memorable moments as a thespian

As an actress that is committed to telling stories that make you have a willing suspension of disbelief, I have had lots of memorable moments. I have so many good moments but I don’t think anything beats the I-am-proud-of-my-daughter look on my mother’s face every time someone tells her they saw me on television or at a show performing. Also, I have been privileged to be on television series, films, audio books and theatre productions, such as House of Gaa, Ricordi (Season 2), Schooled, Dilemma, She, Motherland the Musical, Mamma Mia the Musical, Queen Moremi the Musical, Olurombi the Musical, Kakadu the Musical, Lie to me Dan, Oluwashola (The Story of Us), Operator Gaga, The audition, Queen of the Night and lots more. My Directorial debut is entitled: The X Chromosomes was staged at Terrakulture in 2021. Each of the projects I have been involved in come with its own exciting experience but I cannot forget in hurry my stint in Moremi Ajasoro in Queen Moremi the Musical, directed by Bolanle Austen-Peters; and Queen of the Night’ by Wole Oguntokun. These two productions taught me a lot in many ways and impacted my life and career positively.

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There’s this on-top-of-the-world feeling when you are acknowledged, recognised and appreciated for the work you’ve done.

Contribution of the festival to Lagos cultural landscape

LTF has been a part of us for nine years. That is nine years of funding, support and tremendous growth. Every festival, we have people from all over the world come to the Hub (Freedom Park) right here in Lagos to partake in the cultural celebration that is the festival. At Lagos Theatre Festival, we promote our culture by combining every single thing that is African and present it to you for your appreciation. Providing this platform for emerging and established artists to continue to produce impactful work has been the objective of the Festival, and we are committed to keep running with this vision.We have hosted nine festivals, with over 203 productions, 52workshops/panels and over 590 shows. We have reached over 42,800 physically and over 770 million online. A huge feat, if I must say so myself. We curate plays, concerts, poetry sessions, workshops that reflect our traditions, beliefs , culture, society and more.

My journey as festival producer

It has been a great experience. It was a lot of work and I honestly cannot begin to explain how hectic it was! But I was so excited and challenged. My desire to be and do better kept me going. It is indeed a huge feat to be able to produce a festival on such a large scale. I produce the play, Before I let you go for B/Rated Productions; and an entire festival at the same time. Being festival producer Lagos Theatre Festival (LTF) 2024 tested and groomed me in so many forms and I sincerely cannot wait for LTF 2025! But my journey as festival producer for LTF 2024 this year’s edition started 2023. Towards the last quarter of last year Mrs. Lydia Idakula, who is LTF artistic director, reached out to me.

My advice to aspiring thespians

One, have the talent and be willing to be a tool, because as an actor, you are the tool: your body and your voice are tools. Be ready to work, ready to learn, then go for it. If you have the opportunity to study at the university, go ahead, and if you cannot, take courses on the side, or join a group/troupe, as training is important.

My thought on beauty

For me, beauty is really comforting in your skin and your body.

My escape

I eat ice-cream, watch a lot of movies and spend lots of time with the ones I love.

My fashion style

My fashion style is minimalist and essentially for my comfort. I’m a blend of androgynous, chic, athleisure, and sometimes boho. It really depends on how I decide to dress for the day.

Fashion item I cannot do without

Perfume

What’s next for me and for the LTF

After a long hiatus, LTF 2024 was a success. Moving on, the team intends to work on projects that will involve the community, leading up to the call for applications for LTF 2025 later in the year.

May 15, 2024
Okro soup and the skidding airlines

‘We don enter one chance’, Sexy Lola whispered to Tamara as we watched Tinu the geologist dish her ‘world famous’ Okro Soup into several plates with a morsel of wheat meal in them.

“No… it’s not one chance. Na inside soup we dey”, Barrister Ada interjected softly, not wanting Tinu to hear her. “How do I escape?”

“Why did I listen to her, abandoning my lunch before coming out to join you girls…my husband warned me o…,” mourned Mummy Fawaz.

It was a fine afternoon, one that was perfect for a hangout. We had all gathered under the Ebelebo Tree in front of our blocks. And we were in high spirits, talking about many issues, (ranging from politics, electricity to the recent airlines’ skidding in our airports, etc.), before Tinu came with her cooler of foods. She had informed us the previously morning that she won an environmental friendly contract for her company; and she’d wanted to host us to lunch the next day. We had warned her that we didn’t want any of her special recipes. And she has promised to serve a local delicacy. But nothing prepared us for what she served that afternoon.

Earlier in the day, while I was lazing about in the kitchen, I had seen her with Christabel, leaving in her car, only for them to return some time later with bags full of foodstuff which they carried into Tinu’s flat. “What is inside those bags,” my investigative mind wondered. “I hope they are not for her special foreign delicacies,” I said to myself. But now seeing the face of her Okro Soup, I swallowed my hunger and tried hard to make light of the situation.

“Haba ladies! It can’t be that bad… It just might taste good. Let’s just try it and see,” I mumbled in a not-so-convincing voice.

“Are you trying to convince us or yourself,” Ada said with a mischievous laugh.

Just then Tinu looked our way, perhaps wanting to miss out on the joke, she said, “I’m almost done. You girls should not forget me o…you must gist me too… You can come for your food.”

“The fear of Tinu delicacies is the beginning of wisdom o! I should have eaten something… How do I save my stomach,” Tamara muttered under her breath.

“Where is Christabel sef?” I asked rhetorically, wondering if she had absconded after seeing Tinu delicacy.

“I am here,” she announced as she walked in with a newspaper in her hand.

“What’s in the news again?” asked Ada as if to stall for time.

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“Na this airline wahala,” responded Christabel. “I wonder why all of a sudden, we are having incidents of aircraft skidding off the runway in our airports?”

“That’s why I don’t read newspapers. It’s always bad news,” complained Lola.

“It is more than that. It is about what to do to halt such occurrences or bad news as you call it,” Isaid.

“We say the roads are bad and now, it has gotten to the turn of the airports’ runway. Lord have mercy o!” wailed Lola.

“Come and carry your food o,” Tinu called.

“Tinu we are coming.” Tamara answered and turned to us in a whisper, “This one wey Nigeria’s runway done dey draw like Tinu Okro soup…na God go save us o!” and said in a loud tone, “Ehen, so what is the government doing about it? There should be sanctions.”

“The question is what are those charged with auditing of the runways and air field operational facilities doing? FAAN, NCAA and NSIB should do their jobs and fix these issues of safety in our aviation sector na…Evelyn what are you journalists doing?” Barrister Ada asked.

“My brother Kelvin Osa Okunbor is on it…leave Nigerian aviation alone…make we go eat,” with that said we all walked sluggishly towards Tinu’s Okro soup as if to a slaughter house

“Thank you jare Evelyn,” Tinu said excited

May 15, 2024
MohBad’s wife dedicates birthday to late husband, seeks prayers from Nigerians

Omowunmi Aloba, the widow of the late singer, Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, has made a special request to Nigerians as she marks her birthday today.

Wunmi, in a post on her Instagram page, said it is her first time celebrating her birthday in the absence of her late husband.

She appealed to Nigerians to celebrate MohBad on her birthday instead of celebrating her.

Wunmi noted that the best birthday gift Mohbad gave to her before his death was their son, Liam, adding that Nigerians should pray for his spirit.

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She wrote: “This is the first time in many years that I’ll be celebrating my birthday without my husband’s promise! He was not just my husband, but also my best friend, confidant, gist partner and more. Today, all I want for my birthday is for his fans across the world to celebrate the life he lived.

“I beg you all to say a prayer for the spirit of Ilerioluwa! Whether you choose to pray silently in your heart or post his picture on your profile. I ask that you sincerely pray for the soul of Ilerioluwa.

“Let this day be dedicated to him, rather than to me. Because he had given me the best birthday gift before he was snatched from me! He gave me the gift of himself through our son, Liam. A child that I will love and cherish till the end of time. Please celebrate Mohbad.”

April 29, 2024