The Nation Newspaper

Category: Society

  • Ode to a political icon

    Ode to a political icon

    The Eighth-Day Islamic prayers for Alhaji Jimoh Akanbi Kareem-Laka Orelope, father of Lagos State Deputy Governor Mrs Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, has been held at the Police College Grounds in Ikeja, reports TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO

    He made his mark in politics  and commerce. The late Alhaji Jimoh Akanbi Kareem-Laka Orelope, father of Lagos State Deputy Governor Mrs Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire was a man of many parts.

    As an entrepreneur, his entry into the transport business heralded what is today known  as Mass Transit System.

    His service to the Action Group (AG),  Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) and the Social Democratic Party (SDP), precursors of the All Progressives Congress (APC), according to  APC National Leader Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinibu, will forever be rememberd. It was the greatest service one could ever render to one’s country,” Tinubu said.

    He was wise, knowledgeable and highly-placed; he walked and dined with great men.  Yet, the late Orelope was humble and dedicated to the cause of his people. He gave those who knew him joy and rekindled their faith in the goodness and kindness of mankind.

    Alhaji Orelope died on December 18  during an illness.

    He was 101 years.

    After his interment, a short prayer was held for him at his Egbeda, Lagos home Residence in Alimoso Local Government Area the following day.

    Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola (SAN) led the state executive Council members to the prayer session.

    APC Lagos governorship candidate, Akinwunmi Ambode and his running mate, Dr Idiat Adebule joined other dignitaries to condole with Mrs Orelope-Adefulire at the event.

    Last Friday,  the Eighth-Day Fidau was held at the Police College Grounds in Ikeja, Lagos.

    Guests turned out in red and white attires, the chosen colours for the ceremony.

    They sat under large canopies.

    A horde of Islamic clerics led by  Lagos Central Mosque Chief Mufasir Imam Tijani Gbajabiamila sat on the high table facing the children of the deceased and the guests.

    The event featured prayers, recitation from the Holy Quran and a lecture.

    After special supplication for the deceased and his family members, Chief Missioner of Ansar-ud-Deen Society of Nigeria (ADS), Sheikh AbdurRahman Ahmad delivered a soul-inspiring lecture.

    He said Alhaji Orelope lived well.

    Sheikh Ahmad urged the children   to live up to their name.

    “He was a Muslim, he was upright, honest and the children would be judged by those qualities,” he said.

    The revered cleric enjoined politicians to take a cue from Pa Orelope’s exemplary life.

    “His politics was without bitterness, it was constructive and upright. May Allah forgive him his shortcomings,” he said.

    Osun State Governor Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, who delivered a goodwill message and vote of thanks, said the deceased was among the five political gladiators in Alimoso federal constituency.

    Governor Fashola said Pa Orelope’s 101 years on earth were well spent.

    “Prince Orelope was by every standard a remarkable man, one who retained his humility despite the great strides he made during his time. He was a man whose life we must all strive to emulate to make our society better,” he said.

    Asiwaju Tinubu said Pa Orelope’s death evokes a feeling of loss and serves as a poignant reminder of the gradual disappearance of a great generation of activist-politicians whose struggles, dedication, passion and service continued to inspire people.

    According to Tinubu, the Jagaban of Borgu, nature, zeal for public service and decent politicking were well mixed in Pa Orelope. The deceased, he said, represented the quintessential Awoist politician who could lead, inspire, mobilise and serve the people all at once.

    In a tribute, he wrote: “I am personally honoured to be one of the inheritors of the mantle of that great generation and therefore pleased to write this tribute in honour of this late titan.

    “The late Pa Orelope was a complete man who balanced and carried out his duties to his God, to his family, to his people and to his country.”

    Secretary to the Lagos State Government and running mate to the APC Lagos Governorship candidate Dr Idiat Adebule described Alhaji Orelope as a father to all.

    “Baba was a nice person and a philanthropist of repute. I pray Allah grants him Al-Jannah firdaus,” she said.

    APC National Publicity Secretary Alhaji Lai Mohammed described Pa Orelope’s demise as a great loss to the nation especially the political class.

    His son-in-law, Mr Abiodun Adefulire, said Alhaji Orelope dedicated his life to serving humanity.

    “As my father-in-law, he was always concerned about my well-being, my progress in life, in terms of my career and my matrimonial affairs… he was a political icon who preferred to spend his money on political aspirants than collecting any money from them. He is indeed worthy of emulation. I believe if all politicians can follow his footsteps, the society would be better for all,” Mr Adefulire said.

    Mrs Orelope-Adefulire, Deputy Governor, described her father’s life as a testament of excellence.

    “Whatever he did,” she said, “he did it excellently well. As a businessman, he excelled. As a politician, he excelled. As a religious man, he was devoted. As a family man, he left behind illustrious legacies. As a community leader, he left indelible milestones.”

  • Nowhere like home

    Movebacktonigeria.com, a networking organisation, last Tuesday hosted youths at the Oriental Hotel in Lekki, Lagos. AMIDU ARIJE was there

    A networking firm, Movebacktonigeria.com last Tuesday hosted the youths at Oriental Hotel, Lagos.

    The event was meant to celebrate the youths in business. Many of them came from far and wide to attend the ceremony.

    At the entrance of the hotel were beautiful women who confirmed the names of guests online at the right corner leading to the hall.

    All of them looked cute in their various attires; they exchanged pleasantries with one another on entering the hall.

    The hall was packed full with guests; others who could not get seats stood throughout the event.

    Movebacktonigeria.com aside its networking role, also organises networking events and online hangouts to connect like-minded Nigerian professionals worldwide.

    These features were exhibited at the event as some professionals, who had excelled in their various fields spur youths to take decisive actions in their endeavours.

    The keynote speaker was the Ogun State Attorney -General and Commissioner for Justice, Mrs Abimbola Ibironke Akeredolu; the Director, Best Search, a recruitment firm, Morten Foght and Founder Arnergy, a solar energy firm, Femi Adeyemo also spoke at the event.

    The Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Movebacktonigeria.com, Adabara Abdullahi said the purpose of the gathering was to connect Nigerians with various business organisations.

    “The purpose of movebacktonigeria.com is to help reconnect Nigerians in Diaspora who thinks about coming back to going to be an easy journey,” she said.

     Her speech enticed many. All applauded at intervals.

    A five man panel of Diaspora returning were put on stage to give their side of the story. It was like a competition when each of them gave their side of their reason for coming back to Nigeria and what opportunity the country had offered them.

    There were applauds and laughters from the corners of the hall as the people made their points.

    Adeyemo, one of the panellists said the environment is viable and fertile for all with great ideas.

    “Nigeria is a land that is full of opportunities and you don’t have to wait until we have uninterrupted electricity in Nigeria before you can start something because if they wait there won’t be any opportunity for them, all they need to do is to look at the various problems we have in Nigeria and think of how to proffer solution, if they do that is the beginning of success for them,” he said.

    He said he established his Arnergy Company, to bring Nigeria out of the dependence on the national electricity to diversify energy sources in the country.

    Foght urged Nigerian youths to be focused and determined. He described the environment as business friendly, but called for merit in job placements and appointments.

    They all had a nice time exchanging contacts and bidding each other farewell with nostalgia.

  • Behold Allah’s soldiers

    Behold Allah’s soldiers

    The duo of Alhaji Mukaila Eyiowuawi and Baagbimo of Ijebuland, Chief Fassy Yusuf have been turbaned as Chief Imam and Baba Adini of Obanikoro Central Mosque in Lagos. AMIDU ARIJE and SAFIYYAH ABDUR-RAZAQ report.

    It was a day to remember as the duo of Alhaji Mukaila Eyiowuawu and Baagbimo of Ijebuland, Chief Fassy Adetokunboh Yusuf were turbaned as Chief Imam and Baba Adini of Obanikoro Central Mosque in Lagos. On the road leading to Obanikoro Compound, there were security operatives controlling traffic and directing people. They wore aprons which distinguished them from other security agencies. Their presence helped many to get to the venue with ease.

    The grounds of the Obanikoro Compound, wore new look.

    Giant tents were placed at the centre of the open field of  the compound. The tents were decorated with light blue and light yellow balloons and ribbons, the tables were covered in deep blue table clothes. Members of the council of Asalatu group of the mosque were dressed in white iro and buba with deep blue headgears.

    The event began with a prayer by the General Secretary, Somolu Council of Chief Imams, Imam Muhammad Kajola. It was followed with reading from the Holy Qur’an by Sulayman Eyiowuawi.

    In an opening remark by Alhaji Opeoluwa Surakatu, he welcomed the guests to the occasion and called for the support of the members of the mosque for the new chiefs for effective running of the place. He introduced the two chiefs to the gathering which all applauded with the shouting of Allah Akbar (Allah is the greatest).

    For the development of the mosque, a fund raising was carried out. Guests donated generously.

    A lecture was delivered by the Chief Imam of Fadeyi Central Mosque, Alhaji Abdullahi Kufy. He advised the new chiefs to uphold the tenets of Islam in the discharge of their duties. “Be friend to all and make no enemies among your members, “Understand the word of Allah and the only way to do that is to seek for more knowledge. The Holy Prophet said that a leader of a community is their servant; so, stand by your members and serve them with your heart; Shun greed, forgive your people and overlook their mistakes. Always remember that you would account for all your members on the Day of Accountability,” he said.

    The decoration supervised by the Chief Imam, Somolu Muslim Community, Alhaji Abdul Rafee Adaranijo followed.

    The first to be decorated with the turban was Alhaji Eyiowuawi as Chief Imam of Obanikoro Central Mosque. Alhaji Eyiowuawi donned a red cap, white turban and a green al-Kimba with white embroidery. His conferment as Chief Imam excited everyone present and they shouted Alhamdulilah and Allah Akbar intermittently.

    Having been confirmed as Chief Imam he was therefore empowered to install Chief Yusuf as Baba Adinni of the Mosque.

    This, Alhaji Eyiowuawi did with enthusiasm and excitement. Chief Yusuf was clad in red cap, white turban and a blue al-Kimba with white embroidery. The atmosphere was charged again when he was pronounced as Baba Adinni by Alhaji Eyiowuawi.

    Chief Yusuf moved round to acknowledge cheers from guests. He shook hands with some while waved to others in appreciation of their presence and support.

    They were presented with certificates and staff of office afterwards.

    Alhaji Eyiowuawi who could not hide his joy described the day as most exciting. He said he would do his best to promote the true teachings of Islam.

    Speaking on his conferment, Chief Yusuf, a legal luminary and Management Consultant said: “I have been the Baba Adinni for about five years now; today’s event is just a formal conferment of the title. Today, I feel fulfilled and have an opportunity to praise Allah.”

    Unity amongst Muslims and other faith in the country, he said, is not negotiable; hence all must work towards the unity of the country.

    “The Muslim community should be more united and creative. They should not do anything that would tarnish the image of Islam as Islam is a religion of peace. God also says in the Quran that to you be your religion and to me be mine. Religion should not divide us. We should accept the reality and avoid religious bigotry and intolerance,” he said.

    Other guests at the occasion were Alhaja Riskat Surakatu; Iya Adinni Obanikoro Central Mosque, Alhaja Idayat Dawodu; Baale Orile Obanikoro, Alhaji Kabir Buraimoh, Balogun Adini, Somolu Muslim Community, Alhaji Jamiyu Alade; Alaga Adinni, Obanikoro Central Mosque, Alhaja Yemi Adigun, among others.

  • Celebration of unity

    Celebration of unity

    The Igbo in Mushin, a popular Lagos suburb have celebrated their cultural day with pomp and ceremony, reports NNEKA NWANERI.

    The Igbo resident in Mushin, a popular Lagos suburb, could not have had better time to celebrate their day than this Yuletide season.

    The celebration was kick-started by their leader Dr John Nwosu.

    The ceremony had the trappings of Igbo gathering. It was held at the Mushin Playing ground (formerly Arch Bishop Aggey Memorial Secondary School), Mushin. Although they were miles away from their hometowns, they tried to domesticate their culture during the celebration of the event.

    They turned out in  colourful traditional attires  for the occasion. They sat in circles around the field under canopies erected. Policemen and soldiers were on ground to check miscreants.

    Many looked regal in their traditional red caps. They gave traditional handshakes of three back palm pats before interlocking their hands in firm grips. Their brothers from other ethnic groups joined in the fun.

    The event was to celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit of an Igbo man. It theme was Replicating Undiluted Igbo Culture in Diaspora.

    In a welcome address, Nwosu said the event, is set aside to measure Igbo unity. The event, the traditional ruler said, was to keep the flame of their culture burning.

    A University of Lagos (UNILAG), Dr Samuel Ugoh, delivered teacher, lecture titled: Igwe Bu Ike meaning Kingship is power. He urged the Igbo to look beyond the writing on the wall, sit back and think about the ethnic group’s future.

    Ugoh wondered why an average Igbo man looking for means of survival in his home is seen as a lazy man.

    He urged the gathering to get the best for themselves as a people, saying charity should begin at home, so that with determination and good planning, Igboland can be transformed.

    Former Supervisory Councillor of Ijeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Area of Lagos State Mr Emeka Mordi, said many Igbo were born and bred in Lagos. Such people, he argued, should be allowed to vie for political offices.

    The high point of the event was the Ugo and Agu masqueraders, which dazzled guests with their scintilating dance steps.

  • Sunset at Naval yard

    Sunset at Naval yard

    It was an everning of glitz and glamour as the Nigerian Navy held its ceremonial Sunset and end of year party, reports Precious Igbonwelundu.

    The Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Quorra looked different with its rich decorations. The Parade ground, venue of this year’s Navy ceremonial Sunset and end of year ball was not left out.

    Guests were ushered into the vessel-like  tents by Naval personnel dressed in their ceremonials to mark one of the biggest days in the calendar of the Navy worldwide.

    Military brass serving and past service chiefs; captains of industry; traditional rulers and entertainment gathered on the occasion.

    It was a low-key celebration, but it was not lacking in navy’s finesse and candour.

    With the guests seated, the event began with the setting of the navy band to take the shape of a vessel, to muster the sunset party.

    As the bugler sounded the alert, guests watched in awe the presentation of arms by the guards and the band’s commencement of the harmonised version of the bugle call to sunset as the ensigns were slowly lowered. The officers including the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Usman Jibrin saluted  the nation’s flag.

    In his welcome address, the outgone Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Western Naval Command (WNC) Rear Admiral Sanmi Alade w, said the gathering was to enable naval personnel unwind. He advised officers to re-energise old friendships and strike new acquaintances.

    The FOC lauded the CNS for approving the hosting of the sunset in the Lagos area, just as he commended him for honouring the retired officers.

    “I am not surprised at his disposition because the CNS is highly understanding and appreciative. He has introduced several interventions to make retired officers still feel a part of the service. We are gratified by the legacy of the CNS to offer appreciation to whom it is due and we will not relent in keeping faith with his vision,” he said.

    There was musical interlude after Alade’s remark with a cultural troop from Cross River displaying their beautiful dance steps, while the ushers served dinner.

    Then, it was time for the CNS to deliver his address as the chief host and he approached the podium with candour, recounting the successes of the navy in the year.

    “The NN has recorded some achievements in this outgoing year. fittingly, this ball provides us the opportunity to highlight these achievements and peep into the activities and challenges that will occupy us in the coming year.

    “In the year 2014, the navy made tremendous progress in its policing duties and the implementation of its transformation plan. Crude oil theft and other maritime crimes have been reduced significantly through the adoption of maritime domain awareness technologies and resourcefulness in the use and maintenance of available platforms.

    “As part of the NN fleet renewal programme, we are expecting two offshore patrol vessels before the end of the year, which will go a long way in enhancing our patrol effort thereby, further reducing maritime crimes.

    “The NN has sustained its prioritization of training and human capital development as a means to enhancing its operational effieicny. Attention is equally being paid to improving the environment for work and living for our personnel and their families…,” he said.

    At the end of Vice Admiral Jibrin’s speech, the event had another tempo with the CNS and his wife, Lami, called to open the dance floor, while other Admirals and their spouses later joined to “rock the floor”.

    After the dance, 58 retired officers were honoured, gifts presented to VIPs and past CNS’; while a raffle draw was organised, which saw 15 lucky winners carting away different gift items including a cow, ram, refrigerator, television, juicer, air-conditioners, among others.

  • A deserving honour

    A deserving honour

    Alumni of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) have celebrated the school’s 52nd anniversary with an award/dinner. The event was held at the university’s Multipurpose Hall, reports SAFIYYAH ABDUR-RAZAQ

    The Multi-Purpose Hall of the University of Lagos, Akoka, was tastefully decorated in red. The chairs were in white and red colours; the tables had butter colour overlays .

    The high table was decorated in red and yellow.

    As the guests trooped into the hall in dazzling attires, ushers dressed in white and black welcomed them and offered them the programme pamphlet. They exchanged pleasantries, sealing it up with hugs. They shared jokes about their days in school.

    It was the award/dinner of the University of Lagos (UNILAG) Alumni Association to commemorate the 52 anniversary of the school.

    The event, which was anchored by Prince Dayo Akeju, began with recognition of guests. Prof Oluwatoyin Ogundipe said the opening prayer.

    The Chairman on the occasion, Alhaji Musiliu Smith, former Inspector-General of Police, represented by the National President of Health Care Providers Association of Nigeria, Dr Umar Oluwole Sanda, praised the association for always giving back to their school.

    The Vice Chancellor (VC), Prof Rahamon Bello, hailed the association for recognising the achievements of some of the alumni with awards. He also urged the alumni to support the school.

    “Projects in the university are very expensive to fund and we are relying on internal funds which are not enough. We are currently building five high-rise buildings and we need you to support your various faculties. We appreciate your contributions so far and we look forward to collaborating with you so as to live up to its name as the University of First Choice and the nation’s pride,” he said.

    The speeches were followed with award presentations. Some alumni of the university who have excelled in their various fields and other well-wishers of the school received awards.

    As the awardees were called to the podium to receive their plaques, their family members and well-wishers followed them. They posed for pictures after receiving the awards.

    Enter Tunji Bello, Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment. Bello was hailed by friends and admirers. He got the Distinguished Achiever’s award.

    After receiving his plaque from Prof Babajide Alo, UNILAG Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and Research), Bello exchanged plesantries with some guests on the high table who congratulated him. His friends joined him for photographs.

    To him, it is always a thing of joy to be honoured by one’s alma mater.

    “Whatever we are today, a substantial aspect of the foundation was laid by this university. I left this university thirty-one years ago, I am always here every year and I would continue to be here every year because I appreciate the impact this university has had on my life. I feel elated and humble,” he told The Nation.

    Bello’s Transportation counterpart, Comrade Kayode Opeifa, barely came into the hall when he was called.

    An elated Opeifa said the award coming from one’s alma mater made it special “especially if the alma mater is University of Lagos.”

    “It’s not as if it is just an award you get just because you have an appointment. That is why I give this award a lot of respect in the league of so many awards,” he said.

    Another awardee, a Principal Medical Officer of the school, Dr Olayinka Olufunmilayo Coker, said: “I feel great. I have worked for about 20 years in the university. My father was a lecturer here and I have lived on this campus for nearly 45 years now with the break of about two years in between. I am happy for receiving this award.”

    Also, Mr Leke Akinola, said: “I am very excited about the award. I left this university about 31 years ago and they are remembering me. It is something I appreciate so much and I thank God for it. The award is challenging me to do more for my community and for Nigeria as a whole. I think I have the responsibility to do more for UNILAG than ever.”

    Abieyuwa  Sanyaolu, an architect,  who was born the year the university was founded said she hoped to keep doing more for the school.

    “I am exhilarated to see that the university is still growing. Every time you come here, you always see a different thing, you see something different going on with UNILAG definitely by far and wide the best university in this country (in my opinion), I am proud of being an alumnies of the school. It has never let me down and I would not let it down as well. We would always support this university as far as we are able.”

    Some other awardees were; Wife of the late Managing Director of Guiness Nigeria Plc Chief Beatrice Ubeku; UNILAG Registrar, Dr Taiwo Folashade Ipaye; Prof Mopelola Omoegun; Prof Olukayode Oladipo Amund; Mr Olalekan Sunday Ajisafe; Mr Oluseun Abiodun Ajayi; Miss Temitope Adebulu; Former Chairman, Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities, Lagos Chapter, Comrade Adekola Adetomiwa Adeniyi and many others.

  • Honour for history-making sisters

    Honour for history-making sisters

    The Lagos State government has held a reception for Justice Ayotunde Phillips, the immediate past Chief Judge, and her sister, Justice Funmilayo Atilade, who succeeded her. It was a gathering of eminent personalities in the judiciary, reports JOSEPH JIBUEZE 

    It is rare for two siblings to succeed each other as the Chief Judge of a state. But it happened in Lagos when Justice Olufunmilayo Atilade succeeded her elder sister Justice Ayotunde Phillips as chief judge.

    Justice Atilade was sworn in as the fifth Chief Judge of the state on August 20.

    The state has had three successive women chief judges in the past five years, starting with Justice Inumidun Akande, followed by Justice Phillips and now Justice Atilade.

    To honour the history making sisters, the state held a reception for them at the prestigious City Hall on Catholic Mission Street on Lagos Island.

    The massive hall was decorated in sparkling golden colours.

    Gorgeously dressed men and women in  suits, bow ties, dinner gowns and other formal attires graced the occasion.

    There was enough to eat and drink. Before the event began, there was a cocktail, featuring assorted wines and spirits. Guests clinked classes in celebration.

    Justice Phillips is the first Chief Judge to use a laptop at her own expense to do her job, according to the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Ade Ipaye.

    She became a judge after a stint in the Ministry of Justice and was sworn in as the 14th Chief Judge on June 15, 2012. She retired on July 26.

    Governor Babatunde Fashola (SAN) described the gathering as exciting, adding that the rivalry between the sisters is “healthy”.

    “We couldn’t have been more fortunate in Lagos. We take pride in celebrating those who excel, who serve us with all their heart.

    “We’ll continue to send out messages that all is not lost in Nigeria,” Fashola said.

    Fashola believes Lagos has a judiciary that is not corrupt.

    “We’re also sending out a statement that our integrity is more valuable to us than all our personal assets,” he added.

    The governor drew a parallel between excellence in judicial administration and party politics.

    Referring to the All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries, Fashola said: “We’ve sent a strong message about the kind of politics we also want to play. A candidate has emerged and we’re moving on. No candidate has complained.

    “The presidential primary was a model for the whole of Africa. We have shown that we can take care of our own affairs. Those are the things that make me happy to celebrate,” he said.

    Fashola said Justice Phillips and Justice Atilade assumed leadership of the judiciary by merit.

    “In the race to excellence, there is no finish line,” he added.

    Supreme Court Justice Bode Rhodes-Vivour, who worked with Justice Phillips in the Ministry of Justice, recalled her passion for music.

    Justice Phillips, he said, was a leading member and vocalist in the Soul Assembly Band in the 60s.

    “She was a tomboy all over Lagos. I was following her at her back,” he said jovially, adding: “I think I should stop there.”

    He wished her good health in retirement, and expressed confidence in her sister-successor.

    “Justice Atilade will be a great success. I have no doubt she will excel,” he said.

    Justice Rhodes-Vivour gave an anecdote on which is the oldest profession in the world among medicine, law and engineering.

    According to him, while the surgeons claim God made woman from man’s rib in the first act of surgery, the engineers claim God made the world in six days with engineering precision.

    However, it is on record that God rested afterwards because of some kind of “chaos” in the world. “Who do you think created the chaos?” he asked, in reference to law, generating laughter in the full hall.

    To Ipaye, it takes someone interested in the delivery of quality service to introduce something that had been lacking: judicial information system, which includes electronic filing of cases.

    For the first time in the Lagos judiciary, there is an electronic search and archiving system, thanks to Justice Phillips.

    During her tenure, the high court’s fast-track procedure was revamped, while several new courts were commissioned.

    The court’s civil procedure rules also made Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) track compulsory.

    “Justice Phillips is known today as the Chief Judge that heard the cries of detainees. We hope she will continue to serve as an inspiration to others,” he said.

    Justice Raliatu Adebiyi recalled that Justice Phillips ran an open door policy.

    “We congratulate you. We’ll miss your infectious smiles, the judges’ meeting where we share cake and tea, and those dance steps,” she said.

    The judge, who along with Justice Phillips attended Queens College, recited the school’s anthem. Other old girls present joined in the hearty rendition, to a loud applause.

    Justice Atilade,  who was called to the Bar in 1976, started  as a Senior Magistrate Grade II and rose to a judge.

    Ipaye believes the new Chief Judge will succeed because she “has a burning desire” to surpass her sister’s achievements by, first, ensuring that cases are disposed speedily.

    So far, she has superintended the appointment and swearing-in of four new judges, with three to follow soon, Ipaye said.

    “I can’t think of any other Chief Judge who has brought in two batches of judges within a short time. That is why Lagos State judiciary remains a shining light,” he said.

    Chief Magistrate, Eniola Fabanwo identified qualities which stand the sisters out: being down to earth, and their impeccable manners.

    She said while Justice Phillips is an extrovert, Justice Atilade is a bit more reserved yet fun-loving, with a steely character.

    She expressed confidence that the lot of magistrates would improve, with Justice Atilade at the helm.

    “She’s one of us and is not unfamiliar with our challenges.

    We pray the good Lord to give her more energy as we look forward to working with her,” she said.

    Chairman, Lagos Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Mr Alex Muoka, said lawyers had excellent relations with Justice Phillips.

    “For the first time, a sister has succeeded a sister as CJ of Lagos. Most of us may not see that history repeated,” he said.

    He expressed hope that the Bar would work harmoniously with Justice Atilade.

    “We wish her a successful tenure,” he said.

    A friend of Justice Phillips, Mrs Bolaji Aboderin, said being with the celebrator was always a pleasure.

    “There were no gossips…we just talked about ourselves. At her house she had piles of files, but she likes to enjoy herself. She loves to cook. She had time for her children,” she said.

    Justice Phillips shared fond memories of how her band entertained Lagosians during her youth.

    “We painted this town red. In secondary school, I painted the whole of the Western region red.

    “If I had continued, maybe by now I’d be a senior, senior, senior Don Jazzy.

    “I’m still a bit of a rascal. My red hair shows a bit of my rascality,” she joked.

    The retired CJ attributed her success to the support of all in the judiciary.

    “Everyone seemed to be in sync with what we were doing in the judiciary. I pray my sister will do whatever I have done 10 times better,” she added.

    For Justice Atilade, it is reassuring to be recognised.

    “I’m not unaware of the enormous responsibility entrusted on me by this appointment. It is even more demanding as the 2015 electoral process approaches,” she said.

    Her focus, she said, would be on human capital development, improving the facilities and working conditions, decongesting the prisons and ensuring quick determination of cases.

    “We shall continue to work harmoniously with the executive and the legislature to achieve a society where good governance is guaranteed,” she added.

    Also at the event were former Chief Judge of Lagos, Justice Ade Alabi; Justice John Tsoho of the Federal High Court; doyen of accountancy, Chief Akintola Williams; Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun of the Supreme Court; Chief Emeka Ngige (SAN), Lagos State Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary Ministry of Justice Mr Lawal Pedro (SAN) and Dr Sola Labinjo, among others.

  • Reward for hardwork

    Reward for hardwork

    Official activities of the Priority Communications Limited were last Friday halted for a dinner and award at Four Points by Sheraton Hote

    The usual hustling and bustling of staff members of Priority Communications Limited, a data and service providing company, were set aside last Friday for a dinner and award.

    Venue was the Four Points by Sheraton Hotels in Lekki, Lagos.

    Members of staff of the company and their customers had a nice time last Friday.  There was light music to keep the atmosphere alive as guests stormed the hall.

    Registration of guests was done at the right corner before entry.  A red carpet activity took place briefly before the event began. Guests posed for pictures with members of the company’s management and some personnel.

    One of the features that made the occasion unique was the outfit of the guests and the company’s workers. They appeared in black suits with matching tie and pairs of shoes.

    The hall was superbly decorated; chairs and tables were covered with white overlays. Flat screens were strategically placed at every corner of the hall for all to watch the happenings.

    Monkals, a comedian, anchored the event. He enthused guests with various jokes that left everyone laughing.

    Welcoming guests to the event were magnificently dressed women. They directed guests to their tables on entry.

    Shortly after the guests settled down, the Managing Director of the company, Mrs Abimbola Samuel, thanked them for their presence.

    She reminded the gathering that the purpose was to appreciate workers and their customers for their hard work and support over the years.

    A fifteen-minute documentary on the company’s profile was screened to the admiration of all. Each slide of the documentary was full of detailed activities of the company; all applauded as this lasted.

    After the presentation, Mrs Samuel sid her company appreciated hard work and good customer relationship – the essence of the gathering.

    “We simply want to appreciate our customers for the support they have been giving us. Also, we want to recognise our staff, we believe that without our personnel, we cannot serve the clients,” she said.

    The company’s Executive Director, Mr Olumide Samuel, reemphasised the importance of appreciating staff and customers for their hard work and patronage.

    Samuel urged the awardees to see it as an impetus to do more for the growth and development of the company as he promised to continuously reward his staff for their hardwork.

    When it was time for award presentation, which was classified into different categories, there was excitement in the hall. All were enthusiastic to know who will go home with which prize.

    There was joy in the face of members that went home with the plaques.

    The awards were categorised into four groups. The four categories of the awards included the third and fourth quarters awards, out-stations awards, long service awards and Managing Director’s special recognition awards.

    Mr Segun Samuel went home with Long Service award and Mrs Adetutu Adebayo carted away MD’s special recognition award.

    Other members of staff were also rewarded for their hardwork.

    ls, Lekki, Lagos, writes AMIDU ARIJE. 

  • Be Thankful

    Several years ago, I read a book about a man who was visited by an angel. Among other things that were discussed, the angel drew a picture frame on a plain sheet of paper and put a little black dot at the centre of the frame. The angel then explained to the man that all the goodness he had experienced and all his prayers that had been answered were represented by the white space within the picture frame. The black dot, however, represented the desires that were yet to be fulfilled. The angel explained that a lot of times, people focus all their attention on that little black dot, so it grows to fill the entire picture frame, creating the impressing that there is nothing good in life.

    This is the time of the year when we celebrate Christmas as well as settle down to evaluate our year. We are just a few days away from 2015, and we need to assess our performances in the outgoing year. No doubt that at the beginning of 2014, we all made a list of the things we hoped to achieve during the year, and now is the right time to take stock. As humans, there is a high tendency for us to focus on our unfulfilled desires and unattained goals. We beat ourselves up for falling short of our expectations or other people’s expectations of us. But come on, 2014 has not been without its glorious moments. There is a lot to be thankful for. While I cannot claim to know what is happening in your life, I can give you a few reasons to be thankful:

    • You are still here: ok, tell me it’s a cliché, but that doesn’t erase the truth does it? Life is a gift that you ought to be grateful for. There were people with great dreams and potentials who didn’t make it till the end of the year. Some had even achieved all you dreamt of achieving at the beginning of the year, but they couldn’t enjoy the benefits. Being alive means having another opportunity to turn your story around.

    • You have more successes than failures: I have always heard the song about counting one’s blessings and I thought it was nice. A few weeks ago, however, I actually attempted to write the good things that happened in my life this year. I discovered two things: first, I had forgotten a lot of them and second, the ones I remembered, they seemed so distant in my memory that I thought they happened last year. I was pleasantly surprised after drawing up my list. In comparison, I discovered I had fewer things to complain about. Again, if you are the type of person who learns from mistakes, then congratulations because you are the ultimate winner. All your failures in 2014 are lessons to help make 2015 more fruitful. Most of the successful persons I know have urged people to develop a healthy attitude towards failure. Failure is an event, not a character. If you have ever failed, congratulations because so did almost all successful persons on the planet. If you focus on the failure, you will give up; if you give up, failure will become your nature. So, why not make a list of your blessings in 2014 right now? But not before you finish reading this article of course!

    • Open up, don’t close up: when you focus on the things that are not working in your life, you close yourself up to the possibility that you are making progress. You may not be where you want to be, but you are not where you used to be. Whether by flying, running, walking or crawling, you must have moved forward. Open up to that possibility and be thankful for what you’ve got.

    • Being thankful doesn’t mean being satisfied: I can imagine someone asking, “Won’t being thankful mean that I am satisfied with my achievements?” No. Let me ask you a question of my own: do you think people are really ever satisfied with anything? Successful businessmen always wish they are more successful. Brilliant students always want to do better. Record breakers always wish to be better so that their records can stand unbroken for ages to come. Being thankful doesn’t mean that you are sealing off your achievements; it simply means that you acknowledge that things could have been worse.

    • If you don’t see anything good in 2014, there may not be any in 2015: now hold it a minute before you turn cold on me! This is not a curse. Ungratefulness is not an action but an attitude. Whoever didn’t see anything worth celebrating in 2014 may fail to see same in 2015. Little things add up to make big things. Whoever fails to see the little things in life may miss the big ones too.     

    Don’t judge yourself by other people’s standards: one of the major reasons for ungratefulness is that we compare our lives with people around us. I believe this usually starts from our goals at the beginning of the year. A lot of people set their goals in competition with other people. If you want to beat people in their own games, of course you will fall short. The best person to compete with is yourself. Considering your capacity at the beginning of the year (and completely ignoring other people’s standards), do you think you have made some progress? That calls for celebration doesn’t it? As we approach Christmas, let us be grateful for the miracles we have enjoyed during the year and let us prayerfully approach the New Year. Merry Christmas in advance.

     

  • An honour well deserved

    An honour well deserved

    Last Sunday, the Eko Renaissance Group, held a meritious service/award to wrap up the year. Ten illustrious sons and daughters were honoured, reports NNEKA NWANERI.

    Eko Renaissance Group, an indigenous group, comprising of career young men from Lagos State indigene, was formed to protect the interest of its members in Nigeria and abroad. As depicted from the name – Eko – means only men and women of Lagos origin are qualified to be members.

    For 15 years, the association has waxed strong with membership strength of over 50. Last Sunday at the Campus Mini Stadium on Lagos Island, they stepped out for yet another occasion. It was a day to reward excellence in service delivery to humanity as well as hold a sort of end of the year party.

    Decked in well starched white sokoto and shirt and blue aso oke caps, they gathered to celebrate their partners and those who have done outstandingly well. according to the President of the Eko Renaissance Group, the spectrum of those awarded are people that have distinguished themselves in their career, and have been of tremendous service to those around them.

    Though it wasn’t a large gathering, it comprised people of substance and calibre. well organised and precise, they went straight for the business of the day after an opening prayer led by the Chairman of the Lagos Muslims Pilgrims Board and lecturer at the Lagos State University (LASU), Dr Kabiru Paramole. He led others in reciting the Suratul Fathia from the Quran.

    Dr Paramole wore a double cap; the guest speaker cum representative of Lagos Commissioner for Home Affairs and Culture, Hon Oyinlomo Danmole, the Chairman on the occasion. He urged all to live lives of legacy to find favour before God and men.

    He said: “Let us all impact positively in our neighbour’s lives and be supportive to all humans, because whatever we do today will be history tomorrow. God watches all we do”.

    The group’s president, Mr Babatunde Onigbanjo, in a welcome address said, there is more to the gathering than honouring people. The group seeks to promote the interest of its members in the public and private sectors across the tiers of government.

    “We are here to curtail marginalisation in organisations and to this, a lot of people have benefitted from us. Many people have benefitted from these 10 and it is for this that we are rewarding them, the award will also encourage them not to relent but keep doing more for humanity and be a clarion call for or members and guests to rise to the challenge”.

    The Distinguished Administrator of the year award was bagged by Mr Razaq Amodu, who served as the council manager in Ikoyi-Obalende Local Government and now is Council Manager for Somolu Local Government.

    A post-humous award was given to the late Comrade Joseph Ajasa, who was described as a dogged fighter, who contributed tremendously. Onigbanjo, who spoke on behalf of other members of the club, said not giving him the award will be a great injustice considering the effort and zeal he put in the past.

    “His effort cannot be in vain because he is an aluta man to the core and really deserves this award,” he said.

    While presenting the award to the widow of the late Ajasa, Anthonia, one of the new men of bench in the Lagos State High Court, Justice Abisoye Jubril Bashua, said the event was his first official duty as a Lagos State Judge.

    Others were: Mrs Florence Omotunde-Peters, who is the Oriade LocaL Government Council Manager won the Distinguished Special Administration award; the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Teachers Establishment and Pensions Commission, Otunba Nurudeen Ojora-Adejiyan bagged an award in recognition of his leadership role in Lagos State as well as another retiree of the Lagos Civil Service, Mrs Basirat Akinsanya.

    Amodu, who spoke on behalf of the awardees, thanked the organisers for a job well done.

    Secretary to the Lagos Muslim Welfare Pilgrims Board, Mr Kamal Sanusi, in a goodwill message accorded the group for impacting positively to the affairs of the government and all should see the essence of the group as a challenge to help the government be better.

    The musical interlude lasted into the night as members engaged their guests in wining and dining.