Cover, Edition 193, July 12 - 18 2009

GOOD LIFE: One bright Tuesday morning

BY TOSYN BUCKNOR
IT was a mistake. Depending on whom you spoke with, it was a small one, or a huge one. Whether because I had not written it down before saying it, or maybe because I had been a bit unsure of the thread before starting it anyways. People ask me what it feels like to be on radio. I always pause and say to them honestly — It is scary! Yes, it is a lot of things — fun, a great opportunity to inspire an entertain, a dream come true, lively, interesting, and so on. But what being able to go live on air does to you, is fill you with fear! Unlike with print or television, you do not have the benefit of a spell checker, of time, of photoshop, of paragraphs… But believe me, this is not a complaint, seeing as radio brings with it a lot of inexplicable joy as well. But one bright Tuesday morning, I went live on air, and basically implied that Obama had visited Ghana. To this day, I still cannot remember the way I phrased my words, or what I said, and if a caller hadn’t corrected me 10 minutes later, I probably never would have known I had said something wrong! And once that happened, it all almost went downhill from there!!! That one slip almost ruined the rest of the show for me-that which had passed, and that which was to come, such that no matter what had happened before or after, all I could see was what was happening at that point. THERE are people that will tell you there are no mistakes; just opportunities for learning through experiences. So, let us take this as an experience to learn. What was learnt though? Mistakes will be made… apologise and move on. Always apologise, but note that you can make it worse by over apologising as it were. Find the balance and move on. But remember that apologies do not leave with a guarantee of acceptance. Your own duty is to apologise. Heal through the pain, laughs and experiences of others, especially colleagues, fellow students, and your mentors and heroes. Finding out little things like how Larry King and Ellen and Gbemi Olateru-Olagbegi had goofed in the past helped. These were people who had been at it for years, and if they could make silly or big mistakes and still be standing, well, maybe I could. RECOVERING from a mistake is vital. It would be better if we never made mistakes. But we do. But when we do, the question always, always is… do you get up and continue running, or do you give up and maybe even start a decline? The answer is always up to us. But if you are ever in that situation, choose to move on! But what was the biggest lesson I learnt that Tuesday as I drowned my tears in a bottle of caffeinated soda? We are human. We make mistakes…. tosinornottosin@yahoo.com




Taming the kidnapper
(JUST LIFE)
BY OMOLIGHO UDENTA

MY friend’s sister had received anonymous emails demanding a ransom for the life of her teenage child.
She reported the matter to the police — at home and abroad — as the child didn’t school here.
They investigated and traced the emails to a former employee who was then apprehended.
He seemed to be working alone and apologised profusely perhaps ‘for allowing the devil to use him’.

ONE hopes this new form of ‘psychological and technological kidnap’ wouldn’t become a trend.
We all are dear to our loved ones and, therefore, have a ‘price’ whatever it may be, which they would be willing to pay if they thought we were in any danger.
Anyone desperate for money could try this form of kidnap or worse. Those who want to get rid of people, for instance, could send threatening letters, emails or whatever asking for an impossible amount, then finish off the person and put the blame on ‘kidnappers’.
Someone sent this email to me recently and I thought I should share it with you because you never know.
Please share this with members of your household.

I FELT I should share this experience with you so that you will be careful how you deal with people who are unfamiliar with you.
About a month ago, a family friend in Abuja received anonymous telephone calls and text messages demanding a ransom of N200,000, failure which he and/or members of his family would either be kidnapped or shot. No reason was given for the threat.
The gang was very thorough in their details of my friend’s family and his movement. They gave him the first and middle names of each of his children and his wife, which were known only to very close relatives.
On one occasion, the gang gave a description of the clothes he wore on a particular day and the times he went out and came in.
The recipient was advised to play along with the group while efforts were made to contact our State Security Service (SSS) and the Police.
Two weeks ago, the gang issued a 48-hour ultimatum for the money to be paid. The SSS contacted the management of the commercial bank nominated by the gang for the deposit of the ransom.
My friend was then advised to deposit the sum of N200, 000 in the Abuja account. Three hours after the deposit was made, attempt was made to withdraw the money in a branch of the bank in Lagos.
The bank immediately alerted the police who arrested the man and kept him incommunicado.
As other members of the gang could not reach their member who was then in Police custody, they rang my friend to enquire if he reported the banking details to security agencies. When my friend enquired why they asked, he was told that they had neither seen nor heard from the man they sent to collect the ransom from the bank.
The gang appeared to have bought the lie sold to them by my friend when he told them that the man might have absconded with the money.
Two hours later, they sent an account in another commercial bank for the remittance of the balance ransom.
The security agencies again placed alert on the account after which my friend paid in N200, 000.
Soon after the deposit was made, two men walked into a branch of the commercial bank, again in Lagos, to withdraw the money.
They were both arrested and handed over to the police. All three men are now being interrogated by the FCT Command of the Nigeria Police.

IN the course of the investigation, it was found that all three men had been contracted by my friend to drill a borehole in his house about two months ago.
While they were constructing the borehole, my friend’s wife had occasions to take them in her car to some places in Abuja to purchase materials for the works.
On one occasion, she had left a file containing her school records and other personal documents on the back seat of the car.
A member of the gang scanned through the file and extracted some vital personal information.
Also, during the course of the two weeks when they drilled the borehole, they had interviewed my friend’s two little children, aged four and three, to know their full names.

THERE is so much we can learn from this incident. Personal and sensitive information should not be left in a place where unauthorised persons could have access to them.
In our homes we should use only workmen who have been referenced and/or are familiar. And third, we should teach our household members to not speak to strangers.
omoudenta@yahoo.co.uk

Michael Jackson (1958-2009) The first time ever I saw his face

By Ayo Ositelu
“He that is diligent in his work, shall stand before Kings, Queens, Princes, Princesses, and not mere men,” says the Holy Book. Michael Jackson was obviously diligent in his work all his young life, and fittingly, when he died, he was buried like a ‘King’ that he was, and still is. In the words of Berry Gordy, his early mentor, he was not just king of pop, he was “the greatest entertainer that ever lived.” When news broke that Michael had passed on, one song, incidentally not Michael’s, came to mind. The song titled The first time ever I saw your face was the work of ballad singer Roberta Flack. I immediately remembered the day I met Michael, back in 1971, when he was only 13. Much has been said, written, and broadcast about the undisputed king of pop, during his action-packed life, and after the sudden demise of a true “wonder boy”, a “boy-man” who hailed from the little town of Gary, Indiana, a town which shares a border with the State of Illinois, the “land of Lincoln,” a town which is only about 30 miles away from Chicago a.k.a the “Windy City,” which I had made my home in the 1970s. Having earlier lived in Miami, Florida, precisely in Opa Locka in the Miami Dade county, and visited cities like Boston, Phoenix, New York, the “Big Apple”, Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, San Jose, Malibu, and Indian Wells, my first comment on a weekend visit to a friend in Gary was something like: can anything good come out of this quiet and sleepy town? Hearing me think aloud, my host on whose invitation I was there answered. “This is the city, mind you, which gave the Jackson Five to the world,” my friend enlightened me. Then he asked: “Do you know that Jackson Five’s latest track single ABC has been on top of the Billboard chart in the last six weeks?” “Big deal”, I replied. “The Beatles used to churn out chart-bursting albums and singles, almost one after another, until they (Paul McCartney, John Lennon, George Harisson and drummer Ringo Starr) went their separate ways very recently… Even the highly successful Supremes (an all-female cast) led by Diana Ross, sang Someday we’ll be together while breaking up, and as in the case of the Beatles, never came back as one, to the disappointment of their fans around the world. So what is so special about this new group?” My friend fell just short of predicting that Gary’s Jackson Five was going to be the world’s biggest-ever. In trying to convince me, he simply concluded, “This group is something special. Sooner than later, the entire world would start singing their songs.” Unfortunately, my American friend, whom I met on the Tennis courts of Rainbow Beach in southside Chicago, died soon after, in an automobile accident. I actually loved Jackson Five’s hit song ABC, but I was not too sure about my friend’s exaggerated optimism, especially in a music world that boasted of experienced groups like the Temptations, Four Tops, Gladys Knight and the Pips, the Undisputed Truth, the O Jays, ‘Blood, Sweat and Tears,’ Stylistics etc. I was convinced that, even though the Jackson Five were fabulous and had exceptional natural talent, and that their lead singer (not even of teenage yet) was really “something special,” I felt there was no room in such fiercely competitive industry for such children act to survive. I was sure they would be so choked that they would have no other choice than return to their school work and do what others their age would naturally pursue –– their studies, potentially leading to College (University) scholarships in Basketball, Baseball, NFL (Gridiron) Football, or Track. At that time, Tennis, Golf, and Ice Hockey were exclusive rights of whites. While still mourning my tennis friend’s loss, other Jackson Five hits followed –– tracks like Got to be there, the love you save may be your own, I’ll be there etc which were competing favourably with Al Green’s Love and Happiness, Elton John’s My song; what’s going on by Marvin Gaye, Bridge over troubled waters by Simon and Garfonkle, Stylistics’ You made me feel brand new, We’ve only just begun by the Carpenters, Billy Withers Ain’t no sunshine, Fifth Dimension’s Acquarius, James Brown’s Sex machine, Staple Singers’ I’ll take you there, and Psychedelic, Shark by the Temptations. But it was not until the Jackson Five came out with ânother latest hit in the spring of 1971 titled Never can say goodbye, that I really began to miss my friend, Wes Michaelson, who had been trying to sell me the idea that at last, the Jackson Five was it. How I wished I had the opportunity to tell him that he had a convert in me. Michaelson was a whiteman and my doubles partner in the University of Illinois (Chicago Circle Campus) first team in Tennis. IT was during the summer of 1971, that I finally met 13-year-old Michael, the child lead-singer of a group, which had taken, not only the length and breadth of the United States, but the rest of the world, by storm. It was at the PUSH EXPO, organised by Civil Rights leader, Rev. Jesse L. Jackson at the Chicago Auditorium, in the southside of the “Windy City”, long before Basketball legend Michael Jordan a.k.a “Air” Jordan, came to Chicago, saw and conquered the world of Basketball with the Chicago Bulls, coached by Phil Jackson, the same man presently taking the Los Angeles Lakers to record breaking heights today. Operation PUSH, the creation of Revd Jackson, a former aid and understudy of the assassinated civil rights leader, Rev. Martin Luther King Jr, are initials of the charity cause with a mission stated challenge –– PEOPLE United To Save Humanity The inaugural PUSH Expo, a week-long exhibition sought to highlight the outstanding achievements of African-Americans in all walks of life, ranging from politics, education, business entrepreneurship, music, acting, sports, publishing etc. On this summer day, the last day of the EXPO, it was the turn of artistes –– musicians and entertainers, who had made the blackman proud with their talent. All the who’s who, all those who have dominated music and entertainment were there, to offer their services through concerts rendered free of charge towards the Black Awareness cause championed by Rev. Jesse Jackson and his team. Having identified with the cause and often attended the Operation PUSH programmes as a member on Saturday mornings, I received a free ticket as a volunteer to the EXPO, including the Concert Day. It was there, at the Chicago Auditorium, venue of the event, that I first met music legends like Quincy Jones, Al Green, the Temptations, Smokey Robinson, Gladys Knight and the Pips, Bill Withers, Isaac Hayes a.k.a the “Black Moses”, the Fifth Dimension, Nancy Wilson, Minnie Ripperton, Staple Singers, Sly and the family stone, James Brown, Ray Charles, Stevie Wonder, the O Jays, comic Bill Cosby, Roberta Flack, Donny Hathaway, Aretha Franklin, Millie Jackson (no relation of the Jackson Five), and actor Richard Roundtree. Fittingly, the best was saved for the last, with not a soul eager to leave the packed auditorium. Suddenly, Bill Cosby ushered in the “raves of the moment”, when he announced, “Na – a-a-a-o! Please welcome the Jackson Five!!! When they opened with their latest hit tune–– The love you save may be your own –– there was bedlam in the place, as the appreciative fans, old and young, men and women, sang along. Some became joyfully hysterical, and some tried fruitlessly (too much security) to touch Michael, in particular. As an unpaid volunteer, I had the privilege of meeting and shaking hands with Jackie, Jermaine, Tito, Marlone, and then Michael, with his boyish innocence. All of them were supremely handsome, but shy and soft spoken. But when Rev. Jesse Jackson told them I hailed from Africa, Michael’s eyes lit up immediately, and asked, “You came all the way from Africa? Do they play our songs over there?” When I answered that ABC was number one in the music charts in Nigeria, Michael shouted, “That’s great! Welcome to the United States.” It was the first and only time I ever saw Michael, nor indeed other members of the group, except on TV. But from that moment, they practically became a part of me all the way, till Michael felt called upon to answer a higher calling, in music, that is. Their songs were my songs. I sang them in the bathroom, on the street, in the subway, while eating McDonald hamburgers, in-between lectures, and everywhere else. I was already back in Nigeria when Michael, as a solo artist, combined with another of my favourite legends –– music all rounder, Quincy Jones, (especially when he did big band jazz) to produce the Off the wall album in 1979. Michael’s rise to the very top of the music world did not surprise me one bit. His dancing –– from an emulation of James Brown, the Godfather of soul –– to his own innovations which blew everybody’s mind all over the world, it was sheer magic. MICHAEL did not stop there. He did not know how to stop. All he knew was making people all over the world happy with his talent, and also to constantly re-invent himself to suit his latest musical product. He sought to, and succeeded in uniting the world, breaking all barriers to make, in the words of one of his songs, “the world a better place.” As in one of his solo songs, he could “not stop until you’ve got enough.” And the world certainly could not get enough of Michael Jackson.” After that massively successful and trend-changing album came Thriller, which broke all previous world records in sales. He practically introduced the video as a marketing strategy, unmatched till this day. Michael became the biggest money making “machine” in the history of showbiz. He was an entertainer-businessman-philanthropist all rolled into one. No one invested more in charities all over the world. Never tired of success on all fronts, next came the album Bad, and when he did the moonwalk in dance to the tune Billie Jean, the world stood dazed in astonishment and admiration. Michael had lifted the music world yet again to another level. Then he sang We are the world which became the world’s anthem. In January 1993, when he sang Heal the world and Black or White during the half-time of Super Bowl XXVII, it was the closest thing to being in heavenly bliss for the screaming and adoring fans.
And heavingly bliss is what Michael is enjoying right now, in the bossom of his Creator. As a Muslim friend said to me when Michael’s death was broken to us in Badagry on that fateful June 25 day, “Unknown to us, this man (Michael) is an anobi (Yoruba for God’s messenger). He has creditably answered God’s errand while he was with us. Anywhere he is now, he is at peace, and smiling at those of us (the human race, black or white, rich or poor) he left behind.
Michael sacrificed so much for humanity that it was not until his daughter, Paris Jackson paid her dad a tearful tribute on Tuesday that we realised that he is a father to some beautiful children. Many, especially skeptics or the murderous “PHD” (Pull Him Down) holders who abound in all walks of life all over the world, even in local politics, hardly realised that Michael indeed was a dutiful and affectionate father, who as a human being, could be hurt and could bleed in the heart like the rest of us.
It took 11 year-old Paris Jackson to educate us all when she paid a tearful tribute to her father, who was lying cold and helpless in a golden casket appropriately draped with roses, a memorial beamed live to around the globe. “Ever since I was born, daddy has been the best father you could ever imagine” she sobbed “And I just want to say that I love him, so much,” Paris managed to add as she broke down in tears and collapsed in the waiting hands of her aunt, Janet.
Perhaps we all can now heed Michael’s plea –– “Leave me alone.” As Queen Latifah said, “we had him.” And as Rev Al Sharpton told Michael’s children, “there weren’t nothing strange about your daddy… It was strange what your daddy had to deal with, but he dealt with it.”

MY own family and I, will never forget you, Michael. Yours was like a soundtrack of our own lives. We sang with you, danced with you, and cried with you, in troubled times. We also will never forget the words of Rev. Sharpton, who also said, “Michael rose to the top. He outsang, outdanced and outperformed the pessimists. Every time he got knocked down, he got back up. Every time you counted him out, he came back in. Michael never stopped! Michael never stopped!! Michael never stopped!!!
The world will never stop loving you. If anyone asked for my favourite Michael song and video, it is the “Earth song.”
Only a genius could have come up with such concept. Unto the earth we were born, on to earth shall we return.
Michael’s dad, Joseph said his son would even be bigger in death than in life. How profound. How accurate.
Michael, you will live for ever, in the minds of your fans world-wide, whom you loved so much.









...The Angel Who Left
By Chris Paul Otaigbe
Watching the Michael Jackson Memorial at the Staple Center, Los Angeles, USA, Tuesday night, 7TH July,2009, I could not help but be moved to tears. I have never cried like that in all my adult life.
So did over 31 million people all America and over two billion people the world over who sat in front of television screens at home and at viewing centers watching that memorable event.
So it was that Michael Jackson united the world in life and in death.
Brooke Shields, who was the Legend’s early confidant, Date and playmate during their childhood years was overwhelmed with emotion. They were both stars and needed to become adults quickly to meet the demand of their status as world public figures in their childhood. Little Shields would tease him “I started when I was 11 months and you are just starting at five...” When Michael started wearing a glove in his hand, Shields would tease again “what’s up with gloves…” and he would look at her, shake his head and just laugh. “He loved to be teased”.
Reverend Al Sharpton was right when he said Michael never stopped doing what he knew how to do best. He was right when he said Michael ‘outsang his cynics and outdanced his doubters…’ The Reverend made the point when he said Michael charted the path that opened the way for African American Artistes and Sports talents to be accepted by the rest of the world. That could happen because the world knew Michael and Michael introduced his people to the world community.
Magic Johnson agreed with the Sharpton when he said their Jerseys could adorn homes of people around the world because Michael was already there. Michael was the Moses who led the Blacks into the hearts across racial and across class divides. Indeed his conquering Love accepted no limitations and allowed no boundaries.
He loved life and he was philosophical about it. He wanted the world to feel the life he knew was possible. In Michael’s world it was possible to cure hunger that was why he told us all ‘We are the world’. He saw a world without violence, a world where broken hearts could be healed for it to be a better place. He instructed us to ‘Heal the world’.
His favorite music, was not one of his many master pieces. According to Shields, his favorite music was Charlie Chaplin’s ‘Smile’. When Jermaine Jackson came on stage to render the song, it made sense why Michael loved the song because through his trials and tribulations he smiled. He smiled when his heart ached; he smiled when those he trusted broke his heart. He just smiled.
He brought that smile into our hearts-his family, friends, fans and foes. Even to the dying he brought smiles. Martin Luther king’s children, Bernice and Martin Luther King III, told the story of how Michael in far away Middle East called their mother who suffered from stroke. She could not speak; she just listened to Michael speak and Michael ministered smile into her heart. That singular act was what made the day for the wife of the Legend Martin Luther King.
His art, his heart and his act were the trinity that inspired all regardless of color, creed, and class. Even the custodians of America’s democracy had to give it to Michael as the man to be remembered and honored for all time. As Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee said, the Legislative arm of the American government is debating a bill that will, permit the word ‘gazette’ the immortalization Michael Jackson.
He was preparing to give the world the best show we had yet seen. He was in high spirit, he was fit and good to go for the 50-venue tour he had lined up for London. Two days, before he left us, he had a great rehearsal and had asked his Tour Director/Choreographer; Kenny Ortega “how was it? And Ortega told him it was great. One of his Dancers who had been with for a long time (you must know that Michael got the very best in music and in dance to put his shows together) said Michael was always ahead of them. When you least expected it, he would come up with a dance routine that was new and that was ‘waoing’. This was the spirit as at the last time they left him. They were expecting him for the next rehearsal when it happened. He was gone too soon. When Usher performed the track ‘Gone Too Soon’, the message came home that indeed Michael had left us. And when he stepped down from the stage and walked to Michael as he lay covered in the casket, we all broke down. The emotion was just too much and of course, Usher crumbled under the weight of that huge emotion and broke down too.

The organizers of the event really know how to play with our emotions. They took us back to the little Michael singing a Smokie Robinson song. Smokie came on stage and told us about that little kid Berry Gordy the Motown Founder had exposed him to. He was so overwhelmed by the phenomenon of the Little Jackson kid, he needed to be sure Michael was really a 10-year old so he drew closer to know his birth certificate. From then on, he had developed a bond with Michael that even death cannot break. As he said, Michael is a firm believer of life after life.
The next act, Little Shaheen Jaforghli was the storm that took us all amidst the grief of the moment. He left us wondering who he is, where he is coming from, because he took us straight back to little Michael in flesh and blood at least from his vocal rendition. As we would get to know later, it took only Michael to dig out his own childhood. As Ortega, the Tour Director would tell us later, Jaforghli was Michael’s discovery. Little Shaheen had been invited to participate in the proposed London concert. But for his color, Shaheen would easily have been taken to be some divine representation of the Legend Michael.
To give us a peek of what would have happened had Michael been physically around; the Ortega got the Concert Cast to give us some of Michael’s numbers “We are the World”. When they sang “Heal the World” the whole world held its hands and was one for Michael.
The final words from Michael’s brothers and daughter virtually unlocked the tap of tears and got it flowing. Especially, when Paris, Michael’s daughter said Michael is the best daddy she can ever imagine.
That event was more than a Memorial; it was the celebration of Michael’s life, spirit and impact on all our lives.
For you to appreciate the impact, you need to know the level of effect that event had on virtually everyone who had a heart not necessarily for Michael but just a heart; a normal heart. If you had a heart you will be touched by the electricity Michael generated round the world even in death. He broke records and that day he broke more records and showed the world that he was not just the king of pop, but the true king of music. He stamped his authority as the greatest entertainer of all time.
The audience that watched Jackson memorial is virtually identical to the number of people who watched the reading of the live-Jackson trial verdict in June of 2005.
It’s also on par with the number of people who watched Kris Allen crowned the latest “American Idol.”
It’s about 10 million more people than watched President Reagan’s funeral in 2004.
It’s about 6 million fewer viewers than watched the most recent “Academy Awards.”
And it’s less than half the crowd that collected in front of their sets to watch President Clinton’s apology address to the nation in August of ‘98.
British publications reported another 6 million watched Jackson’s memorial in the UK.
Only a legend could have pulled this stunt. That kind of Legend as we know it could only have pulled it only once-either dead or alive. But the difference is that with Michael, he would have pulled it anyway and ‘any which way’ alive or dead.

Michael could do this and would pull it time and time again, because he had a pure heart that housed the childlike spirit Jesus Christ told us is what we need to make Heaven. He loved us all, just the way he loved himself. The Love Jesus Christ said is one the two major keys to the door of Heaven. He had it excess and he ministered it us all in appropriate and sufficient quantity. Only Angels have been given such gifts to give humanity to show the wonders of God’s world to the glory of the Almighty Himself.
Michael was the Angel who came dazzled us in his spell-binding moves, overwhelmed us with his charm, charity and humanity. He was the Angel who left us…too soon.

Otaigbe is Associate Editor, Africa Oil and Gas Report; krisoo2010@yahoo.com

The Great Music Debate (3): Hip Hop... In the eyes of the artistes

BY CHUKS NWANNE
AS the Great Music Debate (launched by The GuardianLIFE in the aftermath of the wide and wild debate generated by the article, ‘A Nation’s Identity Crisis’ of renowned columnist and public commentator, Dr Reuben Abati in his column, CrossRoads in The Guardian on Sunday, June 21), enters its third week, some Nigerian artistes have expressed their opinion on the lyrical contents of Nigerian hip-hop songs. Though with different responses, yet, a good number of them contend that despite the fame and wealth that some of the artistes have been amassing through their works, many of the songs ruling the airwaves or the public entertainment circuit, are deficient in quality lyrics; and have have little or no lesson for the listeners. The GuardianLIFE sent email and sms messages to a collection of the artistes including D’jinee, Ruggedman, Dare Art Alade, TY Bello, NoMoreLoss, J.Martins, IlBliss, Ashioye Ugbo, P’Square, Timi Dakolo, Keffee among others. Out of the list of about 20, however, only a few responded and their views are recorded below: German-based-Nigerian artiste, Ade Bantu, who himself had been at the front of internationalising the hip hop musical culture, said, “Most Nigerian musicians seem to live on another planet. Their lyrics do not reflect the realities on ground.” Popularly known for his song, No Vernacular, Lagos Jump, Omo Wale among others, the dreadlocks-wearing half-German quizzes, “how can you have fuel shortage, bad roads, Niger Delta crisis, children being accused of sorcery in the South-South, Haliburton scandals and you are busy talking Moet, girls and blingz?” Bantu, who is also notable for spearheading Brothers Keepers musical project, that changed the face of hip hop music in Germany and parts of Europe, with the collaborative album, Am I My Brothers’ Keeper, and who was recently invited by the German President to play in his residence, adds, “It takes balls to stand for something, but the question is how many of my colleagues are willing to swim against the stream.” To the rave of the moment, Bracket, however, “The lyrics of Nigerian musicians are in reality... is more real than fiction because they reflect the day to day experience of the artistes”. Meanwhile, Yori Yori, one of the tracks from their latest album, is presently ruling the airwaves. Though many consider the duo new in the scene, the truth is that the Enugu guys have been around for sometime. Their first hit, Happy Day, was a hit in the Eastern part of the country. In her brief reaction, ex-member of KUSH, Lara George states, “Our lyrics as Nigerian musicians need to be improved upon and not destroyed. Instead of looking for monetary satisfaction that could be destructive and then building NGOs to fix the damage done; we need to use our music to leave a legacy that will help improve the way we are viewed by the rest of the world.” Lara, who is no doubt one of the best female vocalists in the country for now, adds, “ We need to perpetuate solid values in our own environment and grow the psyche of the ‘man on the street’ in a positive way.” She won the Best Female Vocalist at the Nigerian Music Award in Owerri, Imo State. Her songs such as Ijoba Orun, Rest Of My Life and others made noticeable impact in the music scene. IN his own response, Etcetera Ejikeme said: “At moment, you can broadly classify Nigerian artistes into two; what I’ll call the mainstream and the alternative. For most of the mainstream artistes, lyrics are the last thing on their minds; basically they just want to make anything that people can dance to. The only challenge is that we all don’t dance 24/7. So, it’s within those quiet moments, when you reflect on the lyrics of a song you’ve been dancing to for months that you suddenly realise how totally hollow and sometimes senseless it is.” Presently on Steve Babaeko’s Xtreme Music, Ectcetera continues: “For the alternative guys, these are serious musicians, who understand that a lot of craftsmanship must go into making a piece of music. They generally have more profound lyrics that grab the imagination of the listeners. Unfortunately, there are no too many artistes like that in Nigeria today.” The Imo State native, whose album won the Record of The Year award at the recently held Hip-Hop World Award in Abuja, says that today’s popular artistes are far from those of yesteryears in terms of lyrics. “Go back and listen to Majek Fashek, Bongos Ikwe and you’ll understand what I’m talking about. The good news however is that the Nigerian music listeners are very sophisticated –– they are beginning to ask probing questions, demanding for quality music. This is the point where real musicians will be separated from charlatans.” All the way from the US, Emma Agu, one of the founding members of Performing Musicians Employers Association of Nigeria, PMAN, acknowledged the rapid growth of the country’s music industry, but faulted the lyrics of some of the artistes. “There is a remarkable improvement in the audio and video presentation, but the industry still has a long way to go, when it comes to the lyrical contents of the vibes; majority of these boys are churning out. Did you hear Tu-Face’s It’s time to have sex? I think that was disgusting! Time and time again, I try to make out what some of these hip-pop guys are saying; I barely could catch a word out of their vibes. Most of their lyrics do not make sense.” Agu, a former music director Kwara State Ministry of Arts and Culture, noted that rush and the quest to be ‘stars’ have almost taken the better part of the industry. “Creativity and professionalism is at a zero level right now in Nigeria. Well, the beat goes on and those who make the loudest noise remain the mega-stars. The use of profanity and lewd lyrics would certainly backfire on those artistes, who think it’s the quickest way to satisfy their base. Right now, the industry ought to have songwriters, beat makers, song arrangers and composers. What you have today is a scenario where even those who can afford these professionals still do it alone.” Agu, founding president of Professional Musicians Association of Nigeria, (USA), admits, however, “I hear good music from Nigeria; well produced music, beautiful vocals with good melody, fantastic bass line, distinct snare drum, hi-hat and trebling kicks, good harmony, nicely mixed and mastered, but lyrically empty.” THE Oruka crooner, Sunny Neji in his reaction, said “Not much, but it hip hop) seems to be acceptable, hence it’s thriving. I guess music is just as subjective as any other form of art.” Neji is among Nigerian artistes, who can conformably perform any of their songs live on stage, even at shortest notice. Her Majesty, Ara Ola, the Queen of African drums needs not much introduction. Drumming has taken her to different parts of the world. Though not deep into singing, Ara’s position on the lyrics is not the type you can easily ignore. She says: “Not deep, not educating–– needs to dwell more on cheerful, but reasonable things. Sing about God; you don’t have to be a gospel singer to do that. We all sang of His glory in his presence before He sent us here. Also try to affect life; politics, humanity, love, children with your lyrics. To the drummer, singers are equal to prophets and messengers. “We need to effect positive changes with our voices. The children are listening and singing our songs, they are watching and dancing... what can they hear? What can they see? How is it affecting them? We need to affect our world positively because our lyrics will be our voices when we are long gone.” Presently with Obi Asika’s Storm Records, GT Da Guitarman singled out some veteran Nigerian artistes, who according to him, are lyrically on point. “If you say musicians, I would expect that you are talking about the likes of Asa, Sunny Adede, Femi Kuti and a few others who obviously are on point! Lyrically, rating the average Nigerian artistes on a scale of 1-10, I would give us a 4 because giving a 3 wouldn’t be too nice.” GT, who launched into the industry with his song, Do Dreams Ever Come True, noted that most hip-hop artistes concentrate more on the beat, with less attention to their lyrics. “Listen to your radio and you will notice that aside the beats, whose credit belongs to the producers, most of our songs have got nothing poetic in them; wonder if people like Wole Soyinka still listens to radio! Not to rubbish the whole system though as there are lot of artistes, too, who are lyrically on point.” TO Diana Bada, “some artistes tend to express a right message to the people about things that affect us daily; government, policies, environment, peace, love and humility.” The half-breed, who is known for live performances adds, “Others should be more cautious about what they are conveying to the youths, because they influence them. So, singing about sex is not the best if you are trying to impact positively on the society.” And to the poet, song-writer, Sage Has.son, hip-hop artistes “need to work on improving their lyrics and not just focus only on jargon and slang to get mass appeal. They should work on building the polity, uplifting and inspiring not just to titillate the senses.” Fondly described as the master of spoken word, Sage says, “lyric is from the Greek lyros, meaning content of the soul, so, they need to offload what’s within them.” The debate continues…

Taming Hip Hop for nation building
By Chris Kehinde Nwandu
The write up by Dr Reuben Abati on the above subject matter made an interesting reading; not minding the barrage of attacks and reaction that has been generated by his observation (expectedly) from most Nigerian artistes. For me, the write up should be seen as a wake up call to Nigerian artistes on the need to remain more creative in their acts. Present generation of artistes only know Dr Reuben Abati as a writer and not a music critic, but that is far from the truth. He has always been a creative and constructive analyst of the music industry way back. That not withstanding, there are still some fundamental issues that were overlooked by his write up. First, it must be acknowledged that hip-hop, as a form of music has become an international brand. It has changed dramatically from what was considered to be violent and intimidating form of music. Hip-hop music has become the mainstream or the default musical setting of the culture. Rap is now used to sell everything from fast food to cars, brand marketing and used to gain access to youth in danger. Hip-hop has gone beyond being just about music, but has actually become a brand, a lifestyle and an urban culture that almost everybody aspires to be associated with — even big corporate. It is on this note that inevitably the rapper is now more than a musician but has become an entrepreneur that utilizes his or her craft to sell global brands of big corporations. Rappers are trendsetters; where they lead others follow. They can revitalize a luxury brand by making it seem youthful and individualistic. Russell Simmons, founder of DefJam records, used his experience of marketing hip-hop to launch Phat Farm, which by 2003 had sales in excess of $260 million and was later sold for $140 million. Russell’s company, Simmons Lathan Media Group with access to 45.3 million consumers world-wide spends $18.6 billion annually on hip-hop media and merchandise. Forbes puts the value of hip-hop, as a music and lifestyle industry, at $100 billion a year. Hip-hop has also become an effective tool to communicate with youth under siege, using the language they understand. Social consciousness hip-hop workers have used the microphone and their message to speak to the youth about crime, drugs and have conducted workshops in town halls addressing the youth about the dangers of dangerous living. Global examples have been used where hip-hop has become an effective voice for the plight of the youth, where even politicians and business people have appealed to hip-hop to help convey their messages Hip-hop can be used as a mobilising platform and as a practical tool in communicating with urban youth in their lingo and style. Hip-Hop can be used as an entry point for mobilising and motivating urban youths to organise themselves and to engage in their own plans of action. It is estimated that 80-percent of urban youth can be reached through Hip-Hop, which encompasses rap, graffiti, dancing and fashion. It has been established that Hip-Hop as a brand of music has its root from a fusion of mostly African contemporary music. Expectedly, it goes without saying that being an Afro centric rooted brand of music, motherland Africa has a lot to contribute to what has become today the most popular brand of music in the World Hip hop in Nigeria dates back to the late eighties and early nineties. Groups and solo artists during that period include the likes of Junior & Pretty, Daniel ‘Danny’ Wilson , Plantashun Boyz , Remedies with members Eedris Abdulkareem , Eddy Remedy & Tony Tetuila. The late 90s and the early years of the new millennium saw the outburst of artists and groups like Eldee da Don of Trybesmen, Naeto C of W.F.A, JJC and the 419 squad and P-Square (d duo of Peter & Paul Okoye) became a part of mainstream Nigerian music after the collapse of pop trends like Yo-pop . The availability of computers and cheap music editing software in the late 1990s and the 2000s enabled Nigerian musicians to achieve higher quality recordings, which quickly won over the Nigerian audience. As Nigeria ‘s Nollywood movies have done to Western movies, Nigerian hip hop has begun to displace Western popular music. Nigeria has grown over the years to become the ‘seat’ of Hip hop in the African continent. Contributors to this ‘success’ includes the production skills of the likes of ID Cabasa, OJB Jezreel, Paul ‘Play’ Dairo, Don Jazzy, Ugly Beatz, Y.E.M.I., Puffy T, Cobhams Asuquo, Terry G,Big Lo as well as outstanding performers like Tuface, P Square, D’Banj, Naeto C, weird Mc, 9ice, Sasha, Psquare, KC Presh, and others With this as a background, it goes beyond saying that Hip Hop, as a brand of music has become a way of life. An institutional change in the status quo as witnessed by “our generation”; If I may use one of the quotes of an artiste. The Nigerian hip-hop artistes have become icons and source of pride to an Industry that was on its knees. Before the advent of hip hop music, the lack of acceptable and marketable repertoires in the past contributed a great deal to the demise of such notable recording companies like Sony Music (CBS) Ivory Music (EMI) and premier Music (Polygram. It is understandable when Dr Abati raised some fundamental questions on the names of some of our current hip-hop artistes, but that is the vogue all over. As confused as it may be in trying to distinguish the name Asa and Shasha, but how many people knows the real name of R Kelly, Akon, Beyonce, Usher, Shakira etc. It’s a generational change, which Abati and I will have to accept. As rightly mentioned by him, in the past 80 per cent of music played were mostly foreign. The Nigerian Hip hop music have taken off from where Hollywood stopped; presently it’s the biggest music industry in Africa. That to me should be our pride. The use of our indigenous languages by most of the acts should be commended. Listen to Dbanj, Ay.dot, Nigga raw, Tuface, Psquare, 9ice, Weird mc etc and you will understand what I am talking about. Agreed that hip hop music has become an all comer affairs but you can be rest assured that with time, water will find its level I quite agree with Abati, most of present crop of acts lacks stage mannerism and craftiness. What makes a complete artiste is the ability to command a live performance on stage, especially with a live band. Most successful artistes all over the world take this very seriously. The late Michael Jackson spent a fortune in his preparation for his last live performance that never held. Recently, a popular Nigerian act performed at the Mandela birthday concert in London and we all saw the result (It was a big flop). Until the Nigerian Hip hop artistes realise the need to effectively learn how to perform with a live band on stage instead of miming, they will continue to play at beer parlors and bars all over the world. This is the reason why an organization like mine (Ikenga Entertainment Inc) is coming up with Afrihhop, an event designed to encourage stage performances to identify the real and authentic hip hop king of Africa . On a final note, the Nigerian hip-hop artistes should learn from the past on how to diversify their investment. Thank God some of them are already doing that. They need to save for the rainy days. Gone are the days when music should seen as strictly a passion, most of our older artistes did that and now living in abject poverty. The longevity and popularity of an average Nigerian act is very very short. With time, I believe the sheep will be separated from the wolves. But for now, let the music play on. Nwandu, Ex Artiste and Promotions Manager, Sony Music Nigeria is the CEO, Ikenga Entertainment



An Identity crisis or a generation Gap?
What if he started with a paragraph that read: “I just walked by a young man who held up his jeans and wore a hooded top in the hot sun. His jeans was poorly trimmed but he chose to let them drag on the floor. His girlfriend was also in low waist jeans and showed more than my eyes could handle. However she covered up her neck with an Arabian scarf. She kept calling him “Boo”, which made me more confused; wondering if she was trying to scare or surprise him. She had to shout because he wore earphones connected to his ipod.’

If by chance Dr. Abati’s article’s title were changed, would it have made a difference? If it was titled – “My Frustrations for the future”, would it have had a softer landing?
When a matchstick catches fire from both ends, their aim is to meet. I choose to open up this wound to properly dress it so it leaves a better and more presentable scar.
Both the young and older generation have lived side by side like neighbours with a decaying fence. So when Abati chose to draw first blood by attacking a vocal and agile generation of young people, many people were quick to respond while others praised Banky W’s and other artistes’ responses.

Question :
How many (truthfully) could write and respond the way Banky W did?

Personally I was shocked at his response which then became a mouthpiece for many. I must say I was impressed. But then I began to question my reaction to his article. Did I expect the worst? People commented on social networking sites and blogs, engaging in a debate that was far from the usual buzz topics. This wasn’t about a scandal or new fashion trend. It wasn’t about politics or corruption. This was simply about questioning our Identity and its future.
The common reasoning was that the older generation really did understand the ‘seed’ some of these artistes and the industry as a whole had sown?
I once watched young kids singing ‘Lagimo’ as they danced, though it got embarrassing when they sang X-projects ‘Lori Le’, I was shocked that though they might not have understood every word, they were in fact speaking and singing in Yoruba. These were children who hardly spoke a language other than English.

The Generation Gap –
Have you ever read between the lines? Try it – You might find a new revelation.

The response that stuck in my head was one by a young person we had interviewed. She said – “I could hear my father or Uncle talking and this annoyed me because they simply don’t get it, they don’t understand us and they choose to generalize and come up with all these conclusions”. I then asked, “What have you done to change it or make them understand our generation?”
If you read between the lines of Mr. Abati’s article, you might notice a frustration or two.
You see some of us write text messages and choose to simplify our words and sentences. I once asked a friend for the proper spelling to a word. She suggested I write it the way it sounded since it was a text message. Was she wrong to say this or had this become an acceptable fad?
We hardly remember phone numbers by heart and some of us use the calculators for the simplest of mathematical equations.
We sometimes dress and behave in ways only our peers can understand and sometimes speak in highly advanced coded scripts called slangs.
Many even fuel deteriorating live social interaction by sitting behind the comfort of computer screens using this as the new medium to connect and meet friends while others thrive on instant gratification.
As innocent as some of these might sound, what happens when the present generation of young people become parents? What happens if we too knew very little of their culture and heritage? How much will we be able to pass on? ? If you could turn the tables around, will you understand you?
You see Mr Abati’s infamous article got us talking again and almost all young people around me had the same voice. We were quick to cry foul, pointing at misrepresentations and individual attacks, but we sit and watch corruption and other social ills flourish because it may or not impact on us directly.
What would happen if the older generation decided to push the responsibility of our Nation and its future on our laps at this very moment? Are we ready?
Mutually intellectual opinions can make our emotions embrace new dimensions. Wisdom finding reason can give culture a future.
Should the title have been “My Frustrations for the future?”
www.switchedon.com

A lift for the less privileged

BY OYINDAMOLA LAWAL
FORMER beauty queen, Sandra Iwu, recently led a gathering of children between three and 15 years old, on a charity walk to orphanages. They also took time to cater for those with physical challenges. Facilitated by her NGO, Weep Not Child Foundation, the walk is a child right project that seeks to extend love and affection to the under privileged. She started the foundation during her reign with the aim of giving back to the society. A day after the charity walk, Iwu also partnered with Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Lagos, to organise a beauty pageant. The contest, which produced Mr. and Miss CYON (Catholic Youth Organisation of Nigeria), was the 10th in the series. It had four winners in different categories such as King, Queen, Prince and Princess. She said, “winners would be a part of my NGO, and we’ll be working together, helping the poor and visiting orphanages, to mention a few.” “I have been working on this project for a very long time; it’s just time to roll the tape. These aids are characterised by passion for the helpless kids, loving them, caring for their needs and making provisions for those needs, no matter how little or small they seem to be. Moreso, this project will affect lives in Africa, Europe, Asia, America, and the uttermost part of the world.” She adds, “it’s an avenue for me to take people off the street. I have board of directors who are supervising the project.” IWU says, “we will also help develop the innate talent abilities of these children through the Foundation’s conceptualised programmes.” The Foundation hopes to get aids from international organisations such as UNICEF, WHO, USAID, ECOWAS and the British Council in the no-too-distant future with supports from NACA, SACA and well-spirited individuals. The tall, pretty damsel, who was crowned the Most Beautiful Girl in LASU in 2006, was also one of the top 10 finishers at the Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria pageant in 2007. She was Miss Galaxy International (2007) — a West African pageant with Nigerian and Ghanaian models, which saw her as the winner in 2007. Over the years, Iwu has participated in a lot of photography modeling jobs with top advertising agencies and also won the 2005 Catwalk Model of the Year in Lagos. The professional runway model has graced fashion shows such as NTFS, This Day Fashion Festival with Alek Wek, Oluchi Onweagba, amongst others. Iwu has modeled for top international designers such as Ade Bakare, Tiffany Amber, Ravvi Saint Mode, JD7, Deola Sagoe, DAKOVA, Modela, Mon-Ami and Xuly Beth both in Nigeria and Paris with over 30 fashion shows. On her modeling career, she says, “I have passion for modeling. I started in 2004. It’s not been easy combining, events, shows and my projects. When I started modeling, the money was not really encouraging but it’s better now. The industry is growing; our designer are doing fantastic job. I have been on the runway with Oluchi, Alek Wek to mention a few.” Apart from being a model, the damsel is also a dancer and make-up artiste. She discloses, “I went to a grooming school, where I learnt how to dance and make-up.” To her, fashion is simply wearing anything that suits you. She added, “My favourite piece of clothing is African fabric, however, I won’t be caught dead wearing anything that is not presentable.” She also cherishes her perfumes a lot.

Chinedum is Hilton apprentice toast

BY BRIDGET CHIEDU ONOCHIE
GOOD cooking is the fastest way to a man’s heart. That tells why most women go the extra mile to prepare good meals for their hubby as a way of sustaining their marriages. But what happens where the man is a master toaster? That, exactly, is the case with Chinedum Godwin, who recently emerged the best student at the Final Assessment and Graduation Dinner organised by Transcorp Hilton Hotel to end its current edition of Kitchen Apprenticeship Programme. The man proved once more that the art of cooking is not an exclusive of women. Held in the serene Zuma Grill Restaurant, the event attracted a lot of dignitaries, some of who became part of the jury. In tears of joy, the Abia State-born undergraduate of Sociology, University of Abuja, told The GuardianLIFE that he was reluctant to enter for the contest as he was barely two years old in hotel business. In fact, he joined Transcorp in 2005 as a Steward without prior kitchen experience. He won the heart of the jury with Nigerian traditional cuisines done to international standard. His menu, coupled with clean appearance, earned him victory in the competition that began about two years ago with over 160 contestants from across the country. “AS a steward I work hand in hand with the kitchen staff; and due to my curiosity, I was able to know what they were doing. When they called for entry for the competition, I was reluctant to enter but my chef encouraged me. About 160 of us wrote the entrance examination for the programme and I emerged the winner.” He added, “I prepared marinated baby leaf and mackerel on seasonal carrot, cappuccino with olives vinaigrette for starters; they had trio soup comprising vichyssoise, parsley and chicken pepper soup, which was complimentary for soup and grilled veal steak with garlic polenta. For the main dish, I prepared sauce hollandaise and broccoli while the dessert was chocolate dumpling with mango and vanilla sauce.”. Chinedum said, “I believe in putting my best in whatever I do and I do my work with all joy. When the opportunity came for me to try this out, I did it with all pleasure even though it was challenging combining my job with academic works.” He attributed his success to determination and the drive to pursue whatever he does with all joy. No matter how odd the job, his philosophy remains that there should be dignity in labour. Among other packages, he is to spend three weeks in Dubai, where he will be further exposed to best practices in the industry. The Transcorp Hilton Kitchen Apprenticeship Programme was introduced in 1996 and has since produced three sets of graduates. The objective of the two-year intensive training is to make neophytes in the cooking profession world class chefs through exposure to basic theories and practice of cooking. This set was groomed under the tutelage of Chef Frank Noak, the hotel’s Executive Chef and mentored by Chef Onah, the best graduate of the first set of kitchen programme.

Just anything smart

CELEB
Recently, Odunlade Adekola emerged as the best Yoruba male actor in the City People Awards held in Abeokuta. Adekola, who says that the winning factors for him are his commitment, hardwork and dedication to his creativity, hails from Otun, Ekiti State. Born on December 31, in the late 70s, he attended St John’s Primary School, Abeokuta. For his secondary education, he was at St. Peter’s College, Olomore, Abeokuta. He later went to Ogun State Polytechnic, now called Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Abeokuta, where he did a year programme in Art. He has featured and played leading roles in so many movies such as Ila owo, Aje meta, Asiri gomina wa, Fara pa mo, among others. He tells DAMILOLA ADEKOYA what fashion means to him.

Definition of fashion
For me, it is all about packaging: adorning yourself with something nice.

Acting and you
I started about 13 years ago in the church. That was the place I discovered that I had a talent, which I wasn’t maximising its potentials. I went into it because of the flair I had for it. My delving into it has really added a whole lot to me because that is what I’m known for today.

Family background
I’m the second in the family.

Style of dressing
I love anything smart; buba and sokoto or a pair of smart jeans on a fitted shirt.

Turn on
When I’m around my people; family friends and colleagues.

Turn off
Anything that is not done properly.

Happiest moment(s)
The day I had my son.

Most Embarrassing moment(s)
I can’t remember.

Most expensive item
I do not have anything specific one.

Favourite food
I love any Yoruba delicacy, anything apart from that, count me out!

Describe yourself in three words
Cool, disciplined, and friendly

What will you not be caught dead wearing?
A brassier.

If you were given an opportunity to change something in Nigeria, what would it be?
I will like to change the face of Nigeria movie. We are still lagging behind in certain areas and I want to change this.

Favourite colour (s)
I love purple because I just feel it suits me.

Most cherished possession
Acting

Philosophy of life
I believe in time so much, which is why I can conclude that life is time.

I Go Die grabs one from US

BY CHUKS NWANNE
From a humble beginning, comedian Francis Agoda, otherwise called I Go Die, has finally stamped his authority on the country’s entertainment circle. Aside from successfully launching himself into the league of top rated comedians in the country, the Niger Delta chap is gradually reaping the fruits of his labour, with recognition coming from different quarters. I Go Die, who is known for his rib-cracking jokes, just returned from the US, where he was presented with the Comedian Of The Year award, at the recently held Nigerian Entertainment Award (NEA) in Washington DC. The excited comedian dedicated the award to the youths, especially those of the Niger Delta, urging them to eschew violence and follow their dreams. HOWEVER, this is not the first time I Go Die will be winning an award in far away United States; he was in Obama’s territory some time ago to be part of the TV People Golden Award, where he was honoured. “If I was told my career would take me this far, to the extent of being honoured in ‘God’s own country’, I wouldn’t have believed it. Truly, dreams come true; all you need is to follow your dream, believe in yourself and put God first in all things.” No matter the level of tension in the Niger Delta region, I Go Die remains very proud of his roots. “I’m proud to say I am a true Niger Deltan. When a place is much talked about, then know there are changes coming. People all over the world will come and learn about peace and conflict resolution some day in the Niger Delta; it will one day become a pinnacle of peace and tranquility.” But for that to happen, the comedian charged the youths to believe in their visions. “There’s need to be united, stop kidnapping and violent acts, which does not only affect the human development in the area, but also scare foreign investors, who are willing to develop the region. The truth is that chaos can never solve the Niger Delta problem.” To I Go Die, the government has a major role to play in bringing a lasting peace in the region. “For this region to function well, government need to provide infrastructure that would engender creativity. They need to offer scholarships to children even if it means sending them to other parts of the country to get quality education. We need to rebuild our schools, roads, hospitals and other basic amenities. In all, Niger Deltans need employment.” The comedian is of the opinion that putting all these in place, is a sure way of getting the best out of the youths, who are most times, erroneously tagged militants. “The truth is that the region had in the past, excelled in different areas; sports, music, movies, entrepreneurship, medicine, academics and others. Today, we cannot vehemently ignore the rising cases of violence and its detriment to human and societal development because, even if it does not affect some of us directly, our immediate environment is constantly under threat.” He continues: “Lets save our generation and build a good society for tomorrow’s children. I was a victim of the 1999 Warri crisis if I had died, I won’t have achieved all these. I consider my part as a challenge to my abilities because I walked the path and drank from the bitterness of violence. I believe it is my greatest responsibility to use my talent to promote peace, so that, the youths will be inspired and empowered.” THE success story of I Go Die would be incomplete if his current $185,000 world tour with American entertainment outfit, Point Gate Entertainment, is not mentioned. In the last three months, the comedian has traveled to more than 300 cities of Europe, America, Asia, with Point Gate, preaching against violence, racism, human trafficking and drug addiction. I Go Die started comedy at the tender age of 13, presenting Mock News on Delta TV, Warri. Today, he has featured in different comedy shows within and outside the country. His unique style of comedy has singled him out as one of the leading comedians in the country.

Nollywood ambassadors

L-R: Funke Akindele, Uche Jombo, Rita Dominic with Mr Adewale Sangowawa, Executive Director, Human Resources, Globacom and other Glo ambassadors, Chioma Chukwuka, Nonso Diobi and Monalisa Chinda at the unveiling of the ambassadors in Lagos.


MOVIE stars recently named ambassadors by Globacom have commended the company for taking an unprecedented step to lift Nollywood, Nigeria’s film industry, to a higher pedestal. Speaking at a ceremony to unveil 13 actors and actresses as Glo ambassadors in Lagos, the stars were full of praises for the company for choosing them from among several other actors in the country. Rita Dominic described her selection as “a great honour for me for being recognised because Nollywood represents Africa.” On her part, Chioma Chukwuka Akpotha expressed gratitude to the telecom’s outfit for naming her an ambassador of the brand. She promised that the ambassadors would represent the brand as best as they could and move it forward in Nigeria, in Africa and globally. Uche Jombo said, “to be here representing the brand is an honour and I appreciate it.” Another actress, Monalisa Chinda said that the entry of the outfit into Nollywood would leave a positive imprint on that sector just as it has done in other spheres. “Glo is into soccer. It is into music. And now it has moved into Nollywood. I am honoured. I am so proud and privileged to be part of this wonderful brand and I really thank God. We will do our best, our very best to push it forward, everywhere in Nigeria, in Africa and the world,” Jombo enthused. Funke Akindele, who was winner in the last African Movie Academy Awards (AMAA 2009), was quite philosophical in her remarks at the event and expressed happiness at being chosen from a larger number of other equally brilliant stars. “I am so happy and privileged to be one of the ambassadors because many are called, but few are chosen. I am happy to be one of the chosen ones. Glo has always been at the forefront of empowering the youths and Funke Akindele stands for the youths. I am happy because Sulia ken, Glo ken ni o.” Nonso Diobi said he would not disappoint those who have chosen him. “I would represent this brand very well anywhere I find myself,” he said. Other stars unveiled at the event include Ramsey Nouah, Desmond Elliot, Jim Iyke, Mike Ezuruonye, Nuhu Aliyu, Kate Henshaw and Ini Edo-Phillip Ehiagwina.



Around and about Nollywood...
BY SHAIBU HUSSEINI

City People celebrates Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen
All road led to Benin City, the Edo State Capital yesterday as City People Magazine honoured one of Nigeria’s movie directors Lancelot Oduwa Imaseun. The event held at Excalibur Hotel, GRA, Benin City. The turnout at the event proved that Lancelot is loved at home.
Honour for a visionary Aromire
Nigeria premier publication Best of Nollywood is set to honour the pioneer producer of Nollywood movies with a series of activities to mark his memorial.
According to a release signed the publisher Mr. Seun Oloketuyi, on Monday, July 27, there would be a seminar to Mark the movie veteran’s first year demise titled Alade Aromire Nollywood pioneer (facts of the matter), the panelists include Tunde Adegbola, Eddie Ugboumah, Emeka Mba, Steve Ayorinde, Afolabi Adesanya and Jahman Anikulapo.
Wednesday, July 29, will showcase the late Alade works to the public free from 10am to 6pm, at 6pm there would be a party tagged celebration of life with Kolade Onanuga on the band stand.
Oloketuyi said: “We have decided to honour the late Alade Aromire because the risk he took 20 years ago is what we are enjoying today and has become a source of livelihood for thousands of people whom he had never met. Today, the industry he started is now the second largest in the world”.

It’s time for NFC’s shoot!
This year’s edition of SHOOT!, the annual training programme for filmmakers will hold at the National Film Institute in Jos as from July 20 to 24, 2009. Organized since 2005 by the Nigerian Film Corporation, Jos, SHOOT has in the last three editions served as a platform for the Nigerian motion picture professionals to gain world class expertise, exchange ideas and discuss on current creative tools and applications for quality productions. A statement by NFC indicates that all the resources persons for all scheduled courses including Barbel Mauch from Germany; Dominique Giral (France); Alfred Okoro (Nigeria); and Stephen Bayly, Sylvie Bringas, Alric Wilson and Penny Tweedie all from the United Kingdom have been contacted, and are ready for the five-day training programme with the theme “Reel Life, Real Sound”. The statement explains that courses for SHOOT! 2009 will include, Documentary Film, Sound Design/Dubbing, Music Design for Film, Still Photography, Animation, Directing for the Screen and Digital Editing/Cinematography. Those who will make it to Jos this year according to the statement ‘are in for a better deal, with the recent, commissioning of additional infrastructure at NFI, Jos; venue of the five day training programme. The Minister of Information and Communications, Prof. Dora Akunyili has described the projects as projects of motivation, empowerment and commitment’. The commissioned projects are the Sound Stage Complex (edifice capable of handling all productions from script to screen), the new Administrative Block, and the 350 Seat Auditorium. The organisers are optimistic that these five projects will no doubt provide additional infrastructure and conducive atmosphere for the training workshop which is fast gaining grounds for Nigerian motion picture practitioners and their counterparts from West African countries. It will be recalled that the training and capacity building programme, which started in 2005 has between 2005 and 2008 had 817 professionals participate in it. Expression of interest to participate in this year’s edition closes on July 20, 2009. The Minister of State, Information and Communication Alhaji Ikra Bilbis is expected to perform the closing ceremony while Da David Jang, Governor, Plateau State is the Special Guest of Honour. Interested participants are advised to visit the NFC’s website and register on line @-www.nigfilmcorp.com, or e-mail, md_nfc@hotmail.com.

Waka pass…
Producer- Amebo A. Amebo
Director- Mr. Gossip
Actors- Nollywood Celebrities

Charles Novia Salutes Norbert Young
One of Nigeria’s prolific filmmakers Charles Novia last week joined friends, colleagues and well wishers to pay tribute to Norbert Macdonald Akpojerharo Young, who turned 50 last Friday. The directing force behind notable flicks Missing Angel and Atlanta penned these lines for an actor he considers as one of Nigeria’s intense methodical actors…..
‘I have known Norbert Young since I was a kid, but I professionally and personally got to know him in 1993. As a kid, growing up in Benin City, the television drama series had a huge impact on my life. Norbert starred in a few of the then Bendel Broadcasting Service [BBS] ‘Teledrama’ series and I was struck by his mastery of articulation and the seeming ease in which he seemed to bring out the essence of the characters he played. It was a privilege in 1994 to have featured with him in an NTA drama where he played my father. From there, we struck a friendship...no...a brotherly relationship. He’s my big brother and I have had the privilege of directing him in about 10 of my movies. Norbert is the actor’s actor. Disciplined and very professional. One of Nigeria’s intense method actors. A very under-utilized actor, by my opinion and that may have to do with the lopsided artistic appreciation obtains in Nollywood. I consider him among the greatest actors in the world...and that is saying the least. Humane and very friendly with a sometime, happy-go-lucky streak, Norbert Young @ 50 should be an example to Nigeria on how to celebrate our heroes. Sadly, his native state, Delta State may never accord him the honour he surely deserves, much less his country. [RMD, over to you!] To my big brother and ‘harsh man’, I say, ‘God bless you with many happy years!’

Mahmood Ali-Balogun Joins the elders club proper
Filmmaker Mahmood Ali-Balogun will be 50 on July 19. His wife Auntie Nkechi and his jewels Abimbola and Ike say they would do anything within their powers to make him stay off work on that day. They say they would not even allow him grant any interview on that day neither will they allow the former President of the National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (NANTAP) to receive or make business or movie calls on that day. The women have declared that day, a day of praise and thanksgiving to God for his faithfulness since ‘these 50 years’. So, they have invited friends, colleagues, family and church members to Oga Mahmoud’s (that’s how young filmmakers call him) birthday tagged an evening of “praise for God’s goodness in Mahmood’s life as he turns 50.” But because we live in Lagos where the theory of Waka Pass or what the Yoruba call ‘Mo Gbo Mo Ya (simply put in pidgin: I hear, na him I enter ) is the order of the day and for the sake of say we no wan stretch madam Public Relations planning abilities (Mrs. Ali-Balogun is the immediate past Chairman of the Lagos State Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations), we will leave out the venue and just stress that the praise event followed by some item 7 (Refreshment, that is) will begin at 3pm. Meaning that: the programme is strictly by invitation

Ernest ‘sharp sharp’ Asuzu
One time Nollywood big boy and rapper Ernest Asuzu was at the artiste unofficial green room — at a popular restaurant in Surulere on Sunday. Waka Pass saw him bounced-in- hastily as if he forgot an item at the upper section of the bar. When it was time to go, Ernest took long strides and almost didn’t hear a well endowed lady, who perhaps was trying to prove that she knows the actor and singer, yelled out at him as he made for the gate. The lady succeeded in getting Ernest to slow down. She earned a deep hug for her effort and convinced him to join her and her friends on a table close to the projector that beamed cracky musical videos on the war. Anyway waka pass fixed a follow spot on the plumy actor, and we were dazed at the speed he downed some liquid contained in a dark bottle. By the time we got out of the ‘dazzling’ position, one waka pass told us that the bobo has moved on in a manner that could best be described as ‘sharp sharp’.

Eucharia Anunobi’s head to head
If what we are hearing is the truth and nothing but the truth, then Popular Nollywood actress Eucharia Anunobi is set for a head to head collision with her alleged runaway husband, Mr. Ekwu. One waka pass insisted we must be told that the actress and lioness (she graduated from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka) has finally filled a divorce case against her alleged runaway husband. They say she is demanding over N1b as damages and that she has vowed to pursue the matter till the end. Those who say they know the hefty Eucharia says she has never been known to fight a lost battle, meaning in simple pidgin that ‘Eucharia no dey dig hole wey rabbit no dey’. Anyway sis, abeg if e happen, make you remember us. We are offering to watch over the trap after you have finished digging the hole. We go manage am even if na one percent of one billion we see. To God Be the Glory

Heavens Gate returns on screen

BY CHUKS NWANNE
After months of resting Heaven’s Gate, a TV soap produced and directed by filmmaker, Zik Zulu Okafor, the production team has resolved to bring the programme back on air due to popular demand. Starting with Silverbird TV where it debuted five years ago, arrangements have been concluded for the drama to be aired on other national stations as well as some leading cable networks. In a chat with the filmmaker, Okafor hinted that the production crew would soon be going on set to shoot more episodes of the Christian-oriented drama made possible by the City of David parish of The Redeemed Christian Church of God, Lagos. On why the programme went off air for sometime, Okafor explained that, “it was rested, quite often without informing us, the producers; the church was also not informed either. I wrote to them a couple of times, to protest such treatment, but the problem kept repeating itself for a very long time and the producers of the programme decided to try another station.” Originally, the team planned taking the soap to stations in Abuja, Port Harcourt and other parts of the country, but later ended up with MBI, which unfortunately went off air. With the soap returning back to Silverbird TV, it seems the relationship between the producers and the station has ones again returned to normal. Okafor recalled how he was inspired to script the drama, which is presently running on Silverbird TV. “Something woke me up about 2:00am in the morning and at that point, something told me ‘I think you are trying to develop a story for a soap opera, why don’t you use the serenity of the night offers.’ So, I started writing. And by the time I became conscious of myself, it was already 6:00am in the morning and I found out that the whole story that I wanted to write has come. So I went to show the man (Pastor Eskor Mfon) and he liked the story and told me to go ahead that he wants to shoot it. I made my budget and we went to locations. That’s how it started. So the idea of doing a Christian soap opera was late Pastor Eskor’s.” To him, Heaven’s Gate is not just a drama, but a ministration. “It is an instrument for disseminating the gospel. Its something that has to do with God, and City of David has pastors who are deeply rooted and entrenched in the service of God than I am. They pray for the government, artistes and anything and I know that God directs them appropriately on where to go at anytime.” Asked if pastor Eskor’s demise will in any way affect the production, especially as the crew plans to return to location, Okafor declared, “Eskor’s death was perhaps, the greatest shock I have ever received. It shook me by far more than my own father’s death. At the age of 74, my father was old and I was prepared for his death. Pastor Eskor was my inspiration and mentor. Therefore, I never thought he was going to die soon even though death is inevitable. “I have never for one-minute nurture the fear that pastor Eskor’s demise might affect the running of Heaven’s Gate. At City of David, we work like a family. Even though Eskor inspired it, there is a collective support for it. They call me, watch me, advise me and also appreciate me, while pointing out my errors. When he was ill, I was so confident, he would get better. I don’t envisage or believe that City of David would discontinue the soap now that Eskor is gone. It is a ministration and they are supporting it.” He continues: “Everyday, we are dreaming of improving on the quality of our production and we have consistently done this every quarter. I want to believe that someday Heaven’s Gate will play in some of the stations in the U.S and Europe. I have no doubt; it’s already running on DSTV for the benefit of other countries.” The story of Heaven’s Gate is intriguing and enthralling. Chukwuemeka Dan Phillips (Alex Usifo) a billionaire business man has achieved everything in life. He has an oil company, a bank and over 10 other companies in addition to successful children. However, he eyes only one thing now–– to become the king of his hometown, Isu. But he has huddles to cross on his quest to Kingship of his community. Nnaife, his rival, is strong and seems poised to win the crown even as his nephew, a pastor prophesies that even if all the contestants step down for him, Dan Phillips may still not be king. Worse -still, his cult member and icon tells him that he could win but that his wife, separated from him, may pose a threat to his victory. Still, hard-heated Dan-Phillips is prepared to battle man and if need be, God too, to clinch victory.