The Nation Newspaper

Category: People & Politics

  • Community paper publisher Olowosago: I’ve operated successfully for 40 years without loan or contract

    Community paper publisher Olowosago: I’ve operated successfully for 40 years without loan or contract

    •Reveals his success secrets

    •Recalls near-death experiences

    Ahead of the 40thanniversary of one of Nigeria’s most enduring community newspapers, ‘Oriwu Sun’ a tabloid located in Ikorodu, Lagos, its publisher, Chief Monsor Olowosago, shares with Assistant Editor, Emmanuel Badejo the challenges that came with the paper’s success, among other issues. Excerpts:

    What prompted you into community newspaper production?

    I began my voyage into journalism in Britain. I graduated from the famous London College of Journalism. While I was there, I noticed a lot of community newspapers in London. It dawned on me that we didn’t have such in Nigeria, and I was determined to try it out when I returned to the country. 

    But I didn’t start immediately I returned from London. Between 1977 and 1979, I worked in some newspapers. By 1980 when ‘Concord’ took off, I joined the paper. I worked under the late Dele Giwa; first, as a sub-editor and later as a production editor for Sunday Concord. I was there for five years.

    In 1985, I resigned to start ‘Oriwu Sun’.  I began operations in a two-bedroom apartment in a family house in Ikorodu, and I thank God that that little baby born almost 40 years ago, has grown and is still counting.

    Was it your choice to study journalism or you got into it by accident?

    Yes, it was my choice. It had been destined that journalism would make me popular. My interest in journalism began right from my secondary school days when I started writing articles that were published by a national newspaper, precisely, ‘Daily Times’. That further aroused my interest to go into journalism.

    With my father’s support, I travelled to Germany. But I could not begin my training there due to language barrier. Thereafter, I moved to Aberdeen College of Commerce, where I had my A level study. After that, I went for journalism and I graduated in 1977.

    When I returned, ‘Daily Express’ hired me. I was there as a chief sub-editor and went to join ‘Concord’ in 1980. I left Concord to start ‘Oriwu Sun’ in 1985.

    How has the journey been four decades on?

    In fact, I never thought I would reach 40 years with the paper. Let me say that it has been God’s grace that has sustained me these decades. I have never done any other thing apart from journalism. By April 25, 2025, Oriwu Sun will be 40 years old.

    Let me say that our beginning was very turbulent. Due to some of the stories I was publishing, some big guys in Ikorodu saw me as a threat. During that period, I was attacked a couple of times. Many of those attacking me didn’t see anything good in what I was doing. Rather, they saw me as an enemy of the town. 

    Those early days’ near-death experiences made me tougher and to rethink and restrategise my style of reporting.  The refocusing gave me the needed acceptance from the people.

    This tabloid began with a few pages. Today, its pagination has tremendously increased. What have you been doing differently to attain this feat?

    What can kill any newspaper is lack of advertisement. This is not applicable to Nigeria alone; the story is the same all over the world. But thanks to the late Chief Moshood Abiola, who used his printing press to assist me. I also made use of part-time reporters from Concord. I was able to understand the market and tailored my reporting style to meet their needs. I had to balance investigation with socially acceptable news.

    You said you had to change your style of reporting at a time. Are you insinuating that journalists should be cowardly and timid?

    No, that is not what I’m saying. As journalists of conscience, we must balance bravery with truthfulness and fairness.  We should not be like a hit-and-run driver. We’ve heard of journalists that were killed in their prime, yet, nothing came out of their death. And producing a community paper like ours exposes the publisher the more because you live within the community.

    The press is the fourth estate of the realm, which should always hold the government accountable…

    (Cuts in) From my experience, journalists are not to be averse to the government. But we are to ensure we hold the government at all levels accountable to the people. And where you have to highlight some wrong doings with the government, you shouldn’t do it as if you’re out to bring down the government. That has been my strength. I have been using ‘Oriwu Sun’ platform to engage the government, particularly at the local level, to bring social engineering and development to our communities. 

    What else have you done or been doing alongside journalism?

    I’ve published this newspaper for 40 years non-stop, and I’ve never done anything in my life besides journalism. I’ve neither collected contracts nor taken loans in my life. I’m contented.

    As interesting as journalism can be, the profession is also delicate.  That is why as a practitioner, you must take all necessary precautions before publishing anything. I have religiously kept to this rule over the years, and it has paid off. Reporters and editors must keep to the rule of the game, if they want to go far on the job.

    Journalists are classified as endangered species.  In your years of practice, can you recall some nasty experiences you’ve had?

    Ah! I’ve had many nasty experiences, though that was in the early days of my publication.  Cartels of cocaine pushers were many in Ikorodu. I decided to use my paper to expose them. Some of these guys and their backers decided to come for me. It was God that saved my life then.

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    I’ve since learnt the new approach I now use. If I want to criticize anybody, I’ll do so in a milder way, so that your good intention won’t be misunderstood. That is one of the strategies that have sustained me till today.

    In this digital age, how relevant is community newspaper production?

    The importance of community newspapering to national development cannot be over-emphasised. It is at the vanguard of grassroots development and also brings issues of local communities to national attention, especially with the deft deployment of the pervasive influence of the internet and its social media offshoots. It is only a foolish government that will not use community journalism as its own propaganda, because community newspapers are very close to the grassroots. And due to the fact that news is close, community dwellers have no choice but to read your paper.

    For instance, my job is to highlight the sufferings of the downtrodden and promote the government vis-a-vis the community on what they are lacking and who and who are the community champions. We also liaise the communities with the state.

    There are many newspapers on the newsstand.  What differentiates ‘Oriwu Sun’ from others?

    ‘Oriwu Sun’ is not like the defunct Concord or ‘The Nation’ or any other daily. It is quite different. I have explicitly answered this question through my book, ‘Practical Community Newspaper Reporting and Production’ published in 2023. The book contains all my experiences on this job in the last 40 years.

    Running a community newspaper is not like other national dailies, you have to be very intentional to win the readers’ patronage. That’s how I was able to get the attention of past governors in major states.

    This paper started in Ikorodu and you have remained here. How has Oriwu Sun positively impacted this sprawling community?

    My paper has brought so many developments to Ikorodu and its environs. We started by torch-lighting wrong practices, we enlightened the communities, appealed to the government where necessary and brought about the right attitude. With this paper, there have been several government’ interventions running into millions in the education sector in Ikorodu.

    On personal level, I have given numerous scholarships without discriminating against anybody. Interestingly, I do many of these quietly.  With this community paper, we have been able to change things within the community.

    How have you been able to manage libel cases?

    Since the inception of this paper, to God be the glory, we’ve had just two libel cases. This tells you how we’ve been very careful with our gate-keeping. While we are almost done with the first case, the second case is still in court. We have observed that some libel cases are meant to gag the press from delivering its constitutionally assigned duty to the society. Therefore, newspaper houses and managers should not be afraid to respond to frivolous libel suits.

    What’s your sustainability plan?

    That is a very good question. I have five children, who are all graduates, doing well in their various disciplines. Ironically, none of them is into journalism. So, if your question relates to the possibility of any of my children taking over from me; it is doubtful.

    I am forever grateful to God for how far He has enabled me to go. So, if I die today, I believe it is God’s will for me. I do not subscribe to a school of thought that canvasses killing somebody like me with diabolical means.  I am not saying that doesn’t exist.

    On the sustainability plan, none of my children is interested in journalism. Maybe as time goes on, I can sell the name to whosoever. I may bequeath the legacy to any of my staff I find worthy. 

    At this stage, who takes over is not one of my problems. I am glad that at least God has helped me to make a name in community journalism not just in Ikorodu, Lagos State, but in Nigeria. 

    You are now in your mid-70s. How long do you still intend to be producing this tabloid?

    I will love to do it as long as I live. In fact, I’ll also like ‘Oriwu Sun’ to outlive me. But everything depends on available funds. Let me use this medium to appreciate all who have been supporting us financially. Without them, this paper would not have gone this far. All our governors in Lagos State and numerous illustrious sons and daughters of Ikorodu and beyond have stood by us through thick and thin, and I thank them for their benevolence.

    When we started, we had fund constraints. But these policy makers have assisted us with advertisements. Ha, any paper that is not drawing enough advert will not last on the news stand. And I didn’t and still do not take this for granted as I still canvass for advertisements now.

    Are you not worried that community newspapers are not popular in Nigeria?

    Well, it is worrisome, I must confess. It is unfortunate that many of our youths are not ready to take such risk, engage in hard labour such as journalism. They want quick money now. Notwithstanding, I am trying to encourage many others to focus on community newspaper production.

    The only thing in the future is community journalism. In London, in America, everywhere in Europe, the majority of the newspapers there are 80 to 90 per cent community newspapers. But in this clime, we emphasise national dailies over community dailies.

    To make it worse, some of us who are into community paper today are not serious and neither understand the nitty-gritty of community newspaper production and management nor ready to pay the sacrifice.

    In London, they don’t sell community paper. They just put it at the train station, in your house, or any other public space free of charge. They can afford to do that because such papers enjoy huge advertisers’ patronage.

  • UK returnee: My nasty experience as prison officer for 26 years

    UK returnee: My nasty experience as prison officer for 26 years

    She had no inkling of what lay ahead of the prison walls, but her passion and fascination for the service endeared her. And for 26 years, Kenny Adekoya witnessed, first hand, life inside the prisons albeit as an official. In this interview with MUYIWA LUCAS, the Anglo-Nigerian recalls the gripping experience that changed her life forever, ventilating her frustrations and expression in her service year through her books. Excerpts:

    What was your childhood like?

    My parents sent my twin sister and I back to Nigeria in 1977 and we attended Methodist Girls High School, Yaba. After that we both sat for A-Levels. I proceeded to  Lagos State College of Technology, while my twin sister stayed at Methodist Girls High School for her A-Levels. I failed my A-Levels and my twin sister went on to University of Ife. That extra year at home without my twin and being at home with my parents, was pure torture. This was later aggravated by the fact that my father insisted that I  had to go to Ogun State University (OSU).

    After crying blood over his decision,  it actually turned out to be one of the best decisions my father could have made for me, as I found university very easy, compared to when I first  came from abroad. The educational  system was very different and I actually struggled at Methodist Girls High School and failed my A-Levels woefully twice. But my father had insisted that I take my JAMB, and that was how I got into OSU, which turned out to be one of the best four years of my life. I loved OSU. That was between 1984 and 1989. I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History.

    Like most students in university, I played around for the first two years until one of my professors pulled me up and told me, ‘You don’t read and yet you pass. What do you think would happen if you actually read?’ He told me I had two years left to get a decent grade. He then said that his other students were studying around the clock, but just scrapping by in their grades. ‘I can see you’re not reading, but you’re still passing your examines.’

    So that was when I decided to buckle up and get serious with my studies. I came out with a Second Class (Lower Division) then in 1990, I did my one year National Youth Service in Calabar and after that, I went back to the UK.

    How did you find life in the UK? 

    Like everything else in the UK, you start with the menial jobs, because that is what they made you believe you were only good for.  I got my first job at Pizza Hut, but they sacked me. They told me I was not good enough.  I then went to work in McDonald’s, they sacked me there as well. I’ll never forget, it was on the 1st of October. So, I just decided that was it, I was going to stay in bed until January.

    At this point, my cousins asked me to pack my bags and move down to the South East of London, so I did. The house share that I was living in comprised of people from other parts of Africa. One day, one of them asked me, ‘Don’t you want to work?’ I thought that maybe it was time. I got up and did something. They were doing these cleaning jobs in some colleges, so I joined them. 

    I remember what really stood out for me was the fact that the manager in charge of the cleaning crew, signed me up for a three-year contract, so when I told the guy that I was leaving, his first response was, but your contract is for three years. All I could think was ‘you think my father sent me to school to clean for three years.’ Needless to say, I left that job, as an old university roommate had told me about a Parking Company called APCOA, which incidentally had many Nigerians working there, and many of us were there for about four to five years.

    How did you get the prison service job?

    I think it suddenly dawned on a lot of us that it was time for us to get real jobs. So many of us went to the underground,  Royal Mail, the National Health Service, Teaching, and  a few of us chose the prison service. The first time I went to attend a JSAC, which is an Assessment Centre at HMP Wandsworth, where you had to do a number of role plays, both my colleague and I failed the JSAC.  A few, weeks later, an advertisement came out in the Evening Standard seeking female applicants for the job of a Prison Officer at HMP Holloway. I used to have a morbid fascination with Holloway, especially the stories behind its history, so I applied for a job there.

    What was your experience as a prison officer like?

    The first thing I have to say about prison service is that it wasn’t the prisoners who were the problem, I mean you have a prisoner, you know, they are in prison because they have committed a crime. They have been sentenced and they are paying their debt back to the society. I used to get along with the prisoners, as long as you didn’t lie to them and you told them as it was, they didn’t have a problem. A lot of them used to talk to me. Even when I moved to the male estate at Brixton, the prisoners always talked to me, it was almost as if they needed to get things off their chest.  That was when you realised that a lot of these prisoners had very sad, tragic lives, especially the women.

    It was very hard with the women because you just think, this could be my younger sister and that’s when you wake up to how easy it is to end up in prison. The biggest problems for most of these girls were their friends and the people they associated with. It was tragic. I mean, when girls cut up and self-harmed, it was on another level. It was a very sad time in the prison service, especially in the female estates.

    The main and only problem in the prison service was the  management. It still exists in a different century.  It took us a while to realise that they actually did not reckon with us. As far as they were concerned, we were a means to an end. If you’re in a prison with majority of black prisoners, they noticed that we got on with them. We could talk to them. They would just come in and throw a spanner in the works and cause untold problems.

    Because of the nature of our backgrounds, the prisoners would listen to what we said, apart from when the gang element came in. Our counterparts treated them appallingly and would talk down on them, and I would tell them, you are talking to a gangster and they would wonder why they were being beaten up.

    When you say the problem is the management, what do you mean?

    The problem was the management- the staff. I think you have to read my book to understand what Holloway represented, otherwise I might end up writing a booklet. Management operated like they were still in the colonial era- ‘People of Colour’ were simply beneath them. Unless you were prepared to bow down and kiss their feet, or you adopted the attitude of ‘yes sir, no sir, three bags full,’ you were not going anywhere in your career.

    I got promoted to senior officer and that was where I stayed for the next 20 years because they realised that, with this one, there was no way they would ever get what they wanted from me. We Nigerians are very stubborn by nature. But they have a systematic way in which they slow your career down, they apply rules and regulations, which little by little starts to break you down. I suppose my breaking down took longer than most, as I was extremely stubborn and I hated injustice in all its ramifications. But frustrations and mental, physical and emotional wellbeing eventually set in and they eventually did break me down. They succeeded because it was not just one person I was fighting against but an institution. And it’s not just one person they sent after me; it was nine of them. Where one started, another would take over with the bullying, harassment and intimidation, and it was relentless until they eventually broke me. They viewed us as being stupid because we were black.

    I fell into a very deep depression, whereby I could hardly get out of bed. I was engulfed in a thick cloud of misery that I couldn’t get out of. It took me a while to reach out to family and friends for help, but eventually I had no choice. I think what was even sadder was the fact that colleagues and so called friends I had known and worked with for many years, they just turned their backs on me. They said that we could never beat these people, so I was left to my own devices. They used to say to me that my English was very good and they asked if I went to a public school. I would simply tell them that I went to a school in Nigeria called Methodist Girls High School, where they taught me how to speak the Queen’s English.

    What really baffled me was the fact that a white person could not speak proper English, not to talk of writing it. When we used to read the prisoners letters, I used to think, are they taking the mick, I mean they used to write as they spoke. When I used to write up documents, my colleagues and management would go into panic mode because I would be very explicit in what I wrote, everything had to have a beginning, middle and ending. They used to be very anxious and weary about the things I wrote, because all they did was cover things up, especially the truth. But I refused to be a party to any of that.

    At one point, if I wrote something in a document that they deemed to be incriminating, that document would  just simply disappear. In the days when we had to write reports on a prisoner’s behaviour, which was supposed to have been handed to the Judge, the prisoners would bribe the officers to destroy their documents so the Judge would have no idea about what the prisoner’s behaviour was like in the prison. The prison service eventually came up with a system where they set up a computer system that was literally fool proof and could not be tampered with.  Then a few years later a second system was set up, which was connected to the police, the judges and probation. So, if you wrote something on a prisoner’s case notes, nothing and no one could change it. The only one who could amend the case notes was the person who had imputed the information on the case notes in the first place. But the original information would still remain. So you would have to justify your reasons for amending the case notes. 

    It was a truly nasty, horrendous experience working for the prison service. And after 26 years, I finally retired last year, April. I simply had nothing left to give. However, it was in writing my stories that I was able to heal and move on with my life, and I found my purpose in writing.

    My first book, ‘The Story That Had To Be Told,’ tells of  the trauma I experienced, specifically at HMP Brixton, because it was the worst. In my second book, ‘What really happens in a 21st century British jail,’ it covers my entire 26 year experience as a ‘Person of Colour’ working in the prison service. And my third book is a departure from the first two, as I talk about the different kinds of abuse and exploitation, and I interviewed the brave women who had survived domestic violence.

    Because of the colour of our skin and those staff who came under the umbrella of Protected Characteristics, we suffered unimaginable abuse and trauma through racism, direct and indirect discrimination, bullying, harassment and intimidation, as these traits were embedded in the very fabric of  the British jails. They tried to pretend that it was not there, but by their actions and the way in which they treated us, it was there,  simmering beneath the surfaces.

    Over the last few years, the prison service did try to  make some changes, mainly because they were losing too many staff. So, as usual, they put all these new policies in place to try and combat a lot of the disparity going on between our white colleagues and the staff from black Asian minority ethnic backgrounds. Some of the policies worked, but a lot did not, mainly because the root cause of the problem was never addressed: the managers.

    So what next after your 26 years in the prison service?

    Now my plan is to come back home and write stories about Nigeria, about our vast history, culture and identity, as well as touching on those raw hard-hitting topics which are not particularly nice but need to be told.

    Was it a case of necessity that made you join the prison service?

    It was a passion, I was simply mesmerised  with all of it. I found it absolutely riveting, particularly with Holloway, the mystery of what could be lurking behind those walls. It was not even the case- it was a necessity to get on in a country where it was very difficult for black people. No, I did not even think along those lines. Until you entered the prison service, everything after that was an eye opener.

    I remembered growing up in London and there was a TV Series called ‘Within These Walls.’ It was about woman’s experiences in a female jail, and I believe that was what led to my captivation with Holloway. When I saw the advert in the ‘Evening Standard’, I thought, oh my God! I just jumped at it. Most jobs in those days were advertised in the ‘Evening Standard’. So on a cold rainy day in April 1998, I joined Her Majesty’s Prison Service.

    What were the things you enjoyed while in prison service and what were the low points?

    I think I have put all the low points in my book. The system itself, they really did keep us down and made sure we stayed down. A credit to the prison service is that they do train you very well. They give you life skills that will take you anywhere in the world. I have got to give them that. Along the way, I met a lot of decent people and I learnt to never judge a book by its cover, meaning that you should get to know a person before you pass judgement on them. I also learnt how easy it was to end up in jail, and believe me when I say not everyone serving a prison sentence is actually guilty of a crime.

    Did you at any point get assault or something inside or outside the walls of the prison?

    On the inside, the prisoners would always rain down abuse on you, especially if you told them no. And I did receive a few threats over the years. But in many ways, I was very fortunate that the prisoners never really targeted me. I only got badly injured once, but that was because I intervened when two prisoners were fighting and one of their punches hit me. They were not aiming at me, but as I was standing at the top of the stairs, I fell backwards, down the stairs. I remember I hit my head and it bled and bled. I was in so much pain. It felt like I had been hit with a sledgehammer. It was only afterwards when they tried to give me some painkillers that I realised my right hand was very swollen and I later found out that I had broken four of my metacarpal bones in my right hand. It was whilst I was in hospital that I found out that I had a concussion and a concussion really does mess you up. I had memory blanks, I had to change my glasses.

    My sleep pattern totally changed. Whereas before, whenever I felt tired, I might dose or get up and go straight to bed, after my injury, I would not even dose. I would be out like a light, with no warning. It changed so many things in my life. At that time, I was off work for about nine and a half weeks.

    What would you have done differently from hindsight?

    Hindsight is a wonderful thing, and I have now learnt to pick my battles. I would like to think I am wiser now. At that time, I was very arrogant and full of myself, and I had a very strong aversion to bullies, I just hated bullies. Even as a kid in primary school, my twin sister would go to school nice, neat and proper and return home in that same state, whereas I would come back home with my clothes torn and my hair all over the place, and my dad would beat the living daylights out of me, only for me to do the same thing the next day.

    I always fought for the underdogs. If you bullied someone on my watch, I was there to defend them. I just could not stand bullies. And that’s where the problem stemmed from. I always stood up for people who had no one else to stand up for them.

    However, looking back, one has to ask the question, was it even worth it? I got into so much trouble at home and the people I even stuck my neck out for did not  even appreciate what I had done. So the question, would you do things differently now? I would reply: most definitely, and maybe walk away from a few of the things I did, because in a prison setting, my stubbornness and sense of injustice bordered on stupidity, because I was not fighting a group of people but an institution, and I could never beat them.

    I suppose to my credit, I did finally win my battle against the prison service. But it was at a great cost to me and at a great detriment to my mental, physical and emotional health. The fight literally drained me to the point where I was left an empty shell of my former self.

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    To give credit where credit is due, they did eventually remove some of the narcissistic managers. I mean, they literally walked them out of the establishment and replaced them with new people. The prison service has a major problem recruiting and retaining staff, especially now that the prisons are so violent. About eight years ago, they had to almost double the wages of staff, just so that staff would stay. But staff would still leave and say I’m not doing this job for no amount of money. And the reality was the prison service is not the kind of job you can do for money.

    You talked about gangsters in prison. How did they thrive? Did officers experience any form of compromise?

    Oh yes. You had the young new female officers who had been conditioned and compromised with the prisoners and they ended up smuggling contraband into the prison for the prisoners, like mobile phones, sim cards and drugs. As one of the senior officers on the Residential Wings, I made it a point in my briefings to tell the staff that if they felt that they were being conditioned and compromised, they should come and report it. I explained to staff that once they gave in to a prisoner’s demands for sexual favours, that prisoner owned them and he would then pass them around to the other prisoners. I could not think of anything worse than being owned by a prisoner.

    The gang leaders were proficient in the art of manipulation, as they managed to entice the young boys into their gangs, some as young as 10 years. The gangs were simply cults, and they did whatever the gang leaders told them to do. If I asked 100 boys or teenagers or adults how they got into a gang, they all gave me the same answer: ‘peer pressure’. These guys would tell me: ‘Miss, they sold us a dream’. And they would lavish them with everything, trainers, money, clothes, you name it. But at one point, that dream would come to an end and reality would set in: it is give and take, after all. The gang leaders would tell these young guys I have been giving you this and that, now it’s time for you to pay it back.

    His instructions would be ‘go to that door, and whoever opens the door, shoot them.’ Unfortunately, in a particular instance, they went to the wrong door and ended up killing the wrong man; a family man, who had his sisters, mother and grandmother in the house. I started to go to the courts with the high risk prisoners, and I remember there was one of them who got guilty verdict, and as part of my duty of care, I asked him how he was feeling. His response surprised me as he said, ‘Miss, I’m going to tell you the truth: I either get a life sentence or I get dead.’

    And that was the reality of their lives. They either get a life sentence or they got out and were killed by rival gangs. He further stated that his friend had gotten off a murder charge, but he was dead today. The Judges have no answer to this onslaught of murders, so the best solution they could come up with was to lock them up and throw away the key, because at least that got them off the streets and they were rarely released after they have served their minimum term.

    Any advice to Nigerians who still wish to japa?

    The grass is not greener on the other side. And if you are willing to be frustrated and spoken down to in a derogatory manner by an unskilled, half qualified superior, then you would be fine.

    When I wrote my first book, I had friends and family who called me. They worked in all sectors of society: the National Health Service, the Underground, teachers, you name it. And they said, ‘Oh my God! This is exactly what happens in our workplaces.

    My advice to anyone who wants to travel abroad would be to try and get your first degree here in Nigeria or even better obtain your masters’ degree, because there are so many distractions abroad. They have all those highly qualified skilled programmes – that would be a great opportunity. And if you are determined to relocate abroad, just be ready to be frustrated. You have to be hardworking and ready to persevere more than anything else.

    Can you mention some of the books you have written?

    The first one, which is already out on Amazon, came out last year. It is called, ‘THE STORY THAT HAD TO BE TOLD.’ It was based purely on my experiences in one jail. I wrote it because  I was in such a deep, depressive state. But in writing that book, it became my  outlet for all the pain and anguish I was going through. I was in such a bad state that there were times when I could not even get out of bed, so I just started to write all that I had been through, my experiences, my torment and what they had done to me.  And then I thought, you know what, I want my story out there.

    In fact, before I started on this journey, I had no intention of even talking to anybody about it. I wanted my books to do the talking for me and I would probably only do this in Nigeria because of my literary agent, Deji Onafowokan, but on a very small scale, as I have no desire  whatsoever to keep talking about one of the most painful periods in my life.

    My second book, ‘WHAT REALLY HAPPENS IN A 21ST CENTURY BRITISH JAIL’ concludes the healing process and should be out on Amazon anytime now. My third book, ‘ALL MANNER OF EVIL.’ is now me being a writer.

  • ‘I lived with stigma of school dropout until ten years ago’

    ‘I lived with stigma of school dropout until ten years ago’

    •Reveals how near-death experience in Kano ethnic crisis shaped her world view

    •Says women like Alakija, Okonjo-Iweala inspire her

    Fresh from receiving an honorary doctorate in leadership and corporate governance from- American University of Peace and Governance, the CEO, JC Kline Group, Dr. Joy Ekemezie, could well be described as the face of contemporary successful African youth. Coming from the low-point of being labeled a school dropout and growing up in tumultuous Northern Nigeria, Ekemezie now holds a master’s degree in Business Administration and sits atop a group of successful businesses, with more in the offing. She shares her story of belief, education, and motherly inspiration with PAUL UKPABIO

    What was growing up like for you?

    Born and raised in Kano State, I reminisce about a pivotal moment from my childhood that continues to echo through my life’s journey. Back when mobile phones were a luxury and communication was a challenge, a crisis swept through our town, prompting my mother, a school proprietor, to swiftly gather me and my siblings into her trusty green beetle. As we maneuvered through deserted streets towards Vukabu Barracks, the designated safe haven during tumultuous times, fear lingered in the air.

    I remember vividly the contrast between the palpable anxiety surrounding us and my mother’s unwavering composure. Her calm demeanor, coupled with quiet prayers invoking the name of Jesus, became a beacon of strength for us children. Witnessing her resilience in the face of uncertainty left a lasting impression on my young mind.

    That defining moment instilled in me the value of remaining steadfast amid life’s storms, of navigating challenges with grace and faith. As I reflect on that experience, it serves as a guidepost in my personal and professional life. I’ve learned to weather uncertainty with poise, to stay composed in the face of adversity, drawing strength from within to tackle obstacles head-on.

    This lesson in resilience and unwavering faith has been a guiding force in my entrepreneurial ventures as well. When faced with a critical business dilemma involving potential losses and operational setbacks, I channeled my mother’s calm resolve. I tackle the situation with confidence and belief that a solution would emerge, avoiding panic and focusing on proactive problem-solving.

    You were recently conferred with an honorary doctoral degree by the American University of Peace and Governance, USA. What is the feeling like?

    A little over a decade ago, I bore the weight of being labeled a school dropout. Today, standing tall with a doctorate degree in hand, the journey from then until now has been nothing short of transformative. As a young woman juggling business to fund my education in Industrial Mathematics, the overwhelming demands of school, work and navigating cultural transitions took a toll.

    The stigma of being labeled a dropout momentarily dented my self-esteem, yet it sparked a fire within me.  So I made a solemn vow not to let labels define my path; instead, I use them as stepping stones to inspire others.  So this doctorate serves as a testament to both humility, recognising a higher power at work, and satisfaction, knowing I can share my story to uplift and empower young women everywhere.

    Aside the honorary doctorate in Leadership and Corporate Governance – American University of Peace and Governance; I have certificates in Owner-Manager Program (Pan-Atlantic University); Developing Analytical Competence for Managing Operations (Pan-Atlantic University); Strategy Execution for Public Leadership (Harvard); Chartered Institute of Personnel Management (CIPM); Diploma in Human Resource Management – CIPM and a Master of Business Administration – National Open University.

    What are your major interests in peace and corporate governance?

    Growing up in the northern region, I have been a witness to various crises that shook me to my core. There were moments when I feared for my life and that of my family, facing the looming threat of insurgency. The haunting memories of past near-death encounters have stayed with me, fueling my deep-rooted passion for advocating peace and unity in our beloved country, Nigeria.

    Having experienced firsthand the devastating impact of insecurity in both the north and now the South-east, I am driven by a strong desire to spread awareness, offer prayers, and actively contribute to fostering harmony and stability. It is crucial for us to understand the profound effects of tribal and ethnic conflicts on our children, the detrimental consequences of insecurity on the economy, and the living standards in affected regions.

    Additionally, corporate governance holds a significant place in my interests. Through my recent participation in the LBS programme, I have gained valuable insights into the importance of corporate governance, reinforcing my dedication to upholding ethical standards and effective management practices in the business world.

    Is a peaceful world possible in the face of inequality?

    There’s a common saying that what is equal doesn’t always seem fair, and what’s fair isn’t always equal. Taking Nigeria as an example, I believe it is possible to achieve peace amidst inequality if the government takes decisive steps toward implementing effective wealth redistribution policies. In various parts of the world, governments adopt different tax strategies, such as progressive, proportional, and regressive taxes, to manage inequality. Nigeria, therefore, could establish policies aimed at cushioning the impact on the less-privileged, thereby managing inequality better and fostering peace.

    You are also a successful business woman. What would you say is the correlation between education and success?

    My mother’s role as a school proprietor laid the foundation for many of my achievements, which I attribute to God and a passion for learning. Throughout my journey, I have embraced continuous learning, recently completing courses at Pan Atlantic University and Harvard Business School. Looking ahead, I am set to embark on a course at Harvard Kennedy School in 2025. As a decade-long entrepreneur, I have discovered that continuous learning serves as a powerful tool, a shortcut that navigates one away from failure. Challenges and setbacks remain inevitable, yet learning reshapes our understanding of failures, nurturing a deeper bond with our businesses, guiding decisions, and amplifying both capacity and momentum. Education surpasses mere knowledge; it involves mastering oneself to a certain degree. Being open to assistance, embracing new information, and maintaining a receptive state are all integral aspects of the learning process. By adopting a learning mindset, akin to tuning a sponge to the frequency of knowledge, I have welcomed individuals eager to contribute to my journey, enhancing my critical thinking skills and offering fresh perspectives on navigating complexities.

    What inspired your venture into the business world?

    I like to refer to myself as a born businesswoman. Looking back to 2007/2008, amidst my part-time studies in Industrial Mathematics, the memory of hustling to sell bags to cover my educational expenses and daily needs remains vivid. Alongside, I cultivated skills in fixing lashes and styling hair, demonstrating my commitment to self-sustenance during my academic pursuits. Guided by the influential presence of my mother, a dedicated proprietress, I absorbed the essence of teaching, crafting lesson notes, and designing examinations for students. Yet, my heart gravitated towards the entrepreneurial realm.

    My mother stands as a beacon of industry, diligence, brilliance and resilience – a role model whose interactions with the Kano government bespoke her values, diligence, and dedication. Through her example, I witnessed the harmonious blend of faith in God and business acumen, observing her navigation through triumphs and setbacks with unwavering strength and determination. Her unwavering spirit and resolute refusal to surrender left an indelible mark on me.

    Read Also: Lagos pilgrims become JP, raise Nigeria’s flag in Israel

    Transitioning to Abuja, my entrepreneurial flair led me to embark on customising bed sheets for hospitality establishments and healthcare facilities while scouting for employment opportunities. It was at this juncture in 2013 that the inception of my company, JC Kline Limited, came to fruition. The aspiration to meaningfully contribute to my nation’s economic fabric, fostering employment prospects, and serving as a beacon of hope for myself, my family and my community ignited a transformative spark within me, shaping the essence of who I am today.

    How have you managed to combine education with business so well?

    Mixing education with business isn’t straightforward and depends a lot on how you view it. Despite the hurdles, like flying to Lagos every month and the intensive nature of the course which often kept me up at night, I kept going. A recent chat with a friend left me with a memorable thought – he said every successful businessperson must embrace continuous learning in whatever form that suits them best. Running three subsidiary companies in different sectors while pursuing further education is challenging, but my drive to make a difference compels me to keep learning.

    The fast pace of the world, especially with technological advancements disrupting traditional business models, demonstrates the need to stay updated. Failures of giants like Nokia and Blackberry, contrasted with the evolution of companies like Apple and Huawei, reinforce the importance of adapting and evolving. I view education as a means of acquiring, assimilating, retaining knowledge and information that positively improve decision-making. The Owner Manager program at Pan Atlantic University helped me restructure my companies, allowing them to function independently under two separate MDs, which has led to consistent results an

    With more female at work places these days, do you see the home front management/marriages being threatened?

    As a female CEO, I find inspiration in women like Folorunsho Alakija, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Malala, Ibukun Awosika, Adaora Umeoji OON, Dr. Owen Omogiafo, Dupe Olushola and many others who are rewriting the story. We’ve witnessed women stepping into groundbreaking roles – Ellen Johnson Sirleaf as Liberia’s first female president, Michele Bachelet leading Chile, and Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah of Namibia. In Nigeria, C.P Hauwa Ibrahim stands out as the first northern woman to become a police commissioner. It is clear women are making strides, but why view this progress as something negative?

    Managing a home and raising a family shouldn’t be the sole duty of women. It’s a joint effort. Both partners must commit daily to making their relationship work. This belief is why I strongly support teaching work-life balance in schools. At Pan-Atlantic University, for example, one course invites families to participate in activities together. I’ve seen firsthand how teamwork and shared goals, like a couple in my program, can strengthen relationships.

    Women’s involvement in the workforce isn’t just about economic benefits or personal achievements. It sets an example for children about equality and cooperation. I hope for a future where the growing presence of women in work is seen positively, sparking conversations on how this can lead to beneficial reforms and a better balance between professional and family life.

  • Segun Aina: Change in societal values responsible for prevalent fraud in banks

    Segun Aina: Change in societal values responsible for prevalent fraud in banks

    • Says it’s important to document our errors so others can learn from them

    The history of banking and fintech in Nigeria is not complete without a mention of former CEO of Fountain Trust Bank, Segun Aina. The widely respected banking professional who recently celebrated three scores and ten spoke with GBENGA ADERANTI about life at 70, his experience in the corporate world, his reasons for not going into politics, and the prevalent fraud in the banking sector, among other issues. Excerpts

    How do you feel clocking 70?

    Reaching 70 feels wonderful. It is a blessing to be alive and in good health, and I am grateful to God for this. This milestone is an opportunity to appreciate everyone who has supported and contributed to my life up to this point.

    You have served in various organisations locally and internationally in different capacities. What is your next plan?

    The future is ultimately in God’s hands. But as humans, we plan. I like to plan ahead — one year, three years, five years, even 10 or 20 years into the future. The journey so far has been interesting: from 30 years in active banking to about 20 years in the fintech ecosystem leadership and now to incubation and acceleration. The next phase is applied research and intellectual work: writing books, creating podcasts and providing platforms for others to contribute to journals and more, on issues that combine theory and practice for societal development. I believe it’s essential to document our experiences—the successes, the failures, what we’ve done well, and what we could have done differently. By documenting, others can learn from our mistakes.

    This endeavour is not just for me but for other leaders who will engage in literary and academic work. I think this will benefit parents, the younger generation and those coming after us. Many young people today, despite being technically, digitally and academically proficient, lack certain skills necessary for harmonious coexistence and real success. The environment and opportunities we had growing up provided a well-rounded education and capacity building that the current generation may lack. We should aim to focus attention on supporting the younger generation, helping them reach their full potential, which will hopefully translate into broader societal benefits.

    Many would expect you to take a political appointment or join politics, but you seem to have distanced yourself from both. What influenced your decision?

    As they say, every human being is a political animal. We all participate in politics as a voter, a card-carrying party member, political office holder, and so on. Talking about being a member of a political party or running for elected offices, we are all endowed with different skills and competencies, and having observed the political landscape in Nigeria from a distance, I realised I might not possess the necessary skills and competencies to succeed in that arena.

    Success, to me, means having a clear purpose, pursuing it diligently, ensuring actions are result-oriented and analysing outcomes to assess their benefits to the organisation and society. To achieve personal goals in politics, one often needs to play the game as it is traditionally played, which might not align with my principles. But in our private capacities, everyone can positively impact society in our little ways and actually be more respected within society.

    Which of your assignments would you describe as the most challenging?

    Every assignment is unique. To be successful, one must embrace challenges, especially when undertaking audacious, innovative tasks that have never been done before. A significant challenge is bringing people along with you, as you can’t work in isolation.

    Being a pioneer means doing things differently and envisioning a future that others might not see. Over the years, I’ve learned how to carry people along, support them to see the vision and incorporate their insights into action plans and decision-making. Every situation came with its challenges, but we managed to overcome them.

    How do you manage to perform different tasks simultaneously?

    It’s about prioritising what’s urgent and important at any given time. I always tell people that you find time for what truly interests you. I would not accept an assignment if it was not important to me or if I was not interested in it. Once committed, I give it my best effort. When handling multiple roles, I approach each as if it is my only responsibility.

    What experience are you unlikely to forget as Chairman of Odua Investment Limited?

    O’dua Investment is an organisation with significant public interest. I was surprised when the governor of my state called me in late April 2020 to inform me if I would be willing to serve as chairman of the board. Accepting the role was challenging, given the company’s history and trajectory.

    We were assured by the governors of the six owner states that they were determined to bring in people with the right pedigree to run it as a commercially focused organisation. With that assurance, I accepted. The first six months to a year were tough, with long meetings and back-to-back sessions to address foundational issues in a company that was then about 45 years old.

    In 2019, you predicted a financial crisis in Nigeria and globally. Do you still hold this view?

    Financial crises occur in cycles, often every 10 years. The last major one was in 2009, so by 2019, another was anticipated. While there were challenges, it wasn’t a global financial crisis. However, the unforeseen COVID-19 pandemic that manifested in 2019 and became pronounced globally in early 2020 posed significant challenges worldwide, with lasting impacts due to the substantial resources governments committed to addressing it. This has led to severe economic crises which most countries are still battling with.

    What was your upbringing like?

    Growing up in Ibadan where I was born was enjoyable. I was fortunate to be born when things worked well—no significant security or economic issues. We had access to quality education and opportunities were based on merit. It was a time of growth and committed leadership focused on building a better future.

    Read Also: Nigeria must build a resilient economy to overcome poverty — Makinde

    Now that you are 70, would you take a traditional title?

    Over the past 30 years, I’ve been offered many titles, which I’ve respectfully declined, with the belief that it was not the right time. Titles are significant in our culture and I value it and respect eminent persons with chieftaincy titles. I’ve always done my part without a chieftaincy title and will continue to in the communities I affiliate with.

    The rate at which young bankers engage in fraud is worrisome. What could be responsible for this?

    The prevalence of fraudulent activities in Nigeria’s banking sector is deeply rooted in warped societal values. Consequently, fraud and corruption is not confined to the banking industry but is a widespread issue affecting various sectors.

    Banks, as custodians of public funds, naturally become focal points for financial crimes. While fraud existed during my early years in banking, it was neither as widespread nor as severe as it is today, both in terms of frequency and magnitude. This escalation reflects a shift in societal values, where monetary wealth is often viewed as the ultimate solution to life’s challenges. However, it’s important to recognise that while money can provide temporary satisfaction, it cannot offer complete and enduring happiness or peace of mind.

    Addressing this issue requires a comprehensive approach that includes promoting ethical leadership, reinforcing societal values that prioritise integrity, and implementing robust internal controls within financial institutions. By fostering a culture that values ethical behaviour over material wealth, we can work towards reducing the incidence of fraud in the banking sector and beyond.

    Do you relax?

    Absolutely! I make it a point to balance work and leisure. When I am in work mode, some might think I don’t have time for anything else. Conversely, during leisure, people are often surprised at how I find time for relaxation. It is essential to live a balanced life. As the saying goes, all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. Therefore, I ensure to balance both aspects. I socialise, attend parties, watch movies, and play games. I relax more effectively when I’m among people I feel comfortable with.

    Nigerian banks and Fintech companies have been expanding across Africa, Europe and Asia lately. What drives this expansion?

    This expansion is a natural consequence of growth. It’s noteworthy that some Nigerian Fintech companies are now operating beyond Nigeria and Africa. A decade ago, few Fintechs aspired to operate internationally, with Interswitch being an early example. Many of the prominent Fintechs today such as Flutterwave and Opay did not exist 10 years ago though. Nigeria’s large market of over 200 million people provides a substantial customer base. As these companies grow, they naturally look to the broader African market of 1.4 billion people and, eventually, the global market of nearly eight billion. This progression reflects Africa’s increasing global influence.

    How do you think this expansion affects the continent’s economy?

    Expanding into other countries positively impacts the economy. For banks, revenues generated abroad benefit Nigerian and African owners, provided ownership remains within the continent. Currently, many Fintech unicorns are incorporated outside Africa and owned by non-Africans, limiting economic benefits. However, there’s a growing push for indigenous and local capital investment.

    As more local funding is secured, ownership will increasingly reside with Nigerians and other Africans. Operating internationally can boost foreign exchange earnings and strengthen African economies.

    Does the resurgence of cross-country expansion align with the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA)?

    Of course, it does. AfCFTA aims to enhance trade relationships between African countries, while expansion beyond Africa establishes connections with other continents.

    Can you share some challenges Fintech companies face when operating across continents, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, Europe and Asia?

    Fintech companies, like others, encounter various challenges. A decade ago, funding was the primary issue. But today, regulatory frameworks pose significant challenges. Many regulatory institutions have established Fintech units, but understanding and anticipating developments in this novel sector takes time. Balancing consumer protection with encouraging innovation is crucial. Additionally, different licensing and business requirements across countries necessitate setting up separate entities, each with its own board and compliance obligations. There’s ongoing work to standardise these requirements and support licensing and business passporting to facilitate easier expansion within Africa.

    Another major challenge is the shortage of skilled talent. Despite Africa’s young population, the availability of adequately skilled individuals is limited. While efforts are being fast-tracked to provide necessary digital skills to our youths, developing a sufficient talent pool takes time. Moreover, skilled Africans often become targets for international organisations, leading to a talent drain. Advocating for up-skilling and re-skilling beyond immediate local needs can create a surplus, allowing some talent to work abroad and contribute to foreign exchange earnings for African economies.

    Lastly, reliance on foreign capital can be challenging. Earning revenue in local currencies while having shareholders expecting returns in stronger foreign currencies creates pressure, especially given the volatility of many African currencies. Thus, fostering indigenous capital is essential.

    From your experience, do you think it is profitable to do business abroad?

    It is profitable to do business globally. However, the Western world is highly developed, and opportunities for creating new ventures may not be as abundant as in African countries. Africa, being a developing continent, offers numerous opportunities in digital solutions, infrastructure provision, and financial inclusion. The potential for impact and profitability in Africa is significant.

    As the pioneer president of the Africa FinTech Network, how has the organisation helped bridge the knowledge gap and introduce innovation into the continent’s Fintech ecosystem?

    Over the past six years, the Africa FinTech Network has significantly contributed to the growth of Fintech in Africa. When we started in 2018, there were no unicorns in Africa; now, there are eight or nine. Unicorns are startup businesses that have grown to reach a valuation amount of one billion dollars. Investment in the Fintech space has increased, and Africa has gained global attention.

    One of our main goals is to showcase talent and opportunities across all 54 African countries; not just in traditional investment destinations like South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya. Today, many countries are benefiting from increased investor interest and successful Fintech ventures. Our aim is to have a presence in 50 countries by the end of 2025, ensuring that every African nation benefits from the surge in Fintech innovation, investment, and talent development.

    How do you feel about the Fintech company you established in 2002?

    In 2002, as I was preparing to retire from the banking industry, I foresaw the fusion of finance and technology and decided to set up a company with Fintech as my first name. Of course, the company didn’t start a business until four years later. It was remarkable that it was the first Fintech-named company in Nigeria at a time the word Fintech had no meaning to most people. That company was the platform used for startup investments in that space and for establishing ecosystem-wide initiatives that led to the founding of organisations such as FintechNGR, and Africa Fintech Network, laying the foundation for future developments in the sector.

    What is the future of Fintech in Nigeria?

    It is very bright. We are just starting. The future of Fintech in Nigeria is very promising. Over the past decade, the number of Fintech organizations and the jobs they’ve created have grown significantly. Infrastructure has improved, and initiatives like Opolo Global Innovation have established hubs in various universities, equipping students with additional skills needed for the new world of work. This ensures a steady supply of young, talented individuals capable of driving the Fintech industry forward. Nigeria will continue to lead in Africa and set an example for others.

  • ‘Why I founded annual conference that brings African women together’

    ‘Why I founded annual conference that brings African women together’

    Abolaji Odunuga is the publisher of London-based Duchess International Magazine and Convener, Duchess International Women’s Day Conference. An advocate for diversity and inclusion, Ms Odunuga is also the CEO/Principal Partner, Custodian Global Consult. She is currently the 70th President, Rotary Club of Crawley, United Kingdom. Many would remember her as the Nigerian Lady that founded the African Community in Surrey and Sussex (ACISS). One of her brands, Duchess International Magazine, is celebrating 10 years this year. In this interview with select journalists in Lagos, Ms Odunuga talks about the impact of the magazine and the 2025 Duchess International Women’s Day Conference coming up in Dakar, Senegal. She spoke with Sani Tureta.

    Your journey in life has spanned technology, leadership, community building and advocacy. How did your experiences in these diverse fields shape the vision for the Duchess International Women’s Day Conference (DIWDC)?

    The vision for the Duchess International Women’s Day Conference is a culmination of everything I’ve learned, felt and experienced across the many paths I’ve walked. My journey in technology taught me the importance of precision and problem-solving. In a way, technology is like life: you troubleshoot, you innovate, and you adapt to creating solutions that are both impactful and sustainable. That same mindset shaped my approach to leadership, where every decision needs to be strategic yet empathetic, balancing results with human connection.

    Leadership gave me the opportunity to step into rooms where I could amplify voices that weren’t always heard. Community building taught me that we thrive when we collaborate, and advocacy revealed to me the power of storytelling—because it is through stories that people connect, learn, and grow. All of these fields converged into one clear truth: progress happens when we bring people together around a shared purpose.

    The annual event was born out of that understanding. It is not just a conference; it is a global platform where women from diverse walks of life come together to not only share their stories but also spark change. Each edition is like writing a new chapter in the story of African women—on the continent and in the diaspora—taking charge of their destinies, challenging norms, and inspiring transformation. Every skill I have honed, from managing complex systems in IT to bridging cultures and advocating for diversity, finds its home in this vision. I often say connection is my life’s work, and DIWDC embodies that. It’s a movement that connects dreams with possibilities, leaders with aspiring changemakers, and ideas with action. That’s the ultimate synergy of my journey.

    What was the pivotal moment that sparked the idea for the Duchess International Women’s Day Conference? And how did you overcome the initial challenges in turning that vision into a reality?

    The spark for the Duchess International Women’s Day Conference came from a deeply personal realization: when it comes to engagements, advocacies and discussions about African women, there’s the need to redirect our focus from specific aspects of women’s challenges, often excluding the critical roles men play or narrowing scope to women and girl-children alone. And that became the primary motivation for the Duchess International Women’s Day Conference and Duchess Africa. So, apart from our dynamic and holistic inclusivity – recognizing that overcoming systemic and social challenges requires the engagement of men as allies, collaborators, and advocates, we are intentionally incorporating men into the conference programming, workshops and initiatives, alongside a balanced focus on empowering both the girl-child and the boy-child. DIWDC fosters a comprehensive approach to creating transformative, sustainable change.

    Also, I have had the privilege of sitting in spaces where decisions are made – spaces that too often lacked diverse representation. I realised that if we as African women did not create platforms to tell our stories, someone else would – and they might not tell them the way they deserve to be told. Turning the vision into reality wasn’t without challenges.

    The first hurdle was creating a platform that would resonate across generational, cultural and professional divides. I knew it couldn’t just be another event. It had to be a movement that addressed real issues like economic empowerment, leadership, health, and cultural preservation. Building trust among partners and stakeholders was another challenge, especially in an environment where resources can be scarce.

    We started small but focused on quality and authenticity. The first edition in Kigali was proof of concept. Women came together, not just to be listen but to lead, collaborate and commit to action. What helped us overcome those early obstacles was staying true to the mission. And when we hosted the second edition in Nairobi, Kenya, we didn’t compromise on our values, and we built alliances with people and organizations that shared our vision.

    I also leaned heavily on my network and experience, knowing that the strongest movements are built on the foundation of trust and connection.

    Meanwhile, before the Duchess International Women’s Day Conference was born, I had already laid the foundation for celebrating and elevating African women through Duchess International Magazine, which I launched in 2015. The magazine became a platform to inspire, empower and showcase the brilliance and magnificence of African women from all walks of life. It was my way of telling our stories, amplifying our voices, and celebrating the diversity within our shared identity.

    By 2023, I felt a deeper calling – a desire to do more. I decided to take the celebration of International Women’s Day beyond borders, traveling to African countries to discuss the global theme of the day, but through our lens as African women. It wasn’t just about adapting the theme to our reality; it was about addressing the unique challenges and opportunities we face and creating a space for connection, collaboration, and transformative dialogue.

    Living in the United Kingdom for some time now, I’ve had a profound realization: in the eyes of a white person, I am first and foremost a Black woman – not a Nigerian woman. To them, our individual nationalities and ethnicities are not as distinct as we often perceive them to be. Yet, when I see another African woman – perhaps a Ghanaian – it’s easy for me to say, “Oh, she’s Ghanaian,” even though we look so alike, with our radiant melanin sparkling together. This contrast sparked a powerful thought: why don’t we, as Africans, start identifying ourselves as one, as Africans, instead of focusing so much on our national or ethnic labels?

    That realization became the heartbeat of the conference. I wanted us, as African women, to reclaim our collective identity, to unite under a shared banner of sisterhood, and to start telling our stories – not from foreign perspectives, but from within our own lands. I want to be identified not just as a Nigerian woman, but as an African woman. Because our strength lies not only in our diversity but in our unity. DIWDC was born from this vision – a movement to celebrate and empower African women as a unified force. It’s about breaking barriers, building bridges, and igniting a pan-African spirit that redefines what it means to lead, connect, and thrive as African women in the world today.

     From the first edition in Kigali to Nairobi and now Dakar, how has the Duchess International Women’s Day Conference evolved in scope, impact and significance? What lessons have you learned along the way?

    The journey from Kigali to Nairobi to Dakar has been nothing short of transformative, both for Women’s Day Conference and for me personally. The first edition in Kigali was intimate – a proof of concept that brought together a small but passionate group of women leaders. It was there that we saw the hunger for a platform where African women could come together to reimagine what leadership, empowerment, and collaboration could look like. That first event planted the seeds of something much bigger.

    By the time we reached Nairobi, DIWDC had grown in scope and ambition. We had more attendees, more diverse voices, and a broader agenda that tackled not just leadership but also critical issues like health, climate change, and entrepreneurship. Nairobi taught us the importance of adaptability – listening to the needs of our participants and tailoring our programmes to reflect their realities.

    Now, as we prepare for Dakar, the evolution is even more apparent. event has become a movement, a platform where African women from across the continent and the diaspora converge not only to share ideas but to chart actionable pathways for change. The conference has expanded in significance by focusing on cross-sector collaboration, amplifying women’s voices in global dialogues, and ensuring that every conversation leads to measurable impact. For example, our sessions now include policy advocacy, investment opportunities and targeted training programmes that address specific needs like financial literacy and digital transformation.

    The 2025 theme is ‘Accelerate Action: A Call to Ignite, Empower, and Engage African Women for Transformative Realities.’ What specific areas of leadership or action do you believe African women need to focus on today? 

    The theme for 2025, ‘Accelerate Action,’ is both a challenge and a rallying cry. It is a call for urgency, not because African women lack capability, but because the world cannot afford to wait any longer for their full potential to be unleashed to truly create transformative realities.

    Read Also: First Lady urges youths to embrace hard work, reject traffickers

    What can attendees expect from #DIWDC2025 in Dakar, and how do you envision the event creating lasting impact beyond the conference?

    DIWDC2025 in Dakar will be nothing short of transformative. Attendees can expect a vibrant fusion of thought leadership, cultural richness and actionable solutions. This is not just a conference; it’s an immersive experience where every session, every connection, and every conversation is designed to spark something meaningful.

    Dakar, with its deep cultural roots and dynamic energy, is the perfect backdrop for this year’s theme, “Accelerate Action: A Call to Ignite, Empower, and Engage African Women for Transformative Realities.” We’re bringing together trailblazers, changemakers, and dreamers from across the continent and diaspora to collaborate on pressing issues like leadership, economic empowerment, climate action and cultural preservation. Expect hands-on workshops, high-impact panel discussions, and networking opportunities that go beyond exchanging business cards—this is about building lifelong partnerships.

    But the magic doesn’t stop at the closing ceremony. We are committed to creating lasting impact by ensuring actionable outcomes. Attendees will leave with toolkits, partnerships and strategies to implement in their communities.

    For instance, the Dakar edition will include mentorship programmes for young women, policy dialogues with actionable roadmaps, and follow-up initiatives to track progress. It is about creating a ripple effect: what starts in Dakar will inspire transformation in homes, workplaces and communities across Africa and the world. Dakar 2025 is more than an event; it’s a call to action. Together, we’ll write a new narrative for African women—one where collaboration fuels progress, and no woman is left behind.

    Where do you see Duchess International Magazine and the Duchess International Women’s Day Conference in the next 10 years?

    In 10 years, I see Duchess International Magazine standing as the global voice for African women—a publication that doesn’t just tell our stories but shapes them, inspires them, and connects them. It will be a trusted platform for thought leadership, celebrating the achievements of African women in every corner of the world while also advocating for the changes we still need to see. As for the Duchess International Women’s Day Conference, I envision it becoming the definitive summit for African women, akin to the Davos of women’s leadership and empowerment. It will be a space where policymakers, innovators, and grassroots changemakers come together to set the agenda for the continent’s future. I see it expanding into year-round initiatives—mentorship programmes, think tanks, and economic forums that provide tangible solutions to issues African women face.

    More than just growth in size, I see profound impact. I see scholarships awarded to young girls and boys who might never have had the chance to pursue their dreams. One of the core aims of the conference, and indeed Duchess Africa, is to nurture and empower both the girl child and the boy child, because true transformation lies in balance. A “Duchess” represents a woman, a mother, a nurturer of greatness—one who ensures that all her children, regardless of gender, are equipped to reach their full potential. This philosophy is at the heart of everything we do, fostering a future where both boys and girls can thrive in harmony and mutual empowerment.

    I also see businesses and social enterprises born out of connections made at the conference. I see policies shaped by the ideas shared on our stages. Both the magazine and the conference will be a nexus of possibilities, places where African women and their allies can dream big, act boldly, and leave lasting legacies.

    In 10 years, we won’t just be looking back at how far we’ve come; we’ll be looking forward to how much further we can go.

  • Young Nigerians in politics (1)

    Young Nigerians in politics (1)

    While some young Nigerians are finding their greener pasture in other parts of the world, some young Nigerians are making an impact on the greenlands of Nigeria. These young Nigerians who are between 20 and 40 years old have excelled in politics, entertainment, sports and more. In this list, which is aimed to be a series, i-GEN NEWS team lead, GBENGA BADA highlights some of the new kids on the Nigerian political scene.

    Seyi Tinubu

    At 39 years old – almost 40 – Oluwaseyi Tinubu wields a political power that leaves many green with envy. Seyi is the son of the Nigerian president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and like Barron, the son of President Donald Trump, Seyi has made a name for himself in the corridors of politics. Seyi’s political strength was tested and witnessed during the campaign for his father’s election and a few years after when he was touted to be eyeing the Lagos state governor’s seat.

    Dayo Israel

    Dayo Israel made his name in Nigeria as a motivational speaker and international advisor before joining politics and playing in the big league. He rose through the ranks to become the national youth leader of the ruling party, All Progressive Congress, APC, before getting a political appointment in 2025.

    Muhammed Suleiman

    Muhammed Kadade Suleiman is a 29-year-old young Nigerian, who is actively involved in politics. At the age of 25, Suleiman emerged the National Youth Leader of the People’s Democratic Party. Suleiman built a political career for himself while hobnobbing with older political class and has earned himself name while reawakening the interest of Nigerian youths in politics.

    Jubril Gawat

    Jubril Gawat is currently the Senior Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in Lagos State. He cut his teeth as a grassroots social and political mobilizer, who has over the years, been the voice of youths in his Lagos Island constituency. He embraced social media to become a leading voice of the youth at just 39-years-old.

    Babajide Fadoju

    Babajide Fadoju is a 38-year-old young Nigerian, who has proved his mettle in the world of politics. Fadoju rose to prominence as a Special Assistant to late governor of Oyo state, Abiola Ajimobi in his 20s. Having served dutifully, he moved on to become a special assistant to Femi Gbajabiamila during his reign as the Speaker of the House of Representatives. He currently works with the media team of the Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

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     Rinsola Abiola

    34-year-old Rinsola Abiola got into the world of politics at an early age. At 28, Rinsola, who is one of the daughters of late businessman and politician, Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, had vied for a seat to represent the Abeokuta North/Odeda/Obafemi Owode Federal Constituency of Ogun State at the Federal House of Representatives. Though she didn’t succeed, she has remained in the circle of big political players and earned herself a role as Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Citizenship & Leadership.

    Ayodele Olawande

    Ayodele Olawande began playing politics and advocacy at a young age and before he turned 30, he had become a popular face in Oyo State and relevant in South West States in Nigeria. His dedication to the political class and ability to work with the youths earned him the position of the Minister for Youth development in Nigeria at just 35-years-old.

    Dada Olusegun

    Dada Olusegun who currently serves as the Special Assistant to the President on Social Media is a politician, talented writer and social change advocate. The 36-year-old has made a name for himself as a political appointee.

    Khalil Nur Khalil

    Khalil Nur Khali, 30, is a prominent Nigerian technocrat celebrated for his impactful contributions to economic planning and governance. At just 28, Khalil was appointed as the Investment Intelligence Director of Nigeria’s Kaduna State Investment Promotion Agency (KADIPA) but currently serves as the current Economic adviser for the Kaduna State government.

    Ayomide Adeagbo

    Ayomide Adeagbo is the undisputed 31-year-old Special Assistant to the President (Art, Culture and the Creative Economy). The young Nigeria was appointed by the President as a result of his belief in Nigerian youths.

  • University of Ibadan students protest months-long power outage at UCH

    University of Ibadan students protest months-long power outage at UCH

    Electricity plays a key role in economic growth and development. For students of the University of Ibadan at the College of Medicine, UCH, who are mostly residents at the Alexander Brown Hall and Ayodele Falase Postgraduate Hall, darkness has become a norm. They have endured darkness for over two months despite repeated efforts to get electricity restored.

    Public tertiary institutions in Nigeria have been increasingly struggling with inadequate power supply and frequent disconnections from the national grid due to mounting electricity debts.

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    During the week, students of the University of Ibadan (UI) in Oyo state staged a peaceful demonstration over months long power outage at the University College Hospital (UCH).

    The aggrieved students who took over some major roads in the city, caused traffic gridlock, leading to chaos and panic among motorists and other road users.

    The outage, the protesters said, has lasted for more than 80 days.

    The Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) said in November 2024 that UCH Ibadan was disconnected due to debt.

    The President, Students’ Union, Bolaji Aweda, lamented that students of the University of Ibadan at the College of Medicine, UCH, are mostly residents at the Alexander Brown Hall and Ayodele Falase Postgraduate Hall, stressing they have passed through hardship due to lack of water and electricity, which had affected their health and studies.

    Meanwhile, despite hosting faculties of engineering that produce graduates skilled in energy solutions, these institutions remain dependent on erratic grid electricity, unable to self-generate power on the scale required to sustain their operations.

  • Bayo Osiyemi @75: Why I became target of security agents after 1983 coup

    Bayo Osiyemi @75: Why I became target of security agents after 1983 coup

    •Recalls conflict with Adeniran Ogunsanya as Jakande’s spokesman

    •Says I know Lagos like lines on my palm

    Prince Bayo Osiyemi, former Chief Press Secretary to the first civilian governor of Lagos State, Alhaji Lateef Jakande, was known to be very close to the Second Republic politician until he passed on in February 2021. The former CPS, nicknamed the Charming Prince, spoke with VINCENT AKANMODE about how he derived the sobriquet, his childhood, how he got attracted to Jakande, the genesis of his career in journalism and other issues.

    How do you feel clocking 75 in a country where life expectancy is just about 55 years?

    I feel good. I feel great. I feel God’s grace all over me. Otherwise, I would not have been able to attain this new age. Like I was joking with some visitors earlier today that there was a song rendered by the president of my church a few days ago which honestly captures everything about me. The song is essentially about thanking God that untimely death is not my portion. The song tells that I am enjoying tremendous goodness of God.

    What are the childhood memories you cherish?

    They are many. For instance, when I was in primary school, I loved to play football. The kind of ball we as kids were playing then was called “felele”. I was so skinny that any time I was on the field, people were always afraid that they would break my bones. Ironically, I was the one breaking bones. That is one memory, and I carried that to the secondary school in Ibadan.

    Another childhood memory is during traditional festivals like the egungun (masquerades). Our parents would not allow us to go and witness these things. But somehow, I would break free from the house and go to watch those things. Many times, people would come to our house later in the day, saying ah, we saw your child following egungun yesterday. Of course, I would deny it. But it gave me tremendous joy. Thank God, I never suffered any injury following the masquerades.

    Another experience as a child was when I was asked to go to an institute to study the Quran, because my parents were Muslims. There were stages, and I read to a point that chickens were slaughtered. I moved from there to a stage where they were to kill rams to mark my progression in the Quranic study. But my maternal grandmother being a church woman snatched me from my parents so I can live with her. That was the beginning of my journey into Christianity.

    How has that shaped your philosophy about life?

    I love people. I love to be with them and also to help them. I have assisted a lot of people in various areas of human endeavour. Of course, a few of them have turned round to betray me. But I don’t have any problem with that. It makes me to get stronger. And the betrayal of a few turncoats will not deter me from continuing to help people, because helping people is my passion. I have resolved that till the end of my life, being blessed by God, I will continue to be blessing to other people.

    You later chose to become a journalist. What informed your choice of profession?

    It all began in my secondary school days. I was very good in English Language, and I was always going with our football teams all over the Western Region. Anywhere we played, like the Government College, Ibadan, Olivet Baptist High School, Oyo or Baptist High School, Iwo or Fatimah College in Ikire, I would report on the football matches and bring them back to school in Ibadan for the education who did not have the opportunity to witness those matches. We had someone then who was related to Lateef Abass, the then Sports Editor of Daily Sketch. He was encouraging me by publishing those reports. And that was how my love for journalism began.

    Of course, because I was interested, it was when I was in school that I decided to get close to Alhaji Lateef Jakande, who was then the editor-in-chief of Tribune newspaper. At that time, they were publishing from a mud storey house somewhere in Adeoyo area in the heart of Ibadan before they finally moved to Imalenfalafia in Oke Ado.

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    That means your relationship with Jakande began while you were in secondary school…

    Indeed.

    You later became very close to him when he became the first civilian governor of Lagos State. What was the attraction between the two of you?

    I think I was destined to be close to him, because apart from journalism, Alhaji Jakande had no time for niceties. If you met him on the staircase and greeted him then, he might not even acknowledge your greetings. AlI he was interested in was for you to report and report the events.

    In my initial years in journalism, I was only very good in reporting, and he made us to go round all the beats. I was on the social beat, covering Bobby Benson and his son, Tony at their hotel at Igbobi (Lagos). I was going to Alagomeji to cover Fela. I was going also to the same neighbourhood to cover Ebenezer Obey at his Miliki Spot and at the Q-Club nearby, where I was also covering king Sunny Ade. So I became friendly to so many musicians.

    Again, I was asked from there to move to the airport. Those were the years when the VIP Chalet at the old Ikeja Airpoŕt where reporters were cramming themselves up ; it was a very small place during the Gowon era, but we had a very good time there.. There were people like the late Alhaji Kola Adeshina, Dapo Aderinola who I understand is a pastor in a church in America with whom we covered the beat together. Of course, I was also taken to the labour beat when labour leader Michael Imodu, all his other contemporaries like Haruna Adebola and others held sway.

    Later, I became sports correspondent, and it was there that my proficiency blossomed to the extent that I was head-hunted to join the broadsheet Daily Express at Apongbon where its general manager Jibade Fashina-Thomas first gave me the opportunity to run a regular sports column. That was my first breakthrough in column writing.

    When Nigeria was to host the All Africa Games in 1973, Daily Times being the flagship of Nigerian journalism, decided to look for the best sport reporters in all other newspapers to join its own team headed by the late Solomon Babtunde Osuntolu alias ESBEE; CTokunbo Fasogbon, and the rest of them to remain the best in sports coverage. So I was  invited to join the Daily times and I became one of the journalists that covered the All Africa Games at the National Stadium in Surulere (Lagos). I covered the courts as well.

    So through Jakande, I was able to go through the whole gamut of journalism practice. Later, which I made to include feature writing, which i detested initially because I found it difficult. But with Jakande, nothing was undoable. So we were meant to be writing editorials. And when I became the editor of Lagos News on Acme Road in Ogba (Lagos) and later its managing editor, I was made to be writing editorial opinions for the newspaper on occasions that Jakande was not around or was too busy to write leader opinions. Honestly, I think I was well baked. By the time I moved from Tribune to Daily Express and later to Daily Times, I was already a well known name in the Nigerian media.

    How did you become his Chief Press Secretary?

    I think that during those periods that I mentioned earlier, Jakande had noticed certain things in me which I did not know. So when he now decided to run for the governorship in Lagos State, he invited me to come and join his campaign team as his main press officer. I was a bit hesitant because I had a secured job in Daily Times and venturing into an uncertain terrain was not what I was enthusiastic about. So why would I go into an unknown world, particularly when I didnt know that he might not win the election. However I sought the counsel of prominent politicians in Lagos who had the experience to know which person was able to win the election. I consulted the late leader of Afenifere, Chief Abraham Adesanya. I consulted with the late Alhaji Ganiyu Olawale Dawodu and his friend Hon. Ojekunle Pereira of the state House of assembly and my late uncle, Senator Olabiyi Durojaiye. All of them encouraged me to take up the job.

    Jakande just took special interest in me joining his team. So when he saw that I was still hesitant, he called his director, Chief Bayo Fadoju, to go and issue two-month salary cheque for the Daily Times in lieu of notice. Of course, when he did that, there was no more place for me to hide; I decided to join his team.

    So we went through the electioneering campaign together. It was a most gruelling  electioneering ever. Due to him, I can claim today that I know Lagos State like the lines on my palm -either on land or on water.

    As his press secretary appointed in 1979 at the age of 29, I tried my best to give Alhaji Jakande a very good press. Every of his activities, I covered with a small team, feeding newspaper houses with credible, reliable and authentic news about the electioneering activities of Alhaji Jakande.

    Interestingly, his main opponent in the opposition Nigerian Peoples Party, Chief Adeniran Ogunsanya, started blackmailing the media that they were partisan because Jakande was a fellow journalist. My reaction to that was to come in strong defence of the media; that the truth of it was that Alhaji Jakande was on the field every day campaigning while he was campaigning once in a week or once in two weeks. Was the press supposed to report his inactivity?

    So, how easy or difficult was it to work with Jakande?

    I just thank God that I survived working with Jakande. The man was a slave driver, so to say. He would not spare anybody from being stretched on the job. Of course, even he was stretching himself. He would show you how to do it. We were in it together. In fact, working with Jakande made me to develop ulcer, because we would come to work at about 7 am and until about midnight, there would be no time for us to go and eat. So we were always living on biscuits and sweets. Eventually, I developed ulcer. That ulcer, although now cured, made working with Jakande unforgettable. But every bit of my time with Alhaji Jakande, I am full of gratitude to God and to the man.

    Was there an occasion where you had to quarrel?

    Not at all. In fact, because of the man’s proficiency and his authority in journalism, I saw him as a demi-god that I worshipped, and I did not leave any room for him to doubt my ability or to want to do away with me. And that was why from Day 1 on October 1, 1979 till the military struck and arrested him at Lagos House in the wee hours of December 31, we were together.  When he was locked up, I still stood by him, defending him even in prison. At a time I became a target of security operatives. There was a time I was running from Lagos to Ibadan. Nigeria was still safe then. So I could leave Lagos at 7 pm to go and sleep in Ibadan. So even if they came at night, they would not meet me at home. So it was a great experience working with Alhaji Jakande.

    You have been part of successive administrations in Lagos State after Jakande. How so?

    Jakande was an uncommon person. He came into government to disabuse the minds of people that people in the media are only good at criticising. So he came into government to prove that journalists can be doers, and he came into government prepared that he was going to achieve specific things within a four-year period of one term. And all his developmental projects were executed and completed in four years and three months before the military struck.

    Of course, I was a willing learner. So I thrived because in journalism they say you must know something about everything. So I involved myself in every aspect of governance from conception to completion. And if you were a successful worker under Jakande, you would be a sought after resource person by any administration that wished to be as successful. Of course, I particularly kept the Jakande image alive in work ethic to the extent that 40 years after I left government in 1983, I returned to Alausa to become special adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in 2019. Of course, asking me to assess myself in the Class of 2019 to 2023 would be unfair. It is the governor that I served that will be in a damn good position to say whether I was good and effective as his Special Adviser on Chieftaincy Matters. I also believe the majority of traditional rulers in Lagos State, I related with while in office should also be able to talk whatever I had on the job. Now I am out of office, but I am still politically active.

    How did you come about your nickname Charming Prince?

    My friends gave me the name. I did not know I was that charming until a senior of mine who is an engineer, politician and philanthropist spoke about it during my 70th birthday at the Sheraton Hotel in Ikeja. He said because I was so attractive, with a commanding height and all of that, any time I entered a gathering, those who were there with their wives would hold close them so that they would not be distracted from them because of the man that is just coming in. I think the nickname stuck because of such perception.

    Your good looks in those days must have attracted a lot of women to you…

    That would be expected. But I never lost my head and I never lost focus. That is why I was able to maintain a steady and responsible home.

    But some hearts must have been broken…

    I was not aware of any.

    So what did you see in the woman you eventually married in 1976?

    It was divine, because I had other ladies who were all over me. But the very first day I met this lady, may God bless her soul, I knew that she had all the qualities of a good wife. She was caring and disciplined. She was a symbol of fidelity and she was imbued with Christian values. Throughout my turbulent years in journalism, on one occasion I was detained by the Gowon regime, and during my political activities, this lady was with me all of the time. She was my prayer warrior. May God continue to rest her soul. She died when we went for holy pilgrimage in Israel in 1995.

    I also thank God that the wife I married now is also God’s gift to me. With Christ in our lives, we are very happy.

    Did the removal of the speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly recently come to you as a shock?

    As a normal human being, I was shocked to learn of it but then in politics, the possible and the impossible do happen. I regard political activities as one in which the good and the bad go together. That is my response to your question, and I would not go beyond that.

    What message do you have for the nation’s leaders, particularly President Bola Ahmed Tinubu?

    Well, I am happy that we have a President who prepared himself for office, and knew what he is going into government to do. Without permitting any distraction, he should pursue his mission as faithfully as possible from Day 1 in office. That was what Alhaji Jakande did, and that was why he achieved in four years and three months what several governments put together could not achieve. Tinubu is a student of the Jakande political philosophy, going by his exploits as governor of Lagos State. I believe that improving on that philosophy is going to make a great impact on this country. He only needs to be given the chance. I believe in his ability to turn things around for the country.

  • My fond memories of late Alaafin of Oyo – Igboho monarch

    My fond memories of late Alaafin of Oyo – Igboho monarch

    •Says once embattled community now enjoys respite from criminal herdsmen

    Oba Abdulrasheeed Adetoyese Anikulapo Jaiyeola, the traditional ruler of Igboho, a community in Orelope Local Government Area, Oyo State, recently clocked 15 years on the throne. In this interview with GBENGA ADERANTI, he speaks about the security situation in Oke-Ogun where residents had a running battle with killer herdsmen until recently, his relationship with other traditional rulers, particularly the late Allafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, and the investment opportunities in his domain, among other issues.

    A Lot of people talk about Igboho town, especially in relation to the history of Oyo. Why is the town so important?

    First of all, I will thank God and the government of Oyo State because they did a lot for the town.  As you know, Ona-Onibode (his traditional title) has been an exalted position since the old Oyo Empire. It had so many other towns under it, and the Ona-Onibode presided over the affairs of the traditional rulers then. Igboho was the capital of Oyo Empire during the reign of Alaafin Ofinran, Egungu Oju, Alaafin Oropotomiyan, Alaafin Ajiboyede, and Alaafin Abipa, who moved Oyo from Igboho to Oyo-Ile.

    Igboho is a popular town, an ancient town where you had many warriors and powerful people. It is a town with three border walls. When Alaafin Egungu Oju was in Igboho, he built walls around the town to protect the people of the town and prevent Nupe warriors from invading the town. Alaafin Oropotomiyun built the second wall while the Ona Onibode, Aroyewon Awonbiogbon, built the third border wall. That was when Alaafin returned to Oyo and gave the town to Ona Onibode.

    What were the challenges you faced while contesting the throne, and how did you overcome them?

    As you rightly pointed out, there were challenges. But we thank God that out of 12 of us who expressed interest and contested the stool from the same family, God in His wisdom made me to come tops.

    What have been your achievements since you ascended the throne?

    I lived in cities, with Ibadan being my last place before the present assignment. Fortunately for me, I lived among the crème de la crème, and I learned a lot from these important personalities.

    Since I became the traditional ruler in Igboho, I have attracted a lot of development to the town.

    The first thing I noticed when I ascended the throne was the security challenges. I noticed that the security personnel that were in the town did not have enough amenities to make life comfortable and make their work easy. What I did was call the prominent people in the town, and for the first time, we built an office for the Civil Defence Corps.

    Also, the Divisional Police Station in Igboho lacked some basic amenities. We also provided them with electricity and modern toilets. We also advocated for schools for communities that are far away. Fortunately, the government gave us two schools in Igboho and its environs.

    We also requested the government to build public health centres in communities, and the government acceded.

    The people of the town have been cooperating with me. It was when I ascended the throne that the town got a modern palace. I refurbished the palace of our forefathers that I inherited.

    We thank God that it was during my tenure with the government, with the late Alaafin, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, that I became a crowned monarch, about five years ago. We have every cause to celebrate and thank God for all He has done for us.

    We call on the sons and daughters of Igboholand to cooperate and assist in the development of the town. As it is, Igboho ought to have had at least one higher institution, because it is a historical town. At the last census in Oyo State, Igboho emerged as the sixth-largest town in the state which is why we are appealing to the federal and state governments to establish institutions in the town.

    Ours is an agrarian community, we have many farmers here, and even if it is a university of agriculture, the government should please establish one in Igboho.

    I understand that there are historical sites in Igboho. What do you think the government can do to promote these sites?

    Igboho is a historical town. The ninth Alaafin established Igboho, and four of the past Alaafins were buried in Igboho at the time of the old Oyo Empire. Their burial sites are still in the town.

    Igboho was the capital of Oyo Empire for many years before the Alaafin went to Oyo-Ile.

    We are appealing to the government to turn the burial sites into tourist sites because the Alaafins, as learnt in the history of the Yoruba people, are important people in history, and people are interested in learning about them, their peculiar supernatural powers, and how the Alaafins were protecting Yorubaland. If you come to Igboho today, you will see all these.  Just as I said earlier, there are three borders in the town; Alaafin did two and Ona-Onibode, the traditional ruler of Igboholand, built the third one when the Alaafin left Igboho.

    Secondly, all the past Alaafins that were buried in Igboho had a history with them. For example, the Alaafin Orompoto was a female Alaafin. She was a transgender. According to history, the people refused to make her the Alaafin because she was a female, but she insisted that she was a male. For those doubting her gender, she requested that she should be given seven days to prove to them that she was a male. On the seventh day, she stripped naked and, lo and behold, she had a male genital organ. That is one.

    Unknown to many, when Islam was to come to Yorubaland, Alaafin Ajiboyede was in Igboho then. Contrary to the belief in certain quarters, Islam came into Yorubaland through Igboho in 1553, through the Nupe people. The first mosque they built is still in Igboho up till now. People are still using the mosque. These are all tourist attractions. The tomb of Alaafin Ajiboyede is still in Igboho. Igboho was the biggest town in Yorubaland then because everybody was coming to Igboho to live with the then Alaafin Ajiboyede.

    But people believe that Islam came into Yorubaland through Iwo…

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    It was the Fulani that brought Islam to Iwo. They came to this place called Nigeria today through Sokoto in 1802; go and check the records. They started coming bit by bit until they got to Ilorin in 1820. Later, they waged war against the Oyo people in a place called Ilorin today.

    It was after the Fulanis conquered Ilorin that Oyo was disintegrated in 1837.

    What was your relationship with the late Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi? I observe you speak like him.

    Apart from Adeyemi, Alaafin is the father of the Ona-Onibode. Ona Onibode is the son of Onikoyi. We all know how powerful Onikoyi was in the past. The wife of the Onikoyi was the daughter of Alaafin. It is worth noting that it was because Ona Onibode was not given any title in Ikoyi that he left Ikoyi with his mother. It was the time the Nupe disintegrated Oyo-Ile.

    When the Ona Onibode got to Igboho, he explained to Alaafin that Ikoyi had be attacked and everybody had scattered, and that the title which was supposed to be given to him was given to his younger brother from another mother. That was why he left Ikoyi.

    Alaafin therefore promised to found a town for Ona-Onibode. That town was founded for Ona-Onibode and it happened to be Igboho. Alaafin spent some years in Igboho and decided to return to Oyo-Ile, which is currently in Kwara State. He therefore called his son whom he met at the border (ibode) and gave the town to him. That is why you hear a statement like Itose lo loyo, Onibode lo laafin, meaning Onibode owns the palace. The statement was made by Alaafin Tela Abipa, the Alaafin who left Igboho for Oyo.

    The Alaafin then took the Ayaba (Alaafin’s wives), who were very old and too weak to return to Oyo-Ile, and gave them to Ona-Onibode to take care of them. They stayed with Ona-Onibode, which is why they call Ona-Onibode Oko Ayaba (the husband to Alaafin’s wives).

    Alaafin is the father of Ona Onibode.

    There are other things Alaafin and Ona Onibode have in common, because at that time, the Alaafin was like a god that the entire Yoruba was worshipping. His word was law, and there was nobody that could question Alaafin’s authority. There was no town Alaafin had no warrior in the entire Yorubaland. If anybody or any town wanted to revolt, such revolt would be quelled by Alaafin’s warriors.

    What did you learn from your relationship with the immediate past Alaafin?

    That is how blood works. Our culture in Oyo has no resemblance with any other ethnic group. We created Ile-Ife via history. The world was created with history. Nothing will happen without its source, who owns it, that is what they call history. All that happened in the past, all had written and oral history that we should be pointing to.

    What is that thing you can’t forget about the Alaafin?

    There are many things I cannot forget about him. Some of the monarchs who came to the forefathers’ throne shortly before the Alaafin passed on, who are my contemporaries, are always sad that they did not have much time to spend with him. Those who were fortunate to meet him are always glad that they met him, because whatever he did, he was always straightforward. His decisions were never influenced by money. He always followed the path of culture and tradition.

    People always talk about three-quarters in Igboho. What is this all about?

    There is nothing like three-quarters in Igboho. Igboho is one. If you go to Igboho, that is the palace of Alaafin which he used for 65 years, that is the palace I’m using right now.

    When Alaafin left Nupeland and was returning to Oyo-Ile, he stayed in Saki for a while, and he used it as a palace. That is where the traditional ruler of Saki, Okere, is using as his palace today.

    As big as Igboho is, it is a town where powerful people reside. Remember that there are three borders in the town, which are defence walls. You rarely find defence walls in Yorubaland. It is only in Oyo-Ile and Sokoto you are likely to find something akin to that. When the Fulani invaded Oyo, the warriors that were with Alaafin in Oyo-Ile ran to Igboho before they later left and founded different communities.

    For example, when the Fulani war started, Obaseyiku, one of the Alaafin warriors, left and stayed in Igboho with Ona-Onibode for a while. When he left, he went to found Eruwa. Eruwa was established in 1830. There are many of them like that. Another community is Isemi-Ile, also ran to Igboho before he founded Isemi-Ile and so many of them like that

    Again in 1855 when Dahomey started claiming a boundary with the Oyo Empire, many people also ran to Igboho. When the war ended, they went back to their different communities. For instance, Okeho, the town, just celebrated 100 years in 2016, meaning that Okeho was founded in 1916.  The same thing with Ikoyi before they all migrated to different parts of Yorubaland.

    Owu was very close to Igboho. Alaafin Sango invaded the place and scattered the people; a situation which forced the people of the community to leave their ancestral home which is very close to Igboho before they went to present-day Ogun.

    At a point, Oke-Ogun faced insecurity challenges such as kidnapping, attacks on communities and cattle rustling allegedly perpetrated by criminally minded herders. What is the situation in Oke-Ogun now?

    We thank God that the present government recognises the role traditional rulers play regarding security. They are aware that our people are living with herders, and the herders are not spirits. When they enter any town or community, they must see the leader of the community wherever they are, get the permission of the community leaders. With our meetings with herders, particularly, when the Alaafin Adeyemi was alive, he met with the traditional rulers and put in place the machinery. That is the template we are still using till today. That is why we enjoy relative peace and we have been able to tame criminally-minded herders to a certain extent.

    For the kidnappers, as we are aware, the pandemic is all over Nigeria. But with the cooperation of the traditional hunters, ‘Amotekun,’ and police, things have changed. Meanwhile, except indigenes are involved, it would be very difficult for anybody to come to Oke-Ogun right now and perpetrate the ugly act without being caught.

    Some monarchs are now shunning seclusion because of religion. They said they don’t have anything to do with tradition and customs. What is your take on this?

    Before I started this interview, I told you my name, which is my Islamic name, and Abdulrasheed which is my religion. But in my view, your religion does not negate your customs and traditions. Customs and traditions do not negate religion, except if you want to undermine customs and tradition. People give customs and traditions different interpretations. Customs and traditions include herbs and medicine. The way we dress is part of customs and culture.

    Each town has its peculiar gods. The gods in Oyo are different from those of Ekiti.  The gods in Ekiti are different from those of Ondo, and the gods Ondo has, Ijesha do not have.

    Customs are part of our life. Imagine being on the throne and I heard that a white man is coming, and I decide to appear in a suit; the white man will not give me any respect. He would think that this is an unserious person. But if I appear in my agbada, decked in beads, he would recognise and respect me the more.

    When I first ascended the throne of my forefathers, I decided to renovate the palace. Meanwhile, I needed a place to stay. The only available place close to the palace was a mud house. People said I should not stay there because it was a mud house; that I should come and stay in a flat. I said no. They asked why and I told them that each morning when praise singer come to wake me up in the morning with the talking drums, the drummers would first of all sing the praises of the past traditional rulers of the town before they praise me. If the palace praise singer praises me, my ancestors will see me, and whenever I need their help to do something, they will do. 

    This is my 15th year on the throne, if you build a six-storey palace in Oke-Ogun today, he met me here.

    Ten years ago when I was opening my palace, Alaafin Adeyemi attested to the beauty of the palace. There was no palace like mine in Oke-Ogun. There is nobody that will enter my palace and ask whether this is a palace or not. At least you will give me credit and appreciate tradition.

    When they are praising me and praising my forefathers, I’m also praying and making requests in my language. My prayers are always being answered.

    I may be a Muslim. We thank God, customs and tradition has blessed us. I am the 15th Ona Onibode. These are my ancestors:  Badu, followed by Oladogan, Oba kura; then Aroyewon Awonbiogbo; Osasonu, Obadududkandu; Oba Fagberi, Oroganloye; Oyeniyi;  Oba Babatunde, Oba Agbagba, Agbotewole; Oba ijadunola; Oba Olanlo Amoloyebi ororo; Abubakar Jaiyeola, Anukulapo; Oba Oyeyiolan Ajani Oke, ; Oba AbdusalamOyewole Oladokun, Jaiyeola II; Oba Ladeji Amoloye; Oba Timothy Oyebanji Oyeniyi Oke; Then my turn, Oba Abdulrasheed  Anikulapo Jaiyeola.

    What are you missing right now as a traditional ruler?

    I’m not missing anything. This is because since January 1984 when my family members presented me as one of the contestants for the stool, I had seen myself as a monarch. I was the only person my family presented. I made sure I conducted myself in an orderly manner – the way I talked, the places I went, I minimised all these. I did not go where I was not supposed to go. I restrained myself from talking where I was not supposed to talk. Where I was supposed to go, I would make sure I went there. All these things have been part of me. Imagine waiting from 1984-2008, almost 24 years I had seen myself as a king.

    It is almost two and a half years since the Alaafin left. I have missed so many things just the way many other monarchs are missing him. Yorubaland is also missing. The coordination of Yoruba Obas has suffered a setback. Most of the Yoruba traditional rulers are saying what they are not supposed to be saying. They are going to where they are not expected to be visiting. They behave the way they are not supposed to be behaving because there is no one to put them in check.

    It is also worrisome that the subjects seem not to have respect for the traditional rulers again.

    Traditional stool is a delicate institution and monarchs are supposed to respect themselves.

    The death of Alaafin has created a vacuum in Yorubaland. Alaafin fought and protected traditional institutions.

    You said Igboho is one town. But it has three monarchs. Please educate me on this.

    Igboho is a town of warriors and powerful people, and as I explained earlier, the invasion by the Fulani caused many people to migrate to Igboho. This has really affected us.  According to history, when Alaafin wanted to leave Igboho for Oyo–Ile, he made some sacrifices so that the town would not disintegrate. His diviner told him that a newborn baby would be needed for the sacrifice, and one of the wives of the Alaafin was pregnant at that time. When it was time for her to give birth, the Alaafin told the diviner to use the baby. As the Alaafin’s wife was giving birth, he took the baby from the blood and gave it to the diviner to use for the sacrifice. That was why they gave the Alaafin the alias akikanju oba tin fi omo re se etutu (the brave king that uses his baby for sacrifice).

    The town nearly disintegrated, but with the help of God and my forefathers who were the Ona Onibodes, everything became normal.  Igboho was founded in 1512 by Alaafin Egungun Oju.

  • Fassy Yusuf: How Diya ignored my warning of imminent arrest for coup plot

    Fassy Yusuf: How Diya ignored my warning of imminent arrest for coup plot

    •Says I only narrowly escaped assassination because of my closeness to him

    Prof. Fassy Adetokunboh Yusuf, a man who has made great marks in different fields including the police, journalism, law, education and advertising, clocked 70 yesterday. Among other issues, he told INNOCENT DURU how he tricked his father’s friends to join the police and how the fear of failure prompted him to dip his hands in many pies.

    How did you feel clocking the age of 70?

    I think it is just a game of numbers. The body can no longer do much but I am still mentally and physically strong.  I can pursue many goals. I can sit down here from now till tomorrow writing. It is only when I get up that I would feel some aches.

    What would you say about your background?

    I was born on January 3, 1955.  My younger brother was born in 1956. My mother is the only child of her father. Her father was the head of that island. My mother had me when she was 16 and a half.  My younger brother followed in quick succession.

    My mother, who is still alive, is Itsekiri from Deghele Island about 50 nautical miles from Warri. My father was a jeweller and a businessman who spent over 55 years in Warri.  My father married my mother when she was about 15 years old.

    I used to tease him that Daddy, if it was to be now, you would have been charged for child abuse. At one point, my younger brother was sick and they decided to give him Itsekiri tribal marks. Maybe they thought that would be the solution to his illness.  So, when my brother was okay, they brought the two of us to Warri. My father, sighting my younger brother with Itshekiri marks, asked are you sure this is my son? If you don’t take this boy to wherever you got him from, I will chop off your head. That was the end of the marriage. My mother ran back to her father, being the only child; a pampered child.

    What happened thereafter?

    My grandmother, realising what happened, came to pick me before my mother would come back to pick me. In retrospect, I would say that was a wise decision, because if I had followed my mother, I would have engaged in bunkering or I would have been a fisherman or something else in the village, because it is far from Warri. Up until this moment, you cannot access that place by road; only by sea and by air. So, I was brought to Ijebu Ode.

    At what point were you enrolled in school?

    My grandmother, a princess, was a business woman while the husband has a settlement in Ago Sasa near Idiroko. The husband had a cocoa farm in Mamu, a border town between Ogun and Oyo states. That was where I started my primary school. But my aunt, who was also a business woman in Mamu, became sick and we had to leave Mamu looking for how to get her cured. In the process, I lost one year. Then, the following year that I was to start, it was late. In effect, I lost two years.

    But I was lucky I started primary school when I was just about four or five years old. I went to Ansar Ud Deen Primary School and I continued from Primary 2.  I left primary school in 1967. I was 12 years old. Then I went to Muslim College. I left Muslim College in 1972 and I was 17 years old. This is despite losing two years. So, it means, in effect, that  my not staying with my parents, my mother not being  around, my father not being around, and moving from one place to another, I was still able to catch up. I didn’t lose any time in my education.

    But in 1972, the year the military government decided to abrogate ownership of secondary schools, the Federal Government took over all secondary schools in the western states. The HSC we were running then was more or less automatic for us. From your secondary school, you moved over to the HSC class.

    At a point, I don’t know what overcame my father, maybe he was disillusioned or whatever, he just said go to Lagos; go meet your elder brothers. I had three elder brothers in Lagos then. The eldest was a chartered accountant who was our mentor then.

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    Did you agree to go to Lagos?

    Then, I didn’t like Lagos. Number one, that was the period Gowon said we had so much money we didn’t know how to spend it. Secondly, we had just emerged from the civil war.

    So, the economy was booming; a lot of rehabilitation, reconstruction, and reconciliation efforts were ongoing.  Things were moving at a pace nobody could imagine. The only room that was available was my brother’s house (in Lagos); about eight people were staying in that room. And where I was coming from, I was staying in a room and palour as a secondary school boy. How will I now fit into that system? How would I be able to read in that environment? So, it means I would just be working and we would just sleep like sardines.

    What did you do subsequently?

    I decided to go back to Warri. But my father didn’t like it. He thought it was my mother who goaded me to come over to Warri to prosecute her own agenda. So all appeals to my father did not yield any result. I became despondent and frustrated. I became disillusioned. So, the admission I got, I lost.

    Then, you know, we were free to seek admission into as many universities as we could. There was no unified admission system then. So, I had three admissions to the extent that I even tried colleges of education.

    But, my father did not bulge. I decided to take the entrance exam into Defense Academy. When I saw that the result was not forthcoming, I went to my father’s friend in Benin. One of his friends was the acting Commissioner of Police; the late Mr. Oshodi. The other one was the late Mr. Fajano from Ekiti, who was the OC Mopol.

    I went to them and said my father asked them to help me into the police force. They were very happy. They thought I was telling the truth. That time, you needed four papers to become a sub-inspector. They called it a sub-inspector course. And I had six papers. They said it’s late now. They had already gone for training and all the rest, and I had to wait till the following year.

    “The next year again, I asked if there was any other option, and they said can you go in as a constable? Though it was too small for my grade, I said I would go. Within me, I said anything that would take me out of the house, I would do. The man asked, are you sure your father sent you? I said yes. At that time, it was just the local analogue phone that was available, but they did not even care to find out.

    Because they had known me with my father and they used to come to our house as well as my father used to take me to their offices, that was how we signed and sealed the recruitment for the training at the Police Training College in Ikeja because then we had only two training colleges.

    We had Southern Police College in Ikeja and Northern Police College in Kaduna. Not now that we have a proliferation of police colleges. The day they came to pick me from our house, that is the acting commissioner of police came to pick me for my trip to Ikeja, my father thought it was the usual visit. And the man said is your son ready and he said ready for what? He’s going for training in Ikeja. Are you not the one that sent him? And my father said, me, sent him? They called me and I was gazing at my father when it was tabled. But they warned my father that I had already signed up and that there was nothing he could do but to allow me to go. They asked him to only pray for me.

    That was how I left the house.  I went and discovered that because of my own academic standard, the training was not too much of a challenge. I mean the academic aspect, what was rigorous was the physical aspect, the parade, shooting range and all the rest. And at times I would feign being sick.

    You were in the police force. What was your experiencelike?

    I was a member of the press club when I was in secondary school. So I discovered that there was an opportunity in the public relations department because the department was newly created. The first person to head the department was a journalist. They had a magazine and they encouraged those of us who could write to contribute.  I was writing and my write-ups were published. Thereafter, I saw an advert in Daily Times about a public relations institute in London and I registered as a student. I took tutorial courses and sat the examination. By this time, I had completed my training and was posted to Calabar.

    Then, the police was fantastic. They would pick you from your house to wherever you were going. In this particular case, they gave us warrants to go by train. They picked us from the Police College to Ido. In Calabar, I was posted to the Divisional Police Headquarters, Calabar. I don’t know; maybe they had been reading my writings. They made me a station writer. The person that takes down your complaints is the station writer.

    One day, a senior officer asked me, what are you doing in the police force? I told him I was taking a course in journalism and public relations. He then said in that case, I should post you to where you can have time to read. I was posted to the Nigeria Ports Authority in Calabar. And that was where I was able to discover myself. They put me on permanent night duty and not much was there for me to do on night duties.

    By 1975, I secured my certificate in public relations and diploma in journalism. Later, I was posted to the Public Relations Department and I discovered that my boss did not like me simply because of my qualifications and youthfulness. They defaulted me once, and in those days, if you were defaulted twice or thrice, you were on your way out. I didn’t want that, and it was nearing my third year, I was waiting for my promotion as ASP. I said I didn’t want to wait for that. They said, please wait. I said, no. Those days, you would resign. So, I left.

    What did you venture into after leaving the police?

    The moment I left, I joined Rock Publicity. And it was while I was in the police force that we had the Udoji Award, which catapulted our salary by over 100 per cent, which was a lot of money then. I used part of it for my education and I bought a sports bicycle.

    But when I got to Rock Publicity, it was another world. My first salary was N250. Imagine from N50 to N250. So, I felt life could be so good. I was the one that promoted Sunny Okosun’s Papa’s Land s, and some of my classmates were still in the university then. I took Papa’s Land around the country, from University of Lagos to Yabatech to UI, Ife and Kaduna Polytechnic. ABU Zaria was not too receptive because of religion.

    So, within me, I felt if this little education could get me this much, including fame, then I must pursue further education. This is because with Papa’s Land, I was getting a lot of publicity that by 1977, I had about six employment letters with me. Later, I joined King and George Nigeria Limited. I was appointed the editor of Sporting World and I was also the publication manager of the company. The company was into pools betting and publication of sports newspapers. It was also into shipping, haulage and the rest. They later established a printing press.

    Then I got my qualifications in advertising and marketing. There was a time I went to the UK in 1981 to receive an award as the best student. During the awards ceremony, some universities came to exhibit and admit students. Some of the universities had admission opportunities for MSC in Marketing, Advertising and all the rest. Then I saw a course: Masters in Business Administration (MBA). And that was the time MBA was just coming on board. I just decided out of fancy to enroll for MBA. So, I took MBA and came back to Nigeria.

    But then I was working with Adebowale Group of companies. It was then one of the biggest indigenous companies manufacturing a number of household items, fridges, freezers, television sets, radio and so many things.

    What happened after you came back to Nigeria?

    When I came back, I told my chairman about the MBA admission. He gave me a house on Oladipo Kuku Street, off Allen Avenue. Things were so good then that I was even registered with Palace Hotel. Any time I felt like lodging there overnight, I could stay. The company had an account there for me. Because of my position, I was registered with Island Club and I was also registered with Ikeja Country Club.

    I was able to convince the chairman to allow me return to the UK for the MBA programme, though he said it will be tabled before the board. Somehow, when I was given the letter, what I saw in the letter was that the company had reviewed the situation and had not seen reason for me to embark on an MBA programme, and that what the company could do would be to expose me to their partners abroad and in the process, I could attain any position.

    Initially, I was devastated. But I said no, as there’s nothing stopping a willing mind. When I said I was going to go, I was told to resign as well as vacate the company’s apartments. Then the official car, I should surrender it. And my personal car, I should offset the loan. Otherwise, I should return the vehicle. I just decided to return the vehicle. They said, oh, why? I said nobody was willing to buy a second-hand car.

    When they saw that I was serious, the chairman called me privately. He gave me a cheque for 2,000 pounds. Then my late friend Chief Gani Fawehinmi gave me 1,000 pounds. I also sold some of the things I had and I journeyed out.

     What happened after you completed the MBA programme?

    I came back and continued working with Adebowale Group of companies. The house I was staying in was no longer available. But I was given another house at Obanikoro Phase 2. But I said I would not stay long, so I left in 1985 and started a private business; a marketing communication outfit that also imported electronic products.

    When the business went awry, I dusted my certificates. I saw an advert in the papers about vacancy for a managing director for one of the subsidiaries of Ibru organisations. My MBA certificate gave me an edge and I was employed. But when I discovered that I was not given free hands to run the place, I resigned. Then, I had free lunch tickets at Sheraton everyday as MD.

     Where did you move to after quitting the organisation?

    After I left, I returned to my business. In 1988, I became the secretary general of NIPR at an election held in Ilorin. We took over from Alex Akinyele. Mike Okonkwo was the president while I was elected the secretary general. And that November of 1988, I was appointed a director of TBS by the military and was director for nine years. I was removed because of my campaign for the release of Diya. And that was why they also wanted to assassinate me.

    Can you speak more on the assassination attempt?

    It was Diya that appointed me commissioner against my wish and desire. I was doing my job and was happy working for him. He asked that I work for him and I said if you want me to work for you, I do not mind being your chief press secretary. And he said with your size, you want to work for me? You will tower above me and people would ask who the boss is between us. He then asked that I should get someone to work for him as Chief Press Secretary. So I contacted some of my colleagues that we did MSc together at UNILAG.

    After the CPS was appointed, Diya kept asking what I wanted, and I said I just wanted to be around him since he rejected me being his CPS. Later, I told Diya that I wanted to be chairman of a local council, and he felt I was stupid because he felt that I was bigger than that. He then reported me to the Awujale that many were lobbying to become commissioners but I did not aim to become one.

    Eventually, I was appointed and was naturally given the portfolio of Commissioner for Information, Youth, Culture, Community Development and Social Welfare. Not long after, I was appointed chairman of Sketch Press, Ibadan. When I saw the intrigues in the presidential villa, I tried to warn Diya that there were signs and that I would be leaving the government. He then told me if I left, I would be branded a NADECO agent and I would die.

    I was working with Col. Akintande then and later with Ewang, a Wing Commander. Many of my friends were generals because I was a director at TBS. My boss, Ewang, was not comfortable seeing me with the generals. He went to the Chief of Staff that he wanted to dissolve his cabinet and he was told that before he came, Fassy had already come to say he wanted to leave your cabinet. The cabinet was dissolved and I left. But they started staging press war against me.

    Even after the cabinet was dissolved, I was still going to see Diya in his house, and the movement around Diya, especially by Bamaiyi (then Chief of Army Staff) and co made me uncomfortable. I tried to warn Diya but he rebuffed me. But one Saturday, we just heard that there was a coup attempt and that they were looking for Diya and he had run to one of his guest houses. He hid under the bed but he didn’t know that they had mounted spies around him. So they brought him.

    Unknown to him, when they were having a meeting with him, the discussions were being recorded. The plan was for Diya to lead the coup and assassinate Abacha, and for Bamayi to assassinate Diya. But unknown to Diya, he thought Bamayi and co loved him. They said Abacha was a nonentity, forgetting that he was a coup master. That was how they arrested Diya. When they tried him, it was Victor Malu that sentenced him to death. They were transferring him from one place to another and eventually he was kept in Jos Prison. They hanged him with his hands tied. And when he was released, he did not recover till he died.

    When they passed the judgment, it was me, Diya’s children and siblings that mounted a press campaign for his release or committal to jail term so that when Abacha must have left, the person coming in after him would release Diya.  My ordeal began when a journalist published a report about me on the front page. They started running after me and I had to go underground. The first thing they did was to remove me from the TBS board as a director. But, thank God, they did not succeed.

    Why did you study Law?

    Before I left government, I had registered to read Law, and people were making mockery of me, wondering how a commissioner would be going to classroom to read. But I knew what I wanted. This is because I was looking at after leaving as a commissioner; would I go back to be a journalist or practice PR? And this is because we live in a society that is paradoxical. If you steal, you are in trouble, if you do not steal, you are in trouble. If you did not steal, they will say look at him, a former commissioner commuting with public transport. And if you steal, they will claim his grandparents were armed robbers too. It is only when you are able to discover yourself.

    I registered for Law as a pathway to better life after being commissioner. After the Law programme, I went to Law School and I have been practising. I was an adjunct lecturer, and when NUC said anyone that must lecture must have a PhD, I put in for my PhD programme, which I completed within four years. I used the PhD to mark my 60th birthday, and as God would have it, Hallmark University appointed me professor recently, which I am using to mark my 70th birthday.