Cover, Edition 187, May 31-June 6, 2009

Waffarian finds love in music, French

BY CHUKS NWANNE
Throughout our conversation on phone, she sounded mature and very relaxed; you could easily feel it from her tone. Though we’ve never met before, I could paint a picture of what Onos Bikawei looks like. I got her contact through a colleague of mine, who feels she has stuff to show.
We initially scheduled to meet in a popular hangout in Surulere, but circumstance brought us to the Rutam House; that was Onos’ first day at The Guardian.
“This is where you write all those stories about people,” she says with a smile that exposes her dimples.
You are afraid of the press?
“Not really,” she says as we step into the premises.
This is The Guardian; it’s not a place for gossips, I assured. At that point, we were sitting face to face.
Onos fell in love with French the first day she heard the language during her secondary school days. From then, she resolved to pursue a career in the language, with the hope of getting a good number of Nigerians interested in it.
“I’m a translator now; I studied French at the Delta State University. What I basically do is help corporate bodies translate their annual reports from French to English or from English to French.”
From her tone, Onos is very enthusiastic about French.
“I’m working on having a French outfit, where people can learn French language, I have that in mind because I love the language,” she sings.
She recalled her days in Lome, Togo, during her exchange programme in the country as a French student.
“It was wonderful because the people there are different; they are more relaxed, unlike the hustling life style of Lagos. It was really fun being around them and learning their local language.”
You speak their local language?
“Well, a bit, but it really contributed to my spoken French.”

You are also into music?
“Music has been a part of me; I started singing in our Church choir, when I was six,” she says.
It seems a lot of you females artistes started from the choir?
“Yes, in fact, I’m still singing in my Church (House on the Rock),” she reveals. “The thing is that it helps you build your content as a musician; it makes you have focus on where you are heading to because you already have a foundation and a particular musical background.”
Though her name sounds fresh in the industry, the truth is that Onus has been around for sometime, performing at private functions, before releasing her first single, Dance.
“I just decided to release the single because I think this is the right time for it. I’ve been studying the business side of the industry, which one needs to actually know before recording. So, I’ve been looking around, seeking for the right time, which I think is now.”
Produced by Flo, the song, according to Onos is targeted at uplifting the spirit.
“The song is meant to uplift someone who is down. No matter what you are going through, no matter whom you are, God is watching over you. Basically, the song talks about hope. It’s a dancehall track that would get you dancing.”
You don’t strike me like a dancer?
“That’s what you think; of course, I do. I dance Salsa, but I won’t start telling you how well, but I have a dance coach.”
So, you dance professionally?
“No, I just want to be happy. But must everything be professionally done,” she quizzes.
People don’t learn dancing for fun these days?
“Well, for me, it’s a way of relaxing after work, especially if you are doing something like translating French; you really need something to cool off with.”
Though her song sounds hip-hop track, Onos says, “I will best describe myself as a soul artiste; if you hear me sing, you will feel the soul first before you hear any other thing.”
With Dance gradually picking up in the music circle, the Warri born singer is now working on the full album, which she plans to launch in no distant time.
“The title is Keep on Believing; it’s an eight track work,” she informs.
What do you believe in?
“I believe in my dreams,” she says giggling.
You have dreams?
“Yes, I have the dream of being the best in anything I do. As for music, I want to be the best in terms of the kind of song I do. I want to affect lives basically and contribute to the development of my country.”

With her knowledge of French, one expects Onos to do a song with the language?
“I don’t have any French song in this coming album, but I plan to do so later. However, if I travel to any French country, I will translate my songs and sing them in French; if I do my songs in French here, a lot of you won’t buy it.”
Onos strongly disagrees with the opinion of some female artistes, who complain of the dominance of male artistes in the industry.
“The truth about it is that, if you are good in what you are doing, people will come looking for you. Asa is good; people always come looking for her. It’s for the ladies to know how to properly package themselves; they need to work on their voice and stagecraft; the total package has to be good. Even if your CD sounds great and you cannot put up a good performance on stage, then you have a problem; there must be connection between your CD and stage work.”
Any collaboration in the album?
“I featured Lara George in one of the tracks titled Tomorrow, produced by ID Cabassa. I also plan to work with Kell in another track, but I don’t intend doing much collaboration right now; it’s about me now,” chuckles.
Onos belongs to the growing list of Nigerians, who believe that music plays a major role in the re-branding project initiated by the Federal Government.
“It’s very possible,” she harps. “There are songs like that; songs that make you see the positive side of the country. I’m thinking towards that line too, but not in this coming album. Music is a viable tool for the dissemination of information, and I think it will work perfectly in the ongoing re-branding initiative.”
What will you like to change in Nigeria?
“There are so many of them, but basically, I want Nigeria to be a better place; it’s not a job for one person. No matter where you are, your contribution is very important. We all can’t be presidents, but we can all contribute in our own little way. If the traffic light says stop, you stop… little things like that and Nigeria will be great again.”

Homeboy, Kae-Kazim, smoothes 24

HAKEEM Kae–Kazim has been acting in film and television for a long time now. He was in the Oscar nominated, critically acclaimed Hotel Rwanda, the film that gave him international attention. Trained at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School in the UK, where he won the Best Student Award for acting, the Nigerian actor and producer first came into fame sharing the stage with Brian Cox in King Lear and Sir Ian McKellan in Richard III for the Royal National Theatre. Some of his theatre credits include Othello, Attempts on her Life, The Lights, Macbeth, and Indigo. Hakeem made a successful transition to British television with leading roles in Trial and Retribution, The Bill, Grange Hill and Ellington and distinguished himself in the title role of Julius Caesar for the BBC. He then settled in South Africa where his work in film and television made him a household name. He gained tremendous success in South Africa through his film God is African and series such as Coretech and Generations on South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC). His smooth and seductive voice has made him highly sought after for voiceovers. His influence has also extended into the Nigerian movie industry when he helped in production of Coming to South Africa; a Nollywood styled movie about Nigerian immigrants in South Africa. Since moving to Los Angeles with his wife and two children, Hakeem continues to have a prolific career in film and television appearing on The Triangle with Sam Neill and Eric Stolz; The Librarian with Noah Wyle, Lost, and Law & Order: SVU. Hakeem appeared in Pirates of the Caribbean III, playing a pirate lord alongside Johnny Depp, Keira Knightley and Geoffrey Rush. He also appeared in an episode of the new series, Cane on CBS. Hakeem’s efforts in film and television have been recognised all over the world and he has been nominated for some prestigious awards such as the Gemini Award for Best supporting actor for Human Cargo, SA Avanti Award for Best supporting actor, and SA Elle Magazine Fashionably First Award. In this interview with AMEYAW DEBRAH, the proudly Nigeria actor talks about his role in the film, 24, as well picking his thoughts on African actors and films in general.

What role do you play in 24? I play the role of Colonel Ike Dubaku the leader of a coup in the fictitious African country of Sangala.

How did you get that role?
The role was actually offered to me, but only after having been seen by them over a year for five other roles; none of which I got.

Why the shooting in SA?
The reason for the prequel being shot in South Africa was because the story line is an African one and they used South Africa and, in particular Cape Town to double as Sangala

What is your opinion on African films?
It depends on your definition! But my view is that, we still have to make them on an international level, or let me put it another way, with international production values — the English speaking nations anyhow — the francophone nations do very well in this regard. Nigerians make African movies from a totally African perspective but without the international production value that is needed. South Africa has begun making some fantastic African movies but they are few and far between, although I know this is changing.

What’s your opinion on Nollywood?
Nollywood has great potential; they tell original African stories from an African perspective with an African voice. That is why they have had such a reach around the continent and throughout the Diaspora. I believe in a few years we will see some truly great African cinema, with international production values, come out of the Nollywood machine.
What could be done to improve Nollywood?
More money going into the making of Nollywood films. This means cutting down on piracy so the filmmakers can get a proper return on their investment and thereby increase production values throughout. The audience is out there, and hungry for African stories and heroes to be portrayed

You produced a Nollywood-styled movie, why? What was it about?
I produced a Nollywood movie in the Nollywood style while in South Africa to see what it was like working in that way and also to see whether it was a way of giving a voice to local film makers who had stories to tell but without the access to the local film making machine — which I felt was more interested in making Eurocentric type of films or films in a more western type of way negating the African voice even when they had an African theme. The film, Coming to South Africa, is about two Nigerians, who leave home and head south to make a better life for themselves. They both find it difficult and one decides to make his way selling drugs while the other decides to go and work his way up, starting off as a factory guard to pay his way through college.

How was it received?
Again it was received well by those that saw it. On a trip to Kenya, I noticed that it was in the local stores and people had seen it but what was more pleasing, in one respect, was the response from local South Africans that caught it, and the gradual infiltration of Nollywood into the townships.

Do you think Nollywood movies can win international awards in the future?
I have not seen a Nollywood movie as yet win an international award but it will happen! Just as the Indian film Industry has now climbed to acceptable international status it is only a matter of time before Nollywood films reach that height.

Often when Hollywood does films about African figures, they don’t use African actors. Why is that?
Hollywood is using more African actors now than it has done, but a lot of the time when it wants to cast lead African roles it doesn’t, mainly because they are only interested in having a name because that means box office and unfortunately there aren’t that many African box office names out there yet, but we are coming!

If you had the opportunity to play the role of an African icon, whom would it be and why?
There are so many iconic figures from this continent I want to portray on film!! But one of my first would be Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, the father of pan-Africanism. His voice /story would be a telling reminder to how we have found ourselves on this continent since the end of colonialism.

Courtesy www.jamati.com

Sexy... not sleazy, please

PHOTOS: KEN EHIMEN
ADDING unexpected touches (a wrapped shirt, a grand exit) and glamorous essentials (red lips, shades). It’s about dressing in fabrics that feel great against your skin. And it’s about choosing more original ways to express your sensuality than by merely donning a micro-mini. Our get-sexy looks work for any age or budget: some are after-dark only (shoulder-duster earrings), while others can work for daytime (touchable fabrics, hats). Here’s how to add sizzle to your look without sacrificing your modesty.

Wear something ordinary in an unexpected way
It doesn’t have to be a huge statement like wearing a jacket backwards; subtle alterations pack the chicest punch. For example, take a basic man’s white shirt (slightly oversized), unbutton it, wrap it so that one side overlaps the over and tuck in.)

Do red lipstick
Pale lips may be trendy, but nothing does the job like red. Use lipliner for a perfect appearance, choose a creamy matte in a red that best suits your skin tone (blue-reds for darker skin tones; orangey hues for olive; true reds for blondes). Use a light hand for the rest of the face because the lips should take center stage.

Accessorise with shoulder-duster earrings
Skip every other piece of jewelry, pull your hair back and make sure your makeup stays soft. This look goes great with bare shoulders and updos, too. Definitely an after-dark look.

Make it metallic
Black may be supersexy, but gold, silver, copper and pewter are especially luminous when you’re going for vavoom. Look for simple shapes (the story here is the fabric and color, not the line of the outfit) and tones that flatter your skin color. Pass on major jewelry and makeup to let the dress really shine.

Adopt an exotic look
The cheongsam is a classic example of a dress with international allure. Harem pants, sarongs and embroidered items are all borrowed ethnic looks with tons of feminine charm. The mandarin-collar dress from China is flattering, chic and always intriguing.

Wear shades
Perhaps the single sexiest item you can own are a great pair of sunglasses. They add tons of mystery, look cute even on top of your head and actually serve the practical purpose of protecting your eyes.

Make a grand exit
Sexy is all about surprises, so a deceptively simple dress from the front can be a showstopper in the back. Open backs, lace-up backs, great dress trains all make for dramatic effects.

Stay soft with touchable fabrics
Forget everything you’ve ever heard about hardcore leathers or sparkly sequins being heat-inducing. Cashmere, silky satin, buttery soft suedes are the real scene-stealers. Touchable fabrics not only invite another’s touch, they have the added bonus of feeling great against your skin so you feel pampered and sexy.

Play peekaboo
No need to bare your breasts, even with lace. Nude linings, camisoles and slips all keep you covered while the lace itself stays really suggestive.

Courtesy of Cynthia Nellis, www.about.com

Eze shows What They Did Not Teach Me In Art School

BY TAJUDEEN SOWOLE
FROM June 4 through 28, Joseph Eze will be showing at Tribes Art Africa Gallery, Ikota Shopping Complex, VGC, Lekki, Lagos.
Eze, whose brush movement dwells on bold colour, will share his thoughts in the solo show titled, What They Did Not Teach Me In Art School.
The painter is not the character in Onuora Nzekwu and Michael Crowder’s book Eze Goes To School, but the survival factor brings a faint similarity.
Quite a curious theme, isn’t it?
“Oh yes!” Eze agrees.
“I realised that I was not taught certain lessons that should have moulded me, in my career, during my school days at University of Nigeria, Nsukka,” he explains.
The artist, who graduated in 2002, and has been a studio artist for seven years, says, “your skills or talent does not matter in the field.”
The works available for preview were serially labelled in what he calls, Lesson.
His thoughts on the barrier, younger artists face in trying to find their level informed Lesson 13: When You Close Your Eyes and Say Your Name and They Won’t Let You In.
And symbolic here is the action of a lady whose concealed face and palms covered in paper collage and acrylic, explains the artist’s position on the issue.
Some of the supposedly texts from the newspaper waste used as collage strengthened the message Get Smart, The Dream, Going Back to That Form and Brother Can You Spare A Painting?, among others.
Other works like Lesson 14: Keep It Thorough and Tight; Lesson 8: Listen to the Tune, but Keep Your Eyes Open; Lesson 3: Flaunt It Like A Yellow Turban; Lesson 5: When It Wouldn’t Sell in A Mall, Hawk it in the Street; Lesson 4: Keep your Eyes on the Destination not on the Road make bolder statement on what it takes for an upcoming artist to survive the heat of the canvas.

LOOKING at these works either contextually or content-wise, Eze’s work emits liberalism, an apparent tool in the battle for survival. And he readily accepts that, “so happily I could switch sides, whichever way the market swings. Oops! Does that sound so commercial? Well, that’s what they didn’t teach me in Art School; how I could shove ideals into my pocket and face up to the real life without losing authenticity.”
Art School, it’s been said does not offer you all the knowledge you need to survive post-school career, this assertion, Eze demands an answer.
He asks, “can we take a fresh look at the relevance of our Art School curricular with a view to making the artist more society-ready? Should the artist’s identity be particular or pragmatic? Romantic or practical?”
And the place of collection, which is the exit point of art, is crucial to the career of an artist. But most collectors, he argues, “are artistically blind” thereby making the terrain highly unpredictable.
Eze explains, “friendship, family ties and other factors play out in most collectors’ choice of artist rather than the quality of the artist and his work.”

FOR Tribal Art Africa Gallery, the choice of Eze as the exhibiting artist is informed by what Rodney Asikhia, CEO / Curator, describes as “bold use of colours — Red, Green and grey to create a sense of balance and stability.”
Eze made his debut appearance in a group show New Energies at Nimbus Art Centre and Mydrim Art Gallery, Ikoyi, Lagos, in 2001. Later that year, at the yearly National Youth Culture Festival Delegation in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, he came first for drawing, and second prize for painting.
His first solo, Inside of Me was held in 2002 at Castledown Art Gallery, Victoria Island, Lagos and another group show, With a Human Face at Lagos Business School, Lekki, in 2006.

Much ado about a Mansion

I’ve said it time without number that I’m not searching for a wife. This is more about celebrating African woman than D’banj. For your information, I signed an agreement with the production crew not to touch any of the contestants, so, it’s not what you think. This is a reality show and I’m sticking to the rules of the game

BY CHUKS NWANNE
AS he stepped into the Apa Hall, Eko Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, in company of his producer, Don Jazzy and Mo Hits Records team, Dapo Oyebanji (aka D’banj) took time to exchange greetings of guests.
Don Jazzy and his entourage comprising Wande Coal, Sid and others had taken their seats, the Fall In Love singer went on and on, shaking hands with almost everyone before finally taking his seat beside the don, Jazzy.
The event was the formal unveiling of Nigerian Breweries Plc, Vita Foam and Jagal Group as official sponsors for Koko Mansion, a TV reality show, with D’banj as the anchorman. The event saw the three corporate oganisations pledge their full support for the TV show that will see the winner smiling away with N5 million, a brand new car and a diamond ring by US-based Nigeria fashion designer.
A concept developed by D’Banj, the show is centred on the activities of 12 young women living in a house (Koko Mansion) for eight weeks, where they will put to play the virtues of womanhood to please D’Banj.
Slated to commence tomorrow, the show will run for eight weeks after which one of the 12 girls will emerge as the real Kokolette.
However, since the satellite TV company, HiTV, disclosed its readiness to partner with D’banj on the show, the decision has been generating mixed reaction from the public. Though the younger people, especially girls, embraced the initiative, which to them, is just a reality show, others, women activists in particular, see the show as degrading to womanhood.
Amid the controversies, the television company, through its business development manager, Morayo Aka-Bashorun, made effort to clear the air on the motives behind the reality show.
“The difference between Koko Mansion and other TV reality shows, is hinged on the fact that it strives to celebrate womanhood and the true qualities of an African woman. It entirely celebrates womanhood and all it takes to be a true African woman. It extols our values, cultures and traditional roles of women in our society. The girls would be engaged in varied activities throughout the period of the show. D’banj would not be living with them but would be required to come in often to see them,” she explained.
Aka-Bashorun corrected the impression that the show is all about D’banj, stating that it is about highlighting the virtues of a true African woman any man would want for a wife.
In her words, “the show is not about D’banj, but about the Kokolette. We are showing the virtues of a true woman that will appeal to an average man to marry.
Though, D’banj is single, young and rich, he symbolises what it means to be an eligible bachelor in Nigeria.

But what is D’banj up to with this project? Of all the artistes in Nigeria, why was he selected as the face of the show? Is he actually searching for a wife? What happens between him and the Kokolette after the competition?
These are some of the question raised by some concerned Nigerians. Previous efforts to engage Da Koko master in a chat on the issue proved abortive as he was said to be attending to business in London.
At last, the unveiling ceremony provided the opportunity to confront the artiste on the matter and for sure, he provided the answers.
The idea of Koko Mansion was actually conceived by D’Banj during a heated discussion with friends on how to discover the qualities of a marriageable African woman. From mere argument, issues developed into a concept, which was presented to HiTV for partnership. Luckily, the proposal scaled through.

TO Koko Master, who is an ideal woman? “When I think of an ideal woman, I think of my mother. But I’ve also seen women different from my mother, who have wonderful characteristics. This show is not only going to help me; it will help a lot of young successful bachelors to know what an ideal woman should be. By the end of the show, I will know the perfect way to choose a wife.”
According to him, Koko Mansion strives to correct the erroneous impression that a Kokolette is just the ‘party girl’ and project her as a truly responsible woman, capable of holding her own both at home and in public.
“It’s unfortunate that people are reading meanings to the word ‘Kokolette,’ but we intend to correct that impression; this is not about degrading any gender. We intend to empower young ladies to be the best of what they are. We appreciate the concern of the people, but all I could say now is, wait till the end of the show.”
Have you had it rough with women?
“Not really; it’s the good, the bad, and the ugly,” he says.
And you believe in love?
“Yes, I strongly believe in love; when I find the right person, I won’t waste time. She maybe fat or slim, but whoever she is, I’m ready.”
People say the show is about selecting a wife for you?
“I’ve said it time without number that I’m not searching for a wife. This is more about celebrating African woman than D’banj. For your information, I signed an agreement with the production crew not to touch any of the contestants, so, it’s not what you think. This is a reality show and I’m sticking to the rules of the game.”
On the opinion that the winner will automatically become the only female member of the Mo Hits Records, D’Banj says, “What if she’s not interested in music? We can’t force her to do music!”
What if she’s interested?
“Then she will be our own Beyonce,” he retorts.

ASIDE from the prizes, there are plans by the organisers to support the winner in any business of her choice.
“We are going to be pushing her a lot; Mo Hits Records and I will be pushing her as far as we could. For instance, if we discover that she’s good in hairdressing, we can help her invest in a state of the art salon. If she’s interested in modeling or interior decoration, we will do our best to support her; we can even pave way for her to decorate Aso Rock,” he says amidst laughts.
How prepared are you to host the show?
“I’ve hosted a lot of awards; Hip-hop World Award, Channel O and others. Everyone knows I’m an entertainer, so, you will be getting more of that. I think you should watch the show; you will be seeing more of Dapo than D’Banj.”
Apart from Koko Mansion, D’Banj is also involved in charity projects targeted at the less privileged children in the society through Koko Foundation.
“The Foundation is out to develop the less privileged because God has blessed me from nothing. We’ve been going round the country, visiting less privileged and motherless babies home. In the course of this programme, we will be bringing some of these kids into the Koko Mansion to see how the ladies would relate with them.”
He continues: “I’m an entertainer, so, I cannot use what I don’t have; I only use what God has given me. We will be empowering the less privileged alongside other projects. In due time, you will get to know about it. As you can see, we are launching Koko Mansion and you will be seeing other Koko brands such as Koko Mobile, Koko Water and others.”
To D’banj, being a star goes beyond the glitz and glamour that come with it. “It’s about responsibility; for to whom much is given, much is expected. You end up facing a lot because of what you believe in; you can’t do the normal things you used to do. Sometimes you go out and you feel like letting loose, but you can’t because people look up to you; I can’t even sing the kind of songs I want to sing.”
“By God’s grace, I’ve grown and that is because my people have accepted me. It has put a lot of responsibility on my shoulder, so, I’m always very conscious of that. Whenever I’m working on any new project, I sleep and wake up with it at the back of my mind. I feel very privileged and favoured by God and I’m ready to take it to the next level. With the way I feel, I think I’ve just started.
Talking about your songs, Suddenly, the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation recently banned the video.
“I heard the news while in the UK. I’ve tried to find out the reason for their action, but from what I’ve gathered, I’m not sure they got the clear picture of the song. But my management is working on that.”

Around and about Nollywood...

BY SHAIBU HUSSEINI

NFC extends closing date for annual essay competition
THE closing date for the 2009/2010 edition of the Nigerian Film Corporation essay competition has been extended. Earlier scheduled to close on May 27, the new date is June 27. In a statement, the corporation said the reason for the extension is to enable more people to send in their entry. Topic for the essay is Building a Positive Global Brand: The Place of Film. Interested Nigerians, who must be 18 years and above, can now submit their entries, which must be between 8 to10 pages in the Times Roman format. All entries according to the statement should be forwarded to the Headquarters of the Nigerian Film Corporation, 218T, Liberty Dam Road, Jos, Plateau State or email to: md_nfc@hotmail.com. The first, second and third winners of the competition will receive their cash prizes of N100, 000, N75, 000 and N50, 000 respectively, along with certificates at the 2010 edition of ZUMA Film Festival, holding in Abuja.

AGN votes for HiTV Koko Mansion
THE Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) has endorsed the Koko Mansion reality show programme packaged by HiTV, Nigeria. The guild, through its president, Ejike Asiegbu, has described Koko Mansion’s objectives as being genuine and realistic, saying, “many young, eligible Nigerian men are finding the task of getting a good wife difficult, but with the programme, it will be a thing of the past as it would expose what most people are exactly looking for in most women. Though, it is not a 100 per cent chance, it is the beginning of a solution to a problem and I must commend the company and all those involved for this initiative.” The AGN president also assured of the body’s support stating that the AGN will support any initiative that will impact on the society. Some of the virtues the viewers who would be the ultimate judge in the show would be looking out for are: the ability of the Kokolette to cook sumptious meals for D’banj and his friends, especially during impromptu visits, and her ability to furnish and maintain the mansion. The Kokolette must also be industrious while being able to take care of the home front; her ability to be respectful and courteous at all times would be put to test. The potential wife must be able to emulate notable women in society even as she shows the ability to impress D’banj, under all circumstances in order to win the public’s votes to be in the house among others. A video audition would help the panel determine the 12 finalists. There will be no evictions in the first week because the ladies would have to socialise and familiarise themselves with living in a mansion. However, eviction starts in the second week, where two ladies with the least number of votes from the viewers will be ushered out. There will be weekly evictions from then on until the final three ladies emerge. Eviction is primarily done by the public and could be based on D’banj’s comments. However, each week, among the three ladies up for eviction, it would be D’Banj’s prerogative to give Koko Mycine (immunity) to one of the girls. He can only use Koko Mycine once in the duration of the show. The statement revealed that the winner would among other benefits, be crowned Kokolette 1, get a Chris Aires Diamond ring, a brand new convertible car, feature in his next music video You Don Make Me Fall In Love alongside N5 million in cash. Aside that, the winner will be D’Banj’s companion at public events both within and outside Nigeria. She would further emerge as HiTV’s Hi-Babe. Asides from exploring her talent professionally, she’ll be obligated to get involved in women empowering projects that would reinforce the unique role of an African woman in the development of our society.

Distribution framework is on the upswing
FILMMAKER and marketing consultant, Yinka Ogundaisi, has disclosed last week that things will definitely start looking up for the new distribution framework of the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB). Sounding very optimistic Ogundaisi, informed that in a few weeks time that Nollywood ‘would feel the impact of the new distribution framework’. Ogundaisi, who may be waiting to release his feature film, Omoge, under the framework expressed optimism that the partnership between the NFVCB and the Lagos State government will clear the streets of hawkers and restrict movie retailing to only licensed retailers and for specific territories. He said: “Producers will therefore know the authorized retailers of their works and the authorised area of retailing.” By implication, he continued, “producers would also know areas not selling their movies and decide on what to do.” He also hinted that all movies would henceforth be released with official tags to easily identify pirated copies. “Distributors are not allowed to sell more copies than the number of tags bought,” he said, adding, “producers can now check with the board on the quantities of tags bought by distributors of their works.” According to him, all these will undoubtedly improve the financial profiles of productions and make quality works worthwhile. Another heartwarming information the actor gave was that which provides banking support for the funding of the distribution of approved movies to all registered and licensed national and regional distributors. “We will now know authorised retailers through their official signpost-licensed by the Censors Board or outlet of licensed National or Regional Distributor.” Although Ogundaisi hinted earlier that a bank was expected to endorse the initiative, the filmmaker sent words back to say that that aspect should be ignored, as discussions are still ongoing on the involvement of the bank ‘with known presence in the industry’.

WAKA PASS
Producer- Amebo A. Amebo
Director- Mr. Gossip
Actors- Nollywood Celebrities

Remi Abiola is in the US
CALLS to her phones won’t get through and so we asked how we could get in touch with Remi Abiola, the actress and one of the wives of the late politician, businessman and pillar of sports in Africa, Bashorun M.K.O Abiola, and no one was ready to volunteer any information. It took a discussion with a ‘been to’ on the problem of administering a will left behind by Abiola for this waka pass, who just returned from the United States to link our innocent discussion with the actress who was popular for playing a nursing sister on the long rested television soap Memorial Hospital. Anyway, the waka pass said, he was told by someone who is still close to someone, who is close to the actress and mother that she decided on starting life almost afresh when it became obvious that it was going to take a long while to get what is due her from her marriage to the presumed winner of the June 12 election. Those who said they have encountered her say she is doing one or two jobs in the US, which is related to the role she played in Memorial Hospital, to make ends meet. We actually no mind how related the work be, so far na work. Abi?

Lepa Sandy was trendy
ONE thing that stands popular actress, Shade Omoniyi Kazeem ( aka Lepa Sandy), out in a crowd is her good sense of dressing. So, when she stepped into the Cinema Hall 2 of the National Theatre last Monday for the 52nd birthday anniversary presentation of Professor Ahmed Yerima’s new book Discourse on Tragedy all eyes looked towards her. Her brown designers gown sat on her lepaciously figure with her shoe and beads worn to match making a lot of people to conclude that Oga Kazeem — Lepa’s hubby — is doing a good job on her. And some ladies in the Yoruba movie industry have sworn to make their husbands to emulate Mr. Kazeem. Their names? No bi for my mouth you go hear sey goat get teeth…but we go mention am if people dare me. I swear.

Foluke Daramola owns up
THOSE who counseled the cute actress, Foluke Daramola (Yes, Shobowale until she tells us otherwise) before she married the son of a one-time Commissioner for Education in Lagos State did a good job on her. We are sure she was warned that until the pain compares to the type that women go through in the labour ward she should not discuss her marriage on the pages of the newspaper. Well, even when the pain compared to it, she still kept mum and endured until the pain compared to a woman expecting quadruplets. The long and short is that Foluke confirmed to a national daily last weekend that she was no longer living under the same roof with her husband whose fathers influence dragged former Governor Ahmed Bola Tinubu to their lavish wedding. Those who know book say what this means in proper saying is that Folake has announced her separation from her husband. But her fans have cautioned that people should not jump at singing the popular gospel song ‘it shall be permanent’. They hold as some waka pass do that what ‘two children has joined together, no pain can put asunder’. We concur! True.

Help, Oge Okoye was too moody
WE were not sure what the matter was, but the Oge Okoye we ran into on Saturday at the departure lounge of the Muritala Mohammed International Airport was not the same all time cheerful Oge we used to know. With her hands wrapped around her chest level, he starred pensively at a lady who looked like a maid and a fellow that looks like her hubby, who was busy playing with Oge’s child. True, her face that evening was like the face of one in a moody condition because she was going to miss something. Anyway it was from how sister Oge dressense changed in our estimation that made us to agree that there is something marriage does to people. Sister Oge who has been missing in action for some time now, wore a long flowing gown on a white trouser with shoes to match. The Oge we knew before she downloaded would be in one skimpy dress and will be chewing gum from post to post. True, e get as marriage dey do people….

Lillian Bach flies Business class
THE number of Nollywood celebrities that fly business or first class whether in or out of Nigeria has increased by one as Lillian Bach enters the league. Dis is not a matter of dem say. Waka pass saw the mulatto actress koro koro on the business side of an international flight that connects you to anywhere in the world from Paris. We didn’t know whether it was because she placed our face and so wanted to avoid the ‘eyerazzi’ (since we didn’t carry our camera on board to do the paparazi), the gangling actress who reportedly dated popular actor Pat Attah kept a straight face as though someone was going to ask her to lap him on her seat. Anyway we don’t know whether it was because she was on her way abroad where whatever you wear is counted as fashion, one other waka pass didn’t think Lilian observed convention — which is ‘to match’ when she wore black shoes on blue jeans, on a brown jacket and blue top. On top of that she was carrying a pink and yellow hand luggage. We consulted another waka pass and she agree say dis don remove from the realm of fashion to the realm of colour jam colour. In other words na colour mega jam madam take sit down for business class.
To God be the Glory.

Acting has been very rewarding

BY SHAIBU HUSSEINI
HE may not be the face on every movie poster or jacket, and that has not removed the Umuahia, Abia State-born actor and model from being recognised in Nollywood. Although Leo Mezie joined the movie industry in 1996, it was not until 2003 that the sun set for the actor, who has become a constant face in most home video movies courtesy of his acting prowess. Moviedom recently caught up with the actor/ model, whose effort in Labista, a movie that reportedly gripped moviegoers, shot him to limelight.
How did it start?
I started from the church. I was a member of my church’s drama group, and we had a brother in the group who featured in Rattle Snake; a movie by Amaka Igwe. There was a time he heard me speak my dialect and he was stunned to find out that I am an Igbo guy and not a half-cast as many people thought. That was the point we got talking and he advised me to take acting seriously. It was on the strength of that, that I hit the streets in search of acting jobs.
Your experiences
It was discouraging at first as there were no jobs, no money and family members were not ready to support because no money was coming from it. You attend auditions and no one will even look your way. I remember trekking the whole of Surulere, going from one audition to the other with nothing coming in; I almost wanted to try something else…
First take in the movie
Though the first movie I did, in which I played a lead, never saw the light of the day. Honestly I cannot describe how I felt when I heard my name on radio that I was starring in a movie. In fact, when I heard my name, I forgot that I have not even been paid because the agreement was that we would be paid three months after the release of the movie. But just seeing my image on posters and hearing my name on the jingle on radio and seeing the advert on television was just okay for me. After that it took long before I got my next job — Labista — which brought me to limelight.
His movie pouch
I cannot readily say how many movies I have done, but I can easily some such as the Royal Messenger, Total War/ Final War, The Mechanic, Never End, Labista, Hitler, Feel my Pain, Gerald, Church and Tradition and Royal Insult. I may not be accurate if you want a figure, but they are over 50.
Most memorable work
I will pick Labista and Total War as my most memorable. There is also Royal Insult, in which I played the role of someone very arrogant; which is not real person.
Growing up
I grew up in Lagos and it was fun. I was not born with a silver spoon, but my parents ensured that we had the good things of life. I describe them as very hard working and down to earth parents. They brought us up to believe in ourselves. I am still single and I believe God that in few months I will be talking about getting married.
Gains of the profession
Since 2003 that I did Labista, acting has been paying my bills. So, it has been very rewarding. I tell you I don’t have the plan to leave it, even in the next 60 years.
Role Model
None. True! But I have been one big fan of Bruce Willis. I like his style and in short everything about him. I also like the works of Will Smith. Everything about him trips me. I respect these guys. And as for me, I carry out a daily assessment and decide on what shape my attitude and what my behaviour would be the next day, that’s how I have been managing myself.
Likes and dislikes
I hate lies, I can’t stand liars. They can kill. I like having fun and meeting nice people. In terms of food, I swallow a lot. My lunch cannot be better without pounded yam or fufu and I enjoy rhythm and blues. I use it to reflect on life and how I can move forward.
Career ambition
I hope to own my own entertainment company and to be the biggest in showbizness. I have thoroughly enjoyed myself as an actor.

shaibu70@yahoo.com

Akata... Fishing treasures of Benue

BY SIMEON NWAKAUDU
FOR two days, May 21 and 22, people from all walks of life across the middlebelt were in Katsina Ala, Benue State to witness or participate in the Akata Fishing and Cultural Festival.
It was a celebration of the rich culture of the Tiv people and the growing fishing festival at the Lake Akata, a stone throw from Katsina Ala, the main town.
The magnitude of the last festival was such that it shocked the natives of the area. They are therefore looking forward to the next festival, which the state government promised would be more grandiose than that of this year.
If what took place this year was anything to go by, then the people have every reason to expect greater things.
On Thursday night, the cultural event took place at the Akume Atongo Stadium in Katsina Ala. It attracted participants from all the 14 local Tiv speaking councils of the state. All the known traditional dances of the people in the area were showcased.
The Kwagh Hir Puppet theatre, which has gained international acclaim, also took the centre as the contestants thrilled crowds that gathered for the event.
In the crowd were top government officials and business moguls from all the states of the North Central Zone.
There was also a traditional Tiv beauty pageant that was aimed at promoting the Tiv woman and her virtue.
It was one of the events of the cultural nights that held the people spell bound. Youths at the stadium whistled all night, as the contestants took different Tiv dance steps aimed at convincing the judges that they should be selected as the Miss Akata 2009.
On the day of the fishing festival, everything appeared classy and completely different from the same event in 2008. The organisers had stepped up the stakes and the quality of organisation and competition truly professional.
First, the Benue State Government, in an attempt to create opportunity for more visitors, tarred the road to the Lake Akata, venue of the festival, which last year was dusty.
From the main town to the venue, were beautiful directional banners that welcome visitors to the town, while showing them the way to the fishing ground.
At the venue, bulldozers had cleared the waterfront, making it very neat for participants and spectators to enjoy the activities of the day. The venues of all the events were carved out by organisers in such a manner that people could watch any of the events from wherever they sat on the platforms provided by the organisers
The competitive events on the main day of the festival included fishing, traditional dancing, swimming, power bike riding, traditional wrestling, boat racing and arrow shooting. There was also the agricultural show, which was added by the organisers to allow natives display their agricultural produce for visitors.
The two-day festival ended, with a pledge by the Benue State government that it would be turned into an international fiesta in 2010.
The fishing competition, which was the main event, saw Agbo Jonathan winning with a catch that weighed 45kilogrammes, taking home a brand new set of upholstery donated by Cherrywood, while Peter Aondover was the second with a catch that weighed 35kilogramme.
Miss Mwuese Ugbum, a 300level student of Benue State University, won the Miss Akata Beauty Pageant while Tarhule Awuhe won the wrestling competition,. The Boat regatta was won Kenneth Ihomu and Adika Emo won the swimming competition.

SPEAKING after the competitions, Governor Gabriel Suswam said that the government would ensure that the next festival attracted international acclaim through greater investment that would add glamour.
He said that the government would create the enabling environment that would encourage more private sector participation in the next edition and bring more benefits to the people of the state.
The governor also said that the festival lived up to the expectation of the government and people of the state, as it created wealth for the residents of Katsina Ala Local Council.
“I encourage more communities in the state with lakes to start fishing festivals of this nature, because beyond creating wealth, they united our people. People attend these festivals, even if they were enemies, they reconcile and the community enjoys more peace,” he said.
Suswam said that the process of making the Akata Fishing Festival, an international event has already taken a firm root, as the event now has a powerful website that sells it on the internet. He said by next year, international participants would be involved in the programme.
In his address, Benue State Commissioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Benjamin Ashaver said that the festival was meant to showcase the tourism potentials of Benue State , in order to promote tourism in the state.
He urged the state government to supply modern fishing nets and other inputs, so that the fishermen in the area would not be tempted into using environmental unfriendly means in fishing.
Ashaver expressed happiness with the manner this year’s event was organised, saying that the government after studying the situation had to commission a private firm to put professional touches in the entire programme.
“As you can see, this year’s event has grown further than was the case last year. The private professional has been able to add a beautiful touch to the programme and we are on the way to making it a truly international event. Our commitment to this project is total, because we know the benefits that would be derived from it,” he said.
The commissioner expressed happiness with the level of private sector participation in this year’s event, especially the sponsorship of prices, which attracted several participants.
One aspect of the festival that thrilled spectators was the quality of catch this year. It was a great departure from the dismal catch last year. Though the fish haul cannot be compared to that of Argungu, it was still worth the while of spectators. Last year, competing fishermen caught bloated fingerlings. But this year it was a cheerful departure.
All over the lake, local fishermen struggled in their boats to outdo each other. There were the young girls and boys who entered for the competition, not to catch fish for competition, but to catch fish to make soup in their homes rich. They had no boats, only small nets, which they used, near the banks of the lake.
The Guardian gathered that the catch for this year improved because the state government closed the lake to public fishing for months to allow the fishes in the river to grow.

AFTER the legal competition, a surprising thing happened. A fisherman Henry Ogudu and his companions caught a fish that would have easily won the competition.
The catfish that won the competition weighed 45kilogrammes, while the Tilapia that Ogudu caught after the close of competition weighed 60kilogrammes.
Upon making the catch, Ogudu rushed with the fish to the local council Guest House where Governor Suswam was taking refreshment. He got N50,000 for his endeavour.
Traders in the area took advantage of the influx of persons from the entire region to exploit people. The prices of consumables all through the period almost doubled.
For instance, small bottled water that normally sold for N60 was sold at N70. So was sachet water, which sold at N20.
However, the event was worth the investment and a clear indication that it could improved upon beyond its present status as long as there is the political commitment to draw more investors.
Christopher Agbua, a community leader in Akata told The Guardian that his people were grateful to the government of Benue State for the interest shown and the commitment to improving the living condition of the people of the small village.
He said: “We are now on the map of the country because of this fishing festival. If the government takes it a step further, we will be on the map of the world. Our community is strategically located and can easily be accessed from all parts of the country.”