The Nation Newspaper

Category: Sunday magazine

  • ‘Don’t use religion as tool for division’

    ‘Don’t use religion as tool for division’

    THE President of the African Consortium for Law and Religious Studies, (ACLARS), Professor Kofi Quashigah has advised politicians to desist from using religion as a tool for division.

    Quashigah said this recently at a two-day event titled: ‘Continuous Legal Education on Law and Religion, The Role of the State’

    The programme was organized by the Nigerian Bar Association, Ikeja, and Lagos branches in collaboration with the West African Center Regional Center For Law and Religious Studies (WARCLARS), held at the University of Lagos.

    The event brought together scholars, lawyers, clerics, judges, civil society groups, and students.

    He said that religion should be understood to make people better citizens. “Every citizen talks about love. If we leave out our religious beliefs, the world will be a better place.”

    According to him, the system of government the modern African states need is republican and will be better served if the religions and their respective norms are kept out of the regime of the law and governance.

    “This proposition follows from the conviction that the infusion of religions and their tenets into the ordinary laws and their further influence in governance would increasingly generate conflicts with the body politic.”

    “It would create an opportunity for politically ambitious individuals and groups to endeavour to utilize the powerful institutions of the religion to achieve and perpetuate their interest in increasingly multi-religious societies of Africa.

    “It is the case that we should take conscious steps to delink religion from the state and governance but without throwing out the ideas and practice of religion from our lives,” he said.

    On his part, The Associate Director of the International Center for Law and Religion Studies, Professor Moore, David said that respecting freedom of religion or beliefs is not just an obligation on the state, but a protection to the state, adding that a lack of freedom of religion or beliefs may decrease loyalty between citizens, especially religious citizens and the state.

    Earlier, in her words, the Founding Coordinator of the West African Center for Law and Religious Studies, Professor Ibidapo-obe Akin said that WARCLARS believes that the setting up of similar sub-regional Centres/Affiliates could be a veritable means of ensuring that law and religion studies is not only widely disseminated but also take cognizance of sub-regional concerns and imperatives even whilst working within the embracive ambit of the African Consortium For Law and Religion Studies (ALARS).

  • Sanwo-Olu, Fenwa call for prayer, patriotism for nation’s greatness

    Sanwo-Olu, Fenwa call for prayer, patriotism for nation’s greatness

    IT was a night of great harvest of souls as thousands of Christian faithful gathered from across the country and beyond to grace the 2022 Night of Mercy, a programme filled with praise, worship, prophetic ministration, and life-changing testimonies.

    The programme which was held last week was put together by Holy Ghost Christian Centre at the Solution Arena, Lagos.

    Top gospel artistes took their turn to lead the congregation into deep worship and praises to God.

    Among the guests include multiple award-winning gospel singers, Sinach, Efe Nathan, Bidemi Olaoba, Deiko, and a host of other anointed ministers of the gospel.

    Tons of testimonies including the healing of kidney and fibroid diseases, rented the air as thousands join virtually the worship sessions across the world.

    Speaking at the event, the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu called on the church to continue to seek the face of God for a positive turnaround in our nation.

    He assured the Christian faithful that through their prayers, the God of mercy would visit Nigeria.

    Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by his Special Adviser on Christians and Muslim Matters, Rev Bukola Odeleke, said that the fervent prayers and retreats day and night inform God’s presence and the manifestation of his power and God will continue to bless and enrich the church.

    He pointed out that Nigeria indeed needs God’s mercy at this time, saying if there is anything to ask for it is God’s mercy.

    Sanwo-Olu said, “our consolation is in James 5:16 saying that the prayer of the righteous availeth much.”

    In his sermon, the convener and General Overseer of Holy Ghost Christian Centre, Dr. Amos Fenwa said that the purpose of the programme was to lead God’s people to worship and win souls for Christ.

    “We want to present Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace as the final solution to the problem of all men and women in this decaying world of sin and dark forces,” he said.

    He noted that the programme aim is to lead the unsaved to the salvation of Christ and bring together a multi-generational, multi-ethnic, and non-denominational congregation under one open heaven.

    He said that winning the souls of men and women is the heartbeat of God for every generation because salvation from sin, wickedness, and unrighteousness attracts divine blessings and favour from God.

  • WALE AJIBADE: Day I saw wealth of Africans in Brazil

    WALE AJIBADE: Day I saw wealth of Africans in Brazil

    Wale Idris Ajibade is founder and Executive Director, African Views. In this interview with Yetunde Oladeinde the investment analyst cum culture ambassador talked about his global outreach, working with Africans in the Diaspora , African philosophers, encounter with the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi as well as the 7th Peace and prosperity Summit tagged Peace and Reconciliation in Lagos recently.

    What inspired African Views?

    About 13 years ago, I was working for Corporate America.  I was working for the banks and for different corporations in Africa. Eventually I started working for a company which invests in South Korea. At that time, China was just about to rise, China was trailing South Korea and South Korea was trailing Japan. This was America and I was an Investment analyst. I realised how much effort that I put in, helping to build the economy and I realized that it was not too difficult to build an economy. So, I thought about why Africans can’t build our economy. On one of my vacations to Brazil, I saw the wealth of African people. I realised that the wealth of African people is in their art. This is very interesting. When I spoke to a Brazilian, he was speaking Yoruba to me and I saw a woman selling akara and all kinds of Yoruba products. I realised that the Yoruba that they were speaking was the Yoruba that they spoke 500 years ago. I said, how come the world does not know about this, how come we haven’t shown ourselves. We do a lot of culture but it is not just about products.  If you ask a German, he would say Mercedes, a car, that’s my culture. A Porsche. And for Americans it’s a Chevrolet. So, I said as Africans we need to recreate ourselves through our culture and it was then in Brazil that I formed African Views. I tell you, if I knew the challenges, I would have thought twice. It cost me a whole lot of things, my family, my job and more just pursuing this dream.

    Was it difficult to buy in the idea?

    For our people, it’s about gratification. So, I say don’t look at the money, look at the possibility of wealth creation. In Nigeria, it is another story because the money is in the wrong hands. I understand why the central bank is redesigning the naira. Right now, our money is going the way Zimbabwe’s did, it’s becoming worthless. The redesigning is one of the best ideas that they ever got. We need to change the name Nigeria because it is very derogative. We also need to change the flag; I know everyone loves the green, white and green. But really this is a relation flag, they need to know that. This is a flag that tells the world that we are still under control. We need to work on decolonization. It is a very difficult thing because a lot of people have made the issue about money and they have access to the money in a way that is unprecedented, that is criminal. The private hands have more money than the central bank. That is madness.

    What are some of the memorable moments doing this?

    This is the 7th annual spirit of peace event. We decided to do it in Nigeria because of the challenges that we saw. We reached out to everyone and showed them what is possible. The children that opened the event were wonderful. Yesterday, we also reconciled Akintola and Awolowo. You need to know what that means. It wasn’t easy. First of all, we had to think of the concept and why we needed to do this. There is a book that is coming out and it would be reviewed tomorrow. It is a history of Nigeria one has not heard before. For Akintola and Awolowo, we first reached out to their families because our organisation is promoting peace and sustainability. These are things that require you to dig into root causes of issues and be able to resolve it. If we look at Nigeria’s challenges, we would see that when we went wrong was the conflict with western union, which caused the first Military coup. This changed the intention of independence and there was tension amongst Nigerian politicians which has to do with ethnicity, tradition and modernity.  When the colonials left, they gave us a Nation with holes and cracks in it. No matter how much we try, it keeps coming back and these are the problems that we are faced with in Nigeria. So, we realized that we need to resolve that problem. It was that conflict between Awolowo and Akintola that caused the first coup, while the first coup caused the second coup, which later caused the civil war. And the civil war again inspired another coup that brought in Muritala, later Obasanjo and Buhari.

    What are your expectations for the 2023 elections?

    I would say that this election brings us back to 1966 because since then, we have not had it like this. That we the three major parties that represents, whether we like it or not, the three major tribes, we should be ashamed of ourselves because we have learnt nothing and that is the fear. The book that I am going to present shows details about this and why this election is most important. It is the first time that Nigerians could have a grip on their future. To me, the three candidates, three ethnic leaders and what it brings to the table is that as Nigerians we must learn to cooperate, we have to make sure that we clear the issue that is separating us. We n have turned the strength and beauty that we have which is our diversity into a terrible disaster.

    Apart from that there is also the challenge with religion?

    All of that is a foreign religion, which has nothing to do with us. If we understand the trueness of africanity, if we truly understand ourselves as human beings. The greatest sin is to give yourself to the dominion of others. That is the sin that can never be forgiven.

    You mentioned the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Oba Ogunwusi earlier one and some of the impact being made. Can you tell us about him and what he means to you?

    First of all, Kabiyesi  oooo. I love this man, first of all as a faithful father. I love him as a friend, as a person, I love his vision and I love what he is doing. This man has done so much; he has moved mountains for Ile Ife, for the Yoruba people as well as Nigeria and for African people entirely. He is doing tremendously well for women, the youths with people. When we invited him to the United States, to the African Union, it took so long for him to get to the African Union and he said Oh Gosh, I wished that I had been here before. Funny enough, before he got to the African Union and before we got the deal to host him at the UN, the Ambassador of the African Union to the United Nations was telling me, Wale you are the one that is interacting with these kings, I don’t think we should do that.

    I told him these people are good, they are educated as us and they have power, we should work with them. He said okay, if trouble comes, I would point to you and I said okay. I am not going to be there. But believe me, the ambassador waited 6 hours for the Ooni and waited another 6 hours with him. I have never seen that. And when the Ooni came to the United States, we had to ask the Native Americans to welcome him to their ancestral shores. We thought this was so important; we didn’t want to talk to the government about it because they think differently about the land. But the Native Americans who really know very well, very particular about the land and we want to bridge this traditional cultural relationship for the purpose of the Native Americans and afro Americans there because we knew this was important to the Ooni. So, we brought them to welcome the Ooni to their ancestral shores and they did this in a magnificent way.

    Personally are you thinking of going into politics?

    No. Not all. That is beauty pageantry. You got to put your opponent down for what reason. That is not who we are. If I go into politics, I am going to be helping my opponent to get. So, we have better things to do, much bigger things to do. Let politicians do their thing, we hope that they do things better. If they are able to do their job, it’s simple. To set standards, get opportunity to decide how they spend money and decide this project is worthy, let’s put money in it or not.

    Let’s talk about Nigerian youths, what advise do you have for them?

    Recently, I needed to fix my phone and I took it to the Computer village and met this young man and his colleagues, five of them around a very tiny table. I asked if they could fix my screen, we negotiated and I saw them working. As I was watching them I was so inspired, just look at this kids. Look at the wealth of Nigeria wasting away. If you could assemble, I could take all of them as my children and put them in good environment, incubation systems and set them up. Sadly, the politicians are too busy thinking of how to spend the money.

  • Akinadewo is new OAIC National President

    Akinadewo is new OAIC National President

    The Organisation of African Instituted Churches (OAIC) has elected Baba Aladura Elder Dr Israel Akinadewo as its new National President.

    Akinadewo, who is the Prelate, Prophet and Supreme Head, Motailatu Church Cherubim and Seraphim Worldwide (MCCSW), was elected unopposed in Abuja on Thursday.

    He will lead the 11-man new executives of OAIC, one of the five blocs of the Christian Association of Nigeria(CAN) for a renewable term of four years.

    CAN President, Most Rev Dr Daniel Okoh, who was at the venue of the election, congratulated him on his emergence.

    In his acceptance speech, Akinadewo, a chartered, forensic accountant and senior lecturer Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, appreciated the body for the confidence reposed in him.

    He promised to build on the solid foundation laid by OAIC founding fathers, saying he will pursue an 11-point agenda to reposition the body.

    According to him, the new administration will deliver on theological advancement, political awareness, OAIC secretariat, women and youth empowerment as well as OAIC historical project, among others.

    Promising to strengthen the visibility of the body, the 6th OAIC President said: ‘’ This peaceful and godly transition is another testament of the bond among us, in which the chemistry is stronger than the scientific molecule resulting from the transfer of electrons from one atom to another.

    ‘’It is an unbreakable bond that produced our own former President, and the International President, Most Rev. D. C. Okoh, as the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN).’’

  • BSN holds secondary school bible quiz

    BSN holds secondary school bible quiz

    The Bible Society of Nigeria (BSN) is set to hold its 19th edition of the Annual National
    Secondary School Bible Quiz on November 18 at lgbobi College, Yaba, Lagos.

    A statement by BSN Manager, Media and Public Relations, Benjamin Mordi, said the bible quiz is designed to inculcate godly values and Christian virtues in the students and revive the culture of reading and studying the Bible among them.

    Read Also: Bible Society completes additional Nigerian sign language Bible stories

    Mordi said the eight participating schools from the eight zones of the BSN across the country will present two representatives each. The contestants will answer questions drawn from the books of Jeremiah and John.

    Read Also: Bible Society organises quiz for the blind

    “The overall winner of the competition will receive a trophy and a cash prize while the other participants will go home with consolation prizes”.

    “The secondary school bible quiz is one of the programmes the BSN organises in fulfillment of its mission to make the Holy Bible available to Nigerians and help them engage with the Word of God through life-transforming programmes,” he said.

  • The rise and rise of OAIC

    The rise and rise of OAIC

    From producing the current National President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) to being on the verge of having another smooth transition coupled with mass mobilisation of members for socio-political development, the Organisation of African Instituted Churches (OAIC) has dropped its hitherto back-warmer status to becoming a bloc to reckon with in CAN, writes Online Editor Sunday Oguntola.

     

    His Grace, Most Rev Dr Daniel Okoh, fresh from his installation as CAN National President, walked quietly into the mini-sized hall to rousing applause. Sparkling in their different white garments, the audience clapped and clapped as Okoh headed for the reserved seat. Some couldn’t help but scream. Others simply smiled, proudly taking in the significance of the moment.

    It was at the first official outing of Okoh, who took over as CAN President in a smooth transition programme as against the previous acrimony that dogged the exercise on July 29. Okoh’s gentle and quiet mien was similar to his emergence. It was the most peaceful so far in the history of the apex Christian body in the nation.

    Unlike in the past, CAN’s new constitution adopted a rotational system among its five blocs comprising the Christian Council of Nigeria (CCN); Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria (CSN); Christian Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (CPFN)/Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN); Organisation of African Instituted Churches (OAIC); TEKAN and ECWA Fellowship. Okoh emerged on the strength of the new arrangement, which forecloses the usual politicking associated with the previous system.

    But it wasn’t just the arrangement that mattered. It was a statement of unity from OAIC that made the new leadership system surprisingly seamless. The churches of indigenous origins closed ranks and presented Okoh, the General Superintendent of Christ Holy Church aka Nation Builders (Odozi-Obodo) a consensus candidate. Once the bloc offered a consensus candidate, CAN simply ratify the choice. So, if the new constitution was the engine for a seamless transition, OAIC’s unity of purpose oiled it to a good effect.

    That unity of purpose was also on display last September when the bloc hosted Okoh to a reception in Lagos. It was a celebration of many firsts. Okoh became the first OAIC leader to emerge CAN President. The top position had been elusive to the bloc for years. The closest it got was a distant second on two occasions.

    Read Also: Okoh takes over as CAN President

    It was also the first time other CAN blocs will witness the unity of OAIC. It was a delight to behold. Many watched in amazement as white garment churches, derisively considered unorganised, rallied behind their own. OAIC National President Elder Dr Napo Emuchay fittingly said the bloc has come of age with the emergence of Okoh. He told the Christian community to expect to savour the best that OAIC has to offer.

    The bloc with millions of members across the six geo-political zones of the nation is reputed to have the capacity to rally themselves towards any national project of note. It has strong churches in the South-South, South West, South East, North Central, North East and North West. Many of them speak with one voice culturally and politically because of the similarity in worship practices and homogeneity of beliefs.

    Okoh, who was elated to be in the midst of his people, gave a well-received speech on the slant of his leadership. He said: ‘’ We are ready to move together and speak on one voice. The goodwill I have enjoyed since I took over is unparalleled. I cannot do anything alone. The job of a President of CAN is not to do things alone. We have to move our hands together as we move on. CAN will not stand alone.

    ‘’We will find ways to engage people of other religions. We don’t have a choice than to find ways to live together. We have fought our battles in the past. We have the advantage to harness our diversities. As Church leaders, we must only say things that will bring us together. My responsibility is not to say things that will divide us. If that is why people think I am here, there are mistaken. When we speak hate, we build a culture of hate and violence while misleading the younger generation.

    ‘’We have hated ourselves in the past but this is the time of healing. I am not saying we must give up our faith. We will use the method of Jesus, which is engagement and we will not compromise our faith in the better. CAN will not break up. We will move forward faster and better.’’

    Elder Dr Israel Akinadewo said the coming on board of Okoh marked the glorious era of OAIC, which has been on the backsides for years in CAN. He said OAIC was not only ready to take its place but prepared to mobilise members for rapid socio-political development.

    On Thursday, the bloc, which has shown potential for mass mobilisation of members towards socio-political development across the nation, will elect a new national president in Abuja. Feelers indicated that the election will be more or less unopposed largely because of the underground consensus built around Akinadewo, a chartered forensic accountant, who is the Prelate and Supreme Head of Motailatu Church Cherubim and Seraphim, Worldwide, (MCCSW).

    If the bloc pulls off the transition programme, it will not only cement its growing profile but also consolidate the gains it has recorded lately for mutual benefits spiritually, politically, culturally and socially.

  • CHINWE OJOBO: COVID opened doors for me

    CHINWE OJOBO: COVID opened doors for me

    Chinwe Ojobo is an award winning artist. She is the founder of Kulturecode hub and president of Female Artists Association of Nigeria. In this encounter with Yetunde Oladeinde she takes you into her world and the different things she does to touch lives and communities.

    Tell us about visual Dialogues?

    It is a platform to empower women. Usually, we use our artworks for Advocacy.  But this time, we are doing Empowerment so that the women can be empowered.

    How long have you been doing this?

    We started in 2001 and we have has support from some embassies and UNWOMEN. This particular exhibition is being sponsored by sterling bank and Lagos Continental hotel but initiated by the Taiwan Embassy and Trade centre.

    How many female artists are exhibiting here today?

    We have 26 but it was 78 that applied and we had to select the best.

    How did you get into the sector?

    I started as a child and did very well in secondary school.  I studied Zoology and later moved to Fine arts. My parents loved Arts and they encouraged me, then found my own niche. I do a lot of upcycling, work with Ankara and wood. Everything has potentials, when you stretch it, it stretches your mind. Basically, I do acrylic on canvas and I have  collectors who keep my works.

    How would you describe the performance of women in the sector?

    When we started it was as if the women were all down. Gradually, they started growing their skill, putting in their best, getting better and we support one another.

    Read Also: COMFORT OGUNYE: Women who dare to struggle cross very high hurdles

    Let’s talk about some memorable moments in the sector?

    I have had opportunities to travel abroad and done a lot of International exhibitions as well as done things in Hollywood and interacted with the stars. Also did memorable classes teaching children.

    What was the experience during COVID?

    COVID made me change a lot of my materials.  I used to work with canvas but changed to wood when it wasn’t available then. It also gave me the opportunity to produce so many works. COVID also opened International doors for us. In the past, you have to travel, apply or get someone to introduce you but now the world is just one platform. I am travelling on the 14th for an exhibition on the 19th and there are others lined up. In a year, I could do up to 10 Exhibitions.

    What are the other things that occupy your time?

    I also design fabrics, bags and shoes. I also do movie make up as a costumier and set design. I also design furniture and interior.

    Tell us about the women you admire?

    Mama Nike Okundaye. At her age, she is still entertaining people and being creative. Everyday, you see her changing the position of artworks. There are also some Female foreign artists, actresses,  entrepreneurs, women doing 3 or more things simultaneously and doing very well.

  • COMFORT OGUNYE: Women who dare to struggle cross very high hurdles

    COMFORT OGUNYE: Women who dare to struggle cross very high hurdles

    In 1995 Comfort Idika Ogunye emerged as the first and only female national president of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANs).That experience opened her eyes to so many opportunities and she became passionate about empowering other women. In this interview with Yetunde Oladeinde she takes you down memory lane, lessons learnt,turning point in her career, mediation practice, mentoring female students in tertiary institutions across the country and more.

    What are some of the experiences running the Female Leadership Forum (FLF)?

    My experience running the Female Leadership Forum for one decade has been exciting and fulfilling. I feel very proud to say that today, the students’ community organisation, is still working around its mandate.

    The focus is, to integrate female students in Nigeria Tertiary Institutions in a process of leadership skills development and then involvement.

    The aim is expand the scope of female participation in students’ representative platforms like Students Union, Faculties and Departments associations. FLF believes that acquisition of leadership skills by many female students on the micro level over a period of time is a prerequisite for the ability of a good number of them to successfully play leadership roles on the macro level in the future.

    Delightfully, a good number of FLF members are actively involved in politics today and at all levels.

    Remarkably, the current National Woman Leader of APC, Dr. Beta Edu was a coordinator of FLF University of Calabar Chapter.

    What inspired the idea?

    The idea was first inspired by my election as first female president of NANS in 1995. At that time, there were many organisations working around economic, social and political concerns of women. However none of the women Non Governmental Organisations (NGOs) focused specifically on the very important concept of female leadership skills development and capacity building.

    Second, the low level of female participation in campus politics was also a trigger. Available statistics at that time revealed that female students made up less than 3% of those elected or appointed into student’s leadership positions in Tertiary Institutions.

    Third, was the global campaign for women’s empowerment. The United Nations, many of its agencies and ditto the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria do affirm fundamental human rights, including equal rights of men and women to participate in politics and governance.

    What are some of the lessons learnt over the years?

    I have learnt that embracing change and adapting to it is a gradual process. Women who dare to struggle have a very high hurdle to cross.

    With clarity of purpose, vision, sustained efforts, focus and resilience they will breast the tape.

    The 2023 elections are around the corner. What advice do you have for Women especially those running for political office?

    My advice for women running for political office in 2023 is related to my previous response. It is important to identify and clarify your interest, build networks and synergies because politics is mass driven and largely influenced by number. Be focused and take your shot, even if you don’t win, keep trying. With “I CAN “mindset you’ll definitely get there.

    What are some of the changes that you will like to see in the country?

    I would like to see a strong and resilient economy, enhanced security, quality education and a sincere commitment to legal and policy reforms. I will be delighted to see a constitution with a real and workable federal structure.

    You are the first and only female President of NANs (National Association of Nigerian Students). What does this mean to you?

    It means a lot. That leadership roles and responsibilities can be discharged by anyone (male or female). I want to see more female students in that elevated position.

    What are some of the memorable moments leading Nigerian students?

    My tenure coincided with the reign of General Sani  Abacha. Some of the memorable moments for NANS at that time, was our collaboration with Pro-Democracy Organisations to end military rule in Nigeria. NANS agenda for ACAREF (Academic Reforms), a struggle still being waged by ASUU and Academic Freedom (promoting freedom of association and resisting the ban on democratic Student Unions and campaign against cultism) were memorable moments.

    Read Also: Lagos Women Run set for historic seventh edition

    How would you assess the performance of NANs recently?

    Change is constant. NANS leadership over the years has been laid back in its strategies and responses to crucial issues on education and state of the nation. Despite the challenges, very recently the current NANS leadership stood by ASUU by protesting against government inaction to the prolonged strike.

    You are also a Lawyer married to a frontline lawyer and activist. Howhas he inspired and influenced your personality?

    Jiti and I complement each other in positive ways. I am not in competition with him or anyone else. While he carved a niche for himself in public interest litigation and other remark able aspects of law, I do more of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). I am a certified Mediator and member of the panel of Neutrals of the Lagos Multi Door Courthouse.

    What are some of the things you share in common and areas where you are different?

    We share a common vision for a great Nigeria, imbued with peace, progress, prosperity, fairness equity and justice.

    How can government help to make things better for women and the youths?

    To make things better Government should pass the rejected Pro Equality (Gender and Equal Opportunity Bill). It is important to have a legal framework that fosters inclusion. And for young people, implementing the National Youth Policy is imperative. Recall that the policy promotes the health, social, economic and political well-being of young men and women.

    What would you describe as the turning point in your life and career?

    Well my life is work in progress and I take each day as it comes. Motherhood, working consolidating the FLF initiative, training as Certified Mediator, completing my LLM degree programme and my current position as Vice President – Association of African Women for Research and Development (AAWORD Nigeria) are significant.

    How would you assess the performance of women in mainstream politics?

    There are no women in mainstream politics in Nigeria. This assertion may be regarded as my subjective opinion, but it is our reality. Yes, there are a few women in public positions who are doing well, but that does not mean they call the shots. We are familiar with the statistics and data on women’s representation. It is very very low. Apparently many women have records of outstanding performance in banking, military, education, medicine, law, business and other laudable careers. In politics the reverse is the case. The numbers are regressing and sadly so. Only about 5.8% of women occupy political offices, their impact in terms of assessment is like a drop in an ocean. The patriarchs are the landlords of the power estates in Nigeria, women are still striving for accommodation or inclusion.

    Tell us about some of the lessons learnt working on Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR)?

    Working around the ADR process has been very insightful. One important lesson for me, is that, a lot of disputes can be settled or resolved outside the traditional adversarial process of litigation- Out of Court. As a mediator I have learnt how to use variety of skills and techniques to help parties negotiate and reach a settlement, quicker and cheaper. Mediation agreements are not coercive because parties resolve their issues by consensus.  Interestingly I have learnt that the ADR system is very wide, it is gradually becoming an inevitable component and response to administration of justice.

    What was your experience during COVID 19. Did it make you do some things differently now?

    The pandemic hit the world like a tornadoe. Thankfully, we pulled through. For me, the lockdown at the initial stage was very challenging because no one wants to be restricted. However, something positive came through in respect of my mediation practice. In tackling the challenge of social or physical distancing, the Lagos Multi Door Courthouse (LMDC) in collaboration with ODR/europe offered an Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) Training around June 2020. I gained alot from that experience and I am still using the skills acquired from that training till date. The lockdown also made me adjust my spending, especially on essentials.

    What dreams did you have while growing up?

    Well, I grew up in a good and stable family. As a child, I didn’t have dreams in the real sense of the word. I just towed the path my parents set me. My late father was the first person from his village to attend a university. So he valued education and I was encouraged to go to school and I did. Learning is a lifetime endeavour and I am committed to it. Becoming an adult, meant that I was evolving and gradually I became conscious of who I was and of course had personal aspirations. I have achieved 60% of that. The rest is in progress, with slow but steady strides I will get there by God’s grace.

    What are some of the principles that guide what you do?

    The golden rule for me is to do to others as you will have them do to you. I also believe that it is important to make an impact and add value no matter how little.

    What are some of the things that you would like to do in future?

    In future my plan is to own a business and be a legislator.

    What type of books do you like to read?

    When it comes to reading, I love Biographies and book on History.

  • Why women should be allowed to lead ministry – Akinwande

    Why women should be allowed to lead ministry – Akinwande

    Founder of the El-Rabboni Evangelical Ministry and Spiritual Mother of Ebenezer Praying Band Church, Cherubim and Seraphim (C&S) Unification Church, Rev. Dr. El-Miram Irene Akinwande, in this interview with ADEOLA OGUNLADE, addresses some sundry issues in Nigeria and the need for women to play an active role in ministry, partner in the rebuilding of the walls of Nigeria and fulfill the purpose.

    Nigeria is said to be besieged because of the way things are currently. How do you think Nigeria can rise again?

    With the way things are in the country, we need prayers, especially in bringing the enemies into subjection. In the Bible, King Jehoshaphat conquered the enemies- Amorites and Hittites. He was helped by God through the praises. It is my desire that God delivers the country from the siege of terrorists and other enemies.  The situation at hand where people loot the treasury is quite condemnable. There are things that these monies should be used to address, the problem of ASUU is there, ill-equipped hospitals, bad roads, unstable power supply,  and other things that do not make life comfortable for the citizenry.

    However, by the grace of God, Nigeria will not die. The selfishness of some people will not kill it because God will not allow it. We have had leaders that did their best and have their names written in gold. Also, we should know we brought nothing to this world and will leave without taking anything away from it, our leaders and the led should know that we will all give accounts of our lives here on earth. The scripture makes us know that we are only on a sojourn on earth as there is eternity and the quality of the life we live, in terms of doing what God requires of us, will determine where we will spend eternity.

    The issue of succession has brought setbacks to some churches, how do you see this?

    Ideally, succession should not bring acrimony.  As children of God, things should be done in line with the leading of the Holy Spirit. For example, my mother who was a midwife and Founder of Ebenezer Praying Band Church, Cherubim and Seraphim (C&S) Unification Church, did not make room for hereditary succession in the church’s constitution.

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    Presently, we have a new Baba Aladura while the immediate past is still living. Our constitution says Baba Aladura’s tenure should end when he is 75 years old but the Baba Aladura Emeritus who happens to be my husband held the position up to when he became 80 years old because he was trying to stabilize the church. But with the baton passed to another head, Baba Aladura Afolabi, some persons have questioned the action. The truth is that a church head does not necessarily have to exit the earth before he or she gets a successor.

    The issue of fake preachers has made some cast aspersions on the church. What is your advice particularly to deceitful preachers?

    They need to repent. It is sad that there are people who fall prey to their deceits. It is also sad that these days some are only interested in their bellies and have a large number of members. Indeed Jesus is coming back and people need to repent before it is too late.

    It is still taboo for women to head churches in some quarters, how do you see this?

    Women should not be discriminated against, if they are called into the ministry they can head a church, and there should be no barrier. A woman leading a ministry is not against the doctrine of C&S. I head a branch of the Ebenezer Praying Band Church, C&S Unification Church.

    God called my mother in 1951 and she gradually started the church when she was around 40 years old. God called me into the evangelical ministry to preach the second coming of Christ and was assigned to operate in line with the mandate of El-Rabboni, Christ the teacher, and healer while in my 30s.

    It depends on who God calls; it is God that calls people. Like Mama Captain Abiodun Emmanuel whom God called when she was 17 years plus in 1925. She co-founded Cherubim and Seraphim with Prophet Moses Orimolade. Some men do not want the women to express themselves but these women cannot afford to fold their hands, they cannot allow themselves to be isolated nor be unable to maximize the grace of God upon their lives. Gone are those days.

    There are examples of women that are doing well in the ministry. God loves women as well and is ready to give us more assignments. Let me also add that for two tenures, I led the Mosan Okunola Area of CAN as the first female leader. With the support of the people, we were able to record achievements to God’s glory and recently I was made the grand matron.

    Lastly, your charge to women

    They should be tolerant, calm, and peaceful. They should be exemplary in conduct and refuse to be extravagant. We know we like to be flamboyant as women but there is a need for moderation.  I am not saying women should look horrible and archaic while trying to be moderately dressed. We must be clean inwards and outwardly. Looking at nation-building, we should join hands with our political leaders and help them lift the nation to a greater height. We must also surrender ourselves to God’s leading and my prayer is that we will be helped by God in building our lives, homes, careers, ministries, nations e.t.c, and we will not lose our reward on earth and in heaven.

  • Saint John the Evangelist Anglican celebrates 21st Patronal Anniversary, Adult Harvest

    Saint John the Evangelist Anglican celebrates 21st Patronal Anniversary, Adult Harvest

    Saint John The Evangelist Anglican Church, Akowonjo rolls out its drums as it celebrates the 21st anniversary of the church even as it wraps up the 2022 harvest season with the marking of it’s adult harvest  today.

    During a Media chat at the Church’s office, the presiding Vicar of the church, Reverend Abiodun Okunnuga said to mark the epoch event, that the church organized many events last week which culminated to the final  twin celebrations.

    “There was a four days power packed crusade within the church premises from  Wednesday last week to yesterday, the 12th. The crusade with theme ‘Our God is More than Enough’ started by 6pm and ended about 8pm. Different anointed men of God like the popular Evangelist, Chuks Abraham, and fast rising gospel artist, Tope Sas were in attendance”, explained the visibly excited Reverend Okunnuga.

    “On the 12th, which was designated as Couples Day, an interactive workshop was held where experts in marital issues dissected various marital challenges. Couples spoke openly while some anonymously sent their questions to the Chairman of the event” said the Vicar.

    On what the 21st Patronal anniversary means to the Vicar, he recalled with gratitude to God the vision and labours of the founding fathers and past Vicars, particularly the visionary leadership of the pioneering bishop of the Diocese, The Late Rt. Revd. Dr. P. A. Adebiyi whose commitment to church expansion and evangelism saw to the birth and nurturing of the church. He further praised God for the sustenance and growth of the church under the energetic and passionate leadership of the incumbent Bishop, The Rt. Revd. Dr. & Dr. Mrs. Olusola Odedeji. He called on members to be more committed to the Christian faith and life while making soul-winning a lifestyle – be an evangelist.

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    Talking about how the church was able to survive during the months of COVID-19, he noted that the pandemic disrupted economies, social life, international relations, academic programmes while not sparing the church and religious communities. However, the church employed the media space for online services, supported members with palliatives.

    On whether the church has returned to normal since after the pandemic, he explained that the church has gradually adapted to the ‘New Normal’ and is embracing the new realities of the present times.

    Responding to questions on the challenges facing the church, like the issue of gay marriage, Reverend Okunnuga explained that same-sex marriage is not at all a Christian marriage because it negates the biblical meaning and purpose of marriage. Though in some parts of the world where strong advocacy to legalise gay marriage is being agitated, the church now operates under two umbrellas – the conservative group and the liberals. The Church of Nigeria is unwavering on her position that same-sex marriage is unnatural, unbiblical, unreasonable, unethical, ungodly and unAfrican.