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Category: Saturday Magazine

I get insulted advising people on healthy living –Nutrition expert Emiko Kathy
- I ventured into nutrition business after undergoing Caesarian Section twice
Princess Kathy Emiko is a woman of many parts. Besides being a fashion enthusiast and owner of a popular boutique, she is also a nutritionist. But the wife of a popular Warri prince, Yemi Emiko, did not become a nutritionist by accident; it was a field she ventured into after she had to undergo Caesarian Section twice because of her weight. She spoke with PAUL UKPABIO about these and other issues concerning her private and public life.

WHAT is it like to be married into the Warri royal family?

Royalty in the Warri Kingdom dates back to about 600 years ago. So, marrying into a Warri royal family gives me an opportunity to witness first hand royal splendour and even partake in it. I consider it a great privilege.

You are a princess by virtue of your marriage. Were you worried about the challenges that come with that at the initial stage?

I was not worried about any challenge when I married my husband. The reason is that I had dated him for a couple of years before we finally got married.

I also was not looking or seeing him from the royal stand point. Rather, I saw him as a friend, a confidant and a lover.

As we became closer and closer over a period of time, marrying him became a mere formality and a mere transition to the status.

Some women desire to get married to a prince so that they may not need to work again, but yours has been different.

You have been in the fashion industry and moved into nutrition, skin health and body fitness business. What has been the motivation?

You really mean some women would wish they marry a prince so they would never work again? That must be a nice, beautiful fairy tale (laughs).

Well, I thank God who met my desires. I have a prince who can take care of me, no doubt, as God has provided for him. But he allows me to be what I desire to.

He allows me to fly, if I may use that word. He allows me to do things on the basis of my desire to help women get out of obesity and their diet challenges. It is a calling for me.

Initially, I did not know that it was a calling. When you say something is a calling, it means that God has put it in you to reach out to others. I want to help women and I am doing that by the grace of God.

I guide ladies to live healthy lifestyle; to get out of obesity and its challenges. It is a calling for me instead of just sitting and doing nothing after childbirth, regretting my body size and nursing other health challenges like aging prematurely.

You also have a rich Edo cultural background. What are some of the similarities in both cultures?

Well, as you know, Warri Kingdom emanated from Bini Kingdom. So, I would be stating the obvious when I say that there are similarities between both cultures.

Some of the similarities are seen in the symbols used in both sides. Systems of royalty in terms of regalia, the cultures of the people, similarities in chieftaincy title and even the splendor and aura around kings in both kingdoms.

So can you say you are now a complete Waffarian?

Oh, I had been a Waffarian even before I met my husband. That is because I schooled in Warri; at the College of Education. I also came back to do my National Youth Service at Chevron Plc.

What are the things that makes one a Waffarian?

The hallmark of a Waffarian is being detribalised. Of course, it is also about the prowess of speaking the Pidgin English which is very unique to us.

It also means intelligence. As you must have heard, Warri no dey carry last! We are also our brother’s keeper!

We are about unity, putting ourselves in other people’s shoes and considering the happiness of others. That is what makes one a complete Waffarian.

You grew up under a man like Prof. Eghosa Osaghae, a former vice chancellor of Igbinedion University for over a decade. What values did you learn from him?

Yes, I recall that his life was all about education, education and education. It was one of the key values that I took away. He taught me the values of education and also how to put others before self! He was selfless.

He also taught me that whatever I want to do, I should get approval by getting certification; that I must know my onions. That was why when I left school and went into the fitness business, I searched and got certified.

Till date, I still do a lot of courses. Education is the key. The Bible says that people perish for lack of knowledge; not for lack of prayers.

You had the challenge of obesity. Was it the result of your privileged lifestyle early in lfe?

My obesity issue started with my first pregnancy. Thank God I was able to take care of that. It motivated me to know that it is still possible to regain my old figure: getting pregnant, putting up so much weight, then losing weight and going back to my pre-pregnancy look, just the way my husband met me.

I have always been a very hard-driven person. Even when I was in the university, I was not obese. But when the babies started coming and I saw how I was growing fatter, I was alarmed.

Thank God for that call and the fact that I didn’t ignore the call and with the help of God, I did something about it. I conquered.

It was a challenge for me, and since I was able to conquer it, I believed that I should help other women out there who desire to have a wonderful figure.

A woman’s figure is important. She is supposed to be on top of her health and not just to have a wonderful figure and look after the children.

We have a role to play while God plays His part. It has been a very wonderful journey for me and it has become my passion.

So I decided to go for qualification, which was very important. I got certified. And of course I started reaching out to a lot of people. I know knowledge is endless so I continue to learn, do more research.

How did you resolve your obesity?

It was a journey and it is still a journey. It was tough. A big challenge! I tried a lot of things from different diet pills, different diets, until I got the solution when I had my second baby in Paris.

I attended a post-pregnancy class and that changed everything. You see, it is about food. If you can tackle your food intake, you will be able to resolve obesity issues.

And one thing about eating healthy, it has to be with grace and not by power. The ability to choose between buying ice-cream or chocolate for something else is grace and not power!

Most often, we all know what to do. Some of us can write a book on how to eat healthy — don’t take sweets, sugar, fizzle drinks, shawama, pizza.

It is all easy to say. But the capacity and the enablement to do so is where the grace comes in. I was able to resolve that and I am still in it.

I don’t have a lackadaisical attitude towards eating. I eat with wisdom. I tell my clients too. Now I run an academy and I talk about grace to make the right choice of what to eat.

Can one actually have a perfect body?

Genesis 1 verse 31 says God looked at what He had created and approved because He saw that everything was beautiful and perfect.

And the Bible says in Psalm 139 verse 14 that we are wonderfully and beautifully made. Everybody has a perfect body. God is not a God of mistake.

He has not made anyone imperfectly. But we have to plug into that perfection by taking care of our body physically and spiritually.

What advice do you have for women who are struggling to break the fat or trying to prevent the fat after pregnancy?

What advice do I have for them? It is not rocket science. To be healthy is doable. After the pregnancy and delivery of the baby, just follow the right precepts and be patient.

A lot of women want to go back to their former dress size the next day, but that is not possible. It took you nine good months to carry that baby, increase in size and then deliver.

So it probably will take you another nine months of consistency, of determination, of discipline to get back to shape. But the bottom line is that it is not rocket science. It is possible and you can do it.

Do you miss owning a boutique?

Not at all, now I realize that it was not in my calling. During the period when I was running the boutique, there were so many struggles.

And that is what happens when you are not in your calling. Those who own boutiques must be trying. I don’t know if it has changed, but at that time, I had a lot of people who bought without paying.

So I’m so happy with what I am doing now. I’m so passionate about what I do now that I don’t miss the boutique business in any way.

When I see people doing the wrong stuff about their health, I can’t hold back; I approach them. Some insult me, some embrace me, but I don’t hold back the information. I give free health talk.

Can eating habits be of any help in the Covid-19 pandemic?

Viruses love acidic body. They swim in it! And acidic foods are everywhere. But when your body is alkaline, viruses take a bow and leave.

A lot of people’s bodies are hosting ground for diseases as a result of what they eat and drink. Nutrition has a huge role to play in terms of Covid-19.

Take vegetables, drink lots of water, herbal tea, pepper, ginger, garlic and onions. You know garlic drives away vampires. Covid-19 is a vampire, but it cannot stand garlic. Eat right.

You authored a book titled ‘Jesus wants you fit!’ What has religion got to do with fitness?

(Laughs) Religion has a whole lot to do with it. Right from the beginning when God created man, He gave him a diet. Genesis 1 verses 29, which tells us that God is interested in what we eat, how we eat and even wants us to worship Him in our diet.

After He created man, He made provision for food so we don’t go the wrong path. In Proverbs 23 He tells us how to eat against gluttony.

The bible talks a lot about eating habits because the way you feed your flesh determines the way your spiritual man will grow.

Philippians 3 verse 19 says there is a god of the belly whose end is destruction. So there’s a lot of connection between religion and fitness. If you don’t take care of your body, it is suicidal.
July 25, 2020
‘How we became addicted to betting’

The menace of underage betting is worsening in Lagos neighbourhoods in spite of regulatory restrictions because errant kids are being indulged by parents and operators just as enforcement of the laws against the practice remains weak, reports Kunle Akinrinade.

IN childhood innocence, Azeez (surname withheld) leapt for joy as he rushed out of a sports betting centre near his parents’ residence in Ipodo part of Ikeja, Lagos.

It was moments after he played a betting game called running dog, from which he won the sum of N3,000.

“Ah, I have just won N3,000!” the 14-year-old shouted in utmost excitement. “The last time I played a game here, I lost. This time around, luck smiled on me.”

It was not the first time Azeez, a Senior Secondary (SS) student of a public secondary school in Oregun area of Ikeja would be playing the game of betting. His romance with betting was influenced by his father, who had lived on betting for about 10 years.

From running betting errands for his out-of-job father, Azeez graduated into a real time bettor with streams of income from it.

Recalling his foray into the betting game, he said: “My father was the one that introduced me to betting after he lost his job as site artisan in a construction company.

“About three years ago, I started running errands for my father at different betting shops and kiosks in our neighbourhood. That was where I learnt how to play the game.”

Then aged 11, Azeez started playing betting games with proceeds of his savings and at times with money he stole from his mother.

“The lure of the game made me to empty my piggy bank at home and I played the game for the first time in 2014. I did not win but it did not deter me from continuing to bet with my savings.

“When I first started playing the game for my father, some of my friends mocked me for being a delinquent. But my friends have also fallen in love with sport betting after I shared with them part of the cash I won.

“Just like today, the first money I won was N3,000 from the sum of N100 that I staked. I was so happy that I could win such a huge amount. With the money, I bought a wireless speaker.

“At times, I would steal money from my mother’s grocery shop to bet. I have been caught many times and reprimanded but that does not stop me from betting again.”

Azees is not the only underage hooked on betting. Adewale (surname withheld), a 15-year-old pupil who lives with his parents in the Akerele area of Agege, Lagos, prides himself among his peers as the ‘king of betting’.

Two years ago, he became fascinated with betting games after an operator opened a centre in their neighbourhood.

While returning from school, he and his friends would stop at the shop to play the colour, colour betting games with fairly impressive success.

“Initially, I didn’t know how to play the games. I was only accompanying my friends to the newly opened betting shop close to our street. Before long, I acquired the knowledge to play and win and I have not stopped since then.

“My favourite game is the colour, colour, and I have won a couple of times,” he said.

Like Azeez, 16-year-old Frederick (surname withheld), an SS3 pupil, said he took to betting after he ran errands for her mother at lottery shops around their home in Iyana Ipaja, a Lagos suburb.

He said from the money he won from betting, he had been able to save some to procure the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination form.

He said: “My mother used to send me to lottery kiosk operators on our street to play Baba Ijebu (lottery) for her. From there, I met teenagers like me whose parents had also sent to lottery operators, and they introduced me to sports betting.

“At first, I did not like to bet until. It was not until my new friends started flaunting the money they had won from betting that I also began to bet. Since then, I have won many times.

“From the money I won from betting, I have been able to save some to purchase my JAMB form, among other items like bags, shoes and clothes.”

There are many online betting companies in the country, but the major games that attract minors include football, colour colour, horserace and virtual soccer, because of the instant money that comes with winning.

Section 34 of the National Lottery Act, 2005 stipulates that it is illegal for underage to be involved in betting with accompanying sanctions for operators who contravene the law.

“Any person who knowingly sells to any person under the age of eighteen years any ticket in a lottery operated by a licensee commits an offence and shall be liable on conviction to a fine of not less than N20,000 or imprisonment for a term of not less than one year or both such fine and imprisonment,” the law states.

The Lottery Laws of Lagos State (2004) forbids minors from betting in whatever guise, with appropriate sanctions for violators.

In November 2019, the Lagos State Lotteries Board (LSLB), through various media, warned persons below the age of 18 to desist from betting in Lagos State.

The General Manager of the lottery regulatory agency, Bashir Abiola Are, at the launch of the responsible gaming campaign, warned that “any underage who provides inaccurate information regarding their true age may have all winnings forfeited and could face criminal prosecution.”

He added: “All operators must ensure that they adhere to responsible gaming policy by ensuring that underage people are prevented from gaming.

Any agent caught may be suspended or penalised in line with the Lagos State Lotteries Law 2004 (as amended).”

How operators flout regulations, encourage minor bettors

But despite the federal and state regulations prohibiting teenagers from betting, operators who are scattered around the Lagos metropolis have failed to adhere to the laws.

Although there are messages placed at the entrance of several betting shops and centres visited by our reporter, warning that minors are not permitted to bet, the reverse was the case in some of the shops our reporter visited.

In several of the shops, underage persons were seen playing various betting games unrestricted.

“The operators don’t stop us from playing betting games. They cannot chase us away because we are regular customers.

They only ask us not to make a noise while playing the games, so we would not attract passers-by or law enforcement agents,” Fredrick said.

•Inside a betting office at Ikeja, Lagos
Photos by Ayomide Otitoju

At Meiran area in Alimosho Local Government Area, 16-year-old Kazeem (surname withheld), who spoke with our correspondent after betting claimed he was never told by the operator not to bet.

He said: “I was not told that any law forbids me from playing. You can see that I am not the only teenager here. I have been playing sports betting games here for a long time, and I have won a few times.

“This year alone, I have won for five times.

“The operator would not disallow me from betting because he has known me since I started accompanying my father to his shop to stake a bet on games.”

“I should also tell you that our family lives on proceeds from betting, because I usually give part of what I win to my mother to boost her petty trade. In fact, the last time I won N15,000, I gave her N7,000 to boost her business.”

“As I speak, I have various items including wristwatches, shoes, wireless speaker and a Nokia phone which I bought from the proceeds of betting.”

Why it is difficult to enforce regulations, monitor violators

An attendant in one of the betting shops on Command Road, Meiran, Lagos said it is sometimes difficult to determine the age of young bettors because of their height and looks.

He said: “Well, some of the boys who play betting games have mature heights and looks, leaving one with difficulty in determining their age, since they don’t come around with their birth certificates.”

A community leader in Agege, Pa Bankole, who requested that his surname should not be mentioned, said the volatile nature of Akerele and Atobaje areas of Agege, which are notorious for drug peddling and hoodlums, are difficult terrains for law enforcement agents to monitor betting centres and shops where adolescent bettors hold sway.

“Akerele, Atobaje and several parts of Agege are volatile areas because of the cluster of notorious drug sellers and hoodlums who might seize the moment to attack security forces if they come to reprimand or punish operators who allow minors access to betting games,” Pa Bankole said.

A source in the Salolo area of Alagbado, Lagos said that teenagers freely patronise betting centres around an open field in the community because some policemen come there to play sport betting games too.

“Teenage betting thrives in this area. If you come around in the afternoon, you will see them playing sport betting games unrestricted.

Most of them come from several streets away to bet in shops around here, because policemen who ordinarily should reprimand the underage bettors and the operators of the betting centres also bet there.”

A psychologist, Leonard Ogor, blamed the indulgence of minors in betting games on parental failure, arguing that defective upbringing is a panacea for delinquent behavior, one of which is betting or gambling habits by minors.

Ogor said: “Underage bettors are products of dysfunctional parental upbringing whereby certain influences at home or neighbourhood encourage minors to play betting or gambling games.

“Most of these influences are from parents themselves, and at times, the neighbours or peer influences children are exposed to.

“For example, many parents, especially the poor ones, have taken to sport betting as a result of the harsh realities of the Nigerian economy. In the process, many of them expose their children to betting directly or indirectly, especially when their children run errand for them at lottery and betting shops.

“Also, numerous parents no longer have the time to strictly monitor their children and the kind of friends they keep due to occupational demands.

Therefore, children from such parents tend to do what they think is the best for them in the absence of proper parenting.”

Ogor noted that the consequences of the menace on children are grievous, as it does not only affect their psychological growth but also their educational advancement.

“In no time, teenage bettors become obsessed with betting and lose their sense of morals, rationality and drive to pursue educational goals

. This is the reason why you see many children dropping out of school to engage in crimes and misconduct in the society.

“Parents must therefore ensure they fulfill their goals as agents of socialization by raising their children properly through effective monitoring and inculcation of moral rectitude.”

A social worker and counsellor, Ms Irene Adewuyi, blamed the trend on the collapse of value system in the society and weak institutional regulations.

She said: “As far as I am concerned, the diminishing societal values and weak implementation of regulations on underage betting is responsible for the menace of minor bettors, not only in Lagos State, but across the country.

“In our days, our parents and neighbours inculcate morals in us and reprimand us when we go wrong. But the reverse is the case nowadays as moral values have collapsed.

“Parents no longer care what their children do while neighbours too don’t care about what other people’s children do.

Also, law enforcement agents and public officers charged with maintaining regulations and enforcement compromise, hence, teenagers freely gamble and bet with most times money stolen from their parents or neighbours.

“Betting or gambling has a craving that could lead to children picking up stealing habits which lead them into robbery or turn them into nuisance in future.

“My advice is that parents should monitor their children very well by creating time for them while minions of law should also apprehend culpable operators and offenders.”

A source at the Lagos State Lottery Board, who spoke in confidence, said the agency last year embarked on Know Your Customer (KYC) programme for operators of sport betting as part of its campaign against underage gambling.

“In November last year, we carried out a training programme called Know Your Customer(KYC) for operators of betting centres, for the purpose of curbing young bettors who are mostly children or minors.

“The programme was in line with the directives of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to financial and non-financial institutions in the country, which helps to identify and restrict teenage bettors.

“We have also mandated operators to display bold stickers at their centres prohibiting the underage from betting, and there are appropriate sanctions for operators who violate our regulations according to the Lagos State Lottery Laws enacted in 2004.”

July 25, 2020
Abraham, Oyedele, Odimayo step down for Akeredolu

Bisi Oladele and Osagie Otabor, Akure

ONDO State Governor Rotimi Akeredolu received the endorsement of three key opponents on Monday. Dr. Olusegun Abraham, Ifeoluwa Oyedele and Jimi Odimayo endorsed the governor hours before the primary election.

The All Progressives Congress, in a statement, hailed Oyedele for stepping down for Akeredolu.

It described Oyedele as a true party man who sacrificed his interest for the general interest of the party in the state.

A statement issued by the Ondo APC Director, Media & Publicity, Steve Otaloro, said: “The interest of the citizens of Ondo state is more important than my interest. We are determined to ensure that we work together for what will be of benefit to citizens of Ondo state. We will work together to unite our party, to rebuild the party, unite our members so that we can have a rapid economic development in the state. Also, I call on other aspirants to support us in this quest of uniting our party.

“As a political party, we commend Engr Ife Oyedele who spoke with a degree of candour uncharacteristic of politicians in the system, particularly, when they are pursuing certain political ambition. We also hope other politicians will learn from him that the greater interest of the party is paramount to their personal interest.”

The Chairman of the governorship primary, Governor Yahaya Bello, said all aspirants gave their consent for the primary to hold on Monday.

Read Also: Ambode’s ex-aide endorses Akeredolu

Bello, announced commencement of the exercise, said: “We had an interaction with all aspirants and leaders of our great party in Ondo State yesterday evening. Our interactive session was smooth. So, we are all prepared for this election. After the interactive session, nobody objected to the conduct of this election.

“Aspirants have received enough notification. They are expected to be here. All agents are also expected to be here. Since we arrived here, we have inspected this venue of the election including the accreditation area in this dome. Ballot papers are sealed. I have not seen how they look like.”

July 21, 2020
Oyin Frances bags doctorate degree

Our Reporter

The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Aswani Division (Area ‘D’ Command), CSP Oyin Frances, has been conferred with a Doctorate Degree by an International institution for her outstanding contributions to the development of the society.

Oriental News Nigeria reports that CSP Oyin, as she is popularly known, was among the recipients of Doctor of Arts Honorary Award by the European American University Commonwealth of Dominican Africa Regional Operation.

The event took place on Saturday 18th July, 2020, at NECA House, Hakeem Balogun Way, Central Business District, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos.

The Coordinator in Nigeria, Dr J.C.Egbuta, while giving the award, said that Oyin was found worthy in character and was recognized for her contributions to the economic, political and social welfare of the society.

Oyin may have been recognised internationally for her dedication and passion for humanity and commitment as a Senior Police Officer for her several contributions to save live and property.

She is currently serving as the DPO, Aswani Police Division, under the Lagos State Police Command in Nigeria.

CSP Oyin is an intelligent officer born and raised in Warri, Delta State.

Oyin is a graduate of Sociology and holds a Masters Degree in Industrial Labour Relations both at Delta State University, Abaraka.

She enlisted into the Nigeria Police Force as a cadet (ASP) Assistant Superintendent of Police in 2002.

She, like many others, were trained at the Police Academy, Wudil, Kano, before she was posted to Enugu State.

According to her “Nigeria Police is an organisation that should be appreciated rather than dishonoured, when she spoke with the journalists at the venue.

Oyin stressed that while the police is busy pursuing strategies to enhance operations for the safety and security of citizens, critics are busy looking for opportunities to condemn men and officers; stressing that if the people really understand the extent of sacrifice and risk that police do and face, they will appreciate them better.

Stating that policemen should be encouraged, Oyin said that in this pandemic alone, officers and men faces the greatest risks enforcing the laws, even when it had to do with dragging recalcitrant citizens who may be highly contagious.

She therefore plead members of the public to give moral, spiritual and logistics support to policemen, knowing that they are vulnerable to all forms of danger.

Her honest submission is that the police is the most patriotic outfit in Nigeria. She believes that all officers and men should keep serving diligently and most patriotically.

She passed out in 2004 from the Academy and has also attended several courses and conferences both at home and abroad. She is a member of (IACP) International Association of Chiefs of Police, a member of International Association of Women Police (IAWP).

She was a one time (PRO) Public Relations Officer of POWA and presently the Social Secretary of POWA Lagos State Chapter. Oyin was also a one time secretary to the famous Baptist Girls High School Agbor, Old Girls Association, Lagos State Chapter and presently their Security Adviser.

She has worked in various States and Departments of the Police Force. She was OC JWC, Uwani Division, Enugu, DCO Gwagwaruwa Division, Kano, AO Fillinhuki Division, Kano, DTO Man Centre Division, DCO Man Centre Division, AO Ikeja Division, DCO Ikeja Division, Acting DPO Ikeja Division, DPO Man Center. She was 2ic Area West and Acting Commander Area West, Airport Police Command, Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, Lagos, Divisional Crime Officer (DCO) of Isolo Okota Division and later moved to Ago Palace, Okota as DPO, She was transferred to Lion Building Area ‘A’ Command as 2ic Area Commander and later moved to Aswani Division, her present Division.

Oyin has won numerous awards as a Police Officer. Due to her kindheartedness, she was honoured with the title Ezinne (Good Mother) by C.W.O. Our Lady of Fatima Cathedral, Kano, in the year 2009. She was among the 50 recipients that got honoured by the Lagos State Government at the Lagos@50 Hall of Fame Awards as a Peace Ambassador. Other awards Oyin has received included:

– Best Media Friendly Police Officer of the Year Award by Rainbow Event Magazine

– Most People Friendly Police Officer in Nigeria, courtesy of the Crime Reporters Association of Nigeria (CRAN)

– Most Outstanding Police Officer of the Year by MOPO

– Pragmatic Leadership Awards by Zenith International Magazine among other awards.

READ ALSO: COVID-19: Oyin Frances gives palliatives to Lagos communities

CSP Oyin is passionate, smart and a lover of peace with a special gift in conflict resolution. Testimonies abound on how she had helped solve disputes that would have ordinarily ended up in Court as an Alternative Dispute Resolution Officer. She has equally taken serious criminal cases and pursued them to logical conclusions and with that her simplicity cannot be taken for granted. She is presently the Social Director – POWA; working with the wife of CP, Alhaja N.O. Odumosu, who is the Chairperson of POWA.

Recently, CSP Oyin Francess received International awards and chieftaincy title in far away Ghana for her courage, passion and commitment to save life and serve humanity by singularly averting ethnic crises during 2019 election in Okota area of Lagos, when she was DPO Okota Division.

The International award for selfless service and chieftaincy title as Nne udo ndi igbo na Ghana – meaning Mother of Peace, was significant because of the circumstances that led to the recognition.

CSP Oyin has received more than six awards in 2019 alone for her feat and professionalism which included Echo Nigeria International award of patriotism in the Federal Capital city, Abuja. Other awards included D Elite Award for outstanding DPO of the Year 2019, Most Outstanding DPO in Community Policing in 2019 by The New Experience Media organization and among others.

CSP Oyin has demonstrated professionalism and leadership in Police Public Relationship and recently shared palliatives to three communities during the Covid-19 lockdown, a unique gesture which has endeared her to the people in Lagos.

“My hero’s are those who risk their lives everyday to protect our world and make it a better place, police, fire fighters and members of our armed forces”

It is particularly important to note that policing is very demanding, as their work demands that they be permanently on call. At the same time the police force has had a bad name over the years because of a few rogue Officers who have given new meaning to the saying; one rotten eggs spoils the entire pudding. By their selfish acts, they have dented the image of the police and as fate would have it, the bad elements in the Force are easily noticed. However, it would be dishonest to deny the existence of a good number of police officers who execute their duties with diligence and dedication bearing in mind Robert Peel’s saying that the police are the public and the public are the police; the police being only the members of the public who are paid to give full time attention to duties which are incumbent on every citizen in the interest of the community welfare and existence.

July 20, 2020
Dekunle Fuji: I lost my memories for many years in US

By Dupe Ayinla-Olasunkanmi

For almost nine years, singer Dekunle Fuji went into a hiatus leaving little or no information on the happenings in his life.

After breaking into the mainstream in 2007 with hit single, ‘Mo like Jesu gan,’ under Obi Asika and Olisa Adibua’s Storm Records, Dekunle Fuji became the toast of many.

Four years into his life as a famous singer in Nigeria, things took a bad turn just before his decision to take a short trip to the United States of America. He ended up staying back in the country with stories of grits and groans.

Born Adekunle Michael Olalekan Oloyede to Oba Solomon Oloyede of Ipetumodu (1971 – 1980), Dekunle Fuji narrated how he lost his memory for some years, his unplanned life in the United States and his experiences with clergies after a shaming performance at The Experience in 2011 to colleague, Bouqui on the programme, Bouqui’s place in a recent interview.

Life-changing experience

In 2010, I lost my memory. It is like when a file is deleted. You know when you have a file and you are working on it one a day and you find out that the file you think has been saved is deleted. That is the story of your life.

I had a major concert in Nigeria called The Experience, I was invited and we rehearsed for three weeks, 21days. But the day of the event, a lot went wrong. We got there, we could not sound check, from that we went back because they said we got there late. From there we went back and came back for the main concert, I got there and saw different set people that were not part of my band backing me up.

I was like who are these people, where did they come from? They didn’t understand what I was doing and I didn’t understand them too. I left that stage seriously disgraced. Afterwards I decided to mingle with the crowd and started hearing talks like ‘he was drunk’, ‘he has smoked weed.’ I don’t smoke, I don’t drink. And if I drink it is occasionally and it has to be red wine. After the whole incident occurred, I decided to go back to my hotel; Eko Hotel and Suites.

I had to pass along the bar beach and I didn’t know how the water came out and covered my car. My car was totally lost for minutes; if not for God Bouqui, I would have been, you know it is like when they want to completely wipe someone off the face of the earth. That was when it occurred to me, that what happened to me was not ordinary. I didn’t see any pastor to give me that vision or revelation that they saw this attack coming. Even pastors were saying Dekunle ‘why did you go and drink before performing? Why did you go and smoke? That day I knew it is not everybody that has the gift to see. That was when I decided to take things easy and take time off, to be able to get myself together.

The attacks and revelation

When I was leaving Nigeria, I just wanted to take some weeks off. At the airport I saw Pastor Paul Adefarasin, I was so impressed that, that man as tush and polished as he is, he understands the spiritual. He said to me, ‘Dekunle it is not about you that was a spiritual attack’. And he said don’t worry don’t let this weigh you down, go and regroup. I came to the United States, I could not find my passport, I did not know anybody, it was three years ago people started calling; you left this amount of money in your house. We found thousands of dollars in your wardrobe; we found some amount in your account. My account officer called and asked why I was not running my account again, revealing to me, how much I had in the account. I said to myself, how? I distanced myself from everybody because I didn’t know who to trust anymore.

In the church, one of my bandboys confessed to me what he did and I urged him to go ahead even though I was told that some of my bandboys were envious of me. He asked if I remembered a cloth he begged me to give and I said yes; he called me three years after the incident happened. I picked up a man; I started using my car for uber. And he asked, are you a musician? I had stopped using Dekunle, I was using my Christian name Michael. He said ‘that is not your name. You have a Yoruba name.’ And within me, I was thinking, just enjoy your ride and let me be. He described the boy, and I discovered that it was one of my band boys; someone who will go to any length to get anything I want. This is someone I had not spoken to for six years and I had to reach out to him. He started crying on the phone and said ‘Chairman, please I need you to forgive me.’ ‘Indeed God is with you, I used your clothes to do certain things’. And when he told me who took him to where he did the job, I started crying, I had to pull over, I could not drive again. I have seen demons appearing to me face to face, and I keep wondering who was behind all those things. And kept asking why they are after my life after all they have done. I have forgiven them, and moved on.

Breaking free

It got to a point; I was praying and fasting every day. There was no pastor I did not talk to. But you know one thing I have come to understand, all these prophets you are seeing on social media are all sakamanje (fake). Majority of them are herbalists operating under the umbrella of prophets.

When all these were happening, some people thought I was arrogant, and proud. These are people that don’t even know who I am. I am using this opportunity to say thank you to Pastor Taiwo Odukoya, Pastor David Ije, Mike Abdul, Kehinde Phillips, and Vice president’s wife, because these are the people God used. Ask Mike Abdul, there was a time, he was sending me money from Nigeria. It was that bad. I went through a lot, I was homeless, I was stranded, and I didn’t know Jesus better but in all these, create a relationship with God yourself, know God yourself. This is a dead man talking, you see in this Christendom, some people singing gospel, they have baba isale, and you that you are not strong, you want to compete with them, and climb the same stage with them, they will mess you up.

Almost all the secular artists got closer to me, because they wanted to size me up. But you know one thing I would say to them. Everything you have done, God blesses you. You did not do me any evil or harm; you empowered me.

I didn’t know what came over me, it was three years ago that my memory came back to normal, and I was asking myself what was I doing here. If you don’t know Jesus and you are playing games, they will kill you like a chicken. It is recently my friends started looking for me. It was bitter and tough, but I now understand better. The lady I was engaged to in Nigeria, they called her and told her I had married a white lady. She didn’t ask me, she just jumped into conclusion.

July 18, 2020
‘Bad roads affecting tourism, businesses in Ogun community’

As Nigeria is gradually re-opening from the COVID-19 induced lock-down, the chairman of the Aworitourism Organisation and also head of Jethro Tours, Prince Adetunji Femi Fadina has called for urgent repair of key roads in Ota. He said the terrible state of the roads is adversing affecting tourism and business in the town. Fadina made the call in a recent press conference. He explained that the ancient ctown of Ota is endowed with tourism assets ranging from historical sites like the second storey building in Nigeria, built in 1842; the colourful egungun festival which he said originates from Ota, to the religious tourism at Canaanland (Living Faith Church). Fadina said the attractions in Ota are capable of attracting large number of tourists but this has become impossible due to the current state of the roads leading and within Ota. His words: “The road issue, I won’t blame the state because majority of our bad roads here in Aworiland is basically federal roads. That is why I put the blame on the minister; I put the blame on those who are in the centre because they need to know that if you have roads that produce 80 per cent of a state’s revenue, they need to look into them; a state that has a bother town just next door to us, they need to look into it. So, whoever is not doing our road is not worthy to be in that position.

“You talked about Egungun festival as a tourism product, what is the interface between the management of Awori tourism and traditionalist that own the Egungun festival. Secondly, talking about the tourism potential in Aworiland, how much do you think it can generate as IGR for the state?

“The Egungun festival could be a huge tourism income earner, but between us in the tourism board and the organisers of the Egungun festival…we would have actually handled some aspects of the festival this year, but like you know, there are some certain things that need to be done. However, I can rest assure you that we will be part of it.

“In terms of revenue for the Adodo/Ota council area, if I add Winners Church for religious visit to it, we are losing close to about five to eight billion Naira annually in revenue. Annually in terms of looking at the crowd that attends Shiloh for example, it should have benefited us. Basically there is a tourism product and there is a tourism economy. When you connect product to tourism economy, when you connect the tourism products together, you make the tourism economy.”

He also spoke on the state of tourism in Nigeria and the way forward: “ To me, the minister in charge of tourism needs to sit down and ask himself: am I doing a good job? Because if we are getting it right with the minister, we will get it right in every state. So, we have put a lot of things in place and I can guarantee you that we are about to roll things out.

“Nigeria is endowed with numerous tourism attraction sites spread across the country. Road transportation is the commonest means of transportation within Nigeria and good road infrastructure is required for smooth and safe motor vehicle transportation.

“As such, a good transportation network is imperative for the promotion of tourism in Nigeria. Although Nigeria has expansive road network, they are in very poor condition because of the extent of damage and lack of maintenance and are mostly not motor-able.

“These impediments affect tourism in Nigeria consequently impacting on the country’s growth and development. This media chat looks at the poor road quality in our state and Nigeria as impediment to tourism growth in Nigeria.

“We pray and also offer solutions and recommendations on how to repair and maintain the roads in order to promote tourism, safety, tourism development and ultimately tourism sustainability.

In Nigeria, road transportation is expected to enhance cultural, economic and social interactions. Unfortunately, the road infrastructure and facilities are poor and this impacts on the growth and development of the tourism sector in Nigeria. This is serious dilemma and huge impediment.”

July 18, 2020
How to improve communication in a relationship
By Rois Ola

The saying “communication is the key” to any relationship is not new. Personally I think it’s really easy to tell people that communication is important in a healthy relationship, but it’s not as easy to explain how to communicate, when to communicate, because it involves both verbal and body language. And if we’re never taught how to use this key, then we’ll never be able to open the door to healthy communication and keep experiencing challenges.

Communication is said to be successful when you can convey or share ideas and feelings. You cannot be a great talker, and not be an equally great listener in order to be a great communicator. Communication is about expressing yourself in a healthy way, listening to your partner when they are doing the same, and really hearing and absorbing what the other person has to say, not just talking aimlessly.

Try these tips for communicating better in your relationship
1. Try asking open-ended questions as regularly as possible.
Communication is not just about talking about each other’s days and saying what you had to eat for lunch. It’s about being able to dig deep and get to know this person as well as you can. It’s not always easy to dig deep, especially for those who have never been comfortable talking about their feelings. And it’s not necessary to make every conversation a heart to heart.

There are ways to do this without pressuring your partner to spill their deepest secrets. For example, instead of asking yes or no questions like “Did you have a good day?” try asking more open-ended questions like, “How was your day?” Yes, they may respond with a brief non-answer (“good”, “fine”, “the same”), but asking open-ended questions gives them an opportunity to share more if they choose to. Keep in mind that not everyone opens up very easily. Be patient with your partner if they are not sharing all the time.

The more you get to know your partner. On a deeper level, the more open and honest you may be with each other. And honesty breeds trust, which are two very important pillars of a healthy relationship. Basically trust helps build good relationship.
1. Try to be sensitive to nonverbal cues
If your partner says “my day was fine” but their tone sounds irritated, upset, or angry, then there may be something else that they’re feeling but not yet ready to communicate. Communication is not just about the words we say but also how we say them. Our tone and our attitude give away a lot more than just the words coming out of our mouths. And it’s honestly a skill to be able to pick up on those nonverbal cues. Look at your partner’s facial expressions, their hands (are they trembling/fidgety?), their body language (Are they making eye contact? Are they crossing their arms?) and listen to their tone of voice. It may not be easy at first but with time you will understand them better and see obvious signs.
1. Resist trying to assume what they are thinking
Sometimes you can tell just by looking at someone what they may be feeling. It’s not always easy to do this and let’s face it: as much as we want to be mind readers, we aren’t and shouldn’t have to be. So, if you’re not sure what your partner is feeling, ask them.

If you’re the one holding things in and expecting your partner to read your mind, take a moment to appreciate the fact that your partner is making an effort by asking you what’s going on rather than ignoring the problem. Do your best to let them know how you’re feeling when you’re ready to open up about it. It’s not healthy to say you’re okay when you’re not and then get mad at your partner for not figuring it out. Be honest about how you feel to the best of your ability, and try to express it in a healthy way before it gets to the point where it blows up and someone says something they regret. Being direct is always better than being silent.

If your partner is the one who is guilty of being silent, try letting them know that it’s not really helpful for either of you when they’re not honest about how they feel. Of course, it’s awesome when we know each other so well that we can practically read each other’s’ thoughts and know exactly what to say in the right moments, but we’re human and we may make mistakes sometimes or miss signs that seem obvious to our partner or vice versa. It’s important that you both make an effort to better understand each other and be patient with each other, too.
1. Tell your partner what you need from them
Sometimes we may just want to vent and feel validated by having our partner support us. Other times, all we may require is advice. Like I said before, none of us are mind readers, so it’s important to try to keep your partner informed so that you’re on the same page. Saying something beforehand like, “I need to vent right now and I’m not looking for any advice, just your support,” or, “I really need your advice on this situation,” will let them know exactly what you need in that moment.

Being direct about what you need can alleviate some of the miscommunication or stress in a given situation, too. By letting them know ahead of time, we can maybe prevent those unnecessary disagreements brought on by a miscommunication.

Communication is a skill

Ultimately, communication is a skill, which means there’s always room for improvement. Work together with your partner to figure out how you can maintain healthy communication and stay on the same page. Be as honest, direct, kind, and thoughtful as you can. Whether it’s with a Bae Sesh, or simply making a bigger effort to open up to each other.

Ways to improve communication in your relationship
1. Ask how they are daily
Check in every day. Asking “How are you? How was your day?” will not only keep you in touch and in sync, it’ll help keep you in the habit of communicating with each other.
1. Never assume
It’s easy to get worked up in your own head about something, but never actually reach out to the other person. Assumptions and mind reading usually lead to misunderstandings and hurt feelings.

Communication isn’t just about talking; it’s about being an active listener. Who is an active listener? “[They] listen to what their partner says, rather than get defensive without understanding the partner’s point of view or where they’re coming from, so be patient and actually listen.
1. Have regular relationship check-ins
Just like you should ask how they are every day, you need to check in about the big stuff too. Make sure that you ask, “How do you feel about us?” and if there are any big changes — moving in, getting engaged, going on holiday— make sure you talk about them regularly. It gives you both an important platform to air concerns.
1. Believe things can exchange
Part of having positive conversation and communication is having a positive attitude. Don’t approach problems as though they’re impossible to solve.
1. Respond
If your partner is reaching out to you, be there to meet them. Couples try to ‘ get each others attention throughout the day, whether it’s for support, conversation, interest, play, affirmation, feeling connected or for affection,“Each of these moments is an opportunity to connect with your partner. A person should look for someone who responds to them, or at least acknowledges them when they try to get their attention, because it shows that they are meeting your emotional needs —or at least trying to.”

Whether it’s just talking about their day or trying to discuss big issues, recognize that they’re reaching out and meet them.
1. Talk things through before they happen
If you know you have a stressful time coming up, touch base beforehand.
1. Say “thank you” and always be grateful even for the little things
“A great way to build intimacy is expressing gratitude for something thoughtful your partner did that day,” it really is very simple. The words thank you and well done go a long way.
1. Discuss your sexual fantasies
Being able to talk about sex openly doesn’t just mean you’ll both be more satisfied. It shows a real connection.
1. Communicate during sex
You don’t need to be into dirty talk to communicate during sex. Giving verbal cues is great, but moaning, leading their hands, even just saying what feels good are all great ways to make sure that the communication is happening in all areas of your relationship — bedroom included.
1. Pick your timing
So often we bring something up when we’re feeling frustrated or annoyed. But pick your timing. Don’t bring up a big problem if there’s no time to discuss it properly. Don’t approach your partner with a bunch of small problems while the stressing about something big. You’ll know when it’s a good time.
1. Take the time to compliment and praise each other
If you get too comfortable with each other, it’s easy to only bring things up if they’re bothering you. You start to get complacent about the good things and take them for granted, which can breed resentment. Keep pointing out what you appreciate and love about each other.

It might feel as though communication is all about those big, deep conversations. In reality, it’s all about maintaining the little things. You may not get it all at once but keep trying. I wish you all the best.
July 18, 2020
Are all men potential rapists?

By Vera Chidi-Maha

No doubt in my mind we all know that rape is the crime of forcing someone to have sex especially by using violence. Incredibly, the act of rape from a man to a woman is steadily on the increase, research has shown. It is not only a Nigerian thing but a global phenomenon. The British crime survey estimates that 47,000 rapes occur each year yet sadly, the numbers continue to rise. Back home here in Nigeria, the statistics might not be so accurate. The reason is not farfetched; in this part of the world, the society attaches stigma to a lady who is bold enough to go to court and report a case of rape. Though I am open for correction, but the worst part of the scenario is that some of our men folk often put the whole blame on women.

Okay, take this;

Act one, scene one, a man asks a lady out for a drink or two, she turns him down. He becomes persistent, she finally says “yes’ why not”? He takes her out; he asks her out again on a lunch date; she says to herself;” oh, he’s so sweet; and again why not a harmless lunch date. So they do lunch. Then he goes further, calls her up yet again, asks her out on a dinner date; she thinks to herself: “What’s a harmless dinner date; with this “ gentleman” “after all, he’s been so patient and sweet; then she does a dinner date with him. On her way home; he gets her a cab and gives her a few thousands of naira for her “recharge card”.

Act one, scene two

He thinks to himself (believe me, this is the thought of the typical average “Nigerian man”) ah; I have spent a lot on this babe, it is payback time! I have invested; it is time for me to reap from my investment. So he calls her up again and offers an encore of a lunch date. She thinks to herself, “this guy appears sweet and nice, but he is not really my type’ so, she turns him down. He sends her ceaseless and countless text messages professing his undying love for her. He meets a brickwall. He intensifies his effort; he vows to himself; I will not lose this babe, I must not lose this babe. (we all know his motive is certainly not love, it is not even obsession for her, it is simply that rejection of his overture will not be acceptable to him; not after spending…) so, he continues to woo her; sends her flowers and teddy bears. Her resistance begins to gradually crumble; and then she thinks to herself (this thought process is also typical of some average Nigerian ladies) “this guy has tried; I feel sorry for him, I don’t see why I can’t be friends with him on a platonic level.

Act one, scene three

He attempts again to ask her out on a dinner date; this time around he becomes more daring though in a subtle manner; he offers to cook her dinner at his apartment. “I have never cooked for a woman before” he says. So, after a brief thought; she feels; oh, he is so sweet and generous; I am sure a harmless dinner cannot go wrong. “So, she gets dressed up, arms herself with the address he sent to her in box and found her way to his doorstep, then presses the doorbell. He opens up the door, obviously delighted that tonight; will be the night that he takes his long awaited… (Please, readers do fill in the blanks). He ushers her in, the room is cozy, everything is in place, the light is dim and romantic; there was candle light on the table, soft music was coming from another corner of the room. He makes her comfortable; offers her a glass of red wine; while she is sipping, he dashes to the kitchen, gets the dinner ready. They have dinner; “Hmmm, this is really nice, she complements; and things for a couple of minutes goes as planned. After dinner, she offers to help with the dishes, he politely turns her down; deep down he is thinking “don’t worry, we are going on to bigger and better things”.

He comes out from the kitchen, sits right next to her on the comfortable sofa. His sitting position becomes a little uncomfortable for her, so she moves slightly away; he moves closer, she moves further away, at his third attempt to move closer again she suddenly gets up and announces she is leaving. “Thank you very much, she says, I have had a wonderful time; you are indeed a fine cook; but I would like to take my leave now”. He says to her, “why would you want to leave now; the night is still young. At her insistence on leaving, he surprisingly drops his gentleman act; and forces her back to the sofa; she attempts to get up; she can’t because he is too strong for her, he forces a kiss on her lips; she moves her hands behind her. At this point she knows, this is the right time to panic. She manages to say “no” “no” to him, “no” means “yes”.

He continues to fondle her; his hands and mouth begin to go everywhere, her clothes are up, she is scared, she tries to scream but all she could mutter is a quiet “no” she knows he is much stronger than she is; he reaches for her pants, she struggles, he gets angrier and more aggressive by the minutes, he tears her underpants…hot tears stream down her face, this is a nightmare she thinks. She prays, to wake up. He forcibly enters her deeper and deeper. It hurts her, she stops struggling knowing that this was a lost battle. It was a long agonizing and worst moment of her life. He gets up, tells her to clean herself up and leave! To him, the monstrous mission is accomplished. She gets into the still quiet night to the comfort of her apartment. She takes her bath, still feeling pains all over her body; she quietly climbs into her warm, waiting bed and cries herself to sleep. Days after the rape incident, she has refused to sue him, for fear of being stigmatized by the public and society at large. She still lives with the bitter experience till date.

This is not the first evidence I have that suggests that rape might be a crime of opportunity as much as of impulse. According to research; back in the 1970’s and early 80’s, a number of highly controversial psychological projects sprang up at colleges in the United State, analysing male attitudes to rape. Half of a group of high school males, for instance, said they believed it is acceptable “for a guy to hold a girl down and force her to have sexual intercourse “if he found her sexually attractive. In a survey of 7,000 men, conducted by Shere Hite, 46 per cent responded in the affirmative to the question, “Have you ever wanted to rape a woman”

Arguably, the most distressing statistics came from a study conducted at the University of California in 1980. A group of men was read a story in which a woman politely refuses a man’s offer of a lift home. Enraged by this perceived rejection, the man holds a knife to her throat and proceeds to full intercourse, the victim protesting wildly throughout the attack. Asked whether they might behave similarly, 17 per cent of respondents said yes, while 51 per cent agreed there was some likelihood that they would but only if they could be sure they would get away with it. The results of this study, and many others like it, are enough to make us ponder on our view on rape, even in this part of the world.

What is both interesting and shocking is that the act of rape is not limited to single or people that are not officially a couple. I have recently been told in person that rape is even present in some marriages! Yes, it’s true.

Act two, scene one

Bolaji and Theresa have been married for eight years. They love each other. they have kids and live in a dream home. Theirs is what one would call the ideal home and the ideal family. That is when you look at them from the outside.

The problem is things are not always what they seem. Unknown to many, their marriages have been sexless for over eight months.

Act two, scene two

Theresa for over eight months has been punishing Bolaji, her husband of eight years for cheating on her with their maid. Through the eight months, Bolaji will plead almost every night for sex, while the wife will turn the other way, and all were always in place. Then one night, Bolaji could not take it anymore; he had done all he could to get his wife to forgive him. He decided enough was enough. Before they had these issues; they were always inseparable in bed. This fateful night, Bolaji, at first, attempted to plead to his wife for sex, as she prepared to turn him down again, he did the worst. He forced himself on her, tore her underpants and the rest, as they say, is… yes, history.

The good news is this, change is possible. There are a million and one way, to win us without using force. You know women need to be pampered, and loved. No matter how bad or resistant we might be; please remain yourself. Do not allow any woman bring out the worst in you, or turn you to a rapist.

July 18, 2020
Authorities fret as COVID-19 spreads

There is palpable anxiety as the authorities battle the spread of the Coronavirus across communities in the Federal Capital Territory. GBENGA OMOKHUNU reports.

The daily discovery of high number of coronavirus (COVID-19) cases in the suburbs of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja has become a source of worry to residents as they struggle to stay safe.

The development has heightened tension among residents across the six area councils in the FCT, namely; Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Abaji, Bwari, Gwagwalada, Kuje and Kwali. Since the first three COVID-19 cases were confirmed in the FCT on March 20, 2020, government and major stakeholders have been battling to curb the spread. Community transmission, following daily tests, has also shown that the pandemic has gotten deep into the suburbs.

A resident of Mabushi, Joy Omolola, who spoke with our correspondent, expressed worry over the spread of the pandemic. She said many residents still disobey the safety rules. Another resident in Kuje, Mr. Albert Ibrahim, said: “We should behave ourselves and do things the right way. Compared to what has been happening in other lands, we are very lucky and should not take God for granted. With Mabushi and Gishiri now on the NCDC radar, who knows what will become of the other suburbs and even the metropolitan Abuja. ”

The development necessitated an emergency meeting of stakeholders, including religious, traditional and political leaders involved in the fight against the dreaded pandemic in the capital territory.

FCT Minister, Malam Muhammad Bello expressed sadness at the attitude of council chairmen and royal fathers in handling the spread at the grassroots level.

The minister urged the royal fathers and Area Council Chairmen in the FCT to take on the responsibility of educating and sensitising residents at the grassroots level on the need to adhere to established protocols.

The meeting also had in attendance, the Director General of Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, the National Coordinator of the Presidential Task Force on COVID -19, Dr Sani Aliyu, FCT Minister of State, Dr Ramatu Aliyu, amongst other participants. While pledging the commitment of the FCT Administration to the fight against the virus, the minister said defeating it required a collective responsibility by all and urged all stakeholders to also play their part by supporting the efforts of the administration.

FCT Minister of State Dr Ramatu Aliyu warned against stigmatisation of COVID-19 patients, who she said, did not deliberately seek to be infected. Aliyu also called for the collective efforts of all stakeholders in the fight against the pandemic. She advised residents to disregard misinformation that government was involved in the spread of the virus, adding that they should instead focus on curbing its spread through obedience to extant guidelines of wearing face masks, maintaining personal hygiene and observing social distancing. Aliyu also said it would take collective efforts by all to contain community transmission.

Dr. Ihekweazu commended the FCT Administration for the construction of the road leading to the National Reference Laboratory at Gaduwa, which he said has increased the efficiency of the facility. Ihekweazu also commended the leadership of the FCT Administration for being proactive in its approach to battling the pandemic and also charged the traditional rulers on sensitising the people at the grassroots level. He noted that the rate at which the pandemic is spreading at the grassroots level is alarming.

The National Coordinator of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19, Dr. Sani Aliyu, also said that the best way to fight the pandemic is through attitudinal change on the part of the people. This, he said, is where the traditional and religious leaders come in through community engagement.

According to him, the major challenge is how to stay alive while the pandemic lasts. State Epidemiologist, Dr. Doris John, gave an overview of the spread while also stressing the rising level of community transmission. John also stated that poor adherence to preventive measures has increased the spread of the virus while late presentation of cases has led to increased number of fatalities. She disclosed that the major challenges faced by health workers in the fight against the pandemic are stigmatisation, denial, myth and misconception.

She also said many confirmed cases refused to be evacuated to treatment centres while there is low involvement of key stakeholders at the community levels. Infections among frontline health workers are also increasing with the number of imported cases into the FCT also on the rise. Other challenges include inadequate logistics (vehicle), low case-contact ratio, poor adherence to non-pharmaceutical preventive measures and inadequate funds to implement incidence Action Plan.

July 17, 2020
Why boxing is dying gradually

Though Nigeria first participated at the 1952 Olympic Games in Helsinki, the country’s first medal was at Tokyo 1964 coincidentally won in the boxing event by Nojim Maiyegun. Of the 24 medals won by Nigeria at the Olympics from five sports, boxing contributed six which is the second highest behind athletics which won 13. But it seems that boxing in Nigeria is now a shadow of itself and correspondent OLUWAMAYOMIKUN OREKOYA x-rays the state of boxing in Nigeria

BOXING is the first sport that earned Nigeria her first medal at the Olympic Games but boxing’s fortune is on a free fall in the country, considering what transpired when Nigeria failed to present a team for the African Olympic Qualifiers held in Senegal earlier this year.

Gone are the glorious days when boxing was such a spectacle on the Nigerian sporting scene and today pugilism is now a shadow of itself but what really went wrong over the years?

It was Duncan Dokiwari that won the last medal for Nigeria at the Atlanta 1996 Olympic Games in the United States and since then boxing has not made a meaningful impact at the Olympic Games.

Efe Ajagba who is now a professional boxer in the United States, was the last boxer to have presented Nigeria at the Olympic Games in Rio, Brazil but the state of the sport has become a source of concern to boxing enthusiasts across the country.

Femi Babafemi, a former National coach, who led Nigeria to the Commonwealth Games in Delhi India in 2006 recalled with some nostalgia: “In our time, you had to be good in the amateur scene and compete in international competitions like the Commonwealth and Olympic Games before you venture into professional boxing.

“ Things have drastically changed over the years and almost everyone decides to join the professional ranks in search of money. Our professional boxers find it difficult to win international titles because our amateur system is dead,” Babafemi lamented.

Babafemi’s sentiment was echoed by foremost boxing coach Joe Mensah as he expressed his regret over the poor state of boxing in Nigeria on the background that the country is set to miss the Olympics boxing event for the first time since 1976.

Mensah lamented Nigeria ‘s absence at the African Olympics Qualifiers for Tokyo 2020 in Senegal due to lack of funds and Team Nigeria now has the World Olympic Qualifying Tournament in France as the last option to qualify for the event that has not been missed since the Montreal 1976 Games in Canada.

•Joe Mensah

“The government has neglected boxing in Nigeria; the team could not even make the Olympic qualifiers in Senegal earlier in the year, and it’s very strange they now think they can make it to the final qualifiers in France and against better boxers from across the world,” lamented Mensah who is regarded as one of the best trainers in the country.

“The present boxing authorities are a joke, they don’t care or love the sport, and all they care about is being members of one international body or the other and globetrotting.”

Equally, President of Nigeria Boxing Board of Control, Rafiu Ladipo, recently bemoaned the terrible state of the national boxing gymnasium, adding that unless something was done urgently; producing a home-grown world boxing champion would be a miracle.

“If you take a visit to the Brai Ayonote Boxing Gym at the National Stadium in Lagos, you will be disappointed because it is in a sorry state where all that exist are punching bags and nothing else,” he stated. “We cannot compare our gym with the likes you have in the U.S. or the U.K. where everything is top notch that gives the boxer the opportunity to be a world beater.”

Ladipo, however, lauded the efforts of the organisers of the GOtv Boxing Night who have spearheaded the revival of the sport on the professional scene since its first edition five years ago.

He said: “As a stakeholder in boxing, I will love to commend the efforts of the GOtv Boxing Night and Flykite Promotions for their unflinching support given to boxing ever since they started.”

Funding Blues for promoter

“Funding remains our biggest challenge,” explained Jenkins Alumona of Flykite Promotions , the brains behind the novel GOtv Boxing Night. “We don’t have enough companies joining with the rebirth of boxing because the sport in general has diminished in terms of participation and fights being held by promotions.

“Boxing thrives on a large number of promotions every year because if the professional boxers don’t get enough fights how can you discover new boxers so why should people put their hats into the race.”

Despite the peculiar problems, the GOtv Boxing Night, from its humble beginnings in 2014, has seen the emergence of the likes of Oto ‘JoeBoy’ Joseph, Olaide Fijabi, Taiwo ‘Esepo’ Agbaje dazzling the teaming fans, who against all odds, have turned the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Stadium into a boxing mecca of some sort, filling it with crowds that would leave traditional football clubs like Enugu Rangers, 3SC and Bendel Insurance green with envy.

•Dick Tiger

”The only organisation that has been consistent in boxing has been GOtv,” noted Alumona.

“ We had some companies partnering with us in the past but did not stay long enough like GOtv has. So in order for boxing to thrive we need more sponsors, both local and international.”

Importance of quality gyms

Meanwhile, Chairman, MultiChoice Nigeria and GOtv Boxing ,Adewunmi Ogunsanya, is satisfied with the progress of boxing in the country since his organisation intervened in 2014, stressing the importance of proper training facilities for boxers in order to accelerate their progress in the sport.

GOtv had recently launched a 30-bed multimillion-naira boxing gym, funded by Ogunsanya, conceived as a pre-bout preparation facility for local and international boxers coming to fight in Nigeria as well as an academy for nurturing young and promising boxers to stardom.

Ogunsanya said: “We are happy about the progress Nigerian boxing has made since the intervention through GOtv Boxing Night began in 2014. But there is a need to accelerate the progress by ensuring we address the dearth of training facilities in the country.

“We have talented boxers, who are disadvantaged by the inadequacy of training facilities and proper grooming. We believe that this gym will go a long way in addressing that challenge and help to bring our boxers to par with their colleagues abroad,” he added

Robust policy

Remi Aboderin, the general secretary Nigerian Boxing Board of Control (NBB of C) and the West African Boxing Union, (WABU) President believes all hands must be on deck to create good boxers , saying that boxing is capable of taking crime out of the youths and creating more jobs.

“Beyond money, the right policy must be put in place. This is what will drive sponsorship and money. What do I mean by enabling the environment? Nigeria government needs to make a policy statement that will make corporate bodies know that they should invest in Nigerian sports,” Aboderin said.

“We have better boxers than the likes of Anthony Joshua right here in Nigeria. We have a boxer that was actually taken out after the Olympics; Efe Ajagba. He is one of the best heavyweight fighters in the industry now and he was trained here. He has done 13 professional fights so far and has won nine by TKO.

“Tyson Fury, AJ’s next opponent is already talking about Ajagba. We have the materials, what we do not have is the enabling environment. For Fury to call Ajagba out means that he is good,” he said.

Experience is key

Yet Obisia Nwankpa, a household name in boxing in Nigeria, believes relegating to the background experienced coaches and boxers who played important roles during the golden years is another major reason why the state of boxing is retrogressing.

The former Commonwealth and African champion said: “I spent over 27 active years in the ring as a boxer and I know what is wrong with boxing in Nigeria.

Hogan Bassey

“When the standard of boxing was falling in the United States, the authorities brought both professional and amateur boxing legends to a roundtable to proffer solutions to the problem and they came out with the idea of potential power which the American boxers lacked then,” Nwankpa recalled.” Their input eventually revived the game in the US; we should try the same method in Nigeria, boxing legends would surely suggest the way forward.

“But I will not be surprised if the programme I used then to train the boxers is what is still being used to train the boxers in the national camp today because things have been so bad but we keep forgetting that every programme has its lifespan.”

Ladies not left out

2018 Commonwealth Games athlete and two-time Lagos State Governor’s Belt winner Ayisat Oriyomi feels female boxers, like their male counterparts, are mostly underpaid in Nigeria, abandoned by the authorities until a tournament is on the horizon and attend a few tournaments, local or international, to gain the desired exposure.

Oriyomi said: “When I see boxers from other countries at competitions, it is very clear they get quality training and I think they are well supported. Here in Nigeria we are not well off.

“Our training conditions are hardly comfortable and the facilities and equipment are mostly out-dated. Boxing in Nigeria is not encouraging at all, especially for a female. I am still in the sport because of the passion I have for it.

“I may have won prizes and travelled across the world but that doesn’t mean I earn big. I don’t feel like a champion and maybe I don’t look like one either. Boxing hardly feeds me or pays my children’s school fees, “she lamented.

But National team coach Tony Konyegwachie believes that Nigeria female boxers, despite not appealing to many audiences, can rule the world if given the right support.

“While Women’s boxing in Nigeria started in the 1980’s, they only recently started commanding the respect they deserve in and out of the ring yet earn far less than their male counterparts although the likes of Helen Joseph and Edith Ogoke have found fame and fortune fighting abroad,” Konyegwachie said.

“Female Boxing in Nigeria has attained international recognition and is developing every day. They can rule the world, given the necessary attention. In Africa, we are number one.

“In fact, these women have picked up more medals than the men. At the last Africa Games in Morocco, the only gold medal in boxing was from the women. What is needed is more exposure to regular competitions and sponsorship from corporate bodies,” he added.

It remains to be seen how well boxing will fare in the nearest future as stakeholders continue to search the formula to revive the good old boxing trade in Nigeria.

July 17, 2020