The Nation Newspaper

Category: Southwest

  • Cultural splendour at Ooni’s coronation

    Cultural splendour at Ooni’s coronation

    The ancient town of Ile-Ife practically was on Monday throbbing with dignitaries as Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi received the staff of office as the 51st Ooni of Ife amid pomp and ceremony, writes BISI OLADELE

    The town beamed at the seams with unprecedented crowd of top government functionaries, governors, hundreds of traditional rulers and other renowned Nigerians.

    But rather than anger in the face of indigenes, happiness gripped them with a strong fist, leaving them with all smiles and gyrations to different types of music across the town to celebrate the coronation of a new king.

    It was the peak of the week-long celebration of the coronation of Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi as the 51st Ooni of Ife. The ceremony kicked off on Monday, November 30 and ended on Monday, December, 7.

    The Monday ceremony, during which Oba Ogunwusi received the staff of office, had been preceded by the inauguration of the new monarch’s Ife Grand Resort and Leisure valued at N7.6 billion.

    The event came after 35 years of normal life, when installation of the immediate past monarch, Oba Okunade Sijuwade attracted similar crowd.

    Since Monday, November, 30, the town had been wearing a bright new look with publicity materials, including billboards and glittering banners adoring major points and roundabouts in the town.

    At the Enuwa Palace and other chosen points in the town, beautiful culture of the Yoruba was on display to convey Ile-Ife as the cradle of the Yoruba and the starting point of civilisation.

    Guests arrived early to beat vehicular and human traffic but the gain was a little as the crowds kept surging as the day grew.

    At exactly 1:47 p.m., Osun State Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, presented the staff of office to the new Ooni. Then, jubilation erupted in the large artificial hall and all across the town.

    The governor had, earlier in his speech, described the Ooni throne as a hugely important one which attracted eminent personalities to the town.

    He pointed out to the monarch that the throne would fetch him tremendous power but which also comes with huge responsibilities.

    Aregbesola, who stressed that Ile-Ife is the ancestral home of all Yoruba, urged Ogunwusi to allow justice, fairness and love for his people be his guiding principles.

    To achieve it, the governor advised him to embrace government of inclusion where all his subjects would have their say without fear or threat. He added that he was obliged to listen to them and harmonise all counsels to arrive at the best decisions for his people if he must succeed and sustain the love his people have for him.

    While emphasising that only God enthroned both traditional and other leaders, the governor praised Ife kingmakers for painstakingly selecting the Oba among several aspirants to the throne.

    His words: Dear Kabiyesi, you must note that, as a king, you will have tremendous power; but it also comes with huge responsibilities. It is important that justice and fairness should guide you in the discharge of your responsibilities. People expect you to rule with wisdom and the fear of God. A king is expected to unite Ife kingdom. Let this unity emerge from inclusiveness and pursuit of the good of your subjects.”

    He also urged him to draw wisdom from the chiefs as well as to include youths in his plans to enable them to direct their energy for the progress and development of the town.

    In his speech, President Muhammadu Buhari, who was represented by Vice-Presidents Yemi Osibajo, described the Ooni throne as a very powerful position for the Yoruba race.

    He also emphasised that the position, however, brings a lot of responsibilities requiring courage and loyalty to the truth and preservation of the culture of the Yoruba people.

    He pointed out that Ile-Ife was blessed with a humble king. He prayed that Ogunwusi’s heart would be open to God always.

    Speaking on behalf of all traditional rulers in attendance, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Abubakar Sa’ad 111 said traditional rulers were happy to be part of history.

    In his maiden speech, Oba Ogunwusi emphasised that he was not interested in fighting over supremacy but for the unity of all Yoruba. He pointed out that he was already in good relationship with many obas in Lagos, Ogun and Ekiti states, stressing that working for the unity of all Yoruba all over the world would be his top priority.

    Oba Ogunwusi also hinted of his plan to develop programmes that will help youths in realising their ambitions in life. He said unemployment has become a time bomb in Nigeria which requires urgent attention.

    He revealed that he has engaged over 3,000 youths in the construction of the Ife Grand Resort and Leisure since about three weeks, adding that the development has since reduced crime rate in the town.

    Many indigenes who spoke to reporters affirmed their strong belief in Oba Ogunwusi’s ability to transform Ile-Ife within a short period.

    Governors of Oyo State, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, Lagos, Mr Akinwumi Ambode and Ogun, Senator Ibikunle Amosun were part of the historic ceremony. The National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and former Interim National Chairman of the party, Chief Bisi Akande, were among other dignitaries at the Ooni’s palace.

    Traditional rulers from across Yoruba land, Edo, Delta, Kwara, Kogi and Lagos states witnessed event.

    The Obong of Calabar and Deyin of Agbor, Dr Daniel Ikechukwu, who became king when he was two-and-a-half years old, were also at the ceremony.

    Others dignitaries included former governor of Osun State, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola;  former governor of Ekiti State,  Mr. Segun Oni; former governor of Oyo State, Chief Adebayo Alao-Akala; Lt. Gen. Alabi Akinrinade (rtd); former Military Governor of old Oyo State, Maj. Gen. David Jemibewon; a former President of the National Association of Chambers of Commerce and Industries, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Chief John Odeyemi; former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Chief Alex Duduyemi; the Managing Director of First Bank Nigeria Plc, Mr Bisi Onasanya and a former Minister of Defence, Lt. Gen. Theophilus Danjuma

    The Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria, Godwin Emefiele was represented by one of his deputies, Mr Adebayo Adelabu while the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye was represented by Prof. Ilori Akindele.

    The Ogunsua of Modakeke, Francis Adedoyin, was also in attendance with Chief Adegboye Onigbinde.

    Traditional rulers at the event included the Owa Obokun of Ijesa land, Oba Adekunle Aromolaran and several royal fathers from Osun State. The Olubadan of Ibadan land, Oba Samuel Odulana was represented by High Chief Lekan Balogun while the Alake of Egba land was also represented.

    Several obas from across Yoruba land also attended the event.

    Inside and outside the hall and the centres chosen for the event across the town, culture was on display as cultural troupes were handy to entertain the guests. Traditional groups, associations, market women, artisans and ordinary folks were also present.

    Drummers and commercial drivers were also in hysteric mood as they celebrated the crowning of the new Ooni. Oba Ogunwusi has promised to take economic and social development of Ile-Ife as one of his main priorities.

  • All hail Chief Imam Bello

    All hail Chief Imam Bello

    The Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, last Saturday presented the staff and the robe of office to the President-General of the League of Imams and Alfas in the Southwest, Edo and Delta states, Sheikh Muhammad Jamiu Kewulere Bello. ODUNAYO OGUNMOLA reports that the event opened a new chapter for the propagation of Islam.

    A new chapter was opened for Islam in the Southwest, Edo and Delta states on Saturday, November 21, with the installation of the new President-General of the League of Imams and Alfas, Sheikh Muhammad Jamiu Kewulere Bello.

    Sheikh Bello,  who is the Chief Imam of Ado-Ekiti and Grand Imam of Ekiti State was presented with the staff of office and the robe of his new office by the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III.

    The enthronement of Sheikh Bello was significant in the sense that Muslims are in minority in his home state of Ekiti where it pleases the Almighty Allah to choose the leader of Muslims clerics in the eight states of Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo, Ekiti, Edo and Delta.

    Ekiti Parapo Square located along new Iyin Road in Ado- Ekiti, the state capital, was filled to capacity with the Muslim Ummah streaming into the arena to witness the epoch-making occasion.

    Dignitaries at the event included Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose represented by his wife, Feyisetan; Ondo State Governor Olusegun Mimiko represented by his deputy, Alhaji Lasisi Oluboyo; Secretary-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Prof. Ishaq Oloyede; Executive Secretary, Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Prof. Rasheed Aderinoye; Catholic Bishop of Ekiti Diocese, Most Revd. Felix Ajakaye; former Deputy Governor of old Ondo State, Alhaji Musa Ayeni; former Deputy Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Sikiru Lawal, the Olukare of Ikare Akoko, Oba Akadiri Momoh and founder, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Aare Afe Babalola, among others.

    Secretary-General of the League of Imams and Alfas in Southwest, Edo and Delta who is also the Chief Imam of Owo in Ondo State, Sheikh Ahmad Olagoke Aladesawe, described turbaning as a “unique Islamic tradition for a distinguished personality within the fold of Islam.”

    The Asiwaju Musulumi of Yoruba land, Alhaji Badmus, who was represented by Senator Bayo Salami said the convergence of Muslims from all over the country on Ekiti symbolised unity in the Islamic faith.

    He explained that the League of Imams and Alfas had endured in the region for 50 years; paying tributes to the late revered Islamic scholar, Sheikh Adam al-Ilory, for the roles he played in the formation and sustenance of the body.

    Sultan Abubakar described the installation as a “history-making event”, expressing his delight that many non-Muslims were present at the event.

    The monarch, who is also the President-General of NSCIA and Amir Mumeen in Nigeria, called for unity and harmony among adherents of different religions.

    The Sultan expressed delight with the appearance of the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe, who, although is a Christian, joined the Muslim faithful at the city’s Central Mosque to observe Jumat prayers on Friday.

    Governor Fayose, who spoke through his wife, called for unity among people of different religious persuasions in the state.

    He said: “Let brotherly love continue in Ekiti State. Let us love one another and let us continue to coexist with one another. I pray the peace of God will continue to reign in Ekiti State and Nigeria.”

    President of the Muslim Ummah of Southwest Nigeria (MUSWEN), Alhaji S.O. Babalola, congratulated Sheikh Bello and prayed for his successful tenure.

    Delivering a lecture at the event, Sheikh Abibulahi Adam al-Ilory, said Sheikh Bello, with his investiture, had become the first among equals in the fold of clerics in his domain, saying the office requires qualities of a good leader.

    The Sultan, thereafter, presented the new President-General of Imams with his staff of office at exactly 12:50 p.m. He was also presented with the certificate of office by the Ewi, Oba Adejugbe.

    Speaking shortly after his installation, Sheikh Bello paid tributes to all his predecessors and expressed gratitude to his colleagues in the League in all the eight states under his domain.

    He promised to justify the confidence reposed in him and build on the foundation already laid to promote Islam and inter-religious harmony.

  • APC chieftain urges support for Buhari

    A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State, Chief Livinus Okwara has said that for the much-needed change in the way Nigerians do things and improvement in the nation’s economy to be realised, Nigerians must give unflinching support to President Muhammadu Buhari in his efforts to reposition the country and give it a new direction.

    He also condemned some Igbo youths who are agitating for the state of Biafra, describing the action as an exercise in futility. He said the youth were misinformed and misguided about the Biafra project.

    Chief Okwara urged the youth to support the present government which is progressive in outlook and principle.

    In an exclusive interview with Southwest Report, he said: “The present agitation by some youths in the Southeast and South-south geo-political zones of the country is the handiwork of those who have not worked for the interest and progress of the Igbo nation. I do not support the move because they cannot survive on their own as no other tribe can.

    “Their survival depends on their association with other tribes in Nigeria because the country has become a unit already. In fact, there are more Igbo outside the Igbo land than those who reside within the zone. We should avoid the mistake of the past where Igbo citizens suffered monumental human and material losses. Igbo lost most of their educated youths as they went to war unarmed and many women because widows prematurely.”

    He advised the Federal Government to invite the agitators for dialogue as he advised the youth to be focused and not be misled by propagators of old Biafra, an idea, he said, was illogical.

    On the emergence of a progressive as the President of the country, Chief Okwara said: “I am happy to be alive to witness the emergence of a progressive government at the centre. It has the capacity for development which the conservatives are not aware of. It is a significant change in the political history of Nigeria. We are happy we have it now.

    “Buhari is a progressive because he has the interest of the poor at heart. Right from his time in the military, he never wanted the poor to suffer. It has been a dialectic struggle between the rich and the poor. A lot of time has been lost and much funds gone down the drain; but it has been a worthwhile effort. It is now a task for government to lift the poor.”

    He believes that the coming of the ministers of diverse intellectual background and working experiences is a welcome development, saying many have been governors who understand the problems of the people.

    Besides, they are major campaigners for change and I have no doubt that their tenures will be successful, especially in the area of employment generation.

    According to him, the N5, 000 stipend promised by the APC government for the unemployed will create invisible economic power that will improve people’s purchasing power with its economic multiplier effects. He urged the Federal Government to discountenance the call for devaluation of the Naira, saying devaluation is only beneficial to the industrialised world.

    “You devalue when you are an industrial power because your products will be cheaper and accessible to other economies. Examples of such industrial powers are India and China.

    Chief Okwara, who established the first indigenous computer training in Nigeria, Rimax Institute of Science Technology, urged the Federal Government to invest heavily in science and technology as the quickest way to attain scientific and economic advancement.

    He said when he returned from the United Kingdom in the 70s, computer education was almost non-existent but for the love of the country, he said, he had to establish Rimax Institute to expose people, particularly the young minds, to computer education. The effort became an instant success as, between 1970 and 1977; we were able to establish the institution in 19 states of the federation .The number of states increased in subsequent years.

    “We were able to train an initial figure of 5,000 experts in computer science.This figure grew astronomically in years following. At a point, we were involved in training members of staff of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and NITDL. The initiative resulted in our offering scholarships to people as the programme became attractive to them.

    “We had to expand the curriculum to include civil, electrical, electronic engineering and secretarial studies, among others. Our aim was to create a middle level manpower as we discovered a yawning gap between those at the top and those below. It is on record that we gave scholarship facilities to the Awori people in Lagos to reduce inequality in education.

    He spoke glowingly of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo and his wife Hannah Idowu Dideolu Awolowo, who was buried penultimate week. He said he was close to the family very early in life, describing Chief Awolowo as an exceptionally gifted personality.

    “For a man to achieve his feat, such must be of high discipline and hard work. I was close to Mama; she was a woman of impeccable character and high intelligence. She was an epitome of humility.

     

  • Beware! That hawker may be robber, terrorist

    Beware! That hawker may be robber, terrorist

    Almost everyday, traffic robbers who masquerade as hawkers are nabbed by the police in Lagos. These “Ember” months, it is feared that they will become more daring. OLUKOREDE YISHAU writes that residents are advised to be extra-vigilant as the next traffic hawker could be a robber or a terrorist. 

    The Italian Ambassador to Nigeria, Fulvio Rustico sees Lagos as the most challenging and most fascinating state any public office holder in the world can lead. The Italian envoy spoke at the Lagos House, Alausa, Ikeja when he visited Governor Akinwunmi Ambode.

    He added that the enormous challenges of governing the state, which is not only the power house of Nigeria and the fourth economy in Africa, would continue to mount with the projection that it would be the second or third largest city in the world by 2050; with 450 million inhabitants. It has over 21 million people at present.

    “I envy you Mr Governor because you have one of the most challenging and most fascinating tasks anywhere in the world. You have a fantastic city,” Rustico said.

    The envoy’s observations are not easily lost on keen observers of the cosmopolitan state.

    Of the challenges, one that is of concern to all inhabitants of the state is security. Because of its cosmopolitan nature, the state houses people from all over the world. A large chunk of the inhabitants mean well for it. But there are a few bad eggs that make it look bad. They are traffic robbers who, most times, pose as street or traffic traders to wreak havoc.

    These robbers, under the guise of hawking gala, plantain chips, plastic table water, soft drinks and other edibles during traffic jams, unleash terrors on their victims. From Ojota to the Third Mainland Bridge to Ijora Bridge and several parts of Lagos, these robbers who pretend, most of the times, to be hawkers, rob people of their valuables.

    Addressing Government House Correspondents shortly after an emergency Security Council Meeting which he chaired, Ambode said it had become evident that traffic crimes and robbery are mostly as a result of the menace of motorcycle operators popularly known as okada riders and street hawkers.

    •Ambode
    •Ambode

    The governor said the government would not allow a few notorious elements to cause a breakdown in law and order and upset the peace that the state has enjoyed over the years.

    Ambode also admonished residents of the state to see the last two months of the year as a period that calls for vigilance and a changed attitude towards issues relating to crime and terrorism.

    He urged residents to co-operate with the government at all times, just as he warned them against the dangers of patronising street and in-traffic hawkers.

    “The next hawker could be a robber or terrorist. You are now well-advised. If we all co-operate and decide not to buy, gradually and collectively, the hawkers will not come to the highways and streets anymore. Our roads will definitely become safer.”

    Ambode, who said the government is also working hard to restrict street hawking, urged the people to stop patronising them, so as to discourage street traders from the highways.

    “We have already hit the ground running. I’m deeply concerned about the issues that Lagosians are sending back to me and the issues range from security, traffic gridlock and the environment itself. But again, just as we are looking at the immediate solutions to them, there are medium-term solutions that Lagosians will see in the next few weeks that we will roll out.

    “As we are now in the ‘Ember’ months, I just want to appeal to Lagosians to be more vigilant, and cooperate with us in all the measures we will be carrying out,” Ambode said.

    The governor’s concern will make sense when considered side by side traffic robbers who are in the police net. Some days back, operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) of Lagos Police Command arrested three ex–convicts for traffic robbery in Oshodi.

    The robbery suspects, Adekunle Mustapha, 21, Popoola Olumide, 20 and Femi Amusa, 20, were arrested following a tip-off from their victim, Olasunkanmi Oyelakin, who alerted the police that his blackberry phone was stolen by the suspects during early morning traffic around Bolade, Oshodi.

    Oyelakin was quoted by the police as saying: “I was on my way to Ajah at 6:30 a.m. I saw Adekunle Mustapha passed by the bus I boarded. Unknown to me, he was monitoring me. A few minutes later, I noticed a missed call on my phone, and as I brought out the phone, Mustapha took the phone from me through the bus window and ran away. Because there was traffic, I made no attempt to struggle with him, but got down from the nearest bus-stop and I began to monitor him. I noticed that he had regrouped with his friends and one of them was telling him to hand over the phone he stole from me.

    “I knew I couldn’t handle the three of them all alone. So, I informed the RRS operatives who followed me down to the place where he was arrested.”

    Mustapha said he was driven by frustration to steal the handset from him.

    “I am a bus conductor in Oshodi. I am from Ibadan and a secondary school dropout. I sleep in Ojuwoye. I am an ex-convict. I don’t want to go to prison again. Government should please have mercy on me. I was frustrated into traffic robbery. I won’t do it again,” he said.

    Also, early this month, the RRS apprehended suspects alleged to be members of traffic robbery syndicate terrorising commuters and motorists around Bourdillon Road in Ikoyi.

    The suspects are Joseph Edem, 24, Jamilu Musa, 29 and Gambo Yunusa, 30. They were arrested on November 7.

    The RRS Commander, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), Olatunji Disu, said: “Following the complaints from members of the public of incessant in-traffic robbery attacks around the axis; our men laid an ambush on them which led to the arrest of the suspects, while others managed to escape the dragnet of the police. When the policemen combed the area, different kinds of weapon were recovered from their hideouts.”

    Another traffic robber in police net is Timothy Ojomandu, 22. He is alleged to be a member of a three-man syndicate who hide under gridlock to attack and rob law-abiding motorists around Mile 2 area in the state.

    The suspect was caught early this month by a team of policemen from RRS, who responded to distress call made by the driver of Mitsubishi Canter with registration number FKJ 676 XF, after the suspect and his gang members had successfully stolen one carton of cell battery from the truck.

    The lorry driver, Mr. Ajiboye Mogaji, told the police that he sighted the suspect from the side mirror of his vehicle when he sneaked in through the back of the truck.

    He said: “When I saw him sneaking in to my truck, I pretended as if I didn’t see him. While inside the truck, he passed one carton to his partner who was moving beside the vehicle. As soon as I saw him passing one carton to his partner on the ground, I rushed down on motion.

    “However, when his partner saw me alighting from the vehicle suddenly, he absconded with that one carton, and I held the suspect by his trousers when he wanted to jump down from the truck. Then, I shouted for help and the policemen from RRS who were patrolling the area responded swiftly to the distress call.”

    The suspect, who confessed to the crime, said that he was recruited into the group about two months ago.

    “Our robbery syndicate was in the habit of stealing handsets and other valuables from pedestrians and motorists during the peak period of traffic congestion along the area.

    The RRS on Tuesday, August 25, apprehended Tijani Taofeek, 26, suspected to be a member of gridlock robbery syndicate in Ojota.

    The suspect, who hails from Ogbomosho in Oyo State, said he was a bus conductor, and that the income from bus conducting business was no longer enough for him.

    For the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of the Environment, Oluwatoyin Onisarotu, traders who fail to abide by State Environmental Sanitation Law would henceforth be seriously dealt with.

    He said: “It is disheartening to see how our major roads and highways such as Apapa-Oshodi Expressway, Ikorodu Road, Agege Motor Road, Victoria Island, Ikoyi-Obalende, Ojuelegba–Stadium, Surulere, Oyingbo, Carter Bridge, Idumota, Oshodi, Ketu, Mile 12, Third Mainland Bridge, Cele, Iyana-Ipaja, Agbado Oke-Odo, Airport Road and Ikeja, among others have been converted to illegal markets.”

    Onisarotu warned traders engaging in this illegal act to desist from it as the government would not compromise any act that may derail the effort of the government in achieving a cleaner environment.

    The Permanent Secretary further said the State Environmental Sanitation Law forbade anybody from converting the road median, setbacks and walkways to any trading activities.

    According to Onisarotu, Ambode has mandated law enforcement officers and regulatory agencies to ensure compliance with the provision of the state sanitation laws forthwith.

    The Chairman of the State Task Force on Environmental and other Special Offences (Enforcement Unit), Mr. Olubukola Abe, said the government would reduce traffic congestion on the highways, often caused by the activities of hawkers.

    Abe told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that Section 1 of the Street Trading and Illegal Market Prohibition Law, 2003, restricted street trading and hawking in the metropolis.

    “Sections 7 and 8 of the same law give jurisdiction and power to the special court to order the seizure and public auction of items impounded during street trading.

    “Section 10 of the law prescribes the sum of N5, 000 as fine or three months’ imprisonment upon conviction.

    Aside the criminal aspect of street trading, Lagos State Commissioner of Police Fatai Owoseni warned of the health hazards of patronising such hawkers. He cited the recent arrest of five men who were caught selling adulterated plastic table water and coca-cola.

    Owoseni said operatives of the RRS, acting on a tip-off, arrested five persons, including three accomplices, who specialised in adulteration of dispensable jar water and sachet water at No. 3, Adesola Street, Ago Palace Way, Okota, Isolo, Lagos. They were arrested on Thursday, October 22. The two prime suspects were identified as Chukwuma Uzor, 48 and Ofonime Ikpe 44.

    “The law on street trading also affects its patrons. People should stop patronising street hawkers. The products are adulterated and in order to prevent robberies in traffic jams and also to protect people from being poisoned, they should stop patronising them,” the CP said.

  • Firm sensitises companies to act

    The Eni Group made up of Nigeria Agip Oil Company (NAOC) Nigeria Agip Energy (NAE) and Agip Energy and Natural Resources (AENR) has promised to sensitise Nigerian companies on the opportunities available to them in the Nigeria Oil and Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act of 2010.

    The General Manager, District of NAOC, Mr Paola Carnevale made the promise during the Vendor Upgrade, Awareness and Sensitisation Engagement, which is the third session of the Nigerian Content Week organised in Port Harcourt by Eni for indigenous contractors in the oil and gas industry.

    Carnevale said the training programme, which is in collaboration with the Nigerian Content Development Monitoring Board (NCDMB), would help to enlighten indigenous companies on the provisions of the NOGICD Act.

    Other aspects of the training which he said companies would be enlightened on are “the key requirements for successful tendering and contracting process targeted at eliminating Nigerian content failures; Nigerian content measurement and evaluation; Nigerian content opportunities as well as NCDMB monitoring requirements.”

    He also said the initiative, which began  last year, has so far been attended by 250 companies, pointing out that out of this number, 130 promising companies that were unable to scale the Nigerian content pre-qualification participated in the third session of the training.

    In his keynote address, the Executive Secretary of NCDMB, Mr Denzil Kentebe said the NOGICD Act is a “demonstration of government’s emphasis on indigenous contractors’ active participations in the oil and gas sector.”

    Kentebe, who was represented by the Manager, Monitoring and Evaluation of NCDMB, William Arikekpar also stressed on the five major roles which the NOGICD Act conferred on his board, adding that “the focus of Nigerian content is not ‘Nigerianisation’ of the oil and gas sector but ‘domiciliation’ of value-adding activities.

    The NCDMB boss also said his organisation’s Nigerian Oil and Gas Parks Scheme (NOGAPS) programme would create about 10,000 direct jobs from parks design, construction operations and support.

    Continuing, he said the NOGAPS would stimulate manufacturing of equipment packages, components and spares for oil and gas industry and develop local small and medium entrepreneurs (SMEs) and then partner them with original equipment manufacturers to enable them acquire manufacturing expertise.

    While advising local vendors to take advantage of the fairs being organised for SMEs, he also promised researchers and academics specialised in oil and gas research to adopt and create funding mechanisms for research work and clusters, majority of which are in the Niger Delta area.

     

  • Celebrating 20 years in God’s vineyard

    The members of the anniversary thanksgiving planning crew, Church Committee, Aboru District headquarters, Church Committee, Agbelekele branch and Church Committee, Robiyan branch of Christ Apostolic Church, Ile Agbara Adura (Aboru District headquarters), 1, Church Lane, Hill Top Estate, R.A.F.G.S.S.S., off Egunjobi bus stop, Aboru, Iyana-Ipaja, Alimosho area of Lagos State have congratulated Pastor Israel Olaiya Oyeleye on his 20th ordination anniversary which comes up on December 13.

    In a statement, members of these committees said: “Thank you for your many years of generous service to the people of God. May the Holy Spirit continue to shine brightly in you as you serve the community of God’s people.

    “Your amiable and meritorious service are unquantifiable, countless, outstanding and wholly dedicated to the course of heavenly calling. The entire members of the church wholly and heartily felicitate with you on your 20 years journey as Ordained Pastor. We pray that God should continue to imbue you with His wisdom, knowledge and understanding, even as we wish you progressive, dynamic and more prosperous services to the community of God’s people.”

  • Residents demand water, roads, jobs at town hall meeting

    Potable water, rehabilitation of roads and schools, insecurity, provision of street light, employment opportunities, flooding/erosion menace and the need for proper drainage were the major demands by residents when members of the Lagos State House of Assembly met their people in some of the 40 state constituencies of the state.

    At Lagos Mainland 2 Constituency, a constituent complained that the boreholes provided by the government at Iwaya-Yaba does not supply water, while pleading that the government should provide tricycle and motor cycles for ‘Areas Boys’ to get them engaged and reduce their menace in the society.

    In Somolu 2 Constituency, the Oba of Bariga, Oba Gbolahan Timson lamented the poor state of inner roads in the area, urging the government to quickly make available large car park to ensure that available roads were made free for vehicular traffic. He also requested for the establishment of markets in the area.

    At Eti Osa 1 Constituency, the constituents requested for primary/ secondary schools, transformers, security within the estates, small and medium-scale loan for their businesses, cemetery for the Muslim, health facility, roads and drainage to prevent flooding, law against drug and child abuse within the constituent.

    The theme of the stakeholders’ meeting was “Towards a Better Constituency Engagement”, and was designed to educate constituents on the duties of the legislators and what the constituents expect from their representatives.

    Addressing his constituents at Agege 1 Constituency,  Speaker Mudashiru Obasa revealed that the outcome of the meetings would be a major determinant of the direction the 2016 Budget will take, adding that it is the Assembly’s desire to deepen the democratic culture as well as facilitate participatory governance in the state.

    Talking to his people in Somolu 2 Constituency, Chief Whip, Hon. Rotimi Abiru said the parley was also aimed at deepening democracy, assuring that all the complaints and suggestions made by constituents would be addressed with the appropriate authorities, just as he assured that the Palmgroove-Pedro Road now under construction would be completed by the end of the year as the needed fund has since been released.

    Also addressing his constituents at Eti Osa 1 constituency, Kazeem Alimi said the assembly had always welcome the people’s opinions to develop the state. He promised them quality representation from him and urged them to help, support and participate with him in making  Eti Osa a better place.

    The lawmakers promised to make sure that all the demands are worked on and forwarded to the executive so that it can be captured in the next budget.

    Speaking on the activities of the current Assembly, the lawmakers said, since June 15 when the 8th Assembly was inaugurated, it has passed 28 resolutions “covering a broad range of socio-economic, political and other issues pertaining to the welfare of Lagosians, the progress of the state and the nation as a whole. We have settled communal clashes, played the Ombudsman’s role while not neglecting several petitions referred to us for mediation and resolutions.

     

  • Activists condemn attack on Aregbesola

    Activists condemn attack on Aregbesola

    The Osun Progressive Left; a coalition of human rights activists in Osun State, has condemned the attack on the state governor, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola by former Deputy Governor of the state, Iyiola Omisore over the bailout fund for the state.

    The group, in a press statement signed by its convener, Comrade Wale Adebisi said Omisore’s comments while speaking on Crown FM were not only crude, but capable of inciting the people against the government.

    “We denounce very strongly the campaign of malicious slander and inciting activities of Mr. Iyiola Omisore on Crown FM in October, this year on the issue of bailout fund from the Federal Government.

    “The approach of the former Deputy Governor is not only crude but also a way of setting the people against the government. He has clearly shown that he is a bad loser who is not interested in peace and stability of the state,” the statement read.

    According to the statement, the type of criticism that is expected of a man like him should be the one that will bring about development through constructive means not the one that will set the state on fire.

    The group, therefore, appealed to Governor Aregbesola to vigorously pursue his six action plan for the state as this is the only way of elevating the state as one of the best in the country.

    It also urged the Federal Government to re-open every inconclusive criminal case that had been swept under the carpet, including the cases of murder of the former Governor of Oyo State, Chief Bola Ige, Mr. Funsho Williams, Alfred Rewane, Hon. Hassan Olajokun and the killing of four people in a church in Ife.

     

  • Sofowote’s enduring legacy

    Sofowote’s enduring legacy

    One year after music and arts icon, Mrs. Motunlayo Adefunke Sofowote, passed away in Spain, the foundation she set up to ensure that the annual charity concert outlives her, has swung into action, by staging a special concert at the Main Auditorium, University of Lagos, Akoka, Yaba, Lagos. She single-handedly ran the show for 10 years before setting up the Glowing Channels Foundation (GCF) which was inaugurated in 2009.

    This was at a time she had no idea she was going to take ill; she just felt that it was more proper to put a system in place that could continue even when she is not around. But, the foundation could not get its acts together until now. Members of the Board of Trustees of GCF were a bit reluctant to get involved when the departed founder of the organisation was still with them.

    As a result, she continued to run the show single-handedly until 2013, when her condition became critical. The last show she organised was in December, 2012.

    A member of the Board of Trustees, Mr. Akin Orebiyi, said it was only after her death last year that it dawned on them that this is an assignment or a duty that has been bequeathed to them. Orebiyi said they also recognised that there is nothing loftier for any humankind who has been bequeathed with a lofty legacy to continue in that tradition and even raise the bar in that respect.

    He added: “That’s why we came together this year, to see what we can do. She died on Thursday, September 18, last year and was buried on October 2, last year in Lubeck, Germany. We could have had a concert last year, but because of the little time we had between October and December, it was not possible. So, this year, we felt we should do it in October to coincide with the first anniversary of her funeral.”

    Orebiyi, who studied drama, with a specialisation in play production and play directing, said the foundation is facing a number of challenges with regard to the organisation of the concert.

    His words: “First of all, Mrs. Sofowote has developed the concert into a brand; a brand woven specifically around her personality and individuality. Therefore, it was a challenge for us to be able to reach out to people in her absence; people doubted whether we can continue the show in her absence.

    “In fact, people still find it difficult to come to terms with her departure and to picture a Glowing Channels concert without Funke Sofowote on stage. It still hasn’t jelled yet. So, we have that challenge when we try to reach out to people. We could still see some kind of reticence; this affected the attendance this year. In subsequent years, apart from those who have been attending the concert over the years, we hope to attract new faces to the show.”

    This has also affected its charity projects for the year 2016. Glowing Channels’ charity projects are financed primarily from the gate-takings, as well as the proceeds from sale of raffle tickets. But, there was no raffle draw during the last concert. As a result, Orebiyi said charity projects might not feature next year. But, he is optimistic that things will pick up in the second year of running the show under the aegis of the foundation.

    As in previous years, an array of established and budding talents entertained the audience with musical and dance performances, as well as poetry recitals. Though the attendance was poor, compared to previous concerts, the patrons were delighted with the scintillating performances put up by composer, singer and soloist Yinka Davies, singer, composer and pianist Femi Ogunronbi and Abuja-based polyglot, mechanical engineer, Mathematician and shipbuilder Meche Ekechukwu, who entertained them with Italian classical and English contemporary music.

    Others who performed at the concert included Johnpaul Ochei, Ibukun Kafaru, Seye Aluko, Roli Afinotan, Kelechi Sunday Nwuko, Fatima Anyekenam, Iquo Diana Abasi, Cella Fusi, Joseph Omotoye (aka Jojo), Notes and Tones Choral Group, Footprints of David and the Ibadi Dance Troupe. The concert ended on a happy note, with the electrifying performance of the Ibadi Dance Troupe and the soulful highlife renditions of Ogunronbi, backed by others.

    It was, generally, an evening of classical, choral, hymnal, instrumental and highlife music, spiced with poetry recitals. The patrons seemed appreciate the show. For instance, the chairman of this year’s concert, Mr. Olusegun Ajanlekoko, praised members of the foundation for not only continuing the legacy of the late Mrs. Sofowote, but also for putting up a good show.

    But the organisers believe that their best is yet to come. Orebiyi said the number of groups and persons featuring on the show would be reduced in subsequent years, to cut down on time and provide more fun and entertainment.

     

  • All hail Chief Imam Bello

    All hail Chief Imam Bello

    The Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, last Saturday presented the staff and the robe of office to the President-General of the League of Imams and Alfas in the Southwest, Edo and Delta states, Sheikh Muhammad Jamiu Kewulere Bello. ODUNAYO OGUNMOLA reports that the event opened a new chapter for the propagation of Islam.

    A new chapter was opened for Islam in the Southwest, Edo and Delta states on Saturday, November 21, with the installation of the new President-General of the League of Imams and Alfas, Sheikh Muhammad Jamiu Kewulere Bello.

    •From left: Aare Babalola, Grand Mufty of Ondo State, Sheikh Batuta and Oba Adejugbe
    •From left: Aare Babalola, Grand Mufty of Ondo State, Sheikh Batuta and Oba Adejugbe

    Sheikh Bello,  who is the Chief Imam of Ado-Ekiti and Grand Imam of Ekiti State was presented with the staff of office and the robe of his new office by the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III.

    The enthronement of Sheikh Bello was significant in the sense that Muslims are in minority in his home state of Ekiti where it pleases the Almighty Allah to choose the leader of Muslims clerics in the eight states of Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo, Ekiti, Edo and Delta.

    Ekiti Parapo Square located along new Iyin Road in Ado- Ekiti, the state capital, was filled to capacity with the Muslim Ummah streaming into the arena to witness the epoch-making occasion.

    Dignitaries at the event included Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose represented by his wife, Feyisetan; Ondo State Governor Olusegun Mimiko represented by his deputy, Alhaji Lasisi Oluboyo; Secretary-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Prof. Ishaq Oloyede; Executive Secretary, Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Prof. Rasheed Aderinoye; Catholic Bishop of Ekiti Diocese, Most Revd. Felix Ajakaye; former Deputy Governor of old Ondo State, Alhaji Musa Ayeni; former Deputy Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Sikiru Lawal, the Olukare of Ikare Akoko, Oba Akadiri Momoh and founder, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Aare Afe Babalola, among others.

    Secretary-General of the League of Imams and Alfas in Southwest, Edo and Delta who is also the Chief Imam of Owo in Ondo State, Sheikh Ahmad Olagoke Aladesawe, described turbaning as a “unique Islamic tradition for a distinguished personality within the fold of Islam.”

    The Asiwaju Musulumi of Yoruba land, Alhaji Badmus, who was represented by Senator Bayo Salami said the convergence of Muslims from all over the country on Ekiti symbolised unity in the Islamic faith.

    He explained that the League of Imams and Alfas had endured in the region for 50 years; paying tributes to the late revered Islamic scholar, Sheikh Adam al-Ilory, for the roles he played in the formation and sustenance of the body.

    Sultan Abubakar described the installation as a “history-making event”, expressing his delight that many non-Muslims were present at the event.

    The monarch, who is also the President-General of NSCIA and Amir Mumeen in Nigeria, called for unity and harmony among adherents of different religions.

    The Sultan expressed delight with the appearance of the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adeyemo Adejugbe, who, although is a Christian, joined the Muslim faithful at the city’s Central Mosque to observe Jumat prayers on Friday.

    Governor Fayose, who spoke through his wife, called for unity among people of different religious persuasions in the state.

    He said: “Let brotherly love continue in Ekiti State. Let us love one another and let us continue to coexist with one another. I pray the peace of God will continue to reign in Ekiti State and Nigeria.”

    President of the Muslim Ummah of Southwest Nigeria (MUSWEN), Alhaji S.O. Babalola, congratulated Sheikh Bello and prayed for his successful tenure.

    Delivering a lecture at the event, Sheikh Abibulahi Adam al-Ilory, said Sheikh Bello, with his investiture, had become the first among equals in the fold of clerics in his domain, saying the office requires qualities of a good leader.

    The Sultan, thereafter, presented the new President-General of Imams with his staff of office at exactly 12:50 p.m. He was also presented with the certificate of office by the Ewi, Oba Adejugbe.

    Speaking shortly after his installation, Sheikh Bello paid tributes to all his predecessors and expressed gratitude to his colleagues in the League in all the eight states under his domain.

    He promised to justify the confidence reposed in him and build on the foundation already laid to promote Islam and inter-religious harmony.