The Nation Newspaper

Category: Society

  • Oba Elegushi remembers dad

    Oba Yekini Elegushi of Ikateland will be smiling wherever he is at the moment. Even in death, he is highly celebrated.

    On Monday, all roads leading to Ikate palace were blocked by cars of people who came out to remember the monarch. This was made possible by his son and successor, Oba Saheed Elegushi, who has been saddled with the responsibility of continuing his legacy.

    Although invitation cards were not sent out and there were attempts to control the crowd, there was still a large turnout.

    Before the party, a prayer session was held for the late monarch. Spotted at the event were Olofa of Offa, Oba Mufutau Gbadamosi; Olota of Ota, Oba Adeyemi Obalanlege; Onilado of Ilado, Oba Mobadenle Oyekan; Ojomu of Ajiranland, Oba Tijani Akinloye; Ebumawe of Ago-Iwoye, Oba Abdulrazaq Adenugba; Oluwo of Iwo, Oba AbdulRasheed Akanbi; Lagos Chief of Staff,  Tayo Ayinde; former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Femi Pedro; Women Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Jumoke Okoya-Thomas; billionaire Rasaq Okoya and former Lagos Commissioner for Home Affairs and Culture, Alhaji Oyinlomo Danmole.

    Oba Elegushi described November 18, 1999, as the saddest day of his life, saying he was with his father till his last breath on earth. He stated: “I can remember vividly 10 years ago when my father passed on. I was with him till his last moment. It was the first time I would witness someone passing and the memory is still fresh in me. I believe my father had done his part and it was time to rest. When you die, it is normal for your children to take over and continue your legacy. That is what I am trying to do. Of course, it has been a big shoe to fill but I am trying my best. With God’s help and my ancestors behind me, the sky is my limit.”

  • Sinach’s birth of child raises surprises

    There have been wild jubilations among family and friends since it was announced that popular gospel singer, Sinach, has given birth to a child after five years of marriage.

    Senior Pastor of Christ Embassy, Chris Oyakhilome, shared the news of the baby arrival on Sunday, November 17.

    While this is good news for the 46-year-old singer and her husband, Pastor Joe Egbu, this came as a shock to many fans who didn’t even know she was pregnant. In recent times, she has performed at shows and many people didn’t have a hint that she was expectant. A fan, who is also an emerging gospel singer, said: “How come we didn’t know she was pregnant? I still saw her performance recently and her stomach wasn’t big.”

    On her social media pages too, she has never shared a pregnancy photo with her fans. However, the reasons she kept things private are best known to her.

    Since Sinach and Egbu married in 2014, they have been inseparable.

  • Gbenga Omotoso honours Agekameh

    The media industry is still yet to get over the death of Dele Agekameh, a crime journalist per excellence.

    The award-winning senior journalist, who died on Friday, October 11, after battling renal disorder for seven years, was buried a few days go.

    One of the top personalities that attended the service of songs in Lagos was Lagos State Commissioner for Information, Gbenga Omotoso. Apart from being a colleague of the late journalist when he was the editor of The Nation, they were good friends also.

    The veteran journalist had worked at different media houses, including Champion newspaper, Newswatch Magazine and Tell Magazine. Despite his ill-health, before death, Agekameh struggled to maintain his weekly columns in The Nation and Premium Times every Wednesday.

  • When Governor Abubakar Sanni Bello wooed Bill Gates, Aliko Dangote

    by Oladapo Sofowora

    Then Governor Abubakar Sanni Bello wooed Bill Gates, Aliko Dangote

    The Governor of Niger State, Alhaji Abubakar Sanni Bello is regarded as a chip off the old block, just like his father, retired Army Colonel Sanni Bello, when he held sway as military governor of Old Kano State. During his time as military Governor of Kano, he focused on improving commerce, rural roads, electrification and primary and secondary education. Like his father, Abu lolo as he is fondly called has been at the forefront of attracting direct investment and business partnership to boost employment and amenities for his people.

    Last week, the Niger State Governor, was among Nigeria’s delegation that participated at the just concluded High-level Roundtable conference on Primary Healthcare and Human Capital Development jointly organized by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF), the Aliko Dangote Foundation (ADF) and the Nigerian Governor’s Forum (NGF), held in Seattle, Washington.

    Read Also: My wish for Nigeria, by Bill Gates

     

    Society Rendezvous gathered that, brilliant Sani Bello displayed his vast knowledge and dexterity in finance and economics, to strengthen collaboration and partnerships with all key stakeholders in developing strategic network towards the attainment of a coordinated development agenda with special focus on Polio Eradication, improving routine immunization and strengthening of Primary Healthcare for easy access to Nigerlites.

    Interestingly, the graduate of Economics from the University of Maiduguri also privately met with Bill Gates and Aliko Dangote, where they discussed further on improving ways to strengthen investment relationships, so as to attract more support in the areas of health, Agriculture, Women empowerment and Financial inclusion for the downtrodden across the state.

  • Has top socialite, Pretty Mike finally repented?

    by Oladapo Sofowora

    Ike Eze Nwogu known as ‘Pretty Mike’ on the social radar is quite a controversial person. His bag of controversy never runs dry. He loves to make a big statement anytime he saunters into a public function. Debonair Mike is known to take over any event he is invited to with drama surrounding his grand entrance. Extend him and invitation to your event, you are sure to go viral like a wild fire.

    Away from his controversial nature, he is a man with a large heart. Mike is a cheerful giver. Giving to Mike is a culture, he finds joy doing it. He has often donated proceeds from his business to promote charitable causes. The upwardly mobile nightlife dude seems to have moved away from his controversial stunts at events lately.

    Last Sunday November 17, he was a guest at Moreklue All Youth Awards (MAYA), held at the Lekki Event Centre. When his presence was announced by the compere, those present at the well attended event expected him to make his regular statement by showcasing opulence, making a loud statement with his usual controversial entry. To everyone’s surprise, Mike quietly walked into the event unaccompanied and unnoticed, looking fresh and dapper, fitted in his all white outfit, exchanging pleasantry with guests.

    Read Also: Tony Elumelu’s dream for African youths

    Society Rendezvous gathered that his recent change in style, might be connected to his meeting with chairman of Heirs Holding, Tony Elumelu. In one of his post, he acknowledged heeding to the advice and words of wisdom from the billionaire Afri-Capitalist originator. According to a close source, Mike should be tying the nuptial knots with his fiance soon, as he isn’t getting younger.

    “He is gradually quitting some of his controversial lifestyle as a socialite. There are some things you might not see him do anymore, it’s not because he can’t do them but you know, the older you get, the more you see things from a different perspective”.

  • Another Laurel for Adebimpe Akinfolajimi

    by Oladapo Sofowora

    Pointing at few patriotic Nigerians who genuinely care for the downtrodden, Adebimpe Akinfolajimi, a trained lawyer, philanthropist and women advocate comes to mind. Those close to her will attest to her magnanimity, she is ever ready to champion causes that will positively affect lives.

    For her immense contribution to humanity most especially via her recent empowerment programme tagged “Giving Hands Arena” which took place at Agege Local Government premises on the 13th of October, where she empowered over five hundred widows as well as, gave out a fully funded scholarship to ten students. She was honoured with an Humanitarian of the year award at the just concluded 16th Africa Security Watch Award gala, held at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek, United Arab Emirate.

    Read Also: Rotimi Amaechi @ 54: The anointing of selfless service

    Society Rendezvous gathered that, the HoneyBols Foundation boss won the award for her selfeless service and promotion of welfare, economic empowerment for disadvantaged widows and education of displaced children.

    The three days global submit, which rounded off with a gala award night, attracted the presence of top personalities across the globe, whom in one way or the other, have contributed to the wellbeing, growth and development of their immediate society through capacity building and infrastructural development.

     

  • Techno oil boss, Nkechi Obi’s Magic Wand

    by Oladapo Sofowora

    The name Nkechi Obi, Vice chairman, Techno Oil, is synonymous with Oil and Gas. Blessed with a heart of gold and human compassion, she has been able to nurture and position Techno Oil, as a leading indigenous oil and gas company in the country in less than a decade with her wealth of knowledge in Up and Down stream sector, which earned Techno Oil a dominant role in the distribution of petroleum products across the country.

    Nkechi’s sojourn in business is not by luck, perhaps, providence blessed her with a supportive and firm mother who taught her the ABC of doing business from selling textiles at the ever-bustling Balogun Market in Lagos.

    Interestingly, Obi, who graduated with a B.Sc. degree in Economics from the Lagos State University (LASU) in 1988, proved to all that she is a great and charming innovator, as well as a force to reckon with in her field of expertise.

    Read Also: Boosting laboratory best practices in oil and gas

     

    Her recently launched idea ‘Swap and Go’ was birthed in line with the federal government directive. The idea ensures adequate monitoring, quality assurance and production of gas cylinders to avoid leakages leading to fire outbreak and other gas related accidents.

    To show that she is not resting on her oars, months ago, Techno Oil commissioned the largest West Africa automated LPG cylinder manufacturing plant located in Lagos which the Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo officially declared open for massive production.

    A source said; “The cylinder manufacturing plant is gradually fast tracking its production capacity to meet the nationwide demand of over 30million homes, where outlets can be stationed strategically in all 774 local government across the country. This will enable creation of more jobs, a safe and conducive environment devoid of fire casualties through LPG and also improve the wellbeing of Nigerians through standard and quality check of every cylinder”.

    Apart from business, Obi is passionate about youth development and she seizes every opportunity to advise youths to develop their latent entrepreneurial skills that God has deposited in them.

    For Obi, the journey to the enviable height in the oil industry has been laced with thorns and roses. It was a tough battle, but she held on to her beautiful dream. Starting off by marketing lubricants and later venturing into the sale and distribution of petroleum products across the country. Over the years, she has sown in sweats, so it’s no surprise she now reaps bountiful harvests.

  • Between Adebutu Kessington and Hajia Bola Shagaya

    by Oladapo Sofowora

    The Odole Oodua, Sir Adebukunola Adebutu Kessington and stylish business woman, Hajia Bola Shagaya share some things in common. Apart from their filial relationship, they are both generous billionaires. Last month, when Hajia Bola celebrated her 60th birthday bash at the highbrow Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, which attracted the high and mighty in Nigeria, many thought gaming mogul, Adebutu Kessington will not attend, because he was being conferred with a chieftancy title as the Asalu of Ode-Remo same day. To the amazement of many, the premier lotto boss graced the event in the company of his family members.

    Many wondered why ‘Baba Ijebu’ as he is fondly called, will exit his title conferment grand reception in Ode-Remo, Ogun state to attend Hajia’s birthday bash in Lagos. A source averred that, Sir Adebukola does not toy with anything that concerns the shrewd businesswoman, “The bond between Baba Ijebu and Hajia is not what anybody can come between. Baba cherish and adore her so much. For Baba, anything pertaining to Hajia must be treated with urgency”.

    Read Also: Buhari greets Baba Ijebu Adebutu at 82

     

    Another close source to Baba Ijebu divulged to Society Rendezvous that; “Their filial relationship was further cemented years back, when Baba went on an official visit to former President Goodluck Jonathan at the Aso-Villa. When he sauntered into the villa, he saw Hajia sitted in company of former first lady, Patience Jonathan and some aides discussing. When Hajia sighted Baba Ijebu, like a cultured Yoruba woman, she immediately went on her knees before him, not minding her status and the reactions of people around. Baba was shocked as he quickly pulled her up and greeted her in return. He was amazed and thankful for that gesture. Those present at the scene concluded that for Hajia Bola to have accorded him that must respect, he must be a special and well respected person. She introduced Baba Ijebu to the First Lady and ensured he had a smooth visit at the Villa. From that moment, Baba vowed to pay Hajia Shagaya back in good measure”.

     

  • Security Boss who turned to professional boxing to remain disciplined

    Entrepreneur & Security boss Sheikh Waziri is a dedicated business man who has built a budding business internationally in the security sector, starting from being a security to guard, to professional executive/VIP bodyguard, to a highly respected security trainer and practising security consultant in the UK and Africa. He is currently affiliated with shake1records, Phoenix SW security ltd Nigeria and shield transatlantic security Uk.

    Sheikh is also a professional Nigerian British boxer based in London. He is a 33-year old skilful orthodox boxer who recently turned professional from the unlicensed boxing background. Sheikh’s record consists of a few wins,1 draw and a loss on points, with a 100 percent knock out ratio amongst other heavy weights, allowing Sheikh to be recognised by Xzavier Miller the head coach at London based IQ Boxing.

    Sheikh Waziri

    Sheikh took up took up boxing in 2008 on the white-collar amateur competition and progressed to semi-professional unlicensed competition where he won the British and European heavy weight title.

    Sheikh turned to professional boxing after having to deal with the tragic loss of his sister in 2016 and subsequently his father 2017. He rose from the ashes like the phoenix showing great character of a true champion and developed the mental durability that led him to be accepted by the British Boxing Board of Control. Despite having no amateur experience, the British Boxing Board of Control saw a special individual with great skills and passion for sport and made an exception. Sheikh has rapidly built his reputation and since trained with Olympic medal winners and British, American international boxers that have been trained by recognised boxing coached in London and worldwide.

    Coined as the ‘Black Scorpion’ due to his quick slick movements and ability to adapt to all types of situations in the ring, Sheikh’s smooth movements in the ring also tie in with his powerful right hand which is reflective of the sting in a scorpion’s tail. He is fast becoming a buzz on the internet on this Instagram handle @bigsheikh1.

    Sheikh Waziri

    Sheikh graduated from the University of Derby with a BA Honours in criminal justice, later going on to study the Diploma/Masters programme in Security and Risk Management at Loughborough University. Sheikh also played American Football for both universities he attended and obtained several awards and achievements including Sports Personality of the Year.

  • Experts decry law enforcement agents’ involvement in civil matters

    Stories by John Austin Unachukwu

     

    Why do some people court law enforcement agencies to resolve civil matters?

    Experts have blamed  the occurence on the poor attitude of some lawyers and limited capacity of the courts.

    They spoke at this year’s annual business luncheon, organised by the law firm of SPA Ajibade & Co, in Lagos.

    The theme of the event was: The courts vs law enforcement agencies, which one is better for the resolution of civil disputes?

    The participants listed the limited capacity of courts to enforce their decisions as one of the reasons.

    They also blamed lawyers for abandoning the courts and running to law enforcement agencies, especially the police, to resolve disputes for their clients through frivolous petitions.

    “In some cases, the lawyers are in the habit of seeking the services of the law enforcement agents, especially the police and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), for ordinary debt recoveries, instead of using  the law courts, for such civil obligations.

    “And because legal practitioners in Nigeria encourage the law enforcement agencies to take over the duties of the courts, the agencies overstep their bounds by arbitrarily somersaulting the rule of law and applying the rule of force.

    “When a complaint is made to them, instead of employing due process in unraveling the truth in the matter through investigation, arrest, detention and prosecution, they often times, apply brute force by beginning with arrest and detention before returning to investigate the complaint and by  so doing, they abuse the rights of citizens in the process.”

    Participants noted that law enforcement is under the executive arm of government, which now chooses which decisions of the courts to enforce, thereby emasculating the judiciary.

    The conferees noted that if this trend is allowed to fester, it portends a dangerous signal for the survival of democracy and the sustenance of the rule of law.

    They urged institutions like the National Judicial Council (NJC) and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) to take severe disciplinary measures against judges who compromise their coveted positions and unscrupulous lawyers with the habit of subverting the course of justice by applying delay tactics to cases.

    Read Also: ‘Nigeria can’t afford a second civil war’

    They also recommended disciplinary action against lawyers who write frivolous petitions to law enforcement agencies and other institutions for monetary gains.

    The annual business luncheon was attended  by Justice Helen Ogunwumiju ( JCA), who represented the chaiman of the event, Justice Amina Augie (JSC). The lead speaker was a former Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in Lagos State, Mr. Olasupo Shasore (SAN).

    Other speakers were Justice Biobele A. Georgewill ( JCA),  the Special Adviser to Oyo State Governor on security matters, Mr. Fatai Owoseni and the current Chairman  NBA Lagos  branch, Mr. Lateef Omoyemi Akangbe.

    Former NBA President Mr. Austin Alegeh (SAN), Mrs. Funke Adekoya (SAN), a judge of the National Industrial Court of Nigeria, Port-Harcourt Division, who also doubles as a visiting judge to Lagos Division, Justice Nelson Ogbuanya, Chief Sena Anthony, among others.