The Nation Newspaper

Category: Society

  • Marital bliss

    An Associate Professor of Counselling at the University of Lagos, Dr Monday Bassey Ubangha, has given out his daughter, Patience Komommo’s hand in marriage to the 2 I-C Provost of the Nigerian Customs, Yaba, Lagos Mainland Easter Eteng Eyong, in marriage. The solemnisation took place at the Grace and Dominion Chapel of the Assemblies of God Church, Oworonshoki, Lagos. NNEKA NWANERI was there.

    Talk of a colourful wedding. A parade of officers; a union of families, show of friendship, solidarity and a bond between two young people.

    It was all these and more when Patience, daughter of an Associate Professor of Counselling at the University of Lagos, Dr Monday Bassey Ubangha, exchanged marital vows with her beau, Easter Eyong in Lagos.

    To the couple, it was a dream come true.

    Men of the Nigerian Police and Customs Service were there to share in the couple’s joy.

    The nuptial knot was tied at Grace and Dominion Chapel of the Assemblies of God Church, Oworoshoki, a Lagos suburb.

    With the opening hymn: “My Hope is built on nothing less,” the bride was ushered into the church by her father. At the altar already waiting was the groom, kitted in ash-coloured Customs uniform.

    Rev Ekah Egere, from The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM), Idimu, Lagos branch, where the groom worships, in his homily, admonished the couple to see marriage as a respected institution ordained by God.

    He urged them to treat each other with respect and lean on God who has promised to neither leave nor forsake them.

    After the sermon, the Grace Choir rendered a special song for the couple after which they were joined by the host minister, Rev Israel Nnejiwuihe, who later presented them with their certificate.

    The filing out of the church was dramatic. Customs officers did a parade for their colleague. It was a match past with the couple in their midst. Patience was all smiles as she clung to her man.

    The officers replaced the conventional grooms men, but the set up comprised ladies too, all numbering about 10, led them out of the church while others followed behind.

    Officers with feathers on their caps and swords above their bellies did a slow match, lifting each foot simultaneously to the beat of theacomplanying band which produced epic tunes using the Scottish pipebag.

    They also stood at attention one after the other before the couple and threw sharp salutes.

    The wedding train moved to the Police Officers Mess in GRA, Ikeja for the reception, where many guests were already waiting.

    Guests shone in orange and green coloured Ankara, George fabrics and blouse. There was a tent outside for those who could not get a seat in the hall.

    The couple’s entry into the hall was as dramatic as their exit from the church. Their friends did a replica of the parade they put up in the church. As they marched, their sword jackets dangled from their sides.

    They led the couple all the way to where they sat.

    Chairman of the occasion and the Chief Executive Officer of St Anthony Group of Schools, Otunba Edward Ohore, urged the couple to tolerate each other as the only way to ensure a lasting union. Communication, he said solves a lot of problems.

    He enjoined them to always apologise to each other for peace to reign in their home.

    There was the presentation of the sword. ASP Estu Mesembe, in introducing the presentation, said it is a symbolic gesture given to the military and paramilitary. The groom’s sword was given by the Comptroller General. His colleague, ASP Omini Ebri, who attended the same school with the groom, and also joined the customs service with Easter in 2011, handed it to him.

    The groom, on receiving the sword kept matching on the spot.

    Same sword was used to cut the wedding cake amid fireworks.

    Dr Ubangha told The Nation of the mixed feelings he has for the day. Though visibly excited, his parting was with his daughter is one that will be difficult to forget. He also said he is not bothered that Patience get married to a uniformed man.

    “Though she has come of age, parting with her is not an easy thing. My daughter has been my friend, companion and confidante. She has been very close to me apart from my wife so it won’t be easy coming home daily without seeing her,” he said.

    He urged the couple to be tolerant, even in the face of challenges.

    The bride’s mother, Mrs Mary Ubanga, a Deputy Superintendent of Police and the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) for Ijaiye Ojokoro, a Lagos suburb, described her daughter as a friendly and jovial girl.

  • Vessels of honour

    The Igbe Community Central Mosque in Ikorodu, on the outskirts of Lagos, has conferred chieftaincy titles on some of its members. AMIDU ARIJE was there.

    People came from far and wide for the conferment of chieftaincy titles on some members of the Igbe Community Central Mosque in Ikorodu, on the outskirts of Lagos.

    The event was held at the Linksbond College, Igbe.

    It was a two-in-one ceremony – a N100 million fund raiser for mosque development and chieftaincy title conferment.

    Members of the mosque looked resplendent in white and cream attire.

    The event started on a prayer note, with Imam Jamiu Alabi and Alfa AbdulGaniyu, officiating.

    Chairman of Igbe Community Central Mosque Alhaji Jubreel Olasanya, said the essence of the ceremony was to appreciate the contributions of some members of the mosque to the development of Islam and community.

    Lagos State House of Assembly Chief Imam Alhaji Abdul Hakeem Abdul Lateef was the guest lecturer.

    Father of the day Justice Abdul Fatai Adeyinka (rtd) was represented by Alhaji, Musiliu Adaran.

    The honorees, citation was taken by the masters of ceremony.

    The chiefs were accompanied to the seats allotted to them by family members amid dance

    The chiefs filed out according to their titles. They wore white lace. Among them were Alhaji Abdul Rasheed Oladele, a surveyor as the Aare Adinni; Alhaji Jimoh Akinlaja – Asiwaju; Alhaji Ismail Alaba – Seriki; Alhaji Muhammed Qoseem Ejire – Giwa; Alhaja Modinat Atoke Adeyemi as Mogaji and Alhaja Aminat Agbaje – Iya Eleto.

    The were filled with Joy when they were called. They waved and shook hands with their guests.

    In his lecture entitled ‘My rights and duties’, Alhaji AbdulLateef urged all present to perform their duties to God, saying God would not hesitate to perform His duties on them.

    He enjoined the title holders to be careful with their position and not to be intoxicated by power.

    He seized the occasion to appeal to political office holders to administer with the fear of God, saying that is the only solution to the problems of the country.

    Chief Imam Igbe Community Central, Alhaji Abdul Wadiu Salaudeen led other clerics at the turbaning.

    Before carrying out the activity, Alhaji Salaudeen requested the pleasure of the Chief Imam General of the Igbogbo /Baiyeku Local Council Development Area, Sheikh Dhikirullahi Andu to pray on the caps and clothes to be used for the turbaning.

    It was carried out with excitement. He prayed for the long life and good health of the title holders.

    After the prayer Sheikh Salaudeen carried out the turbaning amid cheers.

    All shouted Allahu Akbar as the cap was put on the head of the honorees.

    Eulogies and appreciation kept pouring in from people as all the chiefs were handed over their certificate of office.

    Alhaji Oladele thanked Allah and all that have come to grace the occasion.

    He described the title as surprising. He promised to keep committing himself to the service of Allah and the community.

    “I feel happy being recognised by the community in the service to humanity. Many have made great contributions without any honour so for me I just need to thank God,” he said.

    In attendance were: the Chief Imam of Ikorodu, Sheikh Saefudeen Ademoritan Olowooribi; Mr Isiaq Oladele; Chairman Linksbond College Alhaji Akin Tijani; Alhaji Bello Shitta; Chief Olujonwo Bamgbala; Chief Tajudeen Onasanya; Chief Olusola Olotu; Alhaji Amusa Dosumu among others.

  • Vessels of honour

    The Igbe Community Central Mosque in Ikorodu, on the outskirts of Lagos, has conferred chieftaincy titles on some of its members. AMIDU ARIJE was there.

    People came from far and wide for the conferment of chieftaincy titles on some members of the Igbe Community Central Mosque in Ikorodu, on the outskirts of Lagos.

    The event was held at the Linksbond College, Igbe.

    It was a two-in-one ceremony – a N100 million fund raiser for mosque development and chieftaincy title conferment.

    Members of the mosque looked resplendent in white and cream attire.

    The event started on a prayer note, with Imam Jamiu Alabi and Alfa AbdulGaniyu, officiating.

    Chairman of Igbe Community Central Mosque Alhaji Jubreel Olasanya, said the essence of the ceremony was to appreciate the contributions of some members of the mosque to the development of Islam and community.

    Lagos State House of Assembly Chief Imam Alhaji Abdul Hakeem Abdul Lateef was the guest lecturer.

    Father of the day Justice Abdul Fatai Adeyinka (rtd) was represented by Alhaji, Musiliu Adaran.

    The honorees, citation was taken by the masters of ceremony.

    The chiefs were accompanied to the seats allotted to them by family members amid dance

    The chiefs filed out according to their titles. They wore white lace. Among them were Alhaji Abdul Rasheed Oladele, a surveyor as the Aare Adinni; Alhaji Jimoh Akinlaja – Asiwaju; Alhaji Ismail Alaba – Seriki; Alhaji Muhammed Qoseem Ejire – Giwa; Alhaja Modinat Atoke Adeyemi as Mogaji and Alhaja Aminat Agbaje – Iya Eleto.

    The were filled with Joy when they were called. They waved and shook hands with their guests.

    In his lecture entitled ‘My rights and duties’, Alhaji AbdulLateef urged all present to perform their duties to God, saying God would not hesitate to perform His duties on them.

    He enjoined the title holders to be careful with their position and not to be intoxicated by power.

    He seized the occasion to appeal to political office holders to administer with the fear of God, saying that is the only solution to the problems of the country.

    Chief Imam Igbe Community Central, Alhaji Abdul Wadiu Salaudeen led other clerics at the turbaning.

    Before carrying out the activity, Alhaji Salaudeen requested the pleasure of the Chief Imam General of the Igbogbo /Baiyeku Local Council Development Area, Sheikh Dhikirullahi Andu to pray on the caps and clothes to be used for the turbaning.

    It was carried out with excitement. He prayed for the long life and good health of the title holders.

    After the prayer Sheikh Salaudeen carried out the turbaning amid cheers.

    All shouted Allahu Akbar as the cap was put on the head of the honorees.

    Eulogies and appreciation kept pouring in from people as all the chiefs were handed over their certificate of office.

    Alhaji Oladele thanked Allah and all that have come to grace the occasion.

    He described the title as surprising. He promised to keep committing himself to the service of Allah and the community.

    “I feel happy being recognised by the community in the service to humanity. Many have made great contributions without any honour so for me I just need to thank God,” he said.

    In attendance were: the Chief Imam of Ikorodu, Sheikh Saefudeen Ademoritan Olowooribi; Mr Isiaq Oladele; Chairman Linksbond College Alhaji Akin Tijani; Alhaji Bello Shitta; Chief Olujonwo Bamgbala; Chief Tajudeen Onasanya; Chief Olusola Olotu; Alhaji Amusa Dosumu among others.

     

  • Hitting 50 with grace

    Lagos business woman Mrs Atinuke Adeniyi, wife of industralist Prince Kehinde Adeniyi (aka Penny-K) has joined the golden club. She celebrated her 50th birthday last Saturday at the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Strong Tower Parish in Okota, a Lagos suburb. OLATUNDE ODEBIYI reports.

    She was the cynosure of all eyes, looking gorgeous in a wine dress with blue head gear and shoes to match.

    It was a day of praises, dancing and thanksgiving for Mrs Atinuke Taiwo Adeniyi who celebrated her 50th birthday at the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Strong Tower Parish in Okota, a Lagos suburb, last Saturday.

    Her husband, an industrialist, Prince Kehinde Adeniyi, (aka Penny-K) was beside her on the front row.

    Their children – Segun, Bisola and Tosin – also sat close to them.

    While the ministers sat on the right side of the hall, the musicians were on the left.

    Most guests were clad in white/blue native attire. The hall was decorated in the same colours.

    The event kicked off with an opening prayer and the church choir led the praise and worship.

    The hymns: “Great is thy faithfulness” and “All hail the power of Jesus name” were taken. Music ministration by a saxophonist – Bukola Osamwonyi (Bukky sax)- followed. Guests danced and sang along.

    In his sermon, Pastor Joel Oke admonished all to have a forgiving heart.

    “If you do not forgive, your life is nothing and God will not empower you,” he said.

    Pastor Kunle Ajayi, another saxophonist, took to the stage after him. Guests danced and sang along with him. Many went to the front row to dance with the birthday ‘girl’.

    Cutting of the birthday cake followed. There were two cakes. One was gold and white; it was a-three-step cake. The other was blue. There was a big birthday card in the shape of 50 by the side of the cake table.

    The birthday ‘girl’ with her husband and children cut the cake at the resounding name of J-E-S-U-S.

    Guests took turns to take photographs with them.

    The event continued with a dance choreographed by De-Awesome.

    A documentary of tributes to the celebrator followed.

    Some of the guests took turns to speak about her after the documentary.

    The elder sister to the celebrator, Mrs Kayode Tola, described her as caring and of a good heart.

    “She is a giver and ever concerned about everybody; she prays a lot and I thank God for her life,” she said.

    The celebrant’s sister-in-law, Mrs Silifat Fatimehin, described her as a gift from God. “She is humble, coordinated and consistent with God,” she said.

    To a close family friend, Mr Tunde Oludipe, she is a good friend, hard working, God fearing and passionate for Christ. He said she was the brain behind so many things done in the church, pointing at the decorations, among others.

    The son of the celebrator, Segun, spoke on behalf of his siblings.

    He said words could not express what their mother had done for them.

    “Mummy is always there and we are so grateful for all she has done,” he said.

    Prince Adeniyi congratulated her and wished her many more fruitful years on earth.

    The birthday ‘girl’ was all smiles. She sang some songs in appreciation to God. She also shared some testimonies on how God has kept her and her family.

    “Since I gave my life to Christ, God has been good to me and my life has turned around,” she said.

    She urged the people to give their lives to Jesus and change their ways.

    There was a session of prayers for the celebrator and her family.

    The event continued with songs ministration from Nike Akande and thanksgiving followed.

     

  • A painful exit

    The House on the Rock in Lekki, Lagos State rose on March 28 for the funeral of Olufemi Enitan Segun. His remains were interred at the Vaults and Gardens in Ikoyi, Lagos. OLATUNDE ODEBIYI writes.

    Slowly, sympathisers streamed into the House on the Rock in Lekki Lagos,took their seats and waited patiently for the service to begin.

    The gathering was for the funeral of Olufemi Enitan Segun.

    Segun died in a Lagos Hospital on March 21 due to complications from the multiple injuries he sustained in a road accident while driving his power bike in Millennium Estate, Lekki Scheme One, Lagos on March 14.

    He was 56.

    He is survived by his widow Bisi, former wife Yeni Kuti (daughter of the late Fela Anikulapo-Kuti) and two daughters, Rolari and Fikemi.

    The church choir led the guests to sing some processional hymns including: praise and worship songs.

    Pastor Paul Adefarasin, who delivered the sermon, described the late Segun as a good friend and a lovely person who had the spirit of God.

    His death, he said, is a painful and great loss.

    He urged Bisi, Yeni, Rolari and Fikemi to hold on to the power of God who will never leave His own.

    Pastor Adefarasin said Segun was a great man that lived his life for God.

    ‘’He is a loving father who never stopped talking about his daughters. We in the House on the Rock love and appreciate him, his death is a deep sense of loss to us,’’ he said.

    After the church service, the train moved to Vaults and Gardens in Ikoyi.

    The brown coffin with a cross top was conveyed in a silver Mercedes Benz hearse. The pall bearers were from the funeral parlour, T.O.S.

    Tears rolled down people’s eyes as his remains were interred.

    To his aged mother, Mrs Mabel Segun, the pain of losing a dear son was too much. Old boys of Igbobi College a.k.a. Igbobians, also felt the pain of losing a wonderful colleague and a good friend.

    Many of them cried all through the interment, wiping their faces with handkerchiefs.

    As the remains of Segun were lowered into the grave around 3:00pm, every one virtually broke down in tears.

    The dust-to-dust rite was performed after the singing the processional hymn.

    Pastor Adefarasin prayed that God would be with Segun and widow and former wife, two daughters and all those he left behind.

    A cousin to the deceased, Mr Obi Alu, said he felt so bad when he heard the news, adding that he is yet to believe Femi is gone.

    ‘’I call him Egbon; he was a man of his words,’’ he said.

    Actor Patrick Doyle said he missed him so much.

    He described him as an achiever, a great and gentle man.

  • One year of running with a dream

    As part of activities marking its first anniversary, the Gazelle News gave awards to some personalities. The event was held at the Renaissance Hotel in Ikeja, the Lagos State capital, writes. OLATUNDE ODEBIYI

    The awardees stood tall as they received plaques at the Ground Hall of the Renaissance Hotel in Ikeja, the Lagos State capital.

    Guests cheered as the moderators announced their names.

    It was at the first anniversary/ lecture of the Gazelle News.

    The event featured awards presentation.

    The Gazelle News is an online media established a year ago.

    The Editor-in-Chief, Mr Musbau Razak, was full of joy, moving up and down the hall, receiving guests and ensuring that everything was in order. He hardly sat down during the four-hour event.

    As guests arrived, a bevy of beautiful women in pink Ankara fabric led them into the hall.

    Many of the guests were in traditional outfits; a few were formal.

    The hall was decorated in white, gold and wine with lights. Chairs were set round tables.

    Guests exchanged pleasantries, chatted and posed for photographs before the event started.

    The duo of actress-cum presenter Oluwafeyikemi Niyiola and comedian Hafiz Oyetoro anchored the event.

    Baale Entertainment Disc Jockey (DJ) electrified the hall.

    Staff of the Gazelle News wore black suit on white shirt with a touch of red.

    The ceremony began with an opening prayer led by Alhaji Jimoh Olawale, after which, the national anthem was rendered.

    He said the honorees were rewarded for their selfless service.

    Lagos State Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure Dr Obafemi Hamzat delivered the keynote address.

    He said online media has a vital role to play in national development.

    He hailed The Gazelle News for prompt posting of breaking news, urging other online media to follow their path.

    He urged the medium to focus more on Lagos.

    “Don’t bother to deceive yourself covering news from all over the world; you know everything and everywhere about Lagos, why don’t you just focus your strength on Lagos and let everybody know that you are the first hand and reliable source of all information that has to do with the state,” he said.

    Senator Ganiyu Olanrewaju Solomon congratulated Razak and his team. He also congratulated the awardees.

    In a lecture on “Online Media: challenges and roles in a developing democracy”, Senator Babafemi Ojudu, said online media has revolutionised journalism and it is supposed to dictate what goes on in other media because it renders breaking news.

    He expressed concern over inability of Nigerian media to properly utilise online media model.

    He urged all media practitioners to avail themselves of the best forms of technology as it daily develops to enable them survive and succeed in the competitive world.

    The event continued with the award ceremony.

    “As the awardees received their plaques, some guests joined them to take photographs.

    Member, Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon Adefunmilayo Tejuoso received the “Best performing female lawmaker award in Lagos State.”

    Presenting the award, All Progressives Congress (APC) Interim National Legal Adviser Dr Muiz Banire, evoked laughter among guests when he said the award was for him and all people in Mushin.

    Hon Sinai Agunbiade won the “Best performing male lawmaker award in Lagos State.” He received the plaque from former Chairman Agege Local Government Area, Chief Enoch Ajiboso.

    Other awardees included Akeem Sulaimon Omoyele; Alhaji Abdul-Rasheed Mafe; Alhaji Jubreel Abdul Kareem; Olajide Jimoh; Shamsudeen Olaleye; Ayodele Adewale and Rotimi Rahman.

    Responding on behalf of the awardees, Hon Tejuoso described the award as a reward for excellence.

    She urged media to always reflect the truth in news presentations.

    Agunbiade dedicated the award to his constituency

    Present at the event were; Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Fashola represented by his Commissioner for Information and Strategy Lateef Ibirogba; Olayinka Oyebode represented Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi; Hon Muniru Abiodun; Hon Yinka Ogundimu; Hon Wahab Alawiye-King; Hon Bolaji Yusuf Ayinla; Auditor-General for Local Governments, Alhaji Mubasiru Hasssan and Hon Lanre Odubote.

  • Marital bliss

    An Associate Professor of Counselling at the University of Lagos, Dr Monday Bassey Ubangha, has given out his daughter, Patience Komommo’s hand in marriage to the 2 I-C Provost of the Nigerian Customs, Yaba, Lagos Mainland Easter Eteng Eyong, in marriage. The solemnisation took place at the Grace and Dominion Chapel of the Assemblies of God Church, Oworonshoki, Lagos. NNEKA NWANERI was there.

    Talk of a colourful wedding. A parade of officers; a union of families, show of friendship, solidarity and a bond between two young people.

    It was all these and more when Patience, daughter of an Associate Professor of Counselling at the University of Lagos, Dr Monday Bassey Ubangha, exchanged marital vows with her beau, Easter Eyong in Lagos.

    To the couple, it was a dream come true.

    Men of the Nigerian Police and Customs Service were there to share in the couple’s joy.

    The nuptial knot was tied at Grace and Dominion Chapel of the Assemblies of God Church, Oworoshoki, a Lagos suburb.

    With the opening hymn: “My Hope is built on nothing less,” the bride was ushered into the church by her father. At the altar already waiting was the groom, kitted in ash-coloured Customs uniform.

    Rev Ekah Egere, from The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM), Idimu, Lagos branch, where the groom worships, in his homily, admonished the couple to see marriage as a respected institution ordained by God.

    He urged them to treat each other with respect and lean on God who has promised to neither leave nor forsake them.

    After the sermon, the Grace Choir rendered a special song for the couple after which they were joined by the host minister, Rev Israel Nnejiwuihe, who later presented them with their certificate.

    The filing out of the church was dramatic. Customs officers did a parade for their colleague. It was a match past with the couple in their midst. Patience was all smiles as she clung to her man.

    The officers replaced the conventional grooms men, but the set up comprised ladies too, all numbering about 10, led them out of the church while others followed behind.

    Officers with feathers on their caps and swords above their bellies did a slow match, lifting each foot simultaneously to the beat of theacomplanying band which produced epic tunes using the Scottish pipebag.

    They also stood at attention one after the other before the couple and threw sharp salutes.

    The wedding train moved to the Police Officers Mess in GRA, Ikeja for the reception, where many guests were already waiting.

    Guests shone in orange and green coloured Ankara, George fabrics and blouse. There was a tent outside for those who could not get a seat in the hall.

    The couple’s entry into the hall was as dramatic as their exit from the church. Their friends did a replica of the parade they put up in the church. As they marched, their sword jackets dangled from their sides.

    They led the couple all the way to where they sat.

    Chairman of the occasion and the Chief Executive Officer of St Anthony Group of Schools, Otunba Edward Ohore, urged the couple to tolerate each other as the only way to ensure a lasting union. Communication, he said solves a lot of problems.

    He enjoined them to always apologise to each other for peace to reign in their home.

    There was the presentation of the sword. ASP Estu Mesembe, in introducing the presentation, said it is a symbolic gesture given to the military and paramilitary. The groom’s sword was given by the Comptroller General. His colleague, ASP Omini Ebri, who attended the same school with the groom, and also joined the customs service with Easter in 2011, handed it to him.

    The groom, on receiving the sword kept matching on the spot.

    Same sword was used to cut the wedding cake amid fireworks.

    Dr Ubangha told The Nation of the mixed feelings he has for the day. Though visibly excited, his parting was with his daughter is one that will be difficult to forget. He also said he is not bothered that Patience get married to a uniformed man.

    “Though she has come of age, parting with her is not an easy thing. My daughter has been my friend, companion and confidante. She has been very close to me apart from my wife so it won’t be easy coming home daily without seeing her,” he said.

    He urged the couple to be tolerant, even in the face of challenges.

    The bride’s mother, Mrs Mary Ubanga, a Deputy Superintendent of Police and the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) for Ijaiye Ojokoro, a Lagos suburb, described her daughter as a friendly and jovial girl.

  • Enter ambassadors of Islam

    Two Princes from the Oniru royal family – Muideen Alaba Oniru and Muideen Abayomi Daramola–have been conferred with chieftaincy titles by muslim community in Lagos, reports TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO

    Those who came late were stunned to find him already seated. They had thought that being a monarch, he would be the last arrive. But the Oniru of Iruland in Lagos, Oba Abiodun Idowu Oniru, got the turbaning of two princes from his royal family before many guests. The duo of Prince Muideen Alaba Oniru and Prince Muideen Abayomi Daramola were honoured as Mogaji and Sanmori Adinni by the Council of Imams and Alfa of the Eti-Osa Muslim Community.

    The event also featured a N50 million fund raiser to build a modern Islamic centre.

    Oba Oniru enlivened the atmosphere with interjections that evoked laughter from the crowd. Those who rarely relates with the monarch, saw the funny side of him that day.

    The ceremony began on a prayer note.

    The principal host, Alhaji AbdulYekeen Bakare, in his welcome address, noted that despite activities marking Oba Oniru’s 20th anniversary, he still found time to attend the function.

    Bakare, the Baba Adinni of Eti-Osa Muslim Community, hailed the White cap chiefs for their presence.

    He lauded the monarch for of donating a land to build an Islamic centre in the community.

    The centre, Bakare said, would boast of a school, orphanage home and event centre, among others.

    He, however, solicited assistance from the guests to ensure the speedy completion of the project.

    The guest speaker and Chief Imam of Obadore Central Mosque, Alhaji Isa Olaleye, spoke on chieftaincy titles in Islam.

    According to him, the initiative is one of the things that aid the expansion of Islam in the Southwest.

    Alhaji Olaleye, the Eti-Osa Council of Imams and Alfas treasurer, however, warned that such titles should be given to people of worthy character.

    He congratulated the new chiefs, enjoining them not to relent in promoting the cause of Islam.

    After the lecture, came the moment many had been waiting for – the decoration of the new chiefs.

    The clerics, who performed the task were led by Chief Mufasir of Lagos, Sheikh Mujitaba Giwa and Chairman, Eti Osa Muslim Community Sheikhi AbudulBari Afinih.

    With permission from the monarch, Prince Oniru and Prince Daramola were decorated with the turban amid songs.

    The new chiefs went to pay homage to Oba Oniru before moving round to greet people.

    Prince Oniru thanked the Muslim community for deeming it fit to honour him.

    He promised to continue to assist the cause of Islam and humanity.

    An elated Prince Daramola said the title called for more devotion to Islam.

    According to him, the honour came to him when he least expected it.

    “I will continue to engage in meaningful projects that would develop our community and make it envious of others,” said Prince Daramola, who is the Chairman, Iru-Victoria Island Local Council Development Area.

    The Arobadade of Iruland thanked Oba Oniru for his tireless efforts at developing the community.

    The one-and-half hour event featured donation towards the proposed Islamic centre with Oba Oniru leading the pack with a million naira cash donation.

    Guests were later treated to sumptuous meals and choice drinks.

    After the vote of thanks, the gathering converged on the mosque for a Jumat Service before heading back to their various destinations.

    Among the personalities at the event were Rear Admiral Jubril Ayinla; Oba Oniru’s wives Oloris Arike, Aramide and Risikat; former Lagos State Commissioner for Home Affairs and Culture Alhaji Ibrahim Balogun; his counterpart in Education and Fatima Charity Foundation Vice President Alhaja Sekinah Yusuf; former Lagos State Commissioner for Justice Alhaja Wonu Folami; Alhaja Ramdat Okunola; Lagos socialite and Chairman Alesh International Hotel Alhaji Rilwan Adisa Aleshinloye; Alhaji Sinari Daranijo; Hon Mufutau Kadiku; Bashorun of Lagos Alhaji Sikiru Alabi Macfoy; Alhaja Ashabi Bamgbola; Alhaji Rasak Folami; Alhaja Adeyinka Ayorinde; Abubakar Olasewere; Baba Adinni of Oniru Central Mosque Alhaji Mumeen Elepetumodu; Alhaji Musiliu Dairo; Alhaji Morufdeen Aliowe; Chief Simeon Akinlonu among others.

     

  • A leader’s birthday for the common man

    It was the 62nd birthday of former Lagos State governor and All Progressive Congress (APC) leader Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu last Saturday. But, it was no time for a revelry. The 6th Bola Tinubu Colloquium to mark the event focused on the common man, who feels mostly the effects of bad governance. Report TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO and OLATUNDE ODEBIYI

    When the Annual Bola Tinubu Colloquium was conceived by close friends and associates of the National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, little did the common man know that the event would one day focus on him.

    Last Saturday, when the Jagaban Borgu turned 62, the event was dedicated to the less- privileged.

    The 6th Bola Tinubu Colloquium was tagged: The Summit of The Common Man.”

    Since its inception six years ago, the colloquium has been a platform to discuss salient national issues.

    Tinubu’s campaign for a better society was vindicated, with the elite audience getting emotional as the downtroden spoke of their agony.

    It was a gathering of heavy weights where the ‘common man’ was the speaker.

    According to the organisers, the colloquium sought to focus on the 70 per cent of Nigerians who live below the poverty line.

    The organisers said: “There are 20.3 million unemployed youths; 75 per cent of Nigerians have no access to primary health care, 10.8 million children of primary school; age are out of school; 24.4 million Nigerians would be homeless by 2015 and 55,000 women die annually during childbirth.”

    The event began, with the showing of historical video clips of the Bola Tinubu Colloquium, followed by the National Anthem and opening prayer.

    The Most Reverend Ephraim Ademowo, who chaired the event, described Asiwaju Tinubu as an uncommon man.

    Tinubu, he said, “is a consummate and tested politician. A master strategist and a libertarian par excellence. He is kind to a fault.”

    When the ‘common man’ from different parts of the country took turns to relive their struggles, the crowd was spellbound.

    The speakers included Mallam Nasir Bala; Mr Ron Mgbatogu; Bethesa Home for the Blind; Chief Eric Dooh; Mrs Elizabeth Unah; Mallam Musa Ali; Adamu Baba, Mallam Yusuf Audu and Sopriye Victor.

    Mallam Bala, who runs Risan Agro Allied Farms says he still has challenges accessing loan like many farmers across the country.

    Speaking on the state of agro-business allied, he said the country has over 84 million hectares of arable land but only 42 per cent is being utilised for farming. Nigeria, he notes, spends over N630 billion importing agricultural products. Farming, he said, provides employment to 70 per cent of the population, yet farmers cannot access loans from the government. They also contend with storage and transportation challenges.

    Mr Mgbatogu, a 68-year-old pensioner, says he receives less than the amount that can sustain him.

    He spoke on his experience as a retiree, canvassing for the creation of social welfare programmes for senior citizens.

    He called on the government to assist the common man to be better person.

    For Chief Dooh, a 45 -year-old fisherman from Goi community in Gokana Local Government Area of Rivers State, trouble started when he lost his business to oil spill. He is now unemployed.

    He expressed his frustration with life, adding that there is no good source of drinking water in his area.

    Forty-one-year-old widow Elizabeth Unah, from Ebonyi State, lost her husband to an inferno in their house in December 2009. A fruits trader, she now struggles to raise six children.

    “It has not been easy surviving. I have to borrow money from people to take care of my children and send them to school; and the money I make from my fruit business is never enough for our livelihood,” she said.

    She called on the government to institute a widows’ forum and provide scholarships for their children.

    Adamu Buba appealed to the government to do something fast about Boko Haram.

    Twenty-five-year-old Sopriye Victor, from Bayelsa State, is the face of the 47.8 million Nigerian youths searching for jobs. A 2010 graduate of the Niger Delta University, with a Second Class honours in Chemical Engineering, she faces the grim reality of unemployment like the 360,000 Corps members that pass out every year.

    Sopriye spoke of job scams; low pay job offers; missed entrepreneurship opportunities due to lack of funds and the apparent lack of social welfare packages for the unemployed/underemployed youths.

    She said: “I finished my NYSC in Lagos with the mindset that I would get a job; but I did not. So, I returned to Bayelsa to start a business. All the goods in my shop were wiped out by flood.”

    She called on the leaders to assist graduates.

    “The country is rich enough to give us jobs and provide funds for us to start business, only if our government can bring up policies to reduce unemployment,” she said.

    After their presentations, the memorial video of the common man was aired, showing how Nigerians are suffering to make ends meet.

    The event also showcased the achievements of some APC states.

    APC governors, according to Mr Ade Ipaye, Lagos State Commissioner for Justice and Attorney-General, who moderated the event, are doing well to change people’s perception about governance.

    Short documentaries of the giant strides in Ekiti and Osun states were shown as examples of what await Nigerians should APC take control of the central government.

    Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola proposed the toast.

    He described Tinubu as a “common man,” who has the courage to pursue his convictions and win his own battles.

    Fashola said despite the problems confronting the common man, he remains the highest employer.

    He urged the electorate to be mindful of those they elect.

    “You must pay critical attention to the people you vote for. I know that we have employed somebody for the top job in this country. But when we asked him about his qualifications and experience, he said he had no shoes. You must decide whether you want someone who spends most of his time in church or mosque, or the man who is ready to spend his time on the job,” he said.

    Fashola said Tinubu had solved problems, built an array of leaders and passed the torch.

    Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar said only the APC can give succour to the common man.

    Atiku, in a chat with reporters, said the theme of the colloquium, which featured presentations of the challenges of everyday living by ordinary Nigerians, was in line with the manifesto of the opposition regarding poor Nigerians.

    Asiwaju Tinubu flayed the Federal Government, saying it is responsible for the country’s woes.

    The APC leader said the 15-year reign of the PDP had brought untold hardship to Nigerians. The APC , he said, is out to rescue the country.

    “They are so shameless that the number of years they have ruled does not matter to them. Don’t change the subject matter. Account for the missing money or go. All the explanations they gave about the missing money were just unconvincing. They steal from pensioners. We must kick them out,” he said.

    He urged Nigerians to reject the PDP in the next general elections starting from the governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun states later this year.

    “We have heard the frustration and pains of our people. Poverty is not a shameful thing but it is not acceptable. The change is now. To make it real, you have to defend your vote,” he said.

    He cut his birthday cake with the common man and later the guests.

    Asiwaju Tinubu’s wife Senator Oluremi fed him a piece of the cake and they sealed it with kisses to the admiration of the gathering.

    There was light music in the background as guests took turns to congratulate Asiwaju Tinubu before leaving.

  • A golden call

    Mr Olatunji Joshua Olugbodi, Managing Director of Verdant Zeal, an advertising and events management agency, joined the golden club last week. A lavish 50th birthday party was held for him in Lagos, reports TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO

    HE started as a reporter, but today he has carved a niche for himslef in advertising, where he rubs shoulders with the high and mighty. Joshua Olugbodi celebrated his 50th birthday in a big way in Lagos last Saturday. Having emerged Best Graduating Student in the English Department of Ogun State University, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State in 1987, Teejay as Olugbodi is fondly called, cut his footh in Journalism before rearing into advertising.

    He won Promoserve Staff of the year Merit Award in 1990; Team Leader Recognition, Econet Project, 2002; coordinated and won a pitch for a West Africa campaign for British American Tobacco (BAT) launched in Burkina Faso in 2005 and launched the design for Main One, Africa’s pioneer fibre optics company among others.

    Guests including politicians, captains of industry, media and advertising giants came to share in his joy.

    The Haven Events Centre in Ikeja GRA, Lagos venue of the celebration, was alive from noon till night. It was a day of fun, entertainment and encomiums.

    Anchored by Comedians – Gbenga Adeyinka and Helen Paul (A.k.a Tatafo), with music supplied by Ayo Balogun-led band, Oludare and Disk Jockey (DJ) Jimmy Jatt, it was a day to remember.

    The live band entertained guests for a while, before the ceremony started a few minutes to 2pm.

    Deacon Gbenga Alamu set the ball rolling with a prayer.

    Vanguard Publisher Mr Sam Amuka-Pemu, who chaired the event, described Olugbodi as his son and friend. In a speech laden with Pidgin English, he said:”Teejay could be my son; I fit born am. But we are friends. He is just a brand, a maverick brand. Teejay has always been part of Vanguard and would continue to be in the future”.

    Amuka-Pemu supervised the cutting of the cake.

    The five-layered cake was designed with Arsenal Football Club logo.

    Olugbodi was the buet of jokes over the 6-0 drubbing of his team by London rival Chelsea two weeks ago.

    Olugbodi, looked unperturbed by the jibes.

    The celebrator and his wife, Biyi, before hitting the dance floor went theatrical.

    The drama was about how they met at the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Orientation Camp in Benue State.

    “It was raining that day, she was wet and I offered her my handkerchief. When she returned it, it was washed and properly ironed. Since then I have taken interest in her,” Olugbodi said.

    His wife, corroborated the story.

    According to Olugbodi, it took one-and-half years to get her to accept his proposal.

    The loving couple danced to the old tunes dished out by DJ Jimmy Jatt.

    They returned to their seats for a while for tributes from friends and family members.

    National Public Relations Officer of Nigeria Customs Service Mr Wale Adeniyi, set the ball rolling.

    Adeniyi, corroborated the handkerchief story, adding that three years later, they (Olugbodi and Biyi) consummated their union.

    “Tunji,” Adeniyi noted, “is a go-getter; when he sets out to accomplish something, he gets it. He has eyes for excellence and knows how to get trendy things.”

    Michael Banjo, a friend of three decades, hailed Olugbodi’s ability to manage crisis and propel people towards success.

    Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi, who arrived after Mrs Olugbodi’s remarks, described the celebrator as an epitome of excellence and someone to be celebrated in many ways.

    “Our path crossed at The Guardian in the 80s. I went back to academia and now in politics but he continues to move round journalism,” he said.

    Governor Fayemi presented a book Building a life for integrity and excellence, written by Ayodeji Ayopo to commemorate Olugbodi’s birthday.

    He urged him to continue toeing the line of excellence.

    Mrs Olugbodi described her husband as a man of many parts.

    “He is a loving man, caring, Godly, gentle and humorous. Teejay has a fault and his greatest weakness is work, work and work. It is not fun working with Teejay because nothing is impossible with him. You (Olugbodi) have given me so much joy, may God continue to bless you,” she said.

    Others who showered encomiums on him were Mrs Folasade Oyinlola, a former neighbour; Yinka Olugbodi, Chris Alabi and Mrs Bola Thomas.

    The event was rounded off on the dance floor.