The Nation Newspaper

Tag: muse

  • Leadway promotes Nigerian Art at Sao, Muse

    In line with its commitment to promote the creative energy of African artists to strengthen the growth of the art industry, Leadway Assurance has announced its partnership with Sao Café for this year’s edition of contemporary art exhibition.

    The exhibition tagged: ‘Sao and the Muse 3’ with theme: “Collaboration era”, would explore the power of coming together to solve problems, breaking the traditional rules of art by creating an unlikely collaboration of artists with diverse media to create out of the box art.

    Speaking on the partnership, Head Corporate Services, Olubunmi Adeleye, said the partnership with Sao Café for Sao and the Muse 3, will further promote the celebration and empowerment of emerging art talents across Nigeria.

    She said it is also a vehicle to showcase Leadway’s bespoke Art  insurance cover and give guests, collectors and art enthusiasts the opportunity to interact with and create useful conversations about the product and the cover it offers.

    She said: “The event, which  held at  Sao Café in Lagos, drew  the attention  of artists and art enthusiasts since 2016, featuring a unique multi-media exhibition that celebrates art in  its many forms, enabling guests to connect, create and learn about art and music.

    “Leadway’s will continue to support the celebration and protection of the creative arts in Nigeria. We are delighted to be a part of the laudable and exemplary initiative targeted at promoting the vibrant creativity of Nigeria’s art community.”

    We understand the importance and the place of creativity in nation building and its role in upscaling the development of the minds of young adults, hence, our support for an event that will promote ingenuity whilst enabling the emergence of budding talents.”

  • A time to muse

    Already, words are out there that over N5bn has been spent on the Buhari constant shuttles till date. Now, how does the loud silence in Aso Rock help the matter? Beyond the feeble argument that the President prioritises the expected gains that would accrue to the country before hugging the skies, the new vista of transparency and accountability compells a more open system in which the populace is availed of the financial liability or otherwise of such journeys. That is yet to be done by a government that holds aloft the flag of change. But then, is it not our democracy?

    Buffeted by a rash of criticisms over the secrecy surrounding the delivery of 38 Toyota Land Cruiser jeeps at an inflated price of N35.1 million each to some lawmakers in the upper legislative chamber, the leadership of the Senate quickly came up with a statement justifying the purchase. Ordinarily, if the Sunday Trust had not scooped the story, I doubt if the Senator Bukola Saraki-led Senate would have bothered to offer any explanation no matter how tendentious. By the way, this is not the first time exotic cars would be purchased at inflated prices in the National Assembly or even The Presidency. It has become a norm. It formed the major fulcrum of the allegations the then Hon. Dino Melaye levelled against Speaker Dimeji Bankole some years back. The issue of bloated figures in car purchase is a recurring decimal in the lives of successive leaderships in the two legislative chambers. You may then want to know what could be responsible for the outcry over this latest transaction. The answer is simple. The Saraki leadership promised to publish the details of the N120bn appropriated by it through direct line charge. It was in line with its commitment to embrace change and make the legislature more accountable to the people.

     Unfortunately, the National Assembly has refused to walk its talk. The leaderships of both chambers continue with the old practice of locking the details in the closet. As I write this, the House of Representatives is on the verge of purchasing 360 ‘utility’ vehicles worth N3.6bn for all its members who had earlier collected millions of naira as car loan last year. Of course, the usual excuse is that such cars are for oversight functions and not for the private use of individual members. That is crass baloney. If the general public and organised labour had not threatened a showdown with these over-pampered set of Nigerians, it was doubtful if the Chairman, Senate Services, Ibrahim Gobir, would have justified why the cars suddenly became a necessity. By the way, his argument that 36 Toyota Land Cruiser VXR V8 were bought at N36.5 million each and that the fund was appropriated in the 2015 budget reeks of scented lie. Could the 2015 budget had forecast a more than 100 per cent increase in the value of the dollar to the Naira in 2016? In any case, no one has ever sighted the breakdown of the N150bn the Senator David Mark-led Senate appropriated for itself in 2015. So, how could anyone trust Gobir’s defence? It is also trite illogic for Gobir to argue that the N1.314bn utility vehicles would be ‘shared’ among the three senators from the state. So, the Federal Capital Territory is no longer at par with the states” Some lies do not just stick. They expose the rot within. In the same vein, Gobir’s ‘moderate’ price of N36.5bn per exotic toy for the lawmakers does not make any economic sense because such bulk purchase normally comes with appreciable discount. In this case, it appears those who made the transaction left their bargaining chip at home. Lest I forget, did the Senator just remind us that the purchase was made legitimately with the 2015 appropriation? So,  what would happen to the N4.7bn the Senate reportedly set aside in the yet-to-be-signed 2016 Budget to buy vehicles for its members out of which Senator Saraki had already spent over N300m to upgrade his official fleet? I am sure the Deputy Senate President, Senator Ike Ekweremadu, must also have benefitted from the fleet upgrade too. Instead of struggling with the truth and hiding the humongous shame behind one leprous finger, wouldn’t it have been better if Gobir had simply told us that the other senators would soon take delivery of their car gift? After all, have we not come to accept the fact that this car matter has become a routine rather than an exception to the rule?

    But then, what does a musing journalist know about democracy, its norms and the abuse of power? Nothing other than to engage a wailing pen to speak to the deaf. Pity.

  • A time to muse(1)

    I doubt if there is any country on this planet earth, in which logic-defying events intercept its national discourse like Nigeria. Sometimes, you wonder if we will ever get to that point when the nation would have gone past the odious cycle of muck and dirt in its socio-economic and political interface. If that were an impossibility in the yore days of military jackboots, no one would have thought that to be an unachievable reality with the advent of participatory democracy. Sadly, as Nigeria prepares for its 17th anniversary of civil rule, it gropes in the dark in a perpetual struggle to master the basic ethos and norms of a people-centred governance practice. From May 29, 1999 when General Olusegun Obasanjo mounted the saddle as a democratically elected President, the country has merely succeeded in replacing the military interlopers who fleeced the country blind with an elite class of light-fingered demi-gods disguised as democrats. For, if we must say the truth, democracy is just a limping tourist in our midst and true democrats are a rarity in an atmosphere suffused with an overdose of numb complexities. How can our politics mature when the voting majority sees nothing criminal in surrendering the power of the thumb to the whim and bloated egos of the men of power?

     Until otherwise proven, I am yet to see that true democrat. Greed and banal egotism have blurred the sense of shame that ought to guide the conduct of the noisemakers in our politics and the polity. Yes, democracy confers freedom on all citizens but such comes with huge responsibilities. For example, one character that persists in abusing the privileges of that high office with infantile stupidity is Governor Ayodele Fayose of Ekiti State. This is not just about his right to exhibit a constitutionally-recognised freedom of speech but the despicable mouth diarrhoea that accompanies it. Of course, quite a number of politicians do vomit inanities , but Fayose has taken it a notch higher. He simply lacks the finesse and comportment to run even a local government area. His brand of political antagonism defies common sense and logic. Even when his principal target of this unmitigated verbal war of attrition, President Muhammadu Buhari, has ignored him for more than a year, Fayose continues playing his silly game as if that equates developmental strides for Ekiti indigenes. For a man who went public with his death wish for the then presidential candidate, it is not surprising that Fayose continues with his self-chosen unabashed role as Buhari’s Number One critic. He seems to get a special kick from the ferocity of the gloating and ranting. Well, that is okay as long as he did not cross the perimeter fence of decency. After all, it is a democracy. Isn’t it?

     If this warped democracy of ours has not conferred immunity on certain categories of politicians, I doubt if Fayose would still be in that seat today, spewing malodorous gibberish against the President and relishing a failed attempt to bring the country to disrepute in the international community through his recent action in China. For the avoidance of doubt, Fayose took the farcical drama to a new low by writing the Chinese Government not to have any financial dealings with the Federal Government of Nigeria. It is even more laughable that Fayose, claiming to be speaking for the generality of Nigerians who “are totally opposed to increment of the country’s debt burden”, was also said to be in China in pursuit of investments for his state. Aside the outrageous fallacies, brazen lies and blackmail contained in the letter which his spokesperson said he would personally deliver to the Chinese President, Xi Jinping, Fayose’s egregious idiocy beggars belief. Could he have forgotten so soon that the oath he swore to on assumption of office, among other things, mandates him to exercise his restricted authority in such a way and manner that it would not “impede or prejudice the authority lawfully vested in the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria?” So, where did he derive the power to direct a sovereign government to reject a loan deal legally made by a representative of another sovereign state in which he is just like every other citizens who surrender their mandates to Buhari to exercise? We may not know what pushes Fayose to do what he does. What we do know is that the immunity clause which seems to empower his riotous behaviour has an expiry date and he may need to brace himself up for the consequences of his actions even if he thinks he is un-“impeachable” as the chosen one to lead Ekiti State out of darkness. By the way, did he submit that letter to President Xi Jinping at the crowded mall where he was seen posing on the rostrum? Well, what do I know about political razzmatazz? Is that not what democracy is all about?

     It is manifestly clear that the serial abuse of Nigeria’s democratic experiment would continue as long as the people fail to ask the right questions and tie the leaders to the stakes of truth. Our inability to put the active players in the political space to the mirror imperils our growth and stagnates development. A truly participatory democracy permits a constant interrogation of the system irrespective of political leanings, ethnic or religious backgrounds. It is for that reason that I believe The Presidency need not ignore the request by some Nigerians for a public disclosure of the cost of the President’s diplomatic shuttles since his inauguration on May 29 last year. When we shroud such things in official secrecy as it was in the past, it fires the speculative engine.

  • Struck by the Muse at 80

    •Octogenarian Islamic scholar presents 11 books

    At 80, when many would have retired, Pa Ayo Adeyemi, an Islamic scholar, is still active, writing books. He has written 11 books, which were presented in Lagos. Ozolua Uhakheme, Assistant Editor (Arts), reports.

    Call it a dance party; a rich bouquet of carnival. The book presentation of Pa Ayo Adeyemi was these and more.

    The Oranmiyan Hall of the Airport Hotel, Lagos, was filled with dignitaries and several groups. They were there to honour Pa Adeyemi, the founder of the Islamic Mission Organisation (IMO) and author of 11 books who turned 80.

    Pa Adeyemi’s 11 books, including All Roads head to Arafat, The Concept of Prayer in Islam and Abridged History of Prophet Mohammed, were presented at the event, which was chaired by First Bank Chairman Prince Ajibola Afonja.

    It was attended, among others, by Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Prof Abdurahaman Bello,  who gave the keynote address; Senator Ganiyu  Solomon; Senator Gbenga Kaka; Chairman of Island Club Chief Ademola Dada; the Ranodu of Imota, Oba Ajibade Mudashiru Bakare-Agoro; veteran television broadcaster Chief Taiwo Allimi; Prof Adesanya Hamzat; Dr Isola Abudu; Prof Yomi Adetoro and Prof Abdul Oke.

    They were thrilled by scintillating songs from a live band and some Islamic groups, including Al-Fajir Junior and Senior; Al-Salam Ladies, Amantullah Ladies, Al-Qudus Sisters, Nasurulahi Mothers, Dawn of New Era and Al-Asri Mothers.

    The guests praised the celebrator for propagating Islam. They urged others to emulate the celebrator, who is dedicated to living the life of a true Muslim.

    Prince Afonja praised Pa Adeyemi’s energy and zeal towards the expansion of knowledge, saying at 80 the Islamic scholar is still inspiring the young. He urged Muslims to emulate Pa Adeyemi on the advancement Islam to which Prophet Muhammed dedicated himself.

    “It is good that at 80, Alhaji Adeyemi is still expanding knowledge. Knowledge is very important and Islam places emphasis on it. The Almighty Allah introduced himself as the all-knowing 122 times in the Ouran. If God could emphasise knowledge this much, anybody who expands knowledge is worth celebrating.

    “When I entered the hall, I noticed the beauty of Islam. I looked at Alhaji Adeyemi, looked at his picture on the cover of the programme and the richness of the programme itself; I saw how radiant he is, how confident he is; I listened to the songs and behold the way the entire hall is arranged. I feel that I had never seen Islam in this form before. I am, indeed, happy to be a Muslim,” Afonja said.

    At 80, Pa Adeyemi is bubbling with strength. This, he said, he owed to God’s  favour, a moderate and healthy lifestyle. He shared these secrets of sound health and his 11 “intellectual achievements” with guests, saying: “I do exercise regularly. I take fruits in the morning – every morning, I have been doing this for long. By 8pm I go to bed. By 4/5am, I am up from bed, say my prayers and write whenever I need to.”

    Experience, according to the celebrator, has taught him to always advocate peace to all along with a moderate lifestyle. He urged guests to be creative in their strive for excellence.

    He said: “There is nothing that is good for the body that does not have its side effects, especially when carried to the extreme. One must know what is best for one’s own body. The chemistry of my body may be different from yours. One other thing is that you should learn to differ from the crowd. For you to think deeply and come up with productive ideas, you cannot always move along the same direction as the crowd. But I primarily owe Allah the secret of my longevity and good health. He is ultimately the one that crowns one’s effort no matter how wise one may think one is.”

    Prof Bello’s lecture, titled The role of religion in Nigeria’s quest for security and justice focused on the relationship between religion, security, peace and stability.

    The Vice-Chancellor, who was represented by the Director of Distance Learning, Prof Ganiu Oke, observed that the non-adherence to the dictates of religion has resulted to   the insecurity and other problems in the country. He added that although most religions propagate the values of peace, love, justice and good neighbourliness, the notion of religion is been misconstrued by many.

    “The ideals propagated by the religions, notably Islam, Christianity and Judaism are different from the current realities. In Nigeria, for instance, ‘reason’ is being placed above revelation; material gain is emphasised above spiritual gain. Religion is becoming increasingly commercialised as religious leaders now reap huge profits from the spiritual needs of their members.

    “This has led to misinterpretation and misrepresentation of the doctrines which themselves were to ensure security of lives and properties and social justice. Personal, rather than corporate interests have taken over and the only panacea to the security and social injustice in our country today can only be reversed if we all practice the religions in their pure forms,” he said.

    In his review of the books, a former Dean, Faculty of Arts at the Lagos State University (LASU), Prof Lakin Akintola, also praised Pa Adeyemi’s efforts in inspiring and drawing children and youths to Islam, noting that the books were painstakingly written. According to him, they lay emphasis on the need for Muslims to be pragmatic and moderate in their activities.

    He said: “Before now, Muslims were held in contempt. Their music was despised in Nigeria. It didn’t draw youths. But Alhaji Adeyemi came and changed all this. It was from him that we first had first song in English for Muslims. Islam preaches tolerance. He is therefore the kind of imam we need today. With imams like Alhaji Adeyemi, Christians, Muslims and even traditionalists will live together in peace. So, Adeyemi is being celebrated today not because he likes partying, but it is because he deserves it. He is a hero among Muslims.”

     

  • Amusing the muse

    Amusing the muse

    Last Monday, there was an ‘unusual’ art feast from the creative forge of Victor Ehikhamenor, one of Nigeria’s contemporary artists. He hosted numerous clients, art collectors and enthusiasts to the opening of his solo art exhibition, Amusing the muse held at an alternative venue, The Temple Muse, one of the emerging luxury design and lifestyle outlets on Victoria Island, Lagos. Behold, giant-size black and white paintings hanging on a white wall in an alternative hall.

    It was the artist’s solo exhibition featuring some rare works done in his new technique, paintforation, which is similar to pointillism. He uses nail perforations on thick white handmade paper to create subtle relief work.

    At a preview session, he explained that he translated ancient rituals of body scarification evident in 16th and 17th century Nigerian bronze heads into contemporary masks. But whether through his perforated White Mask or his bold ink- color faces in which he uses symbols as highlights, almost like thoughts flitting across their minds, his art continues to tease and beckon.

    “The face phenomenon downed on me during the Occupy Nigeria protests, while I was photographing people,” explained Ehikhamenor, who has a first degree in English Literature from Ambrose Ali University in Ekpoma, and two masters degrees in fine arts (creative writing) and technology management from the University of Maryland at College park, US.

    “I realised what really formed the mass of differences are the faces. People live and die by the look and shape of their faces. I believe faces define humanity. The face is the GUI (graphical user interface) of the brain,” he said.

    With about 19 works, the artist brought the unfamiliar pieces created from the unusual setting. Showing at Temple Muse is as interesting as the new technique currently explored by the artist. In three large canvas wall hangings spanning over five metres in length or width, the artist presents lone human forms completely engulfed in landscapes of symbols.

    “As a figurative- abstractionist I hate taming my style. I have started working on very large pieces, using charcoal on canvas. These works are stories and histories, myths and mythologies, tales and folktales, beliefs and disbeliefs,” he explains standing in front of a work entitled Adam & Eve waiting for a flight out of Eden, an over six metres wide hanging, which is his visual representation of the entire book of Genesis told “in one fell swoop,” he said.

    According to him, the works are carefully selected and created to fit into other items on show at the Temple Muse, adding that the black and white colour of the works was complementary. “No contrast between the wall, the works and other items in the shop,” he noted.

    Among the exhibits are Insomnia, Midnight love at Bar beach, Adam/Eve Waiting for flight out of Eden, and Home Sweet home.

    Interestingly, Ehikhamenor’s unique calligraphic style of black and white symbolic images presents a fresh perspective on contemporary African art. His style is influenced by the drawings he grew up with on the walls of scared spaces in Udomi- Uwessan, Edo state. Over the years, his bold symbols have been encased in doors and window frames as in his Entrances and Exits series, or literally bouncing “off and through” vibrant, multi-layered, colorful paintings. His sculptures of repurposed mundane objects like the old typewriters and generators are often thought provoking socio-political critiques, while his video art installations have seen art enthusiasts curiously intent on watching how he transforms blank spaces by completely covering them in a proliferation of symbols to become cocoons of fantastical imagery. The show, which is curated by Sandra Mbanefo Obiago and supported by Veuve Clicquot will run till May 31.

    Managing Director of Temple Muse, Mr Avinash Wadhwani, said hosting visual art exhibition at the Temple Muse would not be a one-of outing, adding that his outfit is working with designers, fashion and style products. “But visual art is a complement to our focus as it brings new elements into the entire package. It is also another platform opf offering art to unintended audience, especially the young art enthusiasts.

    In its 18 months of operation at House 21 Ahmodu Tijani Street, Victoria Island, Temple Muse has established a quiet reputation of presenting cutting edge Nigerian fashion brands such as Tiffany Amber, LDA, Iconic Invanity and Ituen Basi, alongside global brands such as Emilio Pucci, Givenchy, and Matthew Williamson. It has also taken part in internationally celebrated fashion fiestas, such as Arise Fashion Week, Elite Model Look and others.