The Nation Newspaper

Category: Society

  • SERAP to Finance Minister: account for alleged missing N30tr

    SERAP to Finance Minister: account for alleged missing N30tr

    A civil society group, Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has asked the Minister of Finance Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala to account for the alleged missing N30 trillion.

    In making the request, the group relied on the Freedom of Information (FoI) Act 2011.

    It followed the disclosure by the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, that over N30trillion was unaccounted for.

    The group threatened to sue the minister under within two weeks of the receiving or publishing this letter.

    In the letter dated February 2, 2015 and signed by SERAP Executive Director Adetokunbo Mumuni, the group, said: “As trustee of public funds, SERAP contends that your Ministry has a legal duty to render account on the missing N30trillion to the beneficiaries (Nigerians) of the trust, if and when called upon to do so.”

    It continued: “As a key agency of government, the Ministry of Finance has a sacred duty to ensure that the country’s resources and wealth is used solely to fulfil the basic economic and social rights of all Nigerians and achieve the country’s overall socio-economic development. This implies providing strong leadership in the efforts to curb public sector corruption, and to refer to appropriate anticorruption agencies any allegations of corruption in which any agencies of government may be involved or officials of your Ministry may be complicit.’’

    The group said the stealing or mismanagement of public funds might be responsible for the economic crisis and hardships being faced by Nigerians, noting that this has led to persistent lack of enjoyment of their legally recognised economic and social rights, such as the rights to education, to adequate healthcare, to adequate food, and access to clean and potable water.

    “SERAP considers this a serious allegation that requires your immediate and urgent clarifications. If true, such allegation will clearly amount to a fundamental breach of national anti-corruption laws and the country’s international anti-corruption obligations and commitments including under the UN Convention against Corruption to which Nigeria is a state party, it added.

  • Electoral campaigns: Forum asks parties, candidates to address issues

    Electoral campaigns: Forum asks parties, candidates to address issues

    Members of various Civil Society Organisations (CSOs)  in Abuja has asked politicians to examine the quality and pattern of their campaigns.

    They said the messages being churned out did not only dwell on frivolities and primordial sentiments, but were deliberately intended to exploit the nation’s fault lines of religion and ethnicity.

    They urged politicians and their parties to redirect their campaigns to address issues and the myriad of challenges facing the country, to enable the electorates make informed choices on election days.

    The event titled: Training on advocacy for issue-based campaigning in Nigeria, was organised by a coalition of CSOs under the aegis of the Nigerian Civil Society Situation Room (Situation Room), with support from the British Department for International Development (DFID).

    Speakers included the Executive Director, Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC), Clement Nwankwo; Country Director, Action Aid Nigeria, Dr Hussaini  Abdu; Executive Director, Human Rights Monitor, Festus Okoye and Country Director, Open Society Initiative, West Africa (OSIWA), Jude Ilo.

    They urged Nigerians to insist that candidates in the elections must discuss how to fix corruption, poverty, unemployment, socio-economic inequality and decay in infrastructure, among others. They advised the electorates not be moved by the current campaign pattern that seeks to solely exploit the nation’s ethnic and religious diversity.

    Nwankwo said the event was meant to educate participants on strategies for advocating the pre-eminence of issue-based campaign in the country, and articulate issues that will help define citizens’ understanding.

    He observed that there were a lot of issues affecting the country, which should be addressed by candidates rather than expending energy on frivolities and issues that could further divide the nation.

    He urged President Goodluck Jonathan and others to showcase their achievements, on which basis they are seeking re-election. He faulted the threat by some Niger Delta indigenes that they will deny the country access to the resources in their geo-political zone should Jonathan lose election.

    Abdu, in his presentation titled: Issues in the economy, wondered why the level of poverty, unemployment and inequality has continued to rise despite claim by the government to have improved on the economy through its various economic policies.

    He noted that the nation’s main problem was the economy. He observed that the factors that led to military intervention in the early 1980s were present.

    Abdu, a former lecturer at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), urged Nigerians to demand from the various candidates, how they intend to revamp the economy, because whoever wins “has a lot to do in resuscitating the economy”. He said what candidates should focus on is how to arrest the current drift in the nation’s fortune.

    Okoye, in his paper titled: Democracy, rule of law and issue-based campaign, observed that though the country, by adopting democracy, has resolved to live by democratic culture, tenets and values, its elite, nurtured in a culture of impunity, are hesitant to commit to constitutional democracy.

    This, he said, was evident in “our political parties, their manifestos and even, in the way the affairs of the parties are conducted”.

    He noted that candidates’campaigns and their parties’ manifestos have continued to avoid pertinent issues around democracy, rule of law, separation of powers and the people’s sovereign power.

    Okoye argued that rather, politicians and their parties make fleeting references and generalisation to these pertinent issues. “As a people and a nation, we should pose questions to the political parties and the candidates and demand answers to them,” he said.

    He urged the electorate to insist that political parties and their candidates “restrict themselves to issues affecting the welfare and the wellbeing of the people and abandon the uncharitable path of character attack.

  • The dilemma of the Nigerian voter

    Poor Nigerian voters. The more they think they are in control, the greater their illusion. After the parties have worked the electorate into a frenzy, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), is forced to shift the February polls to March/April. As usual, while the politicians trade blame, Nigerians,the poor victims of a gravely dysfunctional country, are handed six weeks to lick their psychological wounds. As INEC chairman has urged, Nigerians are compelled to ‘keep hope alive’.

    Few days before the polls were shifted, all the people I interacted with, had made up their minds over the presidential candidates, they will vote for; and their reasons were as a diverse as the people that make up our dear pseudo-federal republic of Nigeria.Those I spoke with included artisans, public servants, professionals and business people.They were mainly Igbo and Yoruba, with a few others, from the Delta. Our informal discussion revolved around who they will vote for,and why, between the two leading presidential candidates, President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan and Gen. Muhammadu Buhari.

    For those angling for Gen. Buhari, the major reason they prefer him, is his reputation as an incorruptible person. They claim that if he makes it to the presidency, many of the Nigerian elite, who indulge in corrupt practices would have a tough time ahead. They cite his ascetic life style, despite his exposure to political offices. Among this group, corruption is viewed as the major challenge facing the nation, and they belief a Buhari presidency will kill the debilitating corruption ravaging our country. Indeed for many within this group, should Buhari win, many corrupt elites will simply join the next available flight, out of the country.

    Another major argument of those supporting a Buhari presidency is believe that he will defeat the Boko Haram insurgency in the north east. They argue that as a former military leader, he will run the insurgents out of the country, with ease. They excitedly refer to his exploits as former commander of the Third Armoured Division, based in Jos; when he reportedly chased insurgents into a neighbouring country.Again this group believe that the army will be more committed to the fight against the insurgents than they are under President Jonathan, a civilian. In fact, some even tout the unrealistic claim that the General will lead the fight.

    On the flip side, the strongest argument against Gen. Buhari is that he comes from a tribal group that has ruled Nigeria for the longest period, and as such he should allow President Jonathan, a minority,from oil bearing region of the country, another chance. They also argue that should Buhari become a president, there will be a resurgence of the born-to-rule mentality, and the unfair privileges and access to government offices by the Hausa-Fulani, as in the past. They cite examples when they had preferential treatment with regards to promotions in the public service. They also raised issues about Buhari’s sponsors.

    Another major worry of those against Buhari’s presidency is his excessive strictness; indeed, many used very harsh words against him. They cite many of the claims in a campaign documentary as evidence, and even when one points out that some of the claims may not be true, considering the time when it happened, the claim that he has no mercy sticks with them. Here, there is also the claim that he bears responsibility for some of the violence in the north, considering some of his outbursts, when he claimed that the elections were rigged against him.

    For President Jonathan, his supporters claim that he has turned around the economy, for better. They cite the claim by the Minister for Agriculture that Nigeria is now nearly self-sufficient in rice production. They are also excited that our economy is now the biggest in Africa, and according to government officials the preferred destination for direct foreign investment in Africa. Another claim they make is that Nigeria has under the government of President Jonathan become a net exporter of cement. Still on the economy, they tout the claim that corruption has been eliminated in the distribution of fertiliser.

    The other strong claim by the supporters of the President is that he has done well with infrastructure, citing the famous Ore-Benin highway, and the revived railway. They also cite the privatisation of the power sector, which they claimed the past presidents could not do. They relay the claim by the government that ghost workers have been eliminated in the civil service, and that he has spread universities across the states that had none. One major claim based on sentiment is that coming from the Niger Delta, Jonathan deserves a second term.

    On the flip side, there is the contention that the president is soft on corruption. They cite the fuel and kerosene subsidy scam. Also the pension fraud and the allegations against the NNPC and other major government agencies. Another major issue against the president is the rampaging insecurity in the country and debilitating unemployment. They argue that the President lacks the capacity to fight the Boko Haram menace, despite the huge resources allocated to the military over the years. Like the argument against the Hausa-Fulani aristocrats, there is the argument that young Niger Delta Turks have replaced the former, particularly in accessing unearned privileges. Indeed many contend that their excesses contribute significantly to the ascendency of corruption in the country.

    Notably, none of those I encountered raised query over the position of the candidates, with regards to restructuring of the country. Again, though ethnic bias is a factor for the preferences, there were strong supporters of the two candidates across the two major ethnic groups. Since I am not anexpertise on voters’ attitude, I hope the delay will not result in apathy and change of preferences.

  • ‘She lived by example’

    ‘She lived by example’

    Femi Macaulay, member, Editorial Board of The Nation, last Friday in Lagos, buried his mother, Mrs Eleanor Bodunrin Macaulay after a funeral service at The First Baptist Church on Broad Street. OLATUNDE ODEBIYI reports.

    The Macaulay family and their friends gathered in Lagos last Friday to bid farewell to Mrs Eleanor Bodunrin Macaulay who was buried at Ikoyi Cemetery.

    She was the widow of the late Mr Frank Olusola Macaulay, grand nephew of the late Nationalist Herbert Macaulay.

    Mrs Macaulay died in Lagos last December 15, 21 days to her 80th birthday on January 5.

    Family members and guests wore white traditinal attires with green head gears.

    All stood when the choir took the processional hymn: “All hail the power of Jesus name”. As they sang, the remains of Mrs Macaulay were wheeled into the church by St Francis’s pall bearers.

    Leading members of the family was her son, Mr Femi Macaulay, an Editorial Board member of The Nation.

    Dr Enahoro David read from Psalm 134 before the choir took another hymn titled: “Immortal invisible”.

    Macaulay read the biography of his mother; his wife, Funmilayo rendered a special song for her mother-in-law.

    Mrs Omotunde Oshodi took another reading from Acts 9: 36-43.

    Pastor Rotimi Allison represented the pastor in charge of First Baptist Church, Rev Sunday Fagbemi. In his sermon, Pastor Allison urged the gathering to love Christ and live for Him.

    He said death is inevitable following which there would be judgment. Only Jesus, the cleric added, had victory over death.

    He asked the congregation where they would be on Judgement Day when Jesus would return. “Jesus is coming back someday. Where will you spend your eternity?” The cleric prayed for the bereaved family.

    The congregation moved to Ikoyi Cemetry where the remains of Mrs Macaulay were buried about 1:20 pm.

    Reception was at The Police Officers’ Mess in Onikan, Lagos. The chairs and tables were covered with white fabrics. Golden Star Band supplied music; The Mainlanders Band entertained those who sat under the tents outside.

    Macaulay described his mother as modest. “She was not a noise maker; she had respect for diversity and the differences of the other person. She was more interested in humanity than status and believed in gradual increase, development and not sudden overnight appearance of prosperity.

    “The truly prosperous person to her was a contented person not the perpetual pursuer of material. She lived by example and her punctuality was timelessness. Her modesty was often misunderstood for conservatism and she was a dynamic person and open to change,” he said.

    He recalled his  memorable moment with his mother. He said: “It was in 2009 during her late husband’s 80th birthday when I noticed certain gestures, especially when the two of them were dancing on the occasion. It seems to remind them of sometime in the past when they were much younger and when they did things together. It might not have been obvious to everybody present on that occasion but looking at even the picture of both of them dancing; you will see a certain sense of procession.

    “From the scene, I saw her excited because I had not seen my mother that excited in a long time and they demonstrated to me how deeply committed she was to the relationship she had with my father.”

    He went on.  “I will miss her quiet laughter, her sense of humour, her philosophical perspectives and her motherly love”.

    A close family member, who had known the deceased for over 60 years and Chairman, A-tech Nigeria Limited, Mr Akin Ajayi, described the late Mrs Macaulay as a warm hearted woman who took care of her late husband’s family.

    Her younger brother, Mr Bankole Williams, said his sister was a darling. “She lived a good and disciplined life; she took special care of me to the point of assisting my father to pay my secondary school fees. She disliked anything flamboyant and believed in modesty”.

     

  • Farewell to ‘a good man’

    Farewell to ‘a good man’

    The funeral of Dr Joseph Singapore Adaba, a businessman, who died on December 26, last year has been held in Lagos, reports WALE AJETUNMOBI

    Lafiaji, the popular neighbourhood in Obalende area of Lagos, was agog penultimate Friday. It throbbed, as usual, with commercial activities. But trading on the narrow street leading to St. Michael Catholic Church in the neighbourhood was suspended for a two-hour funeral programme.

    At 9:45am, the hearse conveying the body of Dr Joseph Singapore Adaba, arrived in the church, accompanied by soldiers. There was no stunt by the pallbearers, who were clad in black and white suits. The pallbearers were trailed by the grief-stricken family members and associates of the deceased as the remains were being moved into the church auditorium.

    The officiating priest, Reverend Father Vincent Udoye, came in from the pulpit entrance; then, the funeral mass for the late Dr  Adaba started.

    The widow, Mrs Amina Adaba, who was clad in black attire, sobbed endlessly as the priest began the homily. She was consoled by a group of sympathisers also dressed in black clothes.

    Taking the first Bible reading from the Daniel 12: 2-3, Rev. Father Udoye said all the dead shall be awaken on the Day of Judgment. He  said the righteous among them shall wake into everlasting life, while the wicked would be in shame.

    The priest urged the congregation to always leave their loved ones with good deeds each day because they would never know their last hour on earth.

    He said: “We all must prepare for our final moment because the son of man can come at any time. We must pray for long life but whether we like it or not, the son of man will leave this earth one day and our deeds would determine if we are going to rise among the righteous or the wicked.”

    Describing the deceased as a good man, Rev. Father Udoye urged the bereaved family members not to mourn, but to reflect on the good deeds of their breadwinner and move close to God in their trying period. The priest told the widow not to cry but to remain in prayers at all times.

    While taking the second Bible reading from Job 17-22, the clergyman noted that there had been no human being without weakness.

    He read: “Can a mortal be more righteous than God? Can a man be more pure than his Maker? If God places no trust in his servants; if he charges his angels with errors, how much more those who live in houses of clay whose foundations are in the dust, who are crushed more readily than a moth?”

    After the sermon, the priest prayed for the bereaved family and led a processional hymn with the theme: Hark, Hark, My Soul.

    Afterwards, the body was moved out of the church for interment at Ikoyi Cemetery in Obalende. After the priest said a short prayer, the body was lowered into a concrete grave by the pallbearers, while the widow and family members of the deceased performed dust-to-dust rite.

    In tribute to her late husband, Amina wrote: “My love, my confidant, my friend and motivator. You left me so sudden and it is still like a dream … I will not mourn but celebrate you, because that is what you deserve. Although my heart bleeds with pain, but for you I will be strong. Will forever miss you.”

    Adaba died last December 26, last year. He was 67. He worked in Nigerian Immigration Service before he gained admission to study Pharmacology up to doctoral degree at the University of Brooklyn, New York in United States from 1974 to 1977.

    After he returned to the country, he established business conglomerate in Nigeria and abroad.

    He is survived by wife, a son and five grandchildren.

     

  • 70 garlands to a philanthropist

    Standard Insurance Consultant Limited chairman Dr Ahmed Salawudeen celebrated his 70th birthday at Goshen Beach Estate, Lekki, Lagos, penultimate Friday, reports TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO

    The breeze from the cool beach behind Dr Ahmed Olaniyi Salawudeen’s house was soothing. Those who made it to the upper part of the building enjoyed the breezed throughout their stay.

    Many who could not make it upstairs watched through big screens inside the compound.

    Although Dr Salawudeen  planned a low key birthday, his philanthrophy attracted many to the ceremony.

    The Standard Insurance Consultant Limited chairman celebrated his 70th birthday at his residence in Goshen Beach Estate, Lekki, Lagos penultimate Friday.

    People came from far and wide to celebrate with him.

    The celebrator’s staff were on ground to handle things.

    They attended to guests with courtesy: They were in uniform shirts with the company’s name.

    The guests in their simple but classy outfits struggled for space in the expansive compound. They came in dainty cars.

    Being a Friday, the programme started with Missioner of Ansar-ud-Deen Society of Nigeria (ADS) Mushin Branch, Imam Hassan Katibi delivered opening prayer.

    A recitation from the Holy Quran was read by Ustadh Idris AbdulKareem, followed by special prayers led by Alhaji Sulayman Jamiu, ADS Ebute Meta Branch missioner.

    The highpoint of the gathering was a lecture by an erudite scholar, Sheikh Muhydeen Ajani Bello.

    Though the firebrand preacher was not in his usual best, his lecture still held the gathering captivated.

    According to him, his relationship with the celebrator dated back to 1997 when the duo met in Ibadan.

    He described Dr Salawudeen as a simple person whose affluence hardly noticed when relating with people.

    He recalled how the celebrator stunned some lawmakers in Abuja with highest donation few years back during fund raiser for a mosque project.

    Many, he said, at that occasion wondered how a man in his simple Buba and Sokoto could outshine the politicians in Agbada at the function.

    He admitted that celebrating birthday is not in line with Sharia (Islamic law).

    Sheikh Muhydeen as he is fondly called said the essence of celebrating a birthday should be on the level of positive impact made on people.

    According to him, longevity of life is meaningless without better achievements.

    Shortly after his lecture, special prayers were offered for the celebrator and his family.

    He thanked Allah for preserving the life of Dr Salawudeen all through his years of sojourn in overseas.

    “He hardly stays in the country, always moving from one country to another. I am sure it’s because of the birthday that made him return to the country and will not be surprised if he leaves the country tomorrow (Saturday),” he said.

    Guests afterwards showered the celebrator with gifts including big frame; caricature of his portrait, cards, designer Quran, among others.

    The gathering later adjourned for Salatul Jumah.

    They reconvened for a reception where the occasion chairman Alhaji Ade Sanni eulogised the celebrator.

    Alhaji Sanni, the ADS National Vice President, prayed Allah to continue to bless Dr Salawudeen.

    He enjoined those present to emulate him.

    The reception featured toast to the celebrator, cutting of the cake and special dance between the celebrator and his wife.

    Congratulating the celebrator, the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Samuel Odulana wished him long life and prosperity.

    According to the monarch, Dr Salawudeen “has done a lot for Ibadan but refuses to accept chieftaincy titles. If we talk of developments, he has done many things for Ibadan.”

    Represented by Managing Director of Sahara Engineering and the Aare Ago of Ibadanland, Chief Olalere Adigun, the royal father described him as a fantastic person.

    Chief Adigun who has been a friend with Dr Salawudeen when they met in Germany 46 years ago, described him as a respected and gentle man.

    ADS Northern Chairman, Alhaji Yusuf Adebayo Ibrahim described the celebrator as a man that add value to humanity.

    “I have been relating with him for over 20 years and it has been very exciting. He is not a member of Ansar-ud-Deen but a devoted Muslim. If everybody could emulate him, the society will be better for all,” Adebayo said.

    The celebrator’s wife, Mrs Tolulope Salaudeen, wished him many more happy years in good health and abundant blessings.

    “We have been together for 39 years; he is a dynamic man, a disciplinarian, tough but kind-hearted and generous person,” she said.

    The Iseyin-born celebrator gave thanks to Allah for making the day a reality and given him good health.

    He described the day as good and wonderful.

    According to him, the philosophy of life is that all things come from Allah, hence his desire to assist humanity.

  • Farewell to ‘a good man’

    Farewell to ‘a good man’

    The funeral of Dr Joseph Singapore Adaba, a businessman, who died on December 26, last year has been held in Lagos, reports WALE AJETUNMOBI

    Lafiaji, the popular neighbourhood in Obalende area of Lagos, was agog penultimate Friday. It throbbed, as usual, with commercial activities. But trading on the narrow street leading to St. Michael Catholic Church in the neighbourhood was suspended for a two-hour funeral programme.

    At 9:45am, the hearse conveying the body of Dr Joseph Singapore Adaba, arrived in the church, accompanied by soldiers. There was no stunt by the pallbearers, who were clad in black and white suits. The pallbearers were trailed by the grief-stricken family members and associates of the deceased as the remains were being moved into the church auditorium.

    The officiating priest, Reverend Father Vincent Udoye, came in from the pulpit entrance; then, the funeral mass for the late Dr  Adaba started.

    The widow, Mrs Amina Adaba, who was clad in black attire, sobbed endlessly as the priest began the homily. She was consoled by a group of sympathisers also dressed in black clothes.

    Taking the first Bible reading from the Daniel 12: 2-3, Rev. Father Udoye said all the dead shall be awaken on the Day of Judgment. He  said the righteous among them shall wake into everlasting life, while the wicked would be in shame.

    The priest urged the congregation to always leave their loved ones with good deeds each day because they would never know their last hour on earth.

    He said: “We all must prepare for our final moment because the son of man can come at any time. We must pray for long life but whether we like it or not, the son of man will leave this earth one day and our deeds would determine if we are going to rise among the righteous or the wicked.”

    Describing the deceased as a good man, Rev. Father Udoye urged the bereaved family members not to mourn, but to reflect on the good deeds of their breadwinner and move close to God in their trying period. The priest told the widow not to cry but to remain in prayers at all times.

    While taking the second Bible reading from Job 17-22, the clergyman noted that there had been no human being without weakness.

    He read: “Can a mortal be more righteous than God? Can a man be more pure than his Maker? If God places no trust in his servants; if he charges his angels with errors, how much more those who live in houses of clay whose foundations are in the dust, who are crushed more readily than a moth?”

    After the sermon, the priest prayed for the bereaved family and led a processional hymn with the theme: Hark, Hark, My Soul.

    Afterwards, the body was moved out of the church for interment at Ikoyi Cemetery in Obalende. After the priest said a short prayer, the body was lowered into a concrete grave by the pallbearers, while the widow and family members of the deceased performed dust-to-dust rite.

    In tribute to her late husband, Amina wrote: “My love, my confidant, my friend and motivator. You left me so sudden and it is still like a dream … I will not mourn but celebrate you, because that is what you deserve. Although my heart bleeds with pain, but for you I will be strong. Will forever miss you.”

    Adaba died last December 26, last year. He was 67. He worked in Nigerian Immigration Service before he gained admission to study Pharmacology up to doctoral degree at the University of Brooklyn, New York in United States from 1974 to 1977.

    After he returned to the country, he established business conglomerate in Nigeria and abroad.

    He is survived by wife, a son and five grandchildren.

     

  • Destined for eachother

    Destined for eachother

    Former Miss Elfreda Ekinedonose, a medical doctor from Edo State, got married to her heartthrob, Johnbosco Obinna Onunkwo, an engineer with Agip Oil, in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital. NWANOSIKE ONU reports. The groom’s father was Senator Chris Ngige’s secondary school teacher.

    ormer Miss Elfreda Ekinedonose and Johnbosco Obinna Onunkwo met at lunch sometime last year. Their eyes locked and they got talking. That was how they became friends.

    Their friendship grew and before long, they became an inseparable pair. Last December 14, Johnbosco led his heartthrob, Elfreda to the altar of Mater Misericodiae Catholic Church in Rumuomasi in Aba Road, Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital, to exchange marital vows.

    Their friends, family members, the high and mighty witnessed the union.

    It was a union that broke cultural boundaries. The groom, an electrical and electronics engineer with Agip Oil in Port Harcourt hails from Umuchu in Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State; the bride is a medical doctor and a native of Eguare, Ekpoma in Esan West Local Government Area of Edo State.

    From the way they constantly looked into each other’s eyes, as they headed to the lectern where the bride took the first Bible reading from Genesis: 2: 16-24 and the groom, the second reading from Romans 8: 31-35, 37-39, it was obvious they were in love.

    Rev. Fr. Aloysius Ezeoke, who represented the Catholic Bishop of Awka, the Most Rev. Paulinus Ezeokafor was the officiating priest. It was co-officiated by the parish priest, Rev Monsignor Cletus Mbarikatta.

    In his homily, Rev. Ezeokafor, enjoined the couple to respect each other and not allow a third party to come between them.

    The reception, was at Astech Arcum (A1), Event Centre on Stadium Road, Port-Harcourt, where guests were treated to sumptuous local and continental delicacies with choice drinks. The hall was decorated with golden fabrics mixed with coral and aqua colours; the chairs and tables’ overlays were adorned with silver and wine apparels.

    The arena was designed with wine linings, coated with silver fabrics, which were the colours of the day.

    Before the hall was a decorated seat positioned for all to see. On the couch was boldly written in gold “love for the couple”.

    There was no turn-table music, but popular crooner and brand ambassador, Flavour, supplied the scintillating popular ‘Ada-Ada’ song to usher the couple into the gathering.

    The groom, a Rotarian, who holds the traditional title of Akaekpuchionwa 1 in his community, looked cute in a navy blue suit, with a black tie and white shirt.

    Elfreda looked dazzling in her flowing gown, laced with silver beads.

    At the event were an array of comedians, such as Okey Bakassi and John Okafor who anchored the event.

    After the cutting of the five-layer cake, the senator representing Anambra Central Zone, Dr. Chris Ngige, proposed the toast. He wished the couple a happy married life.

    Everyone soon took to the dance floor with Flavour dishing out some of his popular songs. The couple danced in front of the musician.  While the young Onunkwo kept stooping low, Elfreda twisted her waist to the delight of guests who watched in admiration.

    The couple’s parents, Sir and Lady Simeon Onunkwo and Mr and Mrs Worthy Gabriel Ohiowele will remember the day for good. The groom’s father, it was revealed, taught Senator Ngige in secondary school.

    At the ceremony were Nollywood actor Victor Osuagwu and Board of Trustees (BOT) member of Anambra Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Chris Uba, among many others.

  • 70 hearty cheers for a lay reader

    70 hearty cheers for a lay reader

    Last December 27, Mr Joseph Abiodun Falode, father of Joseph Adeyeye, Controller of Publications at “The Punch,” clocked 70.  The family went to church to praise the Almighty and then later hosted their friends to a reception in Idimu on the outskirts of Lagos last week. NNEKA NWANERI reports.

    AT 70, his dance steps seem remarkable. Many watched in admiration as Pa Joseph Abiodun Falode danced into St Paul’s Anglican Chruch at Idimu, a Lagos suburb.

    He seemed to be on top of the world as he sang praises to God.

    It was at a Holy Communion service, anchored by the Vicar of Idimu Archdeaconry, Venerable Taiwo Arowolo to mark Falode’s 70th birthday. The Bible reading was taken from Philippians 4:4-13. It was followed by singing of hymns, which ushered in the Bishop of the Diocese of Lagos West Rt Rev James Odedeji, the officiating minister.

    When Bishop Odedeji mounted the podium, he thanked God for the couple, whom he had known for 25 years as caregivers and  committed Anglicans.

    “The celebrator I know has been a consistent member of this church and has been instrumental to the founding of as much as five archdeaconries through his influence and intellect,” he said.

    The senior cleric enjoined all to thank God for all He had done for them. He appreciated Falode on behalf of the church, advising him to begin to be more conscious and committed to the heavenly race.

    “Indeed, 70 children cannot play for 70 years. Many born same day and year as Pa Falode are in the cemetery, while he is in the sanctuary of God,” he said.

    Those younger than 70 were asked to rise, stretch their hands to the celebrator and sing him the “happy birthday song”.

    After the service, guests moved to D’Cubicle Events Centre, on the LASU-Igando Expressway for the reception.

    Falode was ushered into the hall with music. His family members, friends and associates were there in large numbers. His wife, Caroline, was beside him.

    They were in attractive golden attires, the colour of the day. There was a question and answer session for guests.

    Mrs Falode decribed her husband as quiet and strict.

    Falode moved to Lagos from Ilesa in Osun State in 1963. In the 70s, he arrived Idimu,  a small settlement of farmers with about 60 houses. He began the St Peter’s Church along with 12 adults and 15 children and was consecrated as the lay reader, a position he holds till date.

    At the ceremony were The Punch former chairman Chief Ajibola Ogunshola; Managing Director Mr Ademola Osinubi and Editor Martin Ayankola; Managing Director, Vintage Press (Publishers of The Nation) Mr Victor Ifijeh; the Editor, Gbenga Omotoso; Managing Director,  Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) Mr  Ola Oresanya; Managing Director, The Sun Mr Femi Adesina; Deputy Editor-in-Chief, The Guardian, Mr Debo Adesina and former Managing Director, New Telegraph, Gabriel Akinadewo.

  • Alaafin’s ‘chief guard’ joins octogenarian club

    Alaafin’s ‘chief guard’ joins octogenarian club

    The Sagbua Alaafin of Oyo, Chief Adebayo Makinde, marked his 80th birthday with a thanksgiving service at the First Baptist Church, Ikeja, reports JOSEPH JIBUEZE. 

    At 80, Chief Adebayo Makinde, the Sagbua Alaafin of Oyo, is still very strong. Apart from a few grey hairs, he walks straight. When he talks, his voice does not shake. He also moves about without a walking stick.

    What is the secret of his good health? He attributed this to living a simple life, eating only twice a day and not eating once it is past 6pm, and exercising daily, including cycling, walking and stretching.

    Most importantly, Makinde believes life is in God’s hands. “It’s God who gives good health. I live a simple life apart from being a strong believer in God through Christ,” Makinde said.

    Having attained the age of 80, Makinde wanted a quiet thanksgiving service in his church, without fanfare. But his children would not have it. To them, their father had done so much for them, and the least they could do was honour him with a befitting birthday party. And so it was.

    From the handicapped, widows and orphans, testimonies abound about Makinde’s caring and selfless nature. He believes in the aphorism: “givers never lack”. To many, his life is worth celebrating.

    A thanksgiving service was held at the First Baptist Church in Ikeja. Although it was a Saturday, the street and adjoining crescents were lined with assorted cars.

    Their owners, gaily dressed men and women, all headed to the church, also known as the “Prevailers’ Sanctuary”. The church was filled to the brim.

    A “worship in praises” was held, followed by a processional hymn, prayer of thanksgiving, Bible readings, choir ministration and a sermon by the President, Nigerian Baptist Convention, Rev. Supo Ayokunle.

    The preacher said it is not many people that live up to 80 after going “through thick and thin.” “So, we’re celebrating not only the goodness of God, but His mercies,” he said.

    He said just as God led His people the Israelites out of danger, He would continue to safeguard His worshippers from bad leadership.

    “We don’t have sensible leaders who value Nigerians. It’s like giving leadership to someone who has been discharged from a psychiatric hospital.

    “A majority of those leading us are psychiatric patients – impossible people. Do they know who we are? How can leaders behave like animals in the midst of men? How can they embezzle so much?

    “Our God knows what we’re passing through. Our life will be sustained by our attitude and our cheerfulness.

    “Enemies will not see the road as you escape. God will make a difficult journey easier. The Lord that turned Chief Makinde’s poverty to greatness will bless the rest of us,” he said, to a loud chorus of amen.

    Reception followed at the Balmoral Event Centre in Ikeja. The beautifully decorated hall was classy, draped all round with hanging grey linen.

    Chairs were covered with orange cloth, while the tables, each numbered, wore white overlays. Neon lights blinked. There was a lot to eat and drink as gorgeously dressed men and women, mostly in red headgear, danced to the Messiah Band tune. A member of the 19-man team of organisers, Chief Richard Oma Ahonaruogho, a lawyer, was the master of ceremony. His lively handling of the event gave it colour.

    The celebrator’s friend, Prince Tunde Ponle, who chaired the event, describing the day as special. He praised the family for honouring Makinde in his lifetime. He wished him a longer life.

    “We’re still going to enjoy this man for a long, long time to come,” he said.

    Ponle thanked Makinde, for influencing his life positively, a sentiment re-echoed by several people who showered praises on the octogenarian.

    “The celebrant is my mentor. I’ve always looked up to him and wish to be like him. He’s humble; he’s humorous; he laughs. He has managed his wives as if he’s managing half a wife,” he said.

    Wishing Makinde longer life and good health, Ponle said: “We want to see you celebrate 90. We want you to go beyond 90. We’re all here to rejoice. Congratulations and many happy returns,” he said.

    Other guests also paid tributes to Makinde. Rev Amos Omorisimi described him as an embodiment of hardwork and a man who has great passion for others and always ready to help in times of need.

    “Truly, you’re a gift to the world and a blessing to this generation,” the cleric said.

    Makinde’s wife, Wemimo, called him “a father in a million”, adding: “You are a wonderful husband, my mentor, my spiritual adviser and micro-financier.”

    His second wife, Adedoyin, said of her “darling husband”: “Our monthly food allowance always includes provision for unforeseen guests…your pharmacy has become a lifeline to many who cannot afford to pay for their healthcare.”

    A former Nigerian High Commissioner to Zambia, Chief M.O. Ogunmola, recalled that Makinde has kept a single personal driver for over 30 years. “He is a very tolerant man,” he said.

    Makinde said he was excited to witness the honour done to him by his children, some of who schooled and live in Canada, Europe and America, while still alive.

    “I feel great. I didn’t expect anything like this, but I thank God. And I thank my children who organised this event.

    “At 80, that I’m able to see a thing like this alive – there is nothing greater than that. To be alive and witness all that people have said about me, I feel great; I’m happy.”

    On how he is prepared to face challenges that may come with old age, Makinde said no difficulties in life would be greater than what he had survived in his lifetime.

    “What other challenge will I have? I was almost crippled at one time, but God healed me. So there’s no other challenge I can face that can be greater than that.

    “That’s why I’m very happy now and celebrating God in my life. There are not many people who are as fortunate as I am to pass through difficult periods and come out stronger.

    “If they tell you I’m 80, with the way I look and the way I move, you cannot believe it. I thank God.”

    His advice to the youth is: “First be honest in all you do. Second, hold fast to God. There’s nothing God cannot do for you. No matter the problem or the challenges, God is able to solve it for you.”

    Makinde, born in Lagos on January 14, 1935, attended the Baptist Academy and obtained the best result among his classmates in 1955.

    He subsequently obtained a diploma in Pharmacy and began his career at Kingsway Chemists, a subsidiary of UAC.

    Makinde later set up the defunct Jollitters Industries. He has been running Sata Pharmacy Limited since it was established in August 2007.

    A philantropist and former President of the Rotary Club of Ogba, Makinde is fondly called “Sagbua of the Century,” having been the first Sagbua Alaafin of Oyo in modern times (since 1982). In the makeup of the government of the Alaafin, the Sagbua is a senior member or officer of the ‘military’ arm.