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Bayo is the first child of the leader of the National Democratic Coalition and Afenifere, the late Senator Abraham Adesanya. He talks about his father with GBENGA ADENIJI

 What can you recall about growing up with your father?

I remember that he loved his children so much including members of his extended family. He was a disciplinarian and loved education passionately. To him, education was the best legacy parents could give to their children. My father was a socialite and he made sure we went on picnics. He took us to the seaside around Marina, Lagos. He would take us there to play and get fresh air. At times, we went to fast food joints. He would tell our mother not to cook so that we could all go out to eat. He often jokingly told our mother that it was good for us to occasionally change what we ate at home by going to eateries.

 You are an engineer; didn’t he encourage you to study law like him?

My father was someone who never forced any of his children to study any course. He allowed all of us to study the courses we desired. He only encouraged us morally and financially. One of us studied law; my sister, Modupe who was a former Minister of State for Defence. My father was not the one who asked her to study law. She studied the course of her own volition. My two other siblings are into banking and business management.

 How did the family cope when he was involved in NADECO and Afenifere’s activities?

My mother and the children didn’t feel his absence because we gave him encouragement in the first instance. We knew he was fighting for the masses and for a better Nigeria. He didn’t fight for himself or his children. We are a family that believes in condemning injustice. Even during the assassination attempt on his life, some people came from our hometown, Ijebu-Igbo, to urge me to discourage him from activism. They actually wanted him to stay away from politics. I told them bluntly that I would not do that. I followed him everywhere he went and knew what my father stood for. I was thus not interested in acceding to their request. I told them I was going to encourage him to do more rather than discourage him.

 Many people believe your father used  charms to escape the attempt on his life in 1997?

The bullets of the assailants perforated the seats of the Mercedes Benz car he was traveling in with his driver. I have said it many times that my father never used charms throughout his life. We believe only in God’s name. He escaped the assassination with his driver because, unfortunately for the gunmen, they never knew that three people were in the car. They thought it was only him and his driver that were in it. They didn’t know that there was an unseen guest in the vehicle with them: Jesus Christ. He was going to Ota, Ogun State for an important case when they struck. There was nothing like voodoo or charms. My grandfather was an herbalist but my father didn’t inherit any charm from him or used any throughout his life. He believed in God Almighty.

 What was his reaction when he got home after the incident?

When he came home that day, he didn’t show any sign of fear. He was even talking boldly. He said the incident had further powered him to stand on the side of the masses and fight for their rights. Many people were in the sitting room when he was talking because the news of the unsuccessful attempt on his life had spread and the people came from far and near. My mother, who was encouraged by what he said, also added, ‘That is why I like my husband.’

 How comfortable was his family when he was a senator?

My father was a very humble man. Those who know him will testify to this. We were living normally like other children. He was not a flamboyant person and I cannot remember anytime he showed off anything. Even some people couldn’t believe his Apapa Lagos house was the only one he had. They thought he had a mansion somewhere because of his political status. His Apapa house is a storey building.

 How did he correct any erring child?

He disciplined his children through eye contact. He was not the cane-using type of father. His look at any child who misbehaved would make the child pray that the ground should open and swallow him or her. His eye contact was firmer than his beating which he hardly did anyway. I was rascally as a student. I remember a day I went to play football without his permission. My promotion examination from Form 2 to Form 3 was close. But rather than stay at home to read, I decided to play football. I thought I would be home before him. But he was already around by the time I got home. He took the cane and beat me. That was the first and only time he used the cane on any of his children.

 How has his name opened doors for you?

I thank God that my siblings and I are products of Senator Abraham Adesanya. But we don’t use his name to get what we want. We work for what we need and get what we deserve on merit. In a way, my father’s name and what he stood for, make us proud. Many individuals are close to the family because of who my father was. At gatherings, it is often hard for people to know I am Abraham Adesanya’s son except if I am introduced for official reasons. We don’t go out of our way to say we are his children in order to get favours. It is not part of our family’s orientation.

 What was his favourite meal?      

He liked eba. He would eat it in the morning, afternoon and night. He liked eating it with ewedu, vegetable or melon soup.

 Did he have any special drink?

My father never took alcohol. He only took water and soft drinks.

 Who were his friends?

Most of his friends are late. But some of his colleagues who are still championing the struggle for a better Nigeria are Chief Ayo Adebanjo, Sir Olaniwun Ajayi, Chief Reuben Fasoranti, Chief Ayo Fasanmi among others.

 How did he settle misunderstandings with his wife?     

We hardly saw our parents disagree on anything. I am not sure they ever quarrelled. I think they kept any misunderstanding they had from us in order for us to have a great marriage like theirs.

 What did he say about Nigeria before his death?

He was unhappy with the situation in the country. He used to say the situation in the country was not what they fought for. During the Social Democratic Party electioneering, he used to say, ‘What do you people want me to tell Chief Obafemi Awolowo about Nigeria anytime my creator calls me.’ He wanted a united Nigeria where everybody would live in peace, love and have equal rights. But unfortunately, the situation in the country today is not different from what he lamented about.

 How did he relax?

He was a workaholic. When he got home, he would take his dinner, listen to the news for long hours and retire to his study to read for his next case before going to sleep. He loved reading law books. He could read far into the night and retire to bed later. And very early the next day, he was out of the house. There was a time the family had to force him to go abroad to rest.

 Where were you when he died?

I was in church on Sunday when he died. My wife and a nurse were with him in his house in Apapa. It was my wife that called me to break the news to me. I later left the church to his house. When I got there, I went straight to his bedroom where I saw his body.

 Did he have any private communication with you before his death?  

No. He was unable to communicate with anybody when he took ill until his death.

 What ideals did you emulate from him?

I learnt from him to be truthful, straightforward and to help those in need. My father hated liars. All my siblings also exhibit these values in their dealings with people.

 How close were you to him?

We were very close and we discussed many things together. I was even with him in Yaba, Lagos, when the police used tear gas on protesters during the struggle to reclaim the mandate of Chief M.K.O Abiola. He did not encourage me to join politics. I developed the interest on my own because of the way he showed honesty in what he believed in. I am sure that if he was alive, he would have spoken his mind about the insecurity and mal-administration in the country. He practised law for a long time and when the June 12 crises started, he was always going to courts because of the issues involved in reclaiming Abiola’s  mandate.

 What has happened to his law firm?

It is still functioning. There is someone who oversees the chamber and he is doing a good job there.

 How does his family feel with the naming of an institution after him in his state?

We love it because he truly deserved the honour. We are grateful that the last administration in Ogun State deemed it fit to name a polytechnic in Ijebu Igbo after him.  There is also an estate named after him by a former Governor of Lagos State, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu. He was still alive when the estate was named after him.

    What was his preferred form of dressing?

He loved native attire and English dresses.

 How do you feel being one of his children? I feel very happy to be one of his children. I am always grateful to God that a man like Chief Abraham Adesanya was my father. He was a unique man and father in many ways. He never allowed the challenges in the country to stop him from making great impact in Nigeria while he was alive. I am humbled that such a man begat  me.

 7 things you didn’t know about my father

-He loved eba

-He was a disciplinarian

-He was a family man

-He was a workaholic

-He listened only to the news

-He loved  reading

-He didn’t influence career choices of his children

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Osita, the only child of renowned novelist and administrator, Prof. Chukwuemeka Ike, who is now a traditional ruler, Ikelionwu of Ndikelionwu, Anambra State, speaks to EMMANUEL OBE about his father

What memories of growing up with your father can you recall?

I only have vague memories of our stay at Stanford University, where I first went to school before the Nigerian Civil War, and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. I also have vague childhood memories of Biafra, including the birth and death of my younger brother. I had a brief stint at the Central School, Ndikelionwu, established around 1946 and which is still going strong. My parents have always loved reading and music. Vacations were part of the annual itinerary, no matter where we lived. Plenty work must be followed by a break. We always had a pet dog. I once had 11 dogs at my home in Lagos. My father was already a renowned author in my childhood days. My parents love music. My father used to play the piano, which he brought back from Ghana with him.

What kind of father was Prof. Ike to his children?

Chukwuemeka Ike has always been a man of integrity, clear principles and sustainable Christian values. Integrity makes you reliable, dependable, trustworthy and comfortable to be with. His word is worth more than gold. Papa Nnukwu (the Big Father), as he is fondly called, is also a brilliant, but humble, self-effacing gentleman.  His humility is infectious. Dad has been an unending blessing and an eternally loved and beloved father, grandfather, friend and mentor. Personally, my father as my friend is essential. If more parents were truly friends of their children, they would not be looking for cults outside to provide familial love and support.

 As an only child, weren’t your parents too soft on you?

A slight correction, I am the sole surviving biological child of four sons God blessed my dear parents with. My grandfather, Mazi Charles Chinwuba Ike, was a teacher, church-man and was strict, honest, principled and firm. His two sons and four daughters, Winifred, Chukwuemeka, Joy, Mercy, Emmanuel and Ada, who are all still living, imbibed and practiced what they learned with pride. Their offsprings are all blessed. To the credit of my parents, by age 11 when I went to boarding secondary school,  I was so grounded in who I was, where I was from and where I was going. Cults were never in my purview. Hemp, cocaine, rape, homosexuality were never of interest to me. My mother talked straight up with me on sex and its consequences, respect for the dignity of all, especially girls and this has been a life-long conversation.

 How did he enforce discipline?

My dad never used the cane. His words and facial expression did it for him. It was my mother that had the gift for the creative use of koboko, without which I would have been a nuisance.

 How often did he take his family out?

Daddy loved and loves the good life. We ate well at home. We occasionally dined out at varying specialty restaurants at home and abroad. You could call him an epicurean. He also enjoyed his wines, cognacs and other sip-sip delights, if I may call them that. I learnt the use of chop sticks from my dad. We still have a photograph of dad doing the Tiniklin Dance on a visit to Manila in the Philippines early in the 1970s. We travelled to various countries on holidays, almost like going on cultural pilgrimage. He has always been a citizen of the world. When my grades were below expectations, they would leave me behind in Nigeria while they went off to Europe on vacation. You had to earn your fringe benefits. So, I laugh when people suggest that any child of Prof. Ike could ever be spoilt.

 How does he relax when he is at home?

Leisure for him includes reading, writing, music and watching TV sparingly. Sadly, with the state of our country, he can no longer stroll around in some places like he used to, especially after two kidnap attempts and an assassination threat that fortunately got nipped in the bud by security agencies. It is so sad to see what the serene, lovely country of my childhood has been turned into, by visionless and corrupt politicians.

 What are the values you imbibed from him?

Integrity and dedication are the values people feel I have taken from my dad. Some say I am hot- headed and wonder if he was like me in his youth. Tongue-in-cheek, I remind some that for five years, I was an army cadet at King’s College, successfully overthrowing the recalcitrant ommandant Princewill in a ‘bloodless coup’ in 1980, and becoming the most vibrant commandant. Lieutenant Osita Ike of the decade, and the only successful ‘coupist’ in the history of King’s College since it was founded in 1909. There would certainly be some chemical left in my brain after all that.

 How has his name opened doors for you?

We are not a family of name-droppers. Dad believes in individual achievement. He will rarely give you a note to any one or make a phone call to ask a favour for you. Indeed, there were times when it seemed a great disadvantage to be his son. People placed obstacles in my way because they either wrongly believed I was privileged or felt my father ought to have sought their assistance and felt slighted that he did not do so. In many places, I went in unannounced, no title, sometimes using one of my other less known names. I still do that, keeping a very low profile. I let my work speak for itself and get most jobs from referrals.

 How did he handle misunderstandings with your mother?

My late grandmother, Madam Dinah Ike’s words, would suffice in answering your question. I was about 18, on holiday at Ndike, when Mama Nnukwu (grandmother), who was very fond of me, said in not so many words, “Your mother is a wonderful woman, a blessing to us. We named her Ife N’gosi which means, ‘Pattern’ because she is the living example of the ideal Christian woman. When I visited your parents at Nsukka, I would sense there was a problem and I asked, ‘Bimpe my daughter, what is the matter?’ She would say nothing was the matter. She never complained, never reported her husband to anyone. My son never complained about his wife too.” Like our grandma, we never saw mum and dad quarrel. There were no shouting matches, and definitely no threat of any physical violence. An amazing, blessed couple indeed, in spite of challenges over the years. Now married for 55 years and waxing stronger, God has remained their rock and refuge.

 What impression of him do you have, having read his works like Bottled Leopard, Naked Gods, Expo ‘77 and Our Children are Coming?

A child does not really form impressions of a parent from the creative work of the parents. Chukwuemeka Ike, the author, is an international brand, because he writes unforgettable novels, with characters that spring out of the pages at you. He is the iconic wordsmith, anointed with the gift of writing well. His books have sold millions of copies across the world, with his novels in English, French and Igbo loved in equal measure. Any child would respect such phenomenal achievement. I certainly was inspired as well. I was anointed with a flair for poetry, and I have also written and published short stories. My career includes about three years as a full time journalist and 20 or more years as contributing editor, guest columnist and freelancer, so I have written more essays, articles, reports, photo stories and features than I have written poems. My father’s only published anthology of short stories, titled The Accra Riviera, was published by Oyster, my company.

 Which of his works are your favourites, and why?

The Potter’s Wheel was dedicated to me. I guess that should make it my favourite book of his. What I have found, however, is that his various books appeal to people for various reasons. Fortunately, many of his readers have many favourites among the large body of writing he has done. I like that.

 How come you did not take to the academia and writing, since your parents are academics?

My parents were really not academics. They taught at secondary and tertiary levels at various times, but had other primary and most fulfilling careers that they rose to the top of. Remember that dad was Assistant Registrar at the University in Ibadan, before moving to the University of Nigeria, Nsukka as Deputy Registrar, then first Nigerian Registrar of UNN. He moved on to Ghana as Registrar and CEO of the multinational West African Examinations Council, WAEC. Mum was Deputy Librarian at UNN, worked at The Ghana Library Board in Accra before returning to Nigeria to join the University of Lagos Library. She went on to become the pioneer University Librarian and Dean of Students when the new federal university opened in Bauchi. Even when she was Visiting Professor in Librarianship, at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka for over 10 years, Prof. Adebimpe Ike was also the National Coordinator of the National Documentation Centre for Sciences and Technology with nodal centres in federal universities across Nigeria. Prof. Chukwuemeka Ike’s last full time academic engagement was as Visiting Professor in English at the University of Jos up till 1985/86.

 Who are your father’s friends?

Chief Chike C. Momah was a year his senior at Government College, Umuahia and has been a friend, indeed brother ever since. Momah is also a successful author. Prof. Chinua Achebe was also more of a brother than friend and his death upset him a lot, for it was Achebe who encouraged him to write at Ibadan. The Obi of Onitsha, Igwe Alfred Achebe, who, like Ike, is also an alumnus of Stanford University, is also more of a younger brother than mere friend. Prof. Akin Mabogunje, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, Chief Onyeabo Obi, Prof. Bede Okigbo, Prof. Ayo Banjo, Bishop Jonathan Onyemelukwe and a handful of other eminent persons have been lifelong friends.

 What is his favourite meal?

It is difficult to say now. He loves fruits and vegetables and has a healthy, cultured dietary routine, whatever that means. He eats well, if I may put it that way.

 Does he have any special mode of dressing?

Within the palace, dad is casually and comfortably dressed. As king, he wears robes essentially the long Uwe, the regal Igbo jumper, made of choice fabrics including hand woven Akwete. The crown or beaded cap is worn, depending on the occasion. The other royal ornaments are worn too.

 What is his schedule like?

It is hectic to be frank. Some days, he is up writing by 5am.Community service and palace duties are combined with service as President of the Nigerian Book Foundation and other state functions. It can be quite a mix. But he takes it all in his stride.

 How close are you to him?

We are pretty close now. He is also a great father, grandfather and uncle. So, lots of people love to spend time with him as their mentor. I also assist him, quietly overseeing duties of Chief of Staff at the palace. Fortunately, I have completed my assignment as 1st Vice President-General of Ndike Welfare Association and there is a new, effective Chairman of the Culture Committee, which organises our festivals. So I have time to face other duties.

How sociable is he?

I would describe His Majesty as sociable. He has excellent interpersonal communication skills. People tend linger in his presence. Others look forward to meeting the legend, the literary icon, the elder statesman with absolutely no blemish on his public service records. He is seen as a fountain of wisdom and wit. However, I suspect your question really is whether he is a socialite. The answer is a capital no. For instance, he took on membership of the Ikoyi Club 1938 in the 1970’s largely on my account. I do not think he went there more than three times. You would never have found him at a beer parlour, even as a young man. One also would not find him at an owambe, and definitely, one would not find him ‘spraying’ money. Disciplined, prudent, privately philanthropic and reserved; that is our dear father whom we love and respect.

 Does he encourage you to be a writer too?

The encouragement was subtle. I believe parents, like government, should create a conducive, enabling environment in which their children would thrive, blossom and grow. Love is an essential ingredient and truth engenders peace. Children can be offered options and should be left to make their choices, based on individual passion and capacity. I thank my parents for doing just that.

 Do you think he made a good decision to become a traditional ruler, considering his academic and religious background?

God actually made the decision. I do not want to sound impetuous or act like the undesirable Nigerian politician. When he was asked to become King, His Majesty encouraged the Ike Royal Family to consult extensively and this took about two years. While consultations went on, our nuclear family prayed and fasted at different times, while Prof. went on with his normal life. Prayers continued and certain signs gradually indicated that God endorsed the decision. Of greater importance were signs and good omens that were an indication that God would empower His Majesty to serve successfully as a Christian King, in the manner of the great kings in the bible who walked in the light of God. Ndikelionwu is much better today for this. In every assignment, there will be challenges. With Almighty God, intended stumbling blocks are turned into steps leading up to great achievements.

 Are there challenges you face as son to a distinguished don?

No problem for me at all. I have never had a chip on my shoulder or felt threatened by his international success and global stature. We were taught contentment and confidence in ourselves. Everyone was created for a purpose, some for big roles and others for small support roles. Some cut their teeth in small roles and are promoted to the big stage. God has the master plan and all things work for good. Integrity, contentment and fulfilment are principles we imbibed at a tender age. These are the same principles my children are beginning to exhibit.

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In this interview with ARUKAINO UMUKORO, Stephen, one of the sons of Segun Odegbami, talks about his father

Tell us a bit about yourself.

My name is Stephen Odegbami, the fourth child of Segun Odegbami.

How was it like growing up with a famous father like Segun Odegbami?

I never mentioned that I was the son of Segun Odegbami, especially at school, because I was afraid of either being victimised or having too much attention on me. Because I was a very shy person growing up, I wasn’t really interested in the spotlight. I went to an all-boys school, CMS Grammar School, in the 90s. I remember the first day dad came to school with me. He dropped me off and that was the first time I had the first taste of that kind of attraction or spotlight of having a famous parent. Immediately my dad came in, the headmaster welcomed us specially. Students were all peeping from their classrooms and were like, ‘oh, that’s Segun Odegbami’s son.’ The moment he dropped me off, I got the attention from everyone. On the spot, I had many people who wanted to be my school father. Growing up, if I would introduce myself, I would say Stephen. I would only add ‘Odegbami’ when asked of my surname. I won’t deliberately mention it at first because of the attention it attracts.

Would you say your father’s name has opened doors for you?

Yes it did and it still does, though I am not one to take advantage of it. I don’t introduce myself as an Odegbami, except on exceptional cases, when I had to actually introduce myself. This occurred more when I was with my dad at events. His name has opened doors for his children and not just his immediate family, but others too who have benefitted from him.

Asides from being the famous footballer we all know, what kind of father is he?

He is a very caring father. He is very compassionate too. He sticks his neck out for his children and tries to make it as easy as possible for them. He makes up for whatever he lacks with care and support.

Can you recall some fond memories growing up with him?

When we were younger, he always took all of us out to fun places. He is a father who enjoys the closeness of his family and children. He likes us all to have a good relationship. He pushes for it more than anybody else.

How does he spend time with his children?

He had more time to spend with us when we were growing up. Now, we are older and we are all busy doing our own thing. But every time he gets the opportunity to spend time with us, he does. We go on outings and he has several special places, but he regularly goes to the tennis club on the mainland.

In our younger days, he took us there most of the time.  Everyone at the club knew us because we always came there. I think he was probably the only one then that came to the club with his children.

What other sports does he do apart from playing football and tennis?

I know that he plays snooker also but I haven’t seen him play it for some time now. When he was playing football at the All Star Club, Surulere, he used to take me there with him. I saw him play a few times before he finally decided to hang his boots because he said his body couldn’t move to football as his mind would. So, he stopped playing football and focused more on tennis.

Were you disappointed when he said he was retiring from football?

I wasn’t disappointed, even though I was born at the pinnacle of his career. So, I watched more of his tapes than really see him play live. I wasn’t born during the 1980 African Cup of Nations Cup, but I’ve seen footages of him play, even in the 70s.

How did you feel whenever you watched his tapes, especially when Nigeria won the 1980 African Cup of Nations in Lagos?

It’s an experience one can’t really put into words. Many people wish they are in my shoes. It gives me great joy that I have a football hero as a father, one who didn’t just pass through the corridors of football in this country but who made his mark.  I feel very proud of him.

Do you know why he is nicknamed ‘Mathematical’?

Yes, I think it was because of his precision on the field of play, and his touchline dribbles. I also know he was nicknamed ‘mathematical’ by the famous radio commentator, Ernest Okonkwo, who made the name popular.

How come you didn’t take to football?

I studied social work at the University of Lagos. I played football when I was growing up but then I had a fracture in an accident. Since then, I just lost interest. Also, I wasn’t really encouraged to take to football, because my dad was very particular about quality education. He didn’t discourage us from playing football either, but he made us understand the importance of education.

Did he influence his children’s careers?

He is a very liberal person. A lot of us are into the arts. One of my sisters is a professional make-up artist, my brother is into computer and graphics design. I am into sound engineering. He always encouraged us to do what we loved most and that we should be good at it.

Who among his children has passion for football like him?

I used to think that I could have been good at football. I don’t know if it could have been so, if not for that accident I had at a tender age. I think I might have played football.  I can’t remember how old I was then, maybe six or seven. But it was just discouraging for me then, because I was in the hospital for about two months. So, I just lost interest. I know that my sisters were good at athletics and sports. I don’t know if they would have taken to football.

How did he discipline erring children?

He wasn’t someone who used the cane on his children often. But he verbally scolded us whenever we did something wrong. I remember when we were growing up, he flogged me only once. That was the only time I remember. He could make one feel really bad when one did something wrong.

What are the values you learnt from him?

I learnt a lot from him while growing up and up till now, I am still learning from him. I learnt one thing quickly from him in my younger days — he doesn’t lie and he detests lying. That was one of the first things I picked up from him while I was growing up. He is very caring and compassionate. Personally, I think that sometimes his compassion overrides his better judgment. That is how compassionate he is.  He is hardworking too.

At a point he ran for the presidency of the Nigeria Football Federation but didn’t win. How did he feel about it?

I know that he has genuine love for Nigeria football and he wanted to get into the position to make things better. He is not a politician or a businessman; he is just a humanitarian who feels that we can make things better for ourselves and our immediate environment.  He tried all he could but it just didn’t pan out as he would have wanted it to be.

What are his views about Nigeria’s 2014 World Cup chances?

He writes about his deepest thoughts on Nigeria football in the papers. I also read about them in the papers. Yes, we talk about football once in a while whenever we chat, but our relationship is more of a father-son relationship. In most cases, he talks about life in general.

What is the most important advice he has given you?

I learn a lot from him by simply watching his examples. This is because I am around him a lot. So, I pick them up as I watch him. I am where I am now because I learnt so much from him and I am still learning. He shows me by example what to do and what not to do. I don’t need to him to tell me, I just see the example and pick it.

How has he been able to shield his family from the limelight?

He is very protective of his family. He has a good relationship with everybody, I must say. One of the things I have also learnt from him is maintaining good relationship with one’s family.

How is his relationship with your mother?

They have a good relationship and they communicate well. My mum is based in Ogun State.

What were some of your favourite moments when you watched his tapes?

I remember watching one of his old tapes in the studio last week. I can’t remember which one, but he scored a goal during a Confederation of African Football tournament, and he just raised his hands up in celebration. I told him that he should have run around and somersaulted in celebration, or something like that. He just looked at me and laughed. Many of the tapes that I have seen are build-ups to his goals. But I am always excited whenever he scored a goal. One of the most significant moments for me was during the 1980 African Cup of Nations final where he scored two goals.

What are his likes and dislikes?

He doesn’t like lying and insincerity. Those are the things I know he doesn’t like. He likes one to be compassionate. He also encourages an active lifestyle. He likes one to be engaged in sports. Through him, I have learnt that being active in sports helps one’s health, reasoning and social status. He encourages one to have a healthy and active lifestyle.

What are his hobbies?

He used to play snooker. But he plays tennis regularly now.

What are his favourite outfits?

He used to wear native attire a lot. I still think he likes wearing native outfits more.

What is his favourite meal?

He likes guinea fowl. He also likes yam, fish and potatoes.

What is his regular schedule like?

In most cases, he wakes up early in the morning, watches the news for anything interesting, then he would have his breakfast and head to work. His schedules at work are always spontaneous, maybe he is going for a meeting or function. Nobody can predict that. But at the end of the day, he would go to the club and play tennis. A few other times, he would just hang out with friends.

Would you say he is a socialite?

He doesn’t attend parties, but he goes for functions or weddings if he is invited. So, I wouldn’t say he is a socialite in the real sense of it. But he is just someone who is ‘socially available.’

He retired at the peak of his career. Do you think he regrets hanging his boots at that point in his life?

No, I don’t think he regretted hanging his boots at that time. But I do know that he wished he played at the World Cup. Of course, he wanted to play at the biggest stage of football, but he didn’t get the opportunity to. He wanted to play at the World Cup.

Do you think his retiring early gave him more opportunity to spend time with his family?

Yes. It also gave him the opportunity to explore other fields. He did a little bit of engineering, sports broadcasting and set the trail. He went into sports consulting, writing and journalism.

Can you recollect one particular memorable event when you went out with him?

They are so many. I remember meeting the Governor of Lagos State when he launched his book and went on a book tour. That was the first time I would ever be in the presence of the governor. We also went to Oyo and Ogun states and met the governors too. For me, that was great.

Your father recently escaped a robbery attack when robbers shot at his car. How did you feel about the incident?

I was shocked and scared for him. He didn’t tell me at first because he was still suffering from the trauma of the attack at that time. Hence,  I am sometimes worried, especially when he is about to go on a road trip.

Your father holds a pride of place in the nation’s football history. For you, what is his legacy?

For me, his legacy is that he showed that one can combine education and sports successfully because he played professional football while he was still in school studying.  And if one sets his or her mind to it, one can excel in both. An active football career could span 10 – 15 years and one would need the educational background to guide one in what one wants to do after a football career. Only a few people have managed to succeed in doing both. But he has succeeded in doing that and remains relevant and impactful in Nigerian football. He’s been active and I feel it is because he had a good educational background. So, he showed that one can excel in academics and sports, because that is what would give one’s longevity in this life. A football or sports career comes and goes, but one would want to do something else afterwards.

Would you encourage your children to play football?

Oh, yes, definitely, especially now that we have people like Cristiano Ronaldo.

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Cosmas Maduka jr. is the son of the Chairman of Coscharis Group, Cosmas Maduka. He talks about his father’s success story with GBENGA ADENIJI

What was it like growing up with your father?

My father was rarely around while I was growing up. But it was all for good. He was always busy going for one business engagement or the other. He was ever travelling out of the country, trying to make ends meet and to make his family comfortable. But whenever he returned home, he made up for the time he was away. He is a disciplinarian, a strict businessman and a Christian. He ensures that we consistently imbibe the ideals of Christianity. We were raised in a very strong Christian home. We were mandated to attend church services four times a week; Sunday service, two midweek services and a youth meeting on Saturday.

How did he make up to his family when he was around?

We always went on summer vacations. He never failed to make up for when he was away. He made sure that we had two months to go on vacation. I cannot remember any time I spent my holidays in the country. Some of my siblings were born abroad so we would tour some countries as a family. He used to take us to Niagara Falls, Canada, Disneyworld, Florida, US and Disneyland, Paris, France. No matter how tight his schedule was, he made sure that he created time for us to embark on a two-month summer holiday and enjoy every bit of it. Before travelling, we would start with a convention in June in our church.

Was it your father that encouraged you to study economics?

He didn’t encourage me to study any particular course. The only thing he put his feet down on is that we should attend church and live according to the principles of the Bible. Apart from that, he does not in any way influence the career choice of any one of us. My choice of career is of my volition. He may advise us on what to do but he does not impose his choice on us. That is the kind of person my father is.

Whose decision was it that you should work in the family company?

It was my decision. Before now, I had spent four years working for four top banks in the country. At one point, I reasoned that my father was not getting younger and that I should begin to get involved in the family business and understudy him. I desire to know everything about the business that keeps him very busy.

Who fixed your salary?

It was an agreement between the company’s managing director and my father who is the chairman and chief executive officer. There is a group MD who reports to him. So, the decision of how much I should earn was decided between the two of them.

How would you describe the salary?

It is a huge pay rise considering where I was coming from as a banker. I am an executive director (special duties) in the company. My position is not just a title because I am currently observing my induction in all the departments and branches of the company in Nigeria and outside Nigeria.

What is it like working under the watch of your father?

It is a bit different and there are challenges. Being a younger person, sometimes I want to look at things from a young person’s perspective. I could be tempted to ask why we still use or do certain things. But he will sit me down and give me a broader picture or overview of things. I would later realise that I was rushing things. I might want to rush to do some things and he would tell me to take it step by step. I would want to drive the best car in town as my official car but he would tell me to take it easy because I have my years ahead of me to drive any brand of car I want. He is much in charge and knows so much about the running of the company. We discuss and exchange ideas from my young mind on how we can expand and explore areas where we can benefit from.

How does he relax?

He relaxes in a lot of ways. He used to play table tennis. He was the chairman of the Nigerian Table Tennis Federation for about 18 years. He also likes to ride a power bike. He is an average power bike rider. He rides GS R1150 cc and BMW R1600 cc bikes. He likes jogging along the Lekki-Ikoyi Bridge and Falomo.

What is his special meal?

My father doesn’t have a special meal as such. He likes fruits. It is sad to say, but my father is fitter than I am. He is very conscious of his health despite the fact that he does not have any health challenge. In the past, he used to eat pounded yam but all that has changed.

Does he have any favourite drink?

My father neither drinks nor smokes. He does not take soft drinks. He takes only water.

What is his mode of dressing?

He dresses mostly in English clothes. Sometimes I tell him to wear traditional outfits. He likes suits and ties. Sometimes, he wears a pair of jeans and T-shirt if he wants to appear casual.

Has he taken time to tell you his story?

He did not sit me down to tell me the story of how he started from nothing to become what he is today. But I know the story because once in a while he and my mother, while advising us would discuss it. We have also heard the story from our uncles and family members. He also tells the story during his lecture engagement with the youth. I know the story well.

What motivates you most about his success story?

My major motivation is that he struggled from being nobody to somebody. I think it is the same for many people who know how he started. He knew he would make a meaning with his life even though many people who knew he had such conviction derided him. He had a primary three education because his father died when he was about six and his mother was unable to support his education. He decided to hit the streets to hawk goods and from there he worked hard to build what is today a conglomerate. He is a great motivator for somebody like me who got education up to the master’s level. I have no excuse not to maintain the standard that he has set. It is something that keeps me awake that I must not let him down and must assist in ensuring that the company extends its frontiers.

How does he discipline his children?

His idea of discipline is derived from the biblical injunction that says if you spare the rod, you spoil the child. My father believes that if a child deserves spanking, verbal correction, scolding or caning, such a child should get it. He is not someone who just enjoys caning a child. He will let that child know what he or she did and allow him or her to do better.

Can you recall anytime he beat you?

Of course!  There was a time my cousin and I were playing with his favourite suspenders. I could not recall my age then. He had previously warned us not to play with it. We eventually destroyed it and when he came back, I knew we were in trouble. I pretended as if I was sleeping and he gently told me, ‘young man, get up.’ He took his leather belt and beat my cousin and I. He gave us some good beating that day.

How does he handle misunderstandings with his wife?

My father is a very calm person. You know that sometimes women like to have their way but he is never the type who is overbearing or shouts at his wife. I have never seen them argue over anything. They both understand each other. It is a good example for me because my wife will get the same treatment because I didn’t learn any form of violent treatment of women in my upbringing.

What ideals have you learnt from him?

I learnt hard work. He preaches hard work and the need to fear God. He respects human beings and I know I have also imbibed this from him. I see the way he relates with people. He does not feel comfortable when people relate with him as a ‘big man.’ He wants people to feel they are relating with a fellow human being. I have seen him show this many times whenever he is relating with his employees. He is also a very compassionate person. He is more concerned about the masses.

How sociable is he?

He is not too sociable. He often does not attend parties. He sometimes honours invitations to events but he often does not stay too long in the place. You cannot find him showing class. He once said the money he wanted to make was the one enough to cater for his family, assist people and support the society.

What is his schedule like?

Busy is the right word. He runs a very busy schedule. Like I said earlier, he was not always around when we were growing up because of his busy schedule. He is 55 now and still the same way he was many years ago. He got married when he was 19. He has been so focused and always knows what he wants. My mother was 20 when they got married. My parents have been married for 36 years now. They didn’t have a child for the first seven years of their marriage. So you can see, I am not up to 30. Since I was born, he has been a very busy man. Sometimes, I say that the way people drive their cars to some places is the way he flies on planes. As he is coming back from China, he moves to Abuja. As he is leaving Abuja, he has an appointment in Port Harcourt and as he returns to Lagos, he has an appointment to meet some people in Germany.   As he finishes the engagement, he goes to the United Arab Emirates to connect South Africa before coming to Lagos. That describes his typical schedule. I look forward to relieving some of the workload and pressures on him. It will be a challenge but if he can do all that, I can do it and hopefully better.

How close are you to him?

We are close to the extent that time allows him. If he is around, we discuss a lot. He is a very funny person. He likes to crack jokes. We do share some times together but I wish he could have more time. He is a Liverpool fan while I am an Arsenal fan. When Liverpool beat Arsenal, he was looking for me all over the place to tease me. He is a very funny father. We are very close.

What are his favourite books?

He likes reading the Bible and any book that will add value to him. He reads biographies too and TIME magazine.

How comfortable is his family?            

My father does not lead a lavish lifestyle. He has no private jet. We had everything we wanted and needed while growing up. He also ensured that were not spoilt. But he provided us with everything because there was a point in his life that he was picking food from the dustbin. So, he makes us to have everything he couldn’t have as a child.

Did you enjoy any preferential treatment while in the university?

Yes, I did. I will not lie about that even though I pretended sometimes as if I didn’t know why I was being treated specially. I do know why. Why I acted naïve was because I would think I deserved certain things but only got them because of who my father is. I thank God for who he is. When I wanted to apply to work in the banks, he didn’t influence anything. He could have played a part but he likes us to find our way.

How has your father’s name helped you?    

It has assisted me in many ways. It is very hard for me to hide because of the similarity in our names. My father’s name is Cosmas Maduabuchukwu Maduka likewise mine. The only difference is that my name carries ‘Junior.’  The Igbo name is the same including ‘Cosmas’ which is Greek. People often ask me if I am related to him and before they finish, I answer yes so that I can move on to other things. People see him as a very humble person and they expect him to train his children in his manner. I know that people respect him and we have to make him proud always.

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Alexandre, the first son of highlife maestro, Sir Victor Uwaifo, tells EMMANUEL OBE about his father

Tell us about yourself and what you do.

My name is Alexandre Uwaifo, a graduate of the University of Benin, a sculptor, music producer/sound engineer, musician and designer. I’m the president/chief executive officer of a music company. I am the first of three children. I love arts, dancing and fashion. I spend most of my time in the studio. When I am not doing that, I watch movies. I’m an ambivert. While I cherish my social interactions, I also love to spend time alone.

 What memories of your growing up can you recall?

 Growing up was fun for me even though I was a quiet kid. I was adventurous and somewhat mischievous too (laughs). I also had a lot of friends growing up with me. But I spent most of my childhood drawing and riding bicycles. I loved to create things. I also remember my mom taking us out especially during festive periods. I played lots of video games too. I guess I grew up like every other normal child in my time.

 How was it like growing up with your father?

It was normal for me. He raised us to be responsible and hardworking.

 Did your father influence your choice of career ?

He definitely had an influence on my choice of career. But he did not force me to make decisions. He let me take decisions on what to study in the university and what career to pursue in life. Growing up with my dad made me appreciate the arts. I used to draw a lot as a kid. When I fnished primary school, I started going to the gallery with my dad and that’s where I took interest in sculpting. Then I got into secondary school (Kings College, Lagos) where I further developed the interest. It was when I was in senior secondary one, that I first had interest in music. But it was not until I graduated that I went into music full time. When I was younger, my dad used to keep a lot of my sketches for me. That helped me improve on my drawings because when I went through drawings, I got motivated to do it better.

 Are your other siblings also involved in the arts?

Yes, almost everyone in the family is in the arts. We all learnt how to play an instrument or two, it was somewhat compulsory for us. My father made it a point of duty for us to play one instrument or the other. I started taking piano lessons from the age of seven. My little brother who just clocked 18 started learning how to play the guitar at the age of one. Today, he directs and edits videos. He has also grown to become a great dancer.

  What kind of father is he?

He was strict and stern with his decisions. He never hesitated to discipline us when we misbehaved. He was so overwhelming in our lives that even when he wasn’t around, we still recognised his authority as the head of the house. That exercise of authority is what helped in shaping us into who we are today – responsible and principled. Nevertheless, we also used to have fun together. There were times that he would take us out on a treat, family dinner, or get-together. We also enjoyed sitting together and chatting.

Did he dote on any of his children?

He would never spoil his kids. How could he do it? (Laughs out loud). Whatever gifts we got from him, we got them because we worked hard for it and deserved it.

 How did he enforce discipline, did he use the cane?

As kids, when our parents scolded us for doing wrong, we usually felt they were too hard on us. But it is when we grew older that we realise why they had to get hard on us. I do not think he was too hard. To answer your question, yes, he used the cane sometimes to correct us.

 Give one or two instances when your father had to discipline you?

There were quite a number of cases. But I cannot clearly recall the circumstances that necessitated them. But it happened when I disobeyed his instructions.

 Does he find time for his family?

 Yes, he does. He doesn’t like staying away from the house for too long. Even when he travels on official business or shows, as soon as he’s done with the business, the next place he visits is the home. But because of his usually busy schedule, we go out as a family once in a while.

 How does he relax when he’s at home?

 When he wants to relax, he goes into his room and relaxes by reading, watching TV or sleeping.

 What values have you imbibed from him?

 We got the virtues of honesty and hard work from him. He is also a go-getter. There is nothing like, ‘impossible’ for him. He believes in the philosophy of, ‘If you can think it, then you can do it.’

 Does his name open doors for you?

 Sure! His name has been opening doors for me. Whenever I introduce myself, people give me audience because of the name, Uwaifo.

What challenges do you face because of your father?

The reception I get because of him is awesome. But still I have to prove myself that I am worth listening to. There is also the need for me to prove that I am not just dropping my father’s name. I have to prove the values that he is known for and that could really be challenging.

 How do you feel being the son of a famous person?

 I feel blessed and lucky. It is not easy to have a famous father (laughs).

 What values do your father hold dear?

 That would be hard work. The man never rests. Anything he plans to do, he does not stop until he has achieved it. He also does not like to waste time when there is work to do. He attacks the job and accomplishes it within the programmed time. He’s a very vibrant person. He still does exercises and visits the gym every day to stay sharp and fit.

 How does he handle arguments with his wife?

 I hardly know when they have misunderstandings. But whenever they do, they handle it privately. We never get to know.

What impression of him do you have having listened to his music and seen his artworks?

I see him as someone who is exceptionally creative. He is a custodian of the Benin culture. He portrays these attributes through his music and artworks.

 Which of his songs are your favourites?

I particularly do not have a favourite among his songs. But I love his music and most of his songs because I can relate to them. I most especially enjoy the rhythm. The sound of his music is very unique, and you cannot find it in any other person’s music.

 He sang a song urging people not to be afraid of ‘Mammy Water.’ Did he tell you about his encounter with the water goddess?

I was not born when he had an encounter with mammy water. But you can ask him. He will tell you the story better.

 Which of his works is his favourite?

I do not think he has a favourite.

Between music and sculpting, which does he enjoy more?

I think it is music. He relishes it much. He just cannot do without it.

What is his religious orientation?

 He is a Christian and a Catholic.

Apart from music and the arts what is his other major preoccupation?

Everything he’s into is connected to music and the arts.

He was once in politics. Why did he quit?

He was the Commissioner for Arts, Culture and Tourism in Edo State for four years and his tenure ended. It was time for him to move on to achieve greater things. I guess he missed his first passion- music.

Does he have any regrets?

To the best of my knowledge, I don’t think he regrets anything in life. My dad has achieved everything he wanted to. He’s won loads of awards. He has had appointments. He is still having a great career in music and he is enjoying a great family.

Who are your father’s friends?

His close friends remain his childhood friends, Sir David Osunde, Jerome Elaiho, Dr. Osuide and Dr. Charles Osula. Those are the ones I can remember. But he has many others.

What is his favourite meal?

He really does not have a favourite meal. He enjoys a well-prepared meal.

Does he have any special mode of dressing?

No, he doesn’t. As long as he is comfortable in the clothes and they look mature on him, he is okay.

What is his schedule like?

He is very busy. He is always working.

How close are you to him?

I am as close to him as a son should be to his father. We are working on his new album together. I am producing quite a number of tracks on the album. We have been spending a lot of time together and travelling together.

How sociable is he?

He doesn’t go out that much. He is always busy with one thing or the other. He has a weird sense of humour when he wants to be funny.

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Damilola is the son of popular drama evangelist, Mike Bamiloye. He talks about his father’s passion with GBENGA ADENIJI

Tell us briefly about yourself

I am Damilola Mike-Bamiloye, the first child of Evangelist Mike and Gloria Bamiloye. I graduated from Bowen University where I studied mass communication. I currently work in the ministry.

You have acted in some of your father’s films, did he influence you in that regard?

Yes, the influence came from him. Growing up in an environment where one experienced the challenges, fun, rigours and blessings of stage drama, outreaches and film productions, would automatically influence one. As a little child, during late night film shootings, dad often sent my younger brother and I to our rooms but we were thrilled and we preferred spying and looking at what was happening than sleeping.

It was because of the influence back then that we (Mount Zion children) began enacting some of the movies during our playtime. For example, I could act as ‘Ishawuru’ today, one person would act as ‘Sister Mary’ and another person would play the role of ‘Brother Gbenro.’ Someone would hold a fake camera and call, “action!” to signal the start of acting. We are all grown now and one of us in the ministry married. It is impossible to deviate from the ministry and the calling because we ate the ministry’s food, drank ministry’s water and it was ministry’s money that was used to send us all to school.

Did your father also encourage your other siblings on their career choice?

Yes, he did. Dad discovered the gift of music in my younger brother even before he became a teenager. One day he bought us a little keyboard and my brother, Joshua was fonder of it than any of us. Every day he played it and every day, he got better. This made dad buy a bigger one, specifically for him. He became a master at that one too. Dad kept upgrading his keyboard as he got better. Right now, he scores Mount Zion movies and some other gospel movies. My sister also has a passion for reading and editing scripts. Although she is the last born, she has a better grasp of English than my brother and I.  That is why dad encouraged her to study English for her first degree. I started acting since I was two. But his encouragement was not just for me to be an actor but a drama minister. In my third year at the university, I had a strong passion to make a movie for the school through the drama group but I didn’t know how to go about it. I called him and he encouraged me to pursue it. I did and it became a success.

During my youth service, the passion came again to make a movie for corps members with the drama group of the Nigeria Christian Corpers Fellowship. I called him for advice and he told me that it was possible. That encouragement made the movie, “Shadows of Death,” possible.

What memory of your growing up can you recall?

There were so many and to say them all will be to write a novel out of them. We grew up in Ile-Ife, Osun State. That was a period of lack. We didn’t have much but we were happy. I remember any time I asked for anything, my dad would say, ‘There is no money.’  But he would add “God will provide.” Though it might take some time, he would give me what I requested. Our parents didn’t paint a negative picture about life. One day, as kids, we were hungry and there was nothing at home. Dad went out to buy “eko” (pap). He poured it in a bowl and garnished it with milk, Milo, sugar and made it delicious. He packaged it well and called us joyfully, “children come and take chocolate pap.” We were so happy. We thought he bought it in a supermarket. We didn’t know it was locally-made. Another experience was when he told my younger brother to give away his priceless keyboard. Joshua did, but unknown to him; dad had bought a better keyboard for him. He wanted to teach him the principles of giving and receiving.

How does he make time for his family?

He is a very busy man but he makes it up during Easter, Christmas periods and other holidays. When we were small, mum stayed at home and looked after us while dad travelled for ministrations and outreaches. But right now, it is like everyone is busy because I travel with him most of the time as his personal assistant. My brother is currently observing the mandatory one-year National Youth Service Corps scheme and my sister is in school. We all come together during holidays. He enjoys taking us out for picnics especially during holidays. It was what he did when we were young and he still does it. It is really funny how he doesn’t pay attention to the people staring at him in public but we feel a little shy even when no one is really looking at us.

How does he relax at home?

He watches television and communicates with mum a lot. In the evening, they hold hands and stroll round the compound discussing. He also enjoys cooking. He is a great cook. Sometimes, when he is less busy, he tells mum to relax while he takes over the kitchen and turns us to assistant chefs.

  What values have you learnt from him?

The first value I learnt from him is humility. He is a very humble man and that made me understand that no matter the height one feels he or she has attained, there is always more to climb. His humility challenged me not to be satisfied with the present. Being moderate is another value I have learnt from him.  The most important is his relationship with God and devotion to prayers. His faith in God is so strong and unshakable. Sometimes, he would say God says something will happen even though circumstances may be saying otherwise. But in the end, God’s word will prevail.

How has his name helped you?

It has opened doors for us on many occasions. We get more attention because of who our father is. It has also helped us to behave well because there is an expectation on us as his children.

What are the values your father cherishes?

Humility as I earlier stated. He doesn’t joke with integrity. He is so passionate about mission work and that challenges me a lot. He derives much joy in taking gospel drama to other nations and he is happy when he is watching a gospel movie. He is a very patient person and he can also teach one patience, especially when one is anxious to get something. He is never in a hurry to get something. He is a very diligent and hard working man.  He is a giver. He sows a lot into kingdom work. He hates dishonesty with a passion. He believes a man must know how to cook and do house chores.

How does he handle disagreements with your mother?

Dad loves mum so passionately. The two are a perfect match. They don’t fight or quarrel but I have noticed that when mum blows hot, daddy blows cold and when daddy blows hot, mummy blows cold. I have never seen the two of them blow hot at the same time.

What impression of him do you have seeing his films?

It is a challenge to me because I know that we are the next generation but he is not resting yet. I know that there is a lot of work to be done.

 Who are your father’s friends?   

Mount Zion is made up of eight families who have been together for almost thirty years. His best friends are the daddies and mummies in Mount Zion.

 How does he discipline erring children?

He is not as strict or hard as some people assume. When we were young, he used the cane but now he lashes at us with his words. His verbal lashing is more painful than the cane.

How do you feel being his child?

It is a great privilege to have a man who is one’s biological and spiritual father.

What is his favourite meal?

Honestly, it is difficult to tell his favourite meal. He might like a food so much now but that doesn’t mean he will have the same degree of likeness for the same food the following day. Food wise, he is very unpredictable.

Does he have any special mode of dressing?

He does not have a special mode of dressing. He dresses moderately. He is not a materialistic person. He doesn’t like flashy things.

What is his schedule like?

My dad’s schedules are tight. He is a very busy person. Even when he is at home, he is always busy in the studio and in the home office.

 How close are you to him?

We are quite close. I discuss many issues bothering me with him. No matter how busy or occupied he is, he pauses to hear them and provides solutions. Daddy has a listening ear.

How sociable is he?

He is on the reserved side. Mum is more social, so I think they complement each other.

Have you acted with him?

I have not acted with him but we have worked on some projects together. The most recent and most memorable is a film project we had in Australia where I was the director of photography. We did not have sufficient hands. So, dad and I had to do the lighting for the film. It became a success afterwards. I was watching the preview copy and I saw a part in the opening credit where he wrote, Lighting by: Mike Bamiloye, Damilola Mike Bamiloye. I cried because I thought it was a great privilege and honour to work side by side with dad. I have acted with mum where I played her son and till date, the experience lingers in my mind. I hope to act with dad someday and probably play his son.

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In this interview with MOTUNRAYO JOEL, Anita talks about her father, Chika Okpala a.k.a. Zebrudaya of the New Masquerade fame

Aside being the daughter of the famous Zebrudaya, who is Anita Okpala?

 I’m Anita Okpala, I had my primary and secondary school education at International Early Learning Centre, Abia State. I later obtained my first degree at Anambra State University . I have two siblings, a brother and a sister, though my sister is late.

How was life growing up with your father?    

Those days were remarkable, I miss my childhood days. Growing up was really fun. Despite the fact that my father wasn’t able to spend much time at home then because he was always working or travelling from one state to another, whenever he was around, I felt his presence; there was no dull moment with him. I didn’t question his absence because I knew he was somewhere working so that his family would be comfortable, but this is not to say I didn’t miss his absence.

Did he try to impose his career choice on his children?

Not at all, he always gives his children freedom to explore. My father is kind-hearted. He is not that type of father that forces his children to go against their wish. He gave us the opportunity to explore. He has an open-mind, very understanding and flexible. Whatever decision any of his children made in terms of career choice, he was ready to support them to the end.

 Is he an overprotective father?

It’s just normal for a father to protect his children which my father did, but he wasn’t overprotective, although he was strict to an extent. I’m glad he was strict, it helped me stay focused. I think my life is what it is today because of his strict nature.

 Can you describe his attitude towards money?

My father isn’t that type of father that splashes money on any and everything. He is a prudent spender. He is not extravagant with money. He taught us how to save money. He believes that no matter how much one has in their account, they should spend wisely.

 What is his temperament like?

He definitely isn’t hot tempered. Mere looking at him; you can tell he is a jovial person. Though he gets angry once in a while, but his anger isn’t to the extreme. He can be angry this minute and the next minute, he is laughing. He doesn’t bottle up his anger.

  How does he handle criticisms?

My father is the kind of person that isn’t too bothered about criticisms. He prefers you tell him the truth rather than pretend because that is what he would do too. If he wants to criticise your action, he would say it plainly, without mincing or sugarcoating his words. He isn’t someone that beats about the bush. He feels it’s better for one to hear the truth, even if they get displeased.

 Who are his friends?

You can imagine how many friends a man like ‘Chief Zebrudaya’ will have. He has so many friends, both within Nollywood and outside. He is someone that attracts people because of his jovial personality. He is fun to be with and, like I said, there is no dull moment with him. I guess that is why he has so many friends. They enjoy his company.

 Does he create time for family outings?

That was one area that was special to him. I give him 100 per cent for that. He didn’t joke with family outings. Whenever there was a family outing, he would suspend all other meetings. I still remember some of the recreational centres he used to take us such as the Aba’s Sports Club, the zoo and other places. Our family outings were always exciting especially with my brother and late sister.

 Do you get preferential treatments because you are Zebrudaya’s child?

 I did enjoy preferential treatments. And I still do. But this is not on an everyday thing. Once in a while, I get favours here and there. We were privileged to have him as a father and role model. Hearing people say good things about him makes us (his children) happy.

 How has his name opened doors for you?

My father’s name has opened so many doors and granted me access to places I would never have imagined visiting. People who know him are so quick to offer help whenever I introduce myself as his daughter.  I’m grateful to God and I don’t take the favours I get for granted.

 How did he punish any offending child?

Whenever any of us erred, my father would scold us but he never spanked us. It was my mother that used to do more of the beating. They both had their methods of punishing us.

 What values did you learn from him?

I have imbibed so many values from my father. He is my role model. However, one of the values I learnt from him was hard work. He is a very hardworking man; I don’t think I’ve come across anybody who is as hard working as my father. The word laziness is not in his vocabulary and I like this about him. He made sure that he trained us to be hardworking too. Growing up, my father taught us how to be independent and not always depend on them (parents) for everything. Another value I imbibed from him is humility. He is extremely humble; my father is this sort of person that wouldn’t show off even if he has billions in his account.

 How does he relax?

He doesn’t joke with his rest time. He believes that when one works hard, they should rest well. His style of relaxation is to spend time with his wife at a place Igbos call ‘obi’ with a newspaper and a bottle of water or fresh fruit in his hand. Surprisingly, my father hardly take alcohol. He indulges only when it is necessary.

 How does he handle disagreements with your mother?

 One thing I’ve realised about my father is that he is strong-willed. Whenever they argue, it’s either they disagree to agree at the end of the day or my mother gives in to his decision. My father usually stands on his words, but sometimes, he succumbs to her decisions. The beauty of the whole thing is that their disagreements don’t last for long. One minute they can be arguing and the next minute they are best of friends.

 What kind of songs does he listen to?

My father is a big fan of highlife music. He has a huge collection of highlife music.

 What is his favourite meal?

He generally loves good food. His favourite meal is bitterleaf soup and breadfruit.

 Is he funny at home?

My father is jovial at home, he even tells jokes at home. You can’t be bored when he is around. He always has one or two jokes to tell us.

I feel happy and honoured to be his daughter. He is the best father and I love him. Although we disagree to agree sometimes, which is normal, he is a wonderful father.

 What is his opinion about Nollywood movies?

 He supports what nollywood is doing and thinks they are doing a great job in terms of showcasing Nigerian movies to the world. He says Nollywood has taken a new turn and improved its standard, which is great. However, he says nollywood movies concentrate too much on native doctors, ritual killings, diabolic scenes and the likes. He feels they should be reduced because they don’t give any educative information or have a positive impact on our youths. Rather they make youths channel their thoughts towards evil acts. He feels it is possible to produce a storyline that will be educative for the society. According to him, we can’t evict evil from our society, but we shouldn’t focus on it too much. He says we should always try to portray Nigeria as a good nation that is aiming for the best.

 Describe his mode of dressing?

He likes to wear native attires. He says they make him simple and cute.

 The way he speaks on stage, is that how he speaks at home?

(Laughs) No, he doesn’t speak his Zebrudaya English at home. He uses the Zebrudaya speech only when he wants to crack a joke at home, or to recap the highlights of his show. He speaks proper English at home.

 Did his style of English affect you while growing up?

My father loves his children to be outstanding. He did not train us with Zebrudaya English that was used for his stage performances. We all speak good English.

 How did he handle the death of James Iroha, the character, ‘Giringori’ in New Masquerade?

He was extremely saddened by the news. He was pained. It was not only him, but everyone in the family. The news came as a shock to us, we didn’t expect such tragedy. My father found it hard to believe and it took a long time before he got over it.  He decided to go all out to give him a befitting burial. He travelled to Umuahia, constituted a burial committee of friends, including Nollywood and PMAN (Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria) members of Abia State. He chaired the committee- he was deeply involved in the burial. The death of Giringori really affected him.

 Why didn’t he move into Nollywood after New Masquerade?

I’m not speaking for him, but I think he wanted to work on his own and feature more in adverts and comedy series.  He complains about the slant of Nollywood movies, saying they have no proper lesson one can learn from and that they don’t move the country forward.  He prefers entertainment education.  I guess that was what made his show popular and earned him two prestigious National Awards MON (Member of the Order of the Niger) and MFR (Member of the Order of the Federal Republic).

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How was growing up with your father like?

My growing up was fun. It was real fun. My father was always going on locations because he had been acting before I was born. But anytime he was around, we were always happy because we knew he would lavish us with gifts and pamper us. He made sure we enjoyed ourselves. He usually took us to Amusement Park and Domino Stores in Lagos.

Did your father influence your interest in acting?

Yes, my father influenced my interest in acting. He asked me to feature in one of his movies titled Olorire in 2001, though I had been acting with him since 1999. I was initially unhappy that he asked me to act in his film because, then, I was more interested in gaining admission into a university. But he advised me that acting would not affect my education and that education also should not affect my interest in acting. I reluctantly accepted and that was the movie that shot me into limelight.

How do you feel acting with your father?

I have been acting with him since I was young. The only time I fidget on set is when I am not getting a particular role well or when I am being corrected two or three times. But apart from that, whenever I am on set with him, I feel happy. He is my father and I used to live with him. It is always a great experience acting with him. I am close to him and each time I am with him on set, I feel I am acting with just another actor and not my father.

What kind of man is he?

He is a very simple and straightforward person.  Many people in the entertainment industry know that he is a man who does not hide his feelings when someone offends him. He likes playing games on his laptop. In fact, when you see him concentrating on his laptop you will think he is very busy with some documents. But when you move closer, you will discover that he is playing games.  He also does same on his phones.

What ideals did you learn from him?

I have learnt a lot from him. He knows a lot about the profession. Before I started professional acting, we used to do many things together that were acting related. Whenever we were casting, he would ask us to suggest names and tell us why a certain person could not act a particular role. He would give reasons why he preferred another person to play such role. I am a producer and whenever I am casting, I always use the ideas I have learnt from him. His simplicity amazes me. I have learnt from him to be humble always. He takes life easy. For instance, if I am working on something and it is giving me a tough time, I will abandon it to concentrate on other things. When I was doing the production of one of my films, we could not shoot because one of our cast disappointed us and it also rained heavily. It nearly took two days but when my cast and crew saw the way the rest of us were playing with my father; they relaxed. I felt I should not stress myself because of the situation. I relaxed because I saw the way my father was playing and chatting. That is the same way he handles his job too. He does not take it as a do-or-die thing.

How sociable is he?

My father is very sociable. He attends parties. In the entertainment, we are like one big family. One does not need to know the other before honouring the latter’s invitation to an event. He always attends social events of his colleagues or younger artists except he is not available.

How close are you to him?

We are very close. We are so close to the extent that I tell him things one will not expect a daughter to tell her father. We discuss intimately. In my career as an actress for instance, if I am planning any production, he will be informed ahead of time. He will know the day I am starting and when I will be ending it. I have lost my mother. It is him I have and I cannot hide anything from him. Even now when I am married, I still confide in him.

Is there any challenge being the daughter of a popular actor? 

Yes, there is the challenge of having to comport oneself properly at all times. I also have to always remember the daughter of who I am. He always tells his children to behave well. He advises us to always do things that will promote the name he has been building for many years. I always try to stay within limit and behave well at all times. It is not easy because of the profession I am in but I strive to be the best I can be all the time.

Did he ever visit you when you were in the university?

Yes, he did but he did not tell me he was coming the day he visited. It was on a Sunday and I was in church. He went to my hostel and my neighbours told him I went to church. He asked for the location of my church and came there to look for me. When he arrived, they knew who he was looking for and the ushers came to call me. He told me he was coming from a trip and felt he should see me.

Has your father’s name attracted favours to you?

Yes, I have received many favours because of who my father is. His name has opened a lot of doors for me. There are some places I get to that after introducing myself,some people will ask me if I am related to Jide Kosoko. If know that I need my father’s name in such a place, I will not hesitate to quickly say he is my father. I may not even be recognised as an actress but upon mentioning his name, I will be well attended to. The old and young generation of actors and actresses respect him. Even when I want to quietly do what I intend to do, the attention and support I get when they know I am Jide Kosoko’s daughter often surprises me.

How did he discipline any child who erred?

My father does not know how to discipline a child. The best he does is to handle any child who misbehaves over to someone who can discipline such a child. When we were young, he would hand us over to our uncles whenever we did something wrong. Each time they came on a visit, he would use the opportunity to tell them that we misbehaved. He does not like spanking his children. He has a soft spot for children. I cannot remember the day he beat me. But he likes talking to any erring child. He would sit us down as children and tell us what we should do and what we should not do. At times, he would preach and pray or ask one of us to preach before going to sleep.

Did you enjoy preferential treatment from your lecturers and colleagues by virtue of who your dad is?

I am always myself anywhere I am. I don’t put up the attitude of ‘I am JideKosoko’s daughter’ anywhere I go. Even when I became an actress, I remain humble as I am. When I was in the university, I did not take advantage of the fact that I am an actress or my father is a popular actor. I did what other students were required to do normally and did not influence anything. I never thought then that I should seek preferential treatment because I was already a known actress.

What are the values your father cherishes?

Like I said earlier, he is a very simple man. His humility is great. Sometimes, he would want to take a bike from one place to the other and we would remind him that he could not do so because of his status. He would be wondering why he could not do so. But that is what stardom has done to him. He is somebody that likes doing things in a simple way.

How does he maintain peace with his wives?

The children are not always aware of disagreement between him and his wives. They settle that in the bedroom. My father is very mature. He knows how to ensure peace in his house. There has been no tough misunderstanding in his house except for minor disagreements noticeable among mature couples.

How do you feel being his daughter?

I feel honoured by God. I feel really good. I thank God for putting me in such a family. I know that a lot of people would want to be in my position and I thank God for giving me such a family.

How does he relax?

He likes relaxing by watching English or Yoruba movies.

Has he ever acted in your films?

Yes, he featured in two of my films. They are Woosikenke and Shindara. 

What is his best food?

He likes white rice and croaker fish.

What are his favourite sports?

I am not sure he has any liking for any sports but when we were young, he used to engage in relay races with us in our compound. I think it was because of his affection for children that made him run with us in those days.

How does he like to dress?

My father likes English and native attire. He buys a lot them. He gives many out too and that is why each time he gives some out, he buys more to replace them.

What is his favourite drink?

He likes water. It is not that he does not drink at all but it is in moderation.

What is his schedule like?

He is extremely busy, always attending to one thing or the other.

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CharlyBoy is a son of the late Justice Chukwudifu Oputa (retd). He speaks about fond memories of his late father with KAYODE FALADE

What is your position in the nuclear family of Justice Oputa?

I used to be in the middle but my elder brother Michael and my elder sister Charlotte have passed on. It’s just me and my two kid brothers left, Edward and George.

 How was growing up with your father like?

What I remember most about growing up in the early 50’s in Port Harcourt, was the non-stop party in our house. Everyday to me then was like Christmas, dad and mum used to like dancing a lot.There was constant flow of human traffic in our house then. I didn’t like my father that much, I wrote him off as an overbearing, harsh, insensitive, rigid, strict and wicked man. I was convinced that I wasn’t his favourite. I was the one that got punished the most. My dad did not spear the rod when it came to putting me in check. My mum was my favourite. With her I could get away with murder. She would always accuse my friends of misleading me. I used to avoid my father because he was always whipping me as I was always busy being naughty. I didn’t get along with my father that much. But all that changed some 27 years ago.

 How was it like being the son of such a famous jurist?

As Mr. Charles Emeka Oputa, I am indeed humbled and proud to have come from such rich heritage of famous people. As CharlyBoy, I am glad I turned the famous jurist not only into a CharlyBoy lover/fan but a disciple and an advocate of CharlyBoyisim, before I kissed him goodnight. Almost everyone knows the story of how I won the respect of this great man for the last 27 years. When my father publicly owned up to how proud I have made him, I knew there was no looking back. We became good friends, with tremendous mutual respect for each other. Yes, I converted my worst critic into a staunch believer. Now, that’s no moi moi(Bean cake).

 Many Nigerians know him as the revered legal luminary. Was Justice Oputa the legal icon different from the man and father?

My father was a very special man. On the bench, he was the Socrates, his judgments were very profound. I was somewhat a bit jealous of him, because in the beginning of building the brand CharlyBoy, everyone just disturbed me with how so special my father was, as if I wasn’t special myself. As a father, I learnt from him how to keep your family together and how to stay committed to your wife. Since childhood till he passed on, my father was always lovey dovey with my mum.When he wasn’t kissing her, he was holding her hand. Seeing both of them challenged me to always work on my 37-year-old marriage. He was a loving husband and father. I thank God we shared so much together before he passed on.

Our fathers carry half of our genetic makeup. Our relationship with our fathers plays a huge part of who we will become. In many segments of society, people grow up without knowing their fathers. This is unfortunate because fathers should play as important a role in raising their children as mothers. A father is the model of a man for his daughter and she will choose a man who is like him. A father is the model for his son as well. Fortunately, my father was very active in my life.

 How close were you to him and what are the values you learnt from him?

I was brought up on an overdose of morals, value and life principles. Initially we were not that close, especially when I set out on my own to build the brand we all know as CharlyBoy. Things fell apart. But with my tenacity, consistency, doggedness, ruggedness and tremendous focus, I won him over. From then on, we more or less became inseparable. I learnt from him how to say what I mean and mean what I say. I learnt from him how to be a good friend to my children too. I learnt from him how to take care and remain loyal to my wife. My father really taught me so much, but most importantly, I learnt from him how to stay content with life. An apple can’t fall too far from its tree, can it? I also learnt from my father that, being a good person doesn’t depend on your religion or status in your life, your race or skin colour, political views or culture. It depends on how good you treat others.

 Was he a disciplinarian and how did he discipline his children when they went wrong?

Was he a disciplinarian? Are you serious? I used to think my father was a bully. He was always flogging me, punishing me for one thing or the other. Even before he became a judge, our house was like a court room. He was the judge, the jury, the persecutor. Naturally I never won any case with him. My other siblings were always in his good books except me.Naturally I felt he loved me less. I never for one day saw him punish the rest, just me. I admit I was always getting into trouble, but it was as if he looked for every opportunity to deal with me.

 Did your father influence any of his children to follow his footsteps in law ?

In all fairness to him, he didn’t tell anyone of us what to study. We had that kind of liberty in our home. Only my kid brother, George I Oputa, went daddy’s way. However that is not to say he didn’t wish it. He always called me a pocket lawyer, because we were always encouraged to speak out, since my teen life, I was always encouraged to ask questions and take responsibility for my action or inactions. That was the setting of my journey to the now.

 Several times in the past, you have mentioned that it took some time to get your father to accept what you were doing and who you are. What really happened and how were you able to win him over?

Good parentS must feel some measure of concern for the future of their child. That’s given. My father was only concerned because he didn’t or couldn’t see how I would have a stable financial and secured future, venturing into entertainment. To him then, it was like I was being irresponsible and throwing my life away. After all he made sure that there was a job waiting for me in Mobil when I came back from the US after my five years’ sojourn. Of course, he was disappointed that I had other “frivolous” ideas. I know it was my determination, tenacity, my consistency my doggedness that won him over. Every time I reminded him about him being a non-believer, he would say, “parents are not God, they can make mistakes too.’’

 How was his social life like?

In the 50’s and early 60’s when he was one of the most sort after lawyers in Nigeria, he was constantly in the public and the public was in and out of our house. As soon as he was made a judge, the family’s lifestyle changed drastically. My father overnight became an introvert. He always told us that the life of a judge must be somewhat an isolated one. “You cannot be seen here and there, what if they showed up before you in court?” is it any wonder how he was one of the very few incorruptible judges around. He was high on integrity, a quality that is not only out of fashion, but doesn’t resonate with the mind-set of the day. He didn’t have many friends though he was very friendly. My father lived an exemplary life, he walked his talk.

 What are some of the fondest memories you have of your father?

They are so many. I have memories that will last me for the rest of my life, very good ones. I am happy I took care of him and my mum the way I did. For eight years, they lived with me in Abuja. Together, we went to all the comedy shows, musical shows, our morning walks, to the parks, even at age 94, he had been on my bike. I gave him so many rides on my bike. I can’t forget our usual intellectual intercourse, our provoking discussions, most evenings, from sex to politics to religion and what have you? He always wanted to get involved with some of my community work. We brainstormed on a lot of levels, he was like my partner. I know my daddy passed on a happy man; he showed me and told me that in a lot of ways. For me I am happy. That is why I insist on people congratulating me, not sympathising with me. Justice Oputa had given so much to Nigeria. After all he gave this nation CharlyBoy. We will celebrate a man who lived a good life.

 Your father headed the famous Oputa panel. What are some of the things he said about the panel and the country’s future after its conclusion?

As far as he was concerned, he had done his work and done it to the best of his ability, it was up to the people who engaged him to know what they want to do with it. However, he wasn’t so happy that most of the commission’s recommendations were not implemented. It’s like sending someone on a wild goose chase. But, I have a different mind-set about it all. It was the Truth and Reconciliation Panel and in a roundabout way, it opened our eyes to all the atrocities of the past. It got people talking, which was a good thing.

 What was his favourite food?

My dad was like me, he would taste anything that looked tasty. We are really not fussy about what we eat, but he liked semovita with nsala stew. I think that was his favourite.

 What were your dad’s hobbies, likes and dislikes?

He always told me about his military training at Achimota High School in Ghana. He was into sports at the time.He loved table tennis and soccer. As a teenager, I played a lot of table tennis with my father. That was the only time we were not quarrelling about something. His dislikes? Children who didn’t follow his orders, my father was like the drill master.

 How did he act whenever he was angry?

Oh my God! He would flog the daylight out of me. He was quick with the cane till I became immune to the pain of his cane, then he resorted to using his hand, till the day I feigned I was dead after one of his beatings. I think that was the last time he raised his hands on me. I was about 16 years old. He believed that my rascality would hinder my bright future. But I thank God he was hard on me like that, or else who knows? Some of those qualities he constantly preached about that I rebelled against are the same qualities that guide my life today.

 How much time did he create for his family?

Like I said, before he became a judge, we hardly saw him. He was all over the place; he was also a big-time player. But after he was made a judge, he had so much time for the family. I didn’t like it personally, because from then, his eyes were on me. Everything I did was scrutinised with a microscope. That was when he started taking me on extra classes, stuffing my head with poetry, Shakespeare and all things literature. Even in elementary school, it was cramming, cramming all the way. My father used to be a teacher before he became a lawyer.

 Can you recall his last day on earth?

He died in my house, too bad it wasn’t in my arms. After the hospital stabilised him, we were advised by the doctors to take him home and give him the care he needed to nurse him back to life. But I knew that age was not on his side. My father was over 96years. On Sunday, May 4, I went down to his quarters to see him. He had not been eating properly. As I went on my usual round to see him and crack a few jokes, I noticed he was unusually weak. As soon as I entered his room, he beckoned on me to come. I bent over to kiss his forehead and he said to me “ I am sorry Charles.” I asked what for? I couldn’t imagine that with his state of health, all my father was thinking about was all the money I was spending to give him the best care and how emotionally drained I was getting. At that point I just laughed and said to him, “Daddy get well soon so that I won’t send you a bill you cannot pay.” I asked the nurse to give him his bath, while I went to do same and return to feed him myself. I was just getting dressed after my bath when the nurse called the intercom and asked me to come down quickly. At that point, I knew what I had been getting myself ready for, had finally happened. I thank God that I not only spent quality time with him, we became almost inseparable.

 How has the Oputa family coped since his passing on?

God has been kind. I thought my mum was going to flip but after the first day we told her, I saw a woman of strength. I had no choice but to hold it together for the sake of the family. My mum has been a pillar emotionally for us all. It’s been overwhelming sometimes, but I am equal to this great task ahead and I know, heads or tail, I will make my daddy so proud.

 What do you miss most about your dad?

Our provoking discussions, our bike rides, his role in some of my community projects and the quiet times we spent together. My father later became my hero, the out pour of love so far, has reassured me why I must walk on the straight and narrow path like my father. Because the name Oputa, is sacred and smarts of integrity.

 What are some of the things Nigerians don’t know about your father?

Nigerians surprisingly know a whole lot about my dad. That he was a honest man, upright, had integrity, lived a simple and contented life. He lived by the golden rule and treated others with respect. But no one can know what a good father he was, to me and my siblings. How he adored and worshipped my mum.

 What can you share about your parents’ marriage?

My marriage has been modelled after my parents’. I thank God that I grew up watching my mum and dad for over 60 years. My father was totally committed to the relationship with my mum; hence they lived together for almost 70 years.

 What should Nigerian leaders learn from your late father?

Humility, simplicity, integrity, honesty, class, sincerity and love for the people you lead.

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Modinat is the daughter of the late Fuji icon, Alhaji Sikiru Ayinde Barrister. She talks about the musical legacy of her father with GBENGA ADENIJI

How was your childhood with your father?

I did not live with my father when I was young. I stayed with my paternal grandmother. But I recall that my father was a very loving man who cared so much for his children. He was very busy though, always travelling within and outside the country for one musical show or the other. But each time I wanted to see him or needed something, I would visit him in his house. He, however, created time for his children despite his busy schedule. We were very close and he loved me so much. I always stayed with him each time I was on holiday from school and he pampered me so much. Whenever I visited him, he would take time out to advise me about life and how best to live it.

 Did he ever visit you while you were in school?

Yes, he used to visit me in school once in a month. I was in a boarding school then and he ensured that he came to meet with my class teacher to know how I was faring academically.

 How did your teachers and mates treat you knowing who your father was?

The treatment I received from my teachers and school mates was not really different from the way they related with other pupils. But because my father was a celebrity, one would expect that some special attention would be given to me. He always gave the teachers money and jokingly told them to take care of me. He was particular about my performing well in school. He loved education and would go to any length to encourage any of his children desiring quality education. The only preferential treatment came from one of my teachers who gave me extra lessons and was always insisting I did all my assignments before deadlines.

 People believe he had many wives. How many are they?

(Laughs) I cannot say how many they are but I know of my mother. I know that my mother was one of his wives.

 How many are his children?

My mother has three children. My father’s children are many but we know one another. We relate very well too. Whenever we want to discuss some important matters, we come together in my father’s house. Some live in the UK, US and some other parts of the world.

 How did he maintain unity among his wives?

My father’s children went to his house whenever they needed anything from him. There was no room for misunderstanding or disagreement among his wives because he took care of everybody.

 How has his name helped you?

My father’s name has helped me in a lot of ways. Some of his fans attend my shows because I am his daughter. There was a time I was billed to perform in Ijebu, Ogun State. Before the performance, a man walked up to me and asked if I was related to Barrister. I told him I was Barrister’s daughter. I suspected he had asked somebody who told him I was Barrister’s daughter and he came to confirm. After confirming, he happily asked me to embrace him and later gave me his complimentary card. He told me that he enjoys my father’s songs and urged me to call him anytime I need anything. But because of my nature, I do not like going to people to seek favours.

 How did your father enforce discipline on any child who misbehaved?

My father was not the kind of person who hid his anger. He let any of his children who misbehaved know immediately that he was angry. He did not use the cane or whip. He liked singing to any child who made him angry to show he was not happy with what he or she did.

 How close were you to him?

We were very close. There was no time he wanted to speak with my granny (his mother) that he would not first say, ‘Asabi mi nko, mofegbohunomo mi (Where is my Asabi, I want to hear her voice). There was nothing I asked him that he did not give me. Even as a married woman, I was always going to him to advise me.

 What was his favourite dressing style?

He liked English and native dresses.

 What values did you learn from him?

My father was a peacemaker. He loved people to live in peace and unity and he did not hesitate to continually show this while he was alive. I have learnt from him to encourage people to live in peace. He was also a giver. He gave so much to people. Many people came to his house for one form of assistance or the other and he did what he could for them all without sending anybody away. He hated swear words. He was always uncomfortable whenever people abused one another in his presence.

 Which of his songs do you like most?

I like all his songs because he was a great singer. His songs are evergreen, well-composed and very deep.

 You are also a singer. Did your father encourage you to take to music?

I would not say he encouraged me to be a musician. I think it was something that came to me naturally even though one could consider that my father’s music career influenced me. My grandmother told me that when I was young, I used to sing whenever I wanted to report anybody who offended me. She said rather than explaining what the offending person did in words, I would say it through songs. I sing Islamic songs. When I told my father in 2000 that I wanted to sing, he told me to wait for my time.

 What duet did you do with him?

I featured in his album, Controversy. It was not really a duet, I only did a backup.

 How many of your father’s children are singers?

We are two; Barry Showkey and myself, Barry Ti De. I was formerly called Barry Ma De. My father was the one who gave me the stage names.

 Where were you when he died?

I was to perform at an event organised by the then Performing Musician Association of Nigeria when my phone rang. A member of his band called me to say he had passed on. I could not believe it and I said, “It cannot be true. My father cannot die.” I was so heartbroken when I confirmed it from family members. I remember that I fainted immediately reality dawned on me that he was truly dead. It was a very sad experience for me.

 For how long was he ill?

He was first admitted at a hospital in Surulere, Lagos when his illness started and it was not that he took ill for long. But after some time, he was moved abroad for more medical treatment. While he was in Lagos, I was with him in the hospital before his transfer abroad. He was even calling us from his sick bed abroad, telling us to pray for him.

 What did he tell you in the hospital?

My father was optimistic that he would live. He told me with a hope that he would not die so soon. He was a firm believer in prayers and encouraged us to continue praying for him.

 What was the nature of his illness?

What I can say about it is that he was diabetic and that was what caused the sickness.

 It’s over three years since he died. How has his family been coping?

God has been assisting us in many ways. He has continued to help the family since the death of my father.

 Have you ever watched him perform?

Yes, I watched him perform many times. But one of the shows that really impressed me was the one he did in Surulere tagged, Barry Back on Stage. It was a very great show. There was another show he did in Isolo, Lagos. That day, I was thrilled by his enormous talent and composition skill.

 What comes to your mind each time you listen to his songs?

His songs make me see him as a prophet. We are also planning to repackage his songs. My brothers are working on that. He never composed before going to the studio. The inspiration to sing often came to him after entering the studio.

 How did he relax?

My father enjoyed reading newspapers. He was a very current musician who loved knowing about current affairs both locally and internationally. He also liked locking himself in his room to meditate and on such occasions, no one would be allowed to bother him. He also liked going abroad for relaxation. He did that often especially when he had lengthy musical engagements in the country. Once he ended them, he would travel overseas to rest.

 Did he have any special meal?

He loved gbegiri (bean soup), amala (yam flour) and ewedu.

 What was his favourite drink?

My father did not like drinking but could take a drink any time he wished.

 Which is your favourite among your father’s many nicknames?

I like all of them from Alhaji Agba, Barrister, Barry Wonder to Balogun.

 What was his best game?

He liked playing snooker. He was taught by my brothers.

 How was his schedule like?

He was a busy person because people were always inviting him to one show or the other. Sometimes, he could travel abroad for musical tour for a month.

 How sociable was he?

As a musician he was supposed to honour invitations to parties and he did that. But beyond his musical engagements, it was hard to see my father attending social functions. He was not a party person. I know that he used to stay at home on days that he had no invitations to perform.

 Who were his friends?

He had so many people who came to his house when he was alive. Being a very popular singer, many people became his friends but none of them visited his house after his death. We trust nobody except ourselves. My father’s death affected us and it is only God that is assisting us. None of those parading themselves as his friends when he was alive identifies with his family again. But we are not surprised because a Yoruba adage says, ‘Ma se bi iya kole da biya, mase bi baba kole da bi baba (No matter how hard a surrogate mother tries, her love cannot replace the genuine love of a biological mother.)

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One of the daughters of Bongos Ikwue, Keke, talks to MOTURAYO JOEL about her father, his likes and dislikes

What are you to Bongos-Ikwe?

I am Bongos-Ikwe’s daughter. My name is Onyankeke Bongos-Ikwue. I have a B.Sc in Education and an MBA from the University of Maryland, College Park, United States. Although I have a degree in education but I am in the world of entertainment.

What has been the highlight of your entertainment career so far?

The major highlight of my career in entertainment, I would say is the highly anticipated epic musical, box office release “Inalé”, which has received nine awards including a prestigious Africa Movie Academy Awards for Best Soundtrack, Monaco Charity Film Festival’s Most Entertaining Film, and four awards at Nollywood and African Film Critics Awards including “Best Picture”.

Why did you venture into movie production, considering that fact that your dad is a musician?

My going into the movie business was mainly to re-introduce his music career to this generation and to let his fans know he is back. We wanted to let the world know that he has a new album coming out and Inale is one of the songs on the album. One can say it is because of my father I am here today.

Who have you worked with in the movie industry?

I have worked with renowned producers and filmmakers like Jeta Amata, Chineze Anyaene and Sound Sultan.

What is your father’s view of the Nollywood industry?

My father believes it is an industry that is thriving although not his forte. He encourages any Nigerian who wants to make a difference to bring not only quantity but quality to the art of entertainment.

What are the fond memories you both shared while growing up?

There were so many memorable moments, but one thing I’m sure of is that he always loved to play with us and was very protective of us as he is until now.

How often did he call or visit you when you were in school?

He did so regularly, even with his busy schedule, I’m really grateful to him.

Did he often take his family out for picnic?

(Smiles) He didn’t really have time for that.

How does he relax at home whenever he is around?

He enjoys watching programmes on television and listening to music. He also loves eating southern fried chicken.

What are the values you have imbibed from him?

I think I imbibed his caring nature. He is a very caring man and he puts his family first in all he does. That is something I have learned from him. He is also very hardworking and ethical; sometimes I call him a perfectionist. I have always respected those qualities in him and I try to live my life the same way.

How did he enforce discipline on any of his children who erred?

That was left to my mother; she was more of ‘the disciplinarian’ at home.

How do you feel being his daughter?

I feel blessed. I am honestly thankful and grateful to God. He gave all his children the best and he allowed us to dream. While growing up, he always told us that with his support, we could be anything or anyone we wanted to be. I love him dearly.

Has his name opened doors for you?

It has actually helped, as he has the most loyal fans. When I introduce myself as Keke, I get warm greetings, and then when they find out that Bongos Ikwue is my father, I always get a second even warmer handshake. I find that really funny and touching at the same time. Though overtime, I realised that I had to build my own name and reputation (which I know will make him proud of), but at the end of the day I cannot deny who my father is. I must say I am proud of my father to have created a name for himself; enough to have people show genuine love and respect to him even in his absence.

What are the values your father holds dear?

He holds integrity, love, family, music, quality and respect very dear.

How is your relationship with him?

I can proudly say that I am my father’s sister, brother, friend, daughter and business partner. We are two peas in a pod, we are close. He is my mentor and my father. He moulded me into who I am today, everywhere I have the opportunity to speak about our relationship, I say that, I am most of who I am to him because of him and, of course, God.

How does he handle disagreements with your mother?

What disagreements are we talking about? They are married, and for many years at that, so there will be a lot of disagreements. Their business is their business.

How did he react to the stories about him and Mariam Babaginda?

(Smiles) I have no comment about that.

But did you read them?

To be honest with you, I just couldn’t be bothered about manufactured stories.

How does he handle criticisms?

My father lives his life to please no one but himself and his family and that is it. He says one can’t please everyone, so why not please yourself and those that matter?

Who are his friends?

He is friends with everyone.

What is his favourite meal?

He isn’t picky about food, he just likes good food.

Does he have any special mode of dressing?

Yes, he likes to wear jeans, shirt or T-shirt and trainers.

Your father has made the afro style haircut his signature look, what is his reason for that?

It’s his personal style, and it has remained his identity. As God would have it, at his age, he still has enough hair to maintain one, so why not rock it? (Laughs)

What is his schedule like?

His schedule is like any other businessman, artiste and entrepreneur. He is always busy but he always makes time for family, always.

How sociable is he?

He is effortlessly loved everywhere he goes. It’s a gift and sometimes a curse for us, his children, who have to follow him around.

What does he say about artistes of today?

He would like to encourage them to feel free in their expression in the arts.

Where does your father get his inspiration to write songs?

His source of inspiration depends on various factors.His album is full of varieties. These include his observations about life, but most recently he has been inspired by the turmoil in Nigeria especially by the hate encouraged in the name of religion. He dislikes it and it hurts him because he believes in unity among all irrespective of where they come from or who they worship.

How religious is he?

He believes very much in God

Bongos Ikweis over 70 years old.What is his secret to longevity?

A wife and children who loves him and keeps him healthy.

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Beverley is the daughter of lawyer and human rights activist, Olisa Agbakoba, SAN. She speaks with GBENGA ADENIJI about her father’s life as a lawyer and activist

Give a brief profile of yourself?

My name is Beverley Amaka Agbakoba-Onyejianya; a daughter of Olisa Agbakoba. I work in financial services as a regulatory and compliance professional. I studied Law with European Law at LLB and Commercial Law at master’s level.

What memory of your growing up with your father can you recall?

The memory of growing up with my father that I could recall was “my dad the lawyer.”

Did he encourage his children to study law?

My father seemed keen that I studied law but he generally did not impose or influence his choices on any of us. The encouragement to study law came from him. Yes, he most definitely encouraged me to study law.

Was there any preferential treatment you enjoyed while in school because of who your father is?

I did not enjoy any preferential treatment in school because of who my father is. There was none at all.

Considering his busy nature as a lawyer and human rights activist, how did he create time for his family?

My father created time for his family whenever he had the time to. He took the time out to be with his family. I do not remember any long periods of his absence from the house except the time he was detained by the regime of the late General Sani Abacha. It was even public knowledge during the time he was in detention.

Did he take his family out?

Yes, he took us out while we were growing up. My father took us out as often as he could during weekends when he had free time. We did not necessarily go for picnics. Almost every weekend, we would spend time at recreational clubs. During our childhood, we also went on family holidays often.

How does he relax at home?

He likes to take a nap or watch football. My father also likes listening to music or take a drink.

What are the values you have imbibed from him?

He has such a strong character and personality. I would say I have taken after him in having a strong character and personality. Though I take a lot after my mother as well, I would say I have been raised together by two great persons to have a unique sense of individuality. I have been taught to strive to give my best, relate with people from different walks of life and show a keen sense of generosity to those who need it especially.

How has his name opened doors for you?

Professionally, my father’s name has opened doors for me. Once or twice, I have had opportunities come by very easily because of his connection with the person or he connected me with the person. Outside my profession or duties, when some people are aware I am his child, it depends on the context, but in summary, they proceed to want to take advantage of it. For instance, there was a time a police officer asked that I give money to the man who bashed my car and not the other way round. Other times, it summons extra friendliness and friendly questions from some persons in service. Examples are airport immigration officers – but nothing more, no favouring.

What are the values your father holds dear?

He is a very hardworking man and he always emphasises hard work. He is a good person, man and father. He is also very generous. His generosity is in the areas of giving back to people and community. He also respects and honours people. My father values intelligence, knowledge and likes people to be enlightened. He also likes good accomplishment, legacy, assertiveness and boldness. Other things he holds dear are to see good changes in the society and lead a life of activism for public good. He also likes good organisation, enjoyment, entertainment, leisure and recreation.

How does he handle misunderstanding with your mother?

My parents are like any other couple. My father always says communication is key in any relationship.

Who are your father’s friends?

He is a very private person and leads a quiet life, outside law practice. As a result, he does not have much time to be very social. He has a few old time friends but generally, my mother is his best friend.

How did he enforce discipline on any of his children who misbehaved?

He was quite tough when we were growing up. As children, we all had our fair share of discipline.

How do you feel being his daughter?

I feel normal like any daughter would feel. We were brought up in a very humble way and it has been our guiding principle in our interaction with others.

What is his favourite meal?

I thought about it if he really has any favourite meal. My father doesn’t really have any favourite meal. But he appreciates simple food options; quick, easy bites. He does love a good Sunday roast which my sister, Dumebi, cooks for him.

What is his preferred sport?

He enjoys football but he’s equally into health and fitness.

How sociable is he?

Truthfully, he is very shy.

Your father was born on May 29; incidentally a day Nigeria now considers Democracy Day. What does he say about this?

I have never asked him about how he feels that his birthday coincides with Nigeria’s Democracy Day. But we think it is an uncanny coincidence given what he has stood for in the past and what he continues to stand for today. We call him Mr. Democracy at home (laughs). Also, it means he gets to rest every year on his birthday. For him to rest on his birthday is a perfect present for him because he works very hard.

How do you feel each time he expresses his views about some developments in the country?

I feel like we still have such a long way to go as a country.

How did the family react to his leadership of the Nigerian Bar Association then?

We were really proud of him. It was such a big achievement for him.

Does he have any favourite quote?

Yes, my father has favourite quotes. The first one is that ‘Hard work never killed anybody.’ The second one is ‘Never take anything in life for granted.’

Does he have any special mode of dressing?

(Laughs). He adores the Nelson Mandela style shirts in all fabrics and colours. I think he is secretly obsessed.

Considering his activities in the nation’s legal space, what kind of lawyer would you make of your father?

He is rather erudite, a bit of a brain box with an amazing ability to cite so many cases and precedents offhand. My father does make a very compelling case. He is a skilled orator.

What is his schedule like?

He travels quite often on business trips during the week.

Can you recall any time you followed him to court?

Unbelievable, as it may seem, I have never followed him to court but I did accompany him to one of the meetings of the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group back in 1997 when he led a delegation from Nigeria that called for the suspension of Nigeria from the Commonwealth during the military dictatorship under the late Abacha. It was a very interesting experience.

What is his favourite car brand?

I cannot really say that he has one. He is a no-fuss kind of person. If he has a four-wheel vehicle that can move and get him to his destination, it is fait accompli.

How close are you to him?

We are very close. Our family is one that is very close. My father has a good relationship with his family. He always makes time for his wife and children.

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In this interview with MOTUNRAYO JOEL, one of the sons of Alhaji Lateef Jakande, Olusegun, talks about his father, a former governor of Lagos State

Please introduce yourself?

I am Olusegun Lateef-Jakande. I am the last child in the family. I am the Secretary of Oduduwa Descendant World Assembly. I run a sports programme for orphanage homes in our society; it is called Hope Sports Competitions.

The aim of ‘Hope Sports Competitions’ is to use sports to unite and instil a sense of hope amongst the less privileged and orphans in our society, thereby providing them with a sense of belonging. I also use the programme to bring out hidden talents and expose them to national and international opportunities. Our slogan is “One Game, One Society”. My dream is to become a greater man than my father and achieve much more than what he could achieve when he was much younger. I am a positive thinker; I like to see the bright side in every situation I face in life.

Where did you have your education?

My primary education was at Ilupeju Primary School while my secondary was at Immaculate Heart Comprehensive High School, Maryland and Victory College, Ikeja. I studied Mathematics and Statistics at the University of Lagos. I’m currently running an MBA programme in the same university.

How was your childhood with your father?

My father was a very busy politician at that time so I didn’t have much time with him. I should also add that I’m not upset about the fact that I didn’t spend much time with him. His absence was justified.

Did he have time to visit you while you were in school?

There was no need for him to visit me in school because I never went to boarding school during my primary and secondary education.

How did your teachers and mates treat you knowing who your father was?

I was treated like every other child, there was no preferential treatment and I didn’t even allow it. That is just my nature, I believe everyone should be treated equally. I also like to be free amongst my friends because I believe we are all one, despite the fact that we are all from different parents.

At a time, your father was imprisoned. How did your family cope during his imprisonment?

To be honest, we were shocked when they came to arrest him at home but after some days, we took it in good fate and returned to our normal lives. We could afford to look at the bright side because we believed he stood for a good cause and would be released soon.

He lost one of his daughters, how did he cope with the loss?

I can’t really talk about that because I was very young then, I don’t know how he dealt with it.

When he was governor of Lagos State, how was life with him, did office change him?

I was born during his time as governor of Lagos State so I knew nothing about his personality prior to his appointment as governor, but I can say that my father is one person who doesn’t allow his status change him, he is down-to-earth and humble.

Did he have time for his family?

He always had time for his family, he doesn’t joke with his family.

When he was appointed minister, did the family go with him to Abuja?

Nobody went with him to Abuja because he never for once moved to Abuja. He was always shuttling between Lagos and Abuja. I also remember that he told his family that he didn’t want to see anyone in the ministry.

How did your family live?

We weren’t affected, we carried on with our normal lives only that we were not free at home. We were always having visitors waiting to see him and judging by the type of person he is, he always made sure that he attended to everyone. I’m proud to say that my father is a great man. I have great respect for him. During his days as Minister of Works and Housing, he used to attend to over 200 people on a Sunday and he still does that, at least the number has reduced to like 10 or15 daily.

Anytime your father was contesting an election, what was the mood of the family?

I was opportune to witness one. That was in 1991 when he was contesting for the Presidency. I don’t think anyone of his children was anxious.

People believe he has many wives. How many are they and how did he maintain unity among his wives?

My father has only one wife but he has been married three times. The first one died, the second left when he was arrested for treason with the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo and he is currently living with the third wife. In terms of unity, it was never an issue because he is a one man, one wife type of man. He has never been married to two women at the same time; it’s not in his nature.

How many children does he have?

He has eight children.

How has his name helped you?

I can’t begin to recount instances when his name helped me, but bearing the name ‘ Lateef Jakande’ has helped me in so many ways and I’m really grateful.

How did your father enforce discipline on any child who misbehaved?

His own way of instilling discipline in any of his children who erred was done the traditional way. He believes in the saying “spare the rod and spoil the child.” Though, after scolding you, he would call you back afterwards to let you know the reason you were punished.

How close are you to him?

We are very close, he is like my best friend and we have a close bond.

What is his favourite dressing style?

He likes to dress in his traditional buba and sokoto.

What values did you learn from him?

I learnt that honesty is the best policy and I also learnt how to be a selfless person. He is a selfless person and also humble in nature.

Outside, he seems to be a people’s man, how is he at home?

He is the same man at home, a loving, caring and compassionate father and husband, the best father I could ever have wished for.

How many of your father’s children are journalists considering the fact that he was once a journalist?

(laughs) None of us is a journalist. We all have passion for different professions.

How does he relax?

He does not relax.

Does he have any special meal?

His favourite meal is pap and anything to go with it which I don’t think is anything special, he isn’t picky about food.

What is his favourite drink?

His favourite drink is tea.

Which is your favourite among your father’s many nicknames?

(Smiles) LKJ

What was his best game?

He isn’t a sports person and he does not play games.

How is his schedule like?

Considering the fact that he is into politics, he is definitely bound to have a tight schedule. He is always up and down travelling, attending meetings and all that.

How sociable is he?

He is not that sociable, he isn’t someone you would see here and there or in gatherings.

Who are his friends?

He has many friends.

Has he changed from the Jakande we know?

Not really. He is still the same Jakande we all know, only that he is now old.

What are the changes you’ve noticed in him?

No changes per se, just his old age looks.

How does he act whenever he is angry?

He doesn’t really get angry, he is a calm person.

What are your dad’s hobbies, likes and dislikes?

He loves reading and writing. Two things he dislikes are dishonesty and back biting.

What are some of the things Nigerians don’t know about your father?

I don’t think there is anything Nigerians don’t know about, he is like an open book, he has nothing to hide.

How many houses does your father own in each the Jakande Estates?

He does not have any.

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Bikiya, one of the daughters of Alabo Tonye Graham-Douglas, tells ARUKAINO UMUKORO about her father and his lifestyle

Can you please introduce yourself?

My name is Bikiya Graham-Douglas, the tenth child of Alabo Tonye Graham-Douglas. I am an award-winning actress, a producer and singer.

 How was it like growing up with your father?

It’s the way every child grows up with their father. That he is a public figure doesn’t change the fact that he is a father. He is a public figure because he is somebody who has always wanted to serve his people and nation and he is achieving that, but this doesn’t get in the way at all. He’s still our father.

 How is it like being the daughter of such a famous Nigerian?

He is somebody people always treat with reverence. People stand up when he walks in. If you meet my father, you would know that he is a man who commands respect and has charisma. He is very charming. He is a leader. While growing up, whenever we went out with him, people would respond to him by jumping around him. Sometimes, it made me laugh, because I’m like, he’s just my daddy, and all these people are responding to him this way. But now that I’m grown up and I am in the spotlight, sometimes, I go to places and get those sorts of responses. It’s still a bit strange but I understand better now. People held and still hold my father in high esteem because of what he has done, his service to the nation and his achievements.

 What are the values you learnt from him?

One thing that my parents, not just my dad, taught me, is that a good name is always better than money. They taught us their children hard work and because they are achievers in their chosen fields and respected in the country, there is more pressure us as their children to do well. One is not trying to fill their shoes, but one wants to wear one’s own shoes and they have to be positive shoes. Also, there is a lot of pressure to succeed, because a lot of time, people do not expect anything less when one comes from such a privileged background. I’ve had to deal with that too. My parents always said to me that no one would hand anything to you freely in life, if one wants something; one has to work hard to get it. My father did not just sit down to become an elder statesman that he is today. He worked hard to achieve that; the same applies to my mother. They also taught us never to look down on people. I thank God I have parents like them. My father always picks up a call, even if he is not familiar with the number. Both of them give people a chance to speak to them. They also give everyone equal opportunity.

 How did he discipline his children when they erred?

My dad did not use the cane to discipline us when we were younger. The only thing he did to discipline us was to use his two fingers to smack us on our palms. For me, that was like a big thing because he never did that. Normally, he would give you a hard look and scold you. And my father speaks a lot of English. By the time he talks to you and uses words that you have to go and look up in the dictionary, and you find out their meanings, you realise that you don’t want to get into his bad books. My mum was more of the disciplinarian; the fear of my mum was the beginning of wisdom (laughs).

 What are his hobbies?

He likes reading, watching movies and travelling. Those are things my father really enjoys.

 What movies did you watch with him recently?

The Godfather. He can watch The Godfather over and over again. He loves Al Pacino’s movies. He’s a big movie fan.

 What are your dad’s likes and dislikes?

He dislikes dishonesty. He can’t deal with dishonest people. No matter how bad a situation is, he would always want one to be plain with him and tell him how it is and then he would find a solution. My dad doesn’t like people who laze around. He believes that one must work hard to achieve anything. My dad likes family and he is very passionate about his children. I know he adores us very much and we adore him too. We have a very good relationship and he is very open with us. He took us to the theatre a lot when we were younger. That was where my interest in acting came from. He gave me the confidence to be my own person and gave us the freedom to air our views. He would call me to ask about my welfare and to tell me how much he loves me. He’s really funny too. He likes to tell a lot of jokes. Sometimes, one doesn’t expect him to notice some things but he would. He has a very good sense of humour. That’s not to say we’ve not had our differences because he is a very strong personality, like I am. Every family has its challenges, but at the end of the day, there is a lot of love underneath and I know he always wants the best for us.

 Being a busy politician, how did he create time for his family?

To be honest, he was away a lot but he created time for his family. When you have parents who are public figures, they are not just your parents, they also become parents of the people and you have to realise that. When I was younger, I got upset sometimes when I heard people calling my dad ‘dad’ and my mum ‘mum’. I would be like, ‘they are not your parents, they are mine.’ But my parents prioritised and knew when it was family time, if they had to turn up in school or had to be there for us. Sometimes, we had to do things together as a family. So, he created time for us. Sometimes, he could be away for a long time, but he always made sure he called to check up on us. My mum was able to balance a lot of things each time he was away. For my parents, education is not just about academia, but culture too. They understand the importance of broadening one’s mind. Dad would always create time to teach us things that did not have to do with school. He also taught us about theatre, museum and so on. He introduced us to different kinds of foods and cultures around the world.

 Is any of your siblings into politics like your dad?

Yes. One of my brothers is into politics at the moment. He serves with the governor of our home state (Rivers).

 Are you planning to go into politics yourself?

Why do people keep asking me that question? To be honest, I don’t know.

 How is your dad’s relationship with your mum?

My parents have a very cordial and respectful relationship. I would say they are like-minds and they are both very intelligent people. My mum used to be the Secretary to the State Government of Bayelsa State and the President of the National Council of Women Society. Like my dad, she is a public servant. She has worked in the civil service for a long time. They have a lot of mutual understanding and similar values.

 What’s your dad’s daily routine like?

When my dad wakes up in the morning, he says his prayers, takes a bath, then checks up on everyone. There are 12 of us. But if we are there, we would always have breakfast together. My father is not a man who can eat a meal alone. He doesn’t. From when I was a young child, every meal at home has been a feast. There are always people at breakfast, lunch and dinner. He loves to gather people together. He loves family. He is there always attending to people’s problems. He listens and receives a lot of visitors. He goes for his meetings when he has them. When he doesn’t have meetings, he is home. He likes to read and he loves to watch movies too.

 As a minister under the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, has your father ever shared with you his time in politics and what he thinks about Nigeria?

Yes. He likes talking about Nigeria. He is very passionate about Nigeria and has seen Nigeria change so much. There are a lot of things he is not happy about and wishes would change. He wants people to be more comfortable and for the country to be more of an enabling environment for people to strive and achieve. He has aspirations about Nigeria and he does share them. He believes that for the country to work as a whole, it has to be a shared responsibility between the government and the people.

 How has he been able to stay off controversies as a politician?

I would not say he has not had controversial moments, but he is a sort of person who likes to watch and see what happens before he speaks. He is not somebody who anybody can easily bend, if he believes in something, he stands by it. And I think with his experience over so many years, he’s learnt how to deal with politics. As in everything one gets into, he has had his challenges, but the more one is involved in something, the more one learns to overcome the challenges in that thing. I would say that there has not been any outcry or controversial issue about what my dad has done, but there have been things that have happened along the way that his experience and the person that he is have helped him to deal with. As long as it’s for the people, he would always stand by what is best for the people.

 What is his favourite food?

He does not have a favourite food but he loves plantain porridge.

 What do you think should be his legacy?

I think my father would always be remembered as a honest man who served his country well.Copyright PUNCH.
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Odunayo is the daughter of a former Chief of Defence Staff, Lt.-Gen. Alani Akinrinade (retd.). She talks about her father as a soldier and farmer with GBENGA ADENIJI

Give a brief profile of yourself?

I am Odunayo Ogunbiyi nee Akinrinade. I am one of his five children comprising three girls and two boys. I am in the middle. I think we all agree that I am his troublemaker. I am an ex-pharmacist but since moving to Nigeria, I have been focusing on writing and creative pursuits. I write lifestyle articles for various portals. I am a co-host on Glam Squad, a fashion police show on a private television station and I will soon launch my lifestyle blog,“the Odd butterfly.”

Did your father encourage you or your siblings on their career choice?

No, absolutely not. There was never any of that kind of pressure. His ethos was always, ‘whatever you are doing, do it well.’

What memory of your growing up with him can you recall?

When we were all home from school, my dad used to make a point of being home and having dinner with the family every night. Now that I am a parent myself I can appreciate the importance of what he was doing. He is not one for idle talk but I do remember him once telling us something to the effect that, ‘where your education is concerned there is nothing I would not do to help you achieve the best. Even if I have to borrow money, I will send you to the best schools and after that, you are on your own.’ In the morning on weekends, my younger sister especially, would pester him to come swimming with us which he often did. I remember I hated bringing home my school reports because I was morbidly afraid of disappointing him. My natural trouble maker gene made this a real conflict of interest for me. He also tried to facilitate as many experiences in life for us as he could. We were all encouraged to take up a musical instrument, participate in sports and take school trips to experience different cultures and activities.

Considering his busy nature then as a soldier, how did he create time for his family?

I cannot say I have much of a memory of my dad during his soldiering days. You would probably have to ask my older siblings about that.

How often did he take his family out?

My dad is a very social person. I am not sure if it was his choice or it was chosen for him. But certainly, while growing up, our home was regularly full of visitors, at least it seemed that way to me. We were not really a family who “went out together.” When we did go out, in Lagos, it was to the beach with a lot of family and friends. When we were overseas; family outings consisted going to a nice restaurant, usually Asian. Otherwise, to be honest, if we were spending the holidays outside the country, he would not be available to visit places with us because of his work.

How does he relax?

He is a voracious reader. He loves listening to classical music and watching sports. I think he likes tennis and any plant-related activity.

What are the values you have imbibed from him?

I learnt loyalty, integrity, humility and honesty from him. I also learnt that appearances and trappings mean nothing, one should look deep into the heart of a person.

How has his name helped you when people know you are his child?

This is a difficult question to answer. It’s not like I have exploited his good name to aid my career or any situation. For me, it’s more subliminal. I know that his good reputation and the respect people have for him have made it easier for me in certain social situations. Until you prove differently, it is assumed that as his child, you have been brought up right.

What are the values your father holds dear?

Like I said earlier, my dad values patriotism, loyalty, fairness, integrity, humility and honesty.

How does he handle misunderstanding with your mother?

I would not presume to know. I can state this categorically; they never had any disagreement in front of the kids.

How do you feel each time he expresses his displeasure about the state of the country?

Like I said before, my dad is not one for idle talk. He is not the guy complaining aimlessly about the state of the country and ranting on about the good old days. My dad is the man who tries to find solutions to problems. He is a patriot through and through but much as he loves his country, he is not blind to its faults. As a man who loves his country, he hopes and prays, as we all do, for things to get better but he takes a step further. He leads by example and strives to make a difference. He would never knowingly be part of the problem. I can happily say that my father is a man that makes me proud to be his daughter every day.

Who are your father’s friends?

This is a tough question and I would not want to name anyone or offend anyone. I will however say this; my father is blessed with many good long-lasting friendships and his friends come from all walks of life. There were always interesting people at our dinner table when I was young.

How did he enforce discipline on any of his children who misbehaved?

I wish I knew how he did it now that I have a mini-me running around. When it came to manners, we were brought up quite traditionally. I don’t think I have ever raised my voice to my dad or sassed him in any way. He was not really into corporal punishment. If any child misbehaved, privileges were withdrawn from that child. There was one unfortunate incident concerning my big sister and I. My dad is not a fan of idleness. He liked us all to get up early as a family and even during holidays. There was a particular holiday that my older brother, sister and I were in Lagos alone. I cannot remember how that happened and dad was the one in charge but of course, he was traveling all over for work. On the morning in question, it was already late, about 11am and my sister and I who shared a room were fast asleep. I felt a tap on my shoulder, rolled over and there was my dad tapping me with his horse whip that used to hang out in his study. My first reaction of course was to have a heart attack, then I woke my sister up and we knew how much trouble we were in because he looked furious. I cannot remember the conversation that occurred. I was hysterical and crying (back then I was known for being reduced to such state whenever dad raised his voice). When I turned back on my sister, she was narrating how we had been up all night because she was not feeling well. She totally exaggerated a mild cough that was bothering her. Her performance was worthy of an Oscar. I am sure dad realised we were just trying to get out of trouble but he gave us the benefit of the doubt.The boys may have a totally different story to tell.

How did his family cope when he was involved in the struggle for democracy through the National Democratic Coalition?

I will speak for myself. I was worried for him. I worried for him until he safely came to England and then while he was in exile, I worried for him for other reasons. My father has always been a “son of the soil” for want of a better phrase. He is at his happiest moment on his farm in Yakoyo (near Ile-Ife), in the fresh air, growing things, surrounded by good friends, good wine and good food. I know being away from home was hard for him.

How comfortable was his family when he served as minister?

We were young and away at boarding school, so his position as a minister was not allowed to affect us. It was just his job then, just like every other daddy had a job to do.

Your father was born in October. Some of his promotions in the army came in October and he retired in October. Did he talk about the significance of the month to him with you?

No. I bet he never even noticed

How do you feel being his daughter?

He is my dad so it’s not like I have any other experience to compare it to. It was always just my life. I know I am a lucky girl though to have a dad that is larger than life. He is confident, capable, hardworking, reliable, strong, well-liked, respected and a leader. I never felt the need to question his judgment as he always seemed to do the right thing. This is a hero-worshiping daughter’s point of view I hasten to add. As an adult, I know he is a human being with faults but even then as a father, he always does right.

What is his favourite meal?

My dad is a pounded yam and efo lover. During holidays, he does love his caviar and a good bottle of red wine.

Does he have any special mode of dressing?

I cannot remember the last time I saw my dad in a suit. For him, it is traditional Yoruba dress all the way.

What is his schedule like?

It would be impossible to predict where my dad will be on a week to week basis. He is always on the road or catching a flight for one obligation or another. He has yet to slow down and I think it keeps him young.

How close are you to him?

I am close enough.

How sociable is he?

He describes himself as a people person. He loves to have people around him during dinner and he has many social obligations.

Does he do any form of exercise or sport?

My dad is still disciplined about making himself fit. This puts me to shame for sure. He swims or runs daily and is super fit. He used to fly himself up to Kaduna in those days. He has a scar on his finger that looks like a landing strip. He told me, when I was younger, that it was from a bullet that whizzed by and skimmed over his finger. Looking back now, I thought he could have been pulling my leg.

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In this interview with SAMUEL AWOYINFA, Oladipupo Adebutu, one of the sons of lotto magnate, Sir Kessington Adebutu, talks about his father

Could you introduce yourself?

My name is Oladipupo Adebutu. I was born on February 25, 1962 at the Island Maternity, Lagos. I attended Our Women’s Day Nursery School, Yaba. I later attended St. Saviour’s Primary School, Lagos. I was at Igbobi College, Lagos for my secondary school education. I was there between 1972 and 1978 when I sat for the West African School Certificate Examination.

In 1978, I left for the Republic of Ireland, Dublin, where I attended St. Columbus College, Gratfanam which was like the Advanced Level. I was there till 1980. For my higher education, I attended the Regional Technical College, Carlo between 1980 and 1984. I also attended University of Limerick, where I read Analytical Chemistry, and I returned to Nigeria around 1986/87.The school then was called National Institute of Higher Education. There were a couple of years in-between when I could not make up my mind, whether I wanted to return to Nigeria or not. But I think I returned in 1987.

When you returned to the country, where did you work?

When I returned to the country, I participated in the compulsory one year service in the National Youth Service Corps. I served in Borno State, specifically in Biu, I taught in a secondary school. Borno was peaceful and lovely then. But since I was a Lagos boy, I did not stay long in Biu. I had to redeploy to Lagos where I later served with the Apapa Local Government.

After your national service, where did you work?

I went abroad to read Analytical Chemistry, because then, my dad had a paint factory in Iperu, Ogun State. But unfortunately by the time I returned from abroad, the dynamics of the economy did not support the production of paint. The paint factory was not doing well. There was problem with the importation of raw materials and there were some other challenges too. Because of these, I had to look elsewhere. That is why I always share this experience with as many young people that would listen.

I went into agriculture. And I was able to set up a piggery in Iperu, which has remained till date one of the biggest piggery farms in the whole of the South-West geo-political zone of Nigeria. It has been very rewarding. A lot of times, people said to me ‘you read abroad, you did Analytical Chemistry, what are you doing in agriculture?’ But I must confess, that is the most satisfying aspect of my life.

Could you share your childhood experience with your dad?

My father is someone you can call an enigma. He is a multi-faceted person. That’s the way I will describe him. In my own opinion, he is the most generous father on earth. He gives without looking back. He gives only the best, and no half measure. No sacrifice for him is too much for a child. But there are fundamental principles which you dare not abridge with him. Once you give him your word, you must die for it for you to change it. It is very hard to do, because things change. But to him, once you give a commitment, you must fulfil it. And that is the mainstay of his business — gaming. He went into that business without capital. He went into it with goodwill and his word. He says, ‘play coupon, when you win, I will pay you your money.’ And because he maintained that goodwill, the gaming business is successful. Again, when he went into lotto business, it is with the same goodwill and his word — play, win and get your money. He usually tells us his children that a good name is better than silver and gold. He tells us to honour our commitment.

Has this helped you in any way?

Yes. I am in politics, where double-speak is the currency.But I have refused to engage in double-speak. When I say something I must do it, because I am committed to it. I have been brought up not to accept double-speak.

In what areas do you intend making impacts in politics?

I believe in free enterprise. There should be laws that will make things work in our ports. There should also be laws that will guarantee the security of lives and property. There should be laws that will create the enabling environment for business to thrive.

When did he start the gaming business: pools betting and lotto?

I grew up to know him in the pools betting business, among them was Face to Face. He’s been in business for as long as I could remember. He did a lot of other businesses. He was an importer of tiles, ceramics and adhesives among others, for a very long time. But as the economy grew from bad to worse, those businesses became much more difficult to do and gradually he eased out of them.

Did he have time for his children when they were young?

Like I said earlier, the man is an enigma. If he’s within the country, wherever he was, he would come back home at 1.00pm for his lunch. We would all have our lunch together. And on Sundays, he gave the children a special treat, by taking us to either Mainland Hotel or Federal Palace Hotel to spend the Sunday afternoon Again, every summer, he would take us abroad for vacation for two or three weeks. He is very good man. But currently, I have a problem working with this kind of standard, and my children are asking, ‘Daddy, Grandpa took you abroad for summer, and stayed with you, why didn’t you do the same for us?’ My father is a fantastic man.

What are his hobbies?

My father neither plays squash nor polo. He enjoys the company of his friends and they play card games such as poker and black jack. They do have a good time.

Does he socialise?

My dad enjoys himself. He socialises well. He loves parties and he loves good life.

What is his favourite drink?              

It takes him two hours to finish a bottle of beer.

Is he a car freak?

No. My father sees cars as a means of conveyance. For a long time, he fancies Mercedes Benz. But he added two others. Specifically, he’s more into Mercedes Benz cars.

Does the name Adebutu open doors for you?

The name is an asset but it is also my biggest liability. It is an asset because it opens doors and it gives me special recognition easily. But the flipside is that people tend to expect too much from me. And a lot of things that others will do and go scot-free, I dare not do, because of that name. But I am not complaining, since both liability and asset must go hand-in-hand.

What is your dad’s favourite food?

First, I will say he has tendency for moderation, and he does not have any favourite food. He enjoys both local and international dishes. But he loves vegetable. It must be well prepared with a lot of sawa fish.

Does he have special nicknames his friends call him?

His long-time friends call him ‘Kessy Bobo’ and he cherishes it so much.

How did Baba Ijebu, that most people call him, evolve?

Baba Ijebu is the new nickname. The nickname originates from the lotto business. It has to do with the way he has managed people’s resources. That is when someone plays the game and he or she wins, he or she gets instant payment. It is because someone has managed those resources well. And for we Ijebus, there is the general belief that we are good managers of resources. I think that’s how that name came about.

How does your dad relax?

Unfortunately, that’s one thing he does not know how to do. It is very painful. He is always doing something. I wish my father could just go somewhere and rest for a while. When he goes on vacation, he carries his work with him. What kind of vacation is that? And he will be phoning the office every three hours to monitor his business back home.

You want him to relax more?

Yes. At almost 80 years, he deserves to rest. He was 79 years old last October.

What are some of his likes and dislikes?

My father is like a chief investigating officer. If you tell him lies, you are asking for more trouble. It is better to come clean, because with his intellect and ability to investigate, you will surely surrender.

Was he ever a policeman?

No. He is just a brilliant man.

What values have you imbibed from him?

I’ve learnt the values of hard work, forthrightness and truthfulness from him.

If there is anything you can change about your dad, what will it be?

The only thing that bothers me about him is that at times he can be too fastidious. He is demanding and sometimes his extent of demand cannot necessarily be the best. If one can get 80 per cent compliant from a human being and one is insisting it should be 100 per cent, it can make things unworkable. One must overlook some things.

Your dad took a younger wife, some few years back, how did his children feel about it?

The truth is that my dad is a multi-faceted man. And it depends from which area you are looking at him. It is something I will do, so I will be the last person to criticise his action. Every 10 years or thereabout, my father finds a new love. May be for others with his position, stature and resources, such persons may find new love every five years. In my own opinion, my father is not excessive in this aspect.

Have you ever played lotto?

Yes, I have. It is quite exciting. It is a very exciting way for recreation and it is quite interesting.

How many wives does your father have?

I know that my father has 12 children from five women. We are seven boys and five girls.

Are the children of the youngest wife included?

Yes

What number are you among the children?

I am the first child.

What kind of music does he listen to?

He loves King Sunny Ade and Chief Ebenezer Obey’s music. He has extensive collection of their works.

Is he a Christian or a Muslim?

He is a Christian but of Muslim descent. His parents were Muslims.

What faith do the children profess?

He allows us to follow whatever faith that suits us. For instance, I am an evangelist in the Celestial Church of Christ fold. Some of us are in the Redeemed Christian Church of God.

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Edith is the daughter of the late founder of the Celestial Church of Christ, Samuel Bilewu Joseph Oshoffa. She talks about the life of her father in this interview with GBENGA ADENIJI

Tell us briefly about yourself.

I am Edith Oshoffa, daughter of the founder of the Celestial Church of Christ, S.B.J Oshoffa. I am a businesswoman. I have two elder sisters and two elder brothers from my father. I am the first child from my mother.

How was growing up with your father?

It was a fantastic experience especially when I recall when we were young. I remember that he came from a poor home; a very humble background. I knew he loved God and God answered his prayers. But I took him for granted a lot because to me, he was just my father and a good one at that. We were always busy spreading the gospel. Funny enough, I was born in a coastal area in the Republic of Benin when my father was into evangelism. We always went out with him. We later went to live with one of his friends, Pa. Goodwill Abiassi, who was an educationist. My elder brother, Ebenezer and I lived with the man. When he retired, he became my father’s secretary in the Francophone region. My father liked education a lot and he encouraged us to stay with Abiassi so we could learn more. We stayed there for five years. I returned to my father after to continue Primary Six. After school, I used to attend choir practice. At times, he would go in a trance and we would help him take notes of things he said. So many things happened to me when I was young. We attended many events together. A lot of people were usually in our house on December 24 of every year and we would all go to the Seme beach to hold services. Abiassi later lived with my father when he (dad) moved to Nigeria from the Republic of Benin, January 1976. They were together until the car accident of September 1, 1985. Abiassi was admitted at a hospital in Ibadan, Oyo State after the accident while my father was taken to a hospital in Lagos. Abiassi lived another eight years after the accident but my father died 10 days after the accident.

How did he make time for his children considering his busy engagements?

As busy as he was, he created time for all his children. He brought himself down to our levels. My father was not only a father but also a friend. There was an issue between my boyfriend and I then. He woke me up around 2am when he had time to speak with me. He humbled himself for us to know why we should do certain things and why he wanted us to do them. He was a very busy person but he created time for his children in a way that I cannot say how he did it. All his children miss him even after 29 years of his death. He also did not travel abroad because when we were very young, he got a spiritual message that he would be involved in an accident before his death. He later told us that he asked God to allow his family recover his body anytime he died. He knew that if he was involved in an air mishap, his body would not be recovered. For that reason, he refused to fly. He would not travel abroad because there was no way he could go abroad without flying. But we were always together whenever he was evangelising. Time of evangelism was like a holiday to us. There were always new happenings and experiences as we moved to different areas in Port-Novo, Republic of Benin, to evangelise.

How many wives and children did he have?

We are not a large family. People believe my father had many wives and children. His biological children are not so many.

Did he have 34 wives?

No, it’s not true. My father did not have 34 wives. All his children and wives know each other. My father never had a concubine and we all lived together. My mother was his third wife and my father was a polygamist before the church started. I think God decided to use him because he was a polygamist to show that He can do whatever He wants the way He wants it.

How was he able to ensure peace among his wives?

In a polygamous home, there cannot but be some little problems. But when I grew up to know my father, he was a man who catered well for his wives and children. Everyone wants to be loved and cared for and that was exactly what my father showed his family. Every week, one of our mothers always cooked for us. We would also eat from the same pot. When I was getting married in 1975, my father gave me two female house helps to follow me and assist with the chores.

What was his idea of punishing any child who misbehaved?  

There was this intimate relationship we had which made my father not to beat me. I know this. He was a not a man who would beat, whip or slap his children each time they misbehaved. But when a child did anything wrong that was serious, he would call on someone to discipline such a child. I received more punishment when I was with Pa. Abiassi. If one was not among the first 10 in class, one was in trouble. My father was not a beater. I cannot remember the day he caned me. When I was young and I refused to do some things, he would call me later to explain why he wanted me to do what he instructed. I have learnt that kind of approach from him and I relate with my son well too. My father was a wonderful man. When people trembled seeing him, I just took him as my father. When he was involved in an accident on September 1, 1985, he allowed me to take him to the hospital. We were looking for him and did not know that he had been brought home. When we came home, we saw people trooping in to see him and I felt that he needed a rest. I approached him and told him in French that he would need to go to the hospital. He opened his eyes and said, ‘Edith, if it is you, I will go with you.’ That was how I was able to take him to the hospital on September 2, 1985.

Where were you when he died?

I was in the hospital with him. There were five people in the vehicle; the driver, Pa. Abiassi and two of my father’s aides, Mac and Thomas, who died instantly. Pa. Abiassi got injured. My father did not sustain any injury. It was only the middle finger on his left hand that broke. He died on September 10, 1985. I think his death was spiritual. He had a thanksgiving on September 8; two days before his death. I had an argument with the church’s Board of Trustees because I refused to disclose where I took him to. I later told my father about what happened. He told me that I should see myself as the daughter of a king and be assertive with whatever I want to do in the church. He asked me to bring a recorder for him to talk into it as proof that he said so. After the thanksgiving at the First Shadrack in Ilupeju, Lagos, he was joking with one of the persons he told us to invite for the event. It was the person that told him that his two aides had died. When the members left, he asked my brother and I where his two aides were. We told him that they were in a hospital in Ibadan receiving treatment since we did not want him to know the true situation. He asked us if we were sure and we answered in the affirmative. I told my brother not to come to the hospital in the morning the following day and we would pretend as if he was just coming from the hospital in Ibadan where my father’s aides were supposed to be receiving treatment. Immediately he entered the hospital the next day, I asked him how they were faring and he said the doctor advised them not to travel yet until they got better. My father just looked at us and laughed. He asked us if we wanted people to think he substituted the lives of his aides for his. We did not understand what he was saying. The next day after praying, he sat in his chair smiling and died. When the doctor came, I was told he was dead but I refused to believe because he was smiling.

What favours do you enjoy as one of the children of Oshoffa?

The name opens doors of favours everywhere I go. I remember when I just got married and I started using Oshoffa-Adewusi. My husband called me to choose between his and my maiden name. I chose Oshoffa because the name is a passport. I remember when I went to apply for a Nigerian Telecommunications Limited line one day after my father’s death. I applied for the line as Edith Oshoffa-Adewusi and the person in charge asked me of my relationship with Oshoffa and I told him. That day, he approved my line and ordered that it should be fixed same day. The name opens doors everywhere. Even at airports in Nigeria, the name brings recognition. It is a fantastic name.

What values did you learn from him?

One major thing I learnt from my father is that I should speak the truth always. My father taught us to be truthful and be open to others. I speak my mind and tell the truth always.

How did he relax?

He liked reading the Bible. I recall that he was the one who taught me how to read the Yoruba Bible when I was young. He would make me sit under a tree with him and read the passages that he would use to preach. He was a singer. He knew how to play the trumpet and organ very well. Sometimes when the organist was absent in church, he would take charge of the instrument. He was also a lover of good religious songs.

What was his dressing style?

My father was a fashionable man. He loved jewellery and I remember that a President of Gabon sent him a beautiful wristwatch. My father also liked wearing a long, lovely gold chain with a cross. He also wore garment of many colours.

Did he have any favourite food?

Yes, he enjoyed beans mixed with palm oil and garri. He loved to eat it with his hands. I always find it funny when people say members of CCC do not eat palm oil. When my father was in the hospital, he requested for beans mixed with palm oil and garri. It is part of the rules and tenets of the church that members should not put on shoes and not for any other reason.

What was his best drink?

In the 70s and 80s, he had a love for a particular kind of malt drink. If he wanted to entertain a guest and he felt like offering him a good drink, he would say ‘Bring that malt drink’

Why did you write the book, ‘S.B.J Oshoffa: The Enigmatic Spiritual Leader of Our Time’?

I wrote the book to share with my father’s spiritual children what they did not know about him. Also, I intend to use the book to remind members of the church the instructions he left and share his ideals with them.

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Prof. Mohammed Akanbi is a son of the pioneer Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related Offences Commission, Justice Mustapha Akanbi. He talks about his father’s life and times with SUCCESS NWOGU

Tell us about yourself

I am Mohammed Mustapha Akanbi. I am a legal practitioner. I am also a Professor of Law in the University of Ilorin.

How was it like growing up with your father?

My dad is someone who loves excellence. The kind of house he wants to build is one that is both a scholarly home and a religious one. To achieve that, he was very strict. He never spared the rod. He felt that at any point in time, we could do better than we did, so he was always pushing us to excel both in our education and religious upbringing.

Did he ever use the cane on any of his children?

Yes, I was frequently caned by my father. I still remember a day that I told a lie and how he dealt with me. When we were very young, one of my siblings took our father’s car out and unfortunately, he had an accident with it. I was the one that was asked to tell our father what happened. So, we cooked up a story which I relayed to him. Unfortunately, another brother of mine chickened out and later told him what happened. Anytime I remember it, I shiver. It was not a pleasant occurrence. He flogged us all day long. He kept flogging us in the morning and evening for a week. He did it in the presence of my now late mother.

Did he influence his children’s career choices?

It is a balance. Because he is of the old school, he favours courses like Medicine, Law, Engineering and Pharmacy. If you told my father that you wanted to study any of those courses, he would encourage you. He has his own view of professional courses. But if you told him that you wanted to do a single honours, such as History, Business Administration and so on; he would not be too pleased with it. But now, I am sure he will not kick against one reading non-professional courses as there is a brother of mine who read English and he is doing very well.

Did you enjoy any preferential treatment while in school because of who your father was?

Yes, we had our privileges and we also had challenges. His name could open as well as shut doors, depending on who you are talking to. For those who believe in integrity, if they heard our father’s name, there is the tendency that they may want to defer to us and get us involved in certain things. But some may not want to associate with us because they are scared that we may tell him about it. But it has been more of the positives than negatives.

Considering his busy nature as a legal practitioner and later as a judge, how did he create time for his family?

I did not really know him much when he was a legal practitioner because I was very young then. But he became a judge in 1974 so I saw more of him on the bench and it is now that I realise that he had many friends but when he was a judge, he was a typical civil servant. He went to work about 7am or 8am and would come home around 5pm. After that, he would spend time with his family and in the library. He wanted us to be studious, so he also created time for that. He used the spare time he had to train us. We did not really have time for leisure. He would ask us to go and read our books or the Quran at any spare time. My father had members of his extended family that he attended to. It was when he retired that we realised that he was a community person. As we grew older, we would sit with him to talk. But when we were much younger it was more of ‘go and read your book,’ ‘go to school’ and all sorts.

Did he ever have time to take his family out?

I can’t remember when he took us out. Most of the time, we were at the background. We never attended my dad’s swearing in as a judge and as President, Court of Appeal. He never put his family forward unlike today that many people flaunt their children. It is just recently and after he lost my mum that he now introduces his children to people. My father is quite a modest person.

How did he relax when he was at home?

He relaxed by reading newspapers. He likes reading newspapers in his library, sitting room, his bedroom and even in the toilet. Everybody in our house likes reading newspapers. That is one habit we got from him. He reads a lot. He loves reading. He also loves poems. Poetry is his hobby. He also loves jokes. People see him as someone who is too tense. But he loves jokes.

What are the values you imbibed from him?

The first value is to be outspoken. My dad says things as they are. Integrity and honesty are other values. He hates corruption. He does not betray his friend. He is generous to a fault. My dad will rather give out than take. He is a very selfless person. He is ready to deprive himself and his family and give out than bring in. My father would not look for job for us. He never spoke to anybody on our behalf. So, one may stay several months or years without a job until one is able to get it by oneself.

What was his reason for that?

My dad believes that God created him to serve. He loves service to humanity. He sees service as a calling and if he does it for himself or his family, he does not see it as a service. He believes that helping one’s family is selfish, that it is only when you help others that others will help you. But that may not be true in Nigeria. He is a Pan-Africanist. He does not like to be identified as an Ilorin man. He wants to be seen as someone who will fight the cause of Africans, of course, he lived part of his life in Ghana. Daddy does not cut corners.

How many of your father’s children are lawyers?

Four of his biological children are lawyers. I am in the academics, two or my immediate brothers are in practice and the last born, a lady, is a magistrate. But he has trained six lawyers, four of his children and two cousins of mine. One of his grandchildren is also poised to take Law as a profession.

How many wives did he have?

My mother died last year. He married my mother in the early 60s. In the mid-70s he experimented on polygamy for two years but it did not work. He was married to my mother for almost 50 years.

Who are some of your father’s friends?

He has many friends. He has close friends and most of them belong to a club called Amicus International. He also has the people that worked with him and those that still work with him. He also has some judges and retired judges as friends. He even has friends in Ghana. The poet, Kofi Awoonor, who was killed by terrorists in Kenya, was his friend. Also Justice Muhammed Uwais, a former Chief Justice of Nigeria, is his friend. He has many other friends, including his one-time partner in practice, Alhaji Abdullahi Ibrahim.

How do you feel being his son?

I am proud to be his son. I also share his name — Mohammed Mustapha Akanbi, and I have a son, Mohammed Mustapha too. In our house there are about six boys with such a name. Almost all the girls that have male children named them after him. It is exciting to be his son.

What is his favourite meal?

He loves Ghanaian food, Banku. He also loves taking tea. He takes tea any time of the day.

Does he love sports?

Yes, he loves sports. He loves football, boxing and table tennis. He was a boxer when he was young. He loves watching football.

Can you remember his favourite quote?

I know one, though I may not be able to put it the way he says it. It goes thus: ‘the heights which great men reached and attained were not attained by sudden flight but while their companions were sleeping, they were toiling.’ He loves that particular one.

How sociable is he?

He is very sociable. People do not know that my daddy used to dance. He used to host parties, but age has made him to cut down on socialising. He was, however, not socially irresponsible. He listens to music, including Ghanaian music. He also loves to stand. Every time he is giving a speech, even at this age, he will insist on standing. He sleeps very late. It was when my mum died that we knew the depth of my father’s love for her. I drafted her epitaph but my father wrote the one on a calendar and it was very moving.   He was really devastated by my mother’s death. I never knew my dad as an emotional person. They were married for almost 50 years. My mother was always in the shadows even though the shadow stuck to him because my daddy will not go on any transfer or any major occasion without my mum.

Did anybody settle quarrels for them?

They are normal human beings. It will be untrue for me to say that for almost 50 years, they never had misunderstanding. My father has a vision of excellence. When he feels that things are not going the way he wants, he will take it up with everybody in the house because he believes that all of us will have to take responsibility collectively. If they had a problem, they solved it between themselves. However, there was a day I attempted to mediate. My mother turned on me. She said to me, ‘never in your life should you come in when I am discussing with my husband.’ That day I felt very embarrassed. She told me to go and apologise to my father. They sorted out whatever problem they had well. They never allowed the intervention of a third party.

Does he wear special attire?

When he was younger, he loved suits. He has many of them. But immediately he retired, he was always in his native attire, agbada. But when he lost his wife, he started becoming simpler. Except there is a big occasion, he would be in kaftan. He used to be clean shaven. But he started wearing a beard in the mid-80s. I have been his barber since 1983. No other person cuts his hair. I am the only one that has that privilege. Now, I cannot touch his beard. He always tells me, ‘I have lost my wife, I am going to keep the beard.’

How does he spend his day?

He has a foundation. He also has a primary school and a secondary school. He has an Islamic charity organisation. He wants to attend to all these. He wants to attend the parent-teacher association meeting, meet with the parents, compose the school anthem, teach poems in the assembly and teach them English Language. He is also a chief in Ilorin. He takes people having community problems to the Emir. He attends some social and religious functions. When he comes back home, he does Islamic prayers. Around 9.30pm, Mr. Leon, his Ghanaian friend, who lives with him, leaves his room and joins him in the sitting room where they start their own parliament. It is just a parliament of two people. Mr. Leon would have read all the papers and brought out issues which they would discuss until they are tired. Then they would go to bed.

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Corin, the daughter of the late Tai Solarin, tells ARUKAINO UMUKORO about her father’s legacy

Can you introduce yourself?

My name is Corin Solarin. I am one of the two children of the late Dr. Tai Solarin and Sheila Solarin of Mayflower School, Ikenne, Ogun State.

Can you share some of the fond memories of your childhood with your father?

This Sunday, July 27 would mark the 20th anniversary of his passing, as well as the second anniversary of Mama (Sheila Solarin)’s death. I have so many fond memories of Papa. But his integrity, uniqueness and vision I will always remember. Up till today, things that he did and planned and instituted in his writings and life are still current and practical. He was a hundred years ahead of his time. When I was a kid, I remember Papa had a friend who was a leper. I can remember following my father to visit his leper friend, who lived in a bush. Papa would buy provisions for the man and the man’s family and he took me along with him to visit them. Papa had other friends, he had unusual friends. Also, I remember that he was the patron saint to the ogogoro sellers. He went to court on their behalf, Papa protested on their behalf that he didn’t want Johnny Walker, a whiskey from Scotland or England, while people making ogogoro were being chastised and punished for it. He became a celebrity in the world of ogogoro sellers. Another one of our expeditions was to go and visit the Oba (king) of the ogogoro sellers who lived in a very big palace. They received him so warmly. I went with him to places that I probably would never have the opportunity to visit again. I’ve reached as far as Kano. He went to Biafra during the civil war to deliver food and medicine; he brought back some children who he later raised to successful adulthood. There was no corner of Nigeria that Papa did not feel at home in or did not visit. He was a true Nigerian.

What kind of father was he?

He was a wonderful man and a great father. He was a role model. Aside from teaching us good manners, he was an inspiration to be around. He was the best and I will miss him forever. He was a strict disciplinarian. He was gentle, but firm. He insisted on the best behaviour, both from his immediate family and his extended ones. I have memories of going places with Papa. Once in a while, he would take us to Ikoyi Hotels to eat and to teach us how to eat properly at the white man’s table. Papa would take us to the zoo also. But oftentimes, my memory of my father was that he was a workaholic. He worked 20 hours in a day. Papa would sleep by midnight and wake up by 4am. Then he would read the Daily Times when it was still delivered to our house. Papa would sit at the dining table with us his family and he would fall asleep sitting there because he was so tired. He worked hard.

What were the values you learnt from him?

I would say one of the primary values he taught me as a woman was independence. Papa preached independence and integrity. I never knew until almost late in my middle age why people would tell me I was the most independent woman they had ever met. It was later on that I finally connected the dots and understood that it was the upbringing that Papa gave me and the surroundings I was in that nurtured and shaped me into becoming that kind of person. That I think is one of the primary values he put into us. He was also very insistent that the girl child should be independent and educated, because according to him, life could be very uncertain. He himself was raised by his elder sister and he wanted girls, especially, to be independent in case things didn’t work out or they might have unexplained financial burdens. He taught me to think for myself and to be independent, upright and ethical in my dealings with others.

How did he discipline his children when they went wrong?

One of Papa’s sayings was egba o ni ko ku (caning won’t kill you). If he was going to be cane you, he would do it properly for the right reasons and he would train you by so doing. Many people received the results of his correction and have done very well in life. He also disciplined his children the same way. He did not discriminate between his own children and his extended children. He treated all of us the same and he was not biased.

Your dad was a consummate educationist. Did he influence any of his children to follow his footsteps?

Yes, he did, because I have been a teacher all my life and I studied Education. He had a very profound influence on us.

How was his social life like?

Papa was not one to go to parties and a variety of weddings. He went to a few events, but it was not often you would find him at such celebrity gatherings. He would go to family occasions sometimes, but he was not a typical partygoer.

Who were his closest friends?

One of his closest friends was a late former Minister of Education, Professor Babatunde Fafunwa. He had a few close friends. When he went abroad, he became friends with American writer, Alex Haley, who wrote the book, Roots. Somewhere in the archives, we have series of letters from Haley to Papa that talked about their time together. He had a few friends but he was somebody so consumed by his passion for the school, education and humanism in Nigeria that he didn’t spend a lot of time hobnobbing with friends.

Your father established Mayflower School in 1956 and gave it to the government….

(Cuts in) Yes, he gave it to the government. He was one of the proponents of free education and the government running all the schools. He had such high hopes for government and education in Nigeria. So, he gave the school to the government in 1976. Although Papa was still very much involved, the school was run by the government for a long period of time.

Did he tell you how he felt with the government’s handling of the school?

No, he did not. I feel that nobody would care for the child better than his own parents. A step-father would not love a child more than the biological father. That’s a way of looking at it. I think the deterioration of the school is symptomatic with a lot of things going on in Nigeria today. In a lot of areas in the country, there are many people working hard to stem the tide and to change things, but definitely the school is not where it was in its heydays when Papa was directing its affairs.

What’s the current state of the school now?

It’s still in the process of being privatised. At the time that the processing was taking place, there was an election and the state government changed hands. But we have had constant assurances; in fact the commissioner of education came around last week and assured us that Governor Ibikunle Amosun still has the mind to return the school.

How do you think your father would feel about the current state of Nigeria?

I think a lot of people, the likes of (Dr. Nnamdi) Azikiwe, (Chief Obafemi) Awolowo, (Dr. Tai) Solarin and many others had high hopes for the country and expected it to be more developed than it is presently. But there is always room for improvement.

What are some of your father’s favourite quotes?

One of the quotes I remember is the Gennisburg address which was by the late President Abraham Lincoln of the United States. That was what we did recite, but the William Henley song, ‘I am the master of my fate, I am the captain of my soul’ is actually set to music and is in the school’s song book.

Your father was the pioneer chairman of The Peoples Bank established by the regime of General Ibrahim Babaginda(retd.). He was also a critic of the government. How did he feel about taking up the appointment?

I cannot give you a really good answer because I was out of the country during his tenure. I was away for some years. But I think he did his best. Anywhere you put Papa he would do his best to do a good job. I think he did his best within the limitations of what he was allowed to do for as long as he could. As for being a critic of the government, he criticised everybody, but I think that time would vindicate those who are to be vindicated. He took two positions: he was ombudsman, which was like a director of complaints and then he headed The People’s Bank. These are not ministerial or senatorial appointments. He never took anything within the government. The People’s Bank was strictly to benefit the people and the ombudsman was to listen to the complaints of the people. So, his agenda remained unchanged, which was to serve the common man.

What shaped his ideas to fight for the common man?

He was very much self-driven. Nobody impaled him to be looking out for the common man. He just had that empathy and love for the common man; it was part of his character from very early on. I think he was also shaped by his experiences in post Second World War in Europe because he ran into a lot of humanists. I think that social belief he was exposed to in the late 1940s and early 1050s in Europe helped to shape some of his character.

Why did he like to wear his trademark simple khaki shorts and shirt?

That apparently dated back to his trip to China. I cannot remember the exact date because I was in the US at the time. He visited China and was struck by the fact that there was free universal education for all children, possible through primary and secondary. And Papa swore that he would wear khaki shorts and shirts until the day he died, until there was free education in Nigeria. They buried him in that khaki shirt and shorts because up till that time, there was still no free education in Nigeria.

How was his relationship with your mother and how would you describe their marriage?

They had a very exquisite, wonderful relationship. He viewed his wife as his equal partner. They did everything together. They were always in accord and never disagreed. He still had the deciding vote but he would listen to Mama. But most of the time, they agreed on everything. He gave her a lot of independence and respect. They had a very good, happy and solid marriage. They respected each other and were so in love their whole lives. She was buried next to Papa in the compound.

Were you in the country when he died?

No, I was in the United States.

Why did they call him Oga Tasere?

It was because of his small stature (laughs). I think there is a book somewhere with that same title, Oga Tasere. They used to call him Oga Tasere, Uncle Tai, and he was happy with all of these names.

How did he react whenever he was angry?

Papa would let you know. He was not somebody who would just punish you for no good reason. He would explain to you why you were being punished and why he was trying to correct you. I don’t think I was ever censored or corrected when it was undeserved. He was always correct.

Your father was asthmatic….

(Cuts in) Yes he was.

How did he manage it since he lived to be 74?

He was a physically strong person. He was physically active, working in the gardens, and so on, and that probably helped him along the way. But the asthma was aggravated by his last stay in jail. Also, there was a time he was in Jos, and then in the north, where there was a lot of dust, but he managed it for so long. His autobiography, To Mother with Love, is going to be reprinted this year to mark the 20th anniversary of his passing on. That was the only thing he wrote which entirely encompassed his life. And I remember asking Papa when I was small that, ‘Daddy, tell me about the story of your life’, and he said, ‘no, go and buy my book and read’ (laughs).

How did he create time for his family?

Papa was a believer in quality time and not quantity time. One enjoyed every moment one spent with him. Papa worked for his vision but he found time. He would take us out to dinner, the zoo, and other interesting places. We did some few things with him but he was passionate about his business and we all respected it.

What were his likes and dislikes?

He did not like pompous people or arrogant people, people who made other people’s lives miserable just to enrich themselves. He was completely in favour of the common man. He loved common people and would do anything for somebody who was impoverished or not doing very well. Papa liked technology. I often wonder how Papa would have taken to the social media and the Internet if he was alive today. He would have been able to write so many articles and talk to people on blogs, discuss with people on different social media platforms. I think he was ahead of his time. Maybe they would have killed him because he would have said it all (laughs). He was also a consummate reader.

What was his favourite food?

Papa would eat anything. He ate local food, and because he was in Europe for 10 years, he also ate any type of continental food. He liked eating eba with soup or eating any local dish. He never touched alcohol in his life. He would just drink his water, he also liked drinking tea and coffee.

What do you miss most about your dad?

I miss the inspiration that he provided. I miss the way that he was able to pinpoint problems. I miss his uncanny ability to predict and see what Nigeria needed 50 years ago. I miss his inspiration. Mum was a loving mother. I miss her so much, unabashedly accepting everybody, but still a disciplinarian. Up till the day she passed away she was still tutoring pupils, reading and discussing with them. I miss her terribly. One can never replace one’s mother.

What was your dad’s daily routine like?

I can’t speak about his routine, I spent a lot of my adult life in the US, but his daily routine was similiar to those of his students; they would get up at a quarter to 5am, do exercises, go for their morning assembly, and then to class; he was there when they came out, he ate meals with them. Then we would have an afternoon, evening session with him on the field, which was called silent hour, it was an hour of silent reading. This was papa’s favourite time of the day because he got to sit quietly, he would read his book and would not be disturbed. Afterwards, his students went to night prep and eventually to bed. His day mirrored the students’ day, except his would start two to three hours earlier and end two to three hours after theirs. He was a workaholic.

As his daughter, what do you think his legacy should be?

I think his legacy is not in the buildings or physical structure. His legacy lives on in every Nigerian who was touched by him and in turn they are training the next generation. There are hundreds of ex-Mays (former students of Mayflower school) who imbued his teachings, philosophy and his enthusiasm, and they are scattered throughout the world. And they in turn are impacting the next generation. So, it is not the bricks and mortar; it is the power of his mind and his character that is the most enduring legacy. I think the common Nigerian has given him the very utmost respect, but his impact has been underrated by those in power because he was an academic and not a politician.

Your father was an atheist, why didn’t he believe in God?

He was raised in the church. He had senior members of his family who were church going and he was born in the church, but I think he became disenchanted with it at a certain point and refused to go to church. There is a tremendous emphasis in Nigeria today on church-going, but if you looked at Tai Solarin’s life, he lived the life of somebody who was a devout Christian or Muslim. Papa lived all his life to serve the people. He cared for the widow and the orphan. He educated children. He gave away most of what he had. So, saying that he was an atheist and not a godly person and that he was going to hell is absolutely untrue. I know where my father is resting. He was a very devout man; he loved people and what better way to serve God than to serve people?

Can you encapsulate his life’s philosophy?

It is hard work, integrity and honesty, but with flair and passion driven to achieve those goals. Papa was a very transparent person.

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In this interview with MOTUNRAYO JOEL, Adewunmi, one of the daughters of ace broadcaster, Bisi Olatilo, talks about her father

Tell us briefly about yourself

I am Adewunmi Funsho (nee Olatilo). I attended Estate Nursery and Primary School, Lagos State Model College and Apapa Memorial High School. I studied Industrial Relations and Personnel Management at the University of Lagos. I currently run a fashion outfit.

How do people relate with you when you introduce yourself as Olatilo’s daughter?

Most times, I don’t use the name Olatilo, I leave out my last name because I don’t want any preferential treatment; not until they ask for my last name. When they finally hear my last name, they are usually surprised and most times, they show me kindness. My dad always says it’s good to have a good name and that it’s better than silver or gold. I’m grateful to be one of his children.

Can you recall any tight moment you found yourself that his name helped you out?

That was when I was in Katsina State observing the national youth service. There were problems during posting because many corps members wanted to serve in the city. But they were posted to villages. Since I didn’t want to be posted to a village, I went to one of the officials of the National Youth Service Corps to tell him my plight. When I introduced myself, he was very surprised and pleased at the same time, he decided that since my father is a broadcaster, I would be better off in the city. But I wasn’t really interested in serving in a television house. But at that moment, I had no choice. I was ready to accept any offer.

Do you get pressure from people to meet up to your father’s achievements?

Yes, very much, but I think knowing what you want in life is very important, because if one doesn’t discover oneself, one would get pushed around. Moreover, I’m a very shy person;I don’t like speaking in public. Right from the onset, I knew that his line of work wasn’t what I would venture into. Though I like being in the entertainment industry, I prefer being behind the scenes.

Growing up, was he overprotective over his children?

Any Nigerian man would be protective of his children. But with him, it was easy because my mother was the one in charge of the house, he was rarely around, so if we wanted anything, we had to get my mother’s approval first. Whatever my mother said was what he accepted. We had to convince my mother first. I think he believed that my mother, being the one around, knew what was good and what wasn’t good for us.

Did he tell you how he met your mother?

I can’t remember exactly, but I think he must have mentioned it to us. I think he said they met at an event in Ibadan. He was then a young broadcaster.

What has kept their marriage going?

I think it’s love. They will be celebrating 32 years of marriage this year. It’s God, patience and love. Patience is key. Sometimes, I pray to have the type of heart my mother has, she is such a patient woman. Being in the limelight, he always has people around him, but my mother has to be patient with him. She doesn’t bother about hearsay.

How do they handle disagreements?

They hardly disagree. I guess it is because he is not always around. We didn’t see them disagree. But one thing I know they always disagree about is discipline. My mother never spared the rod when any of us erred. My father is soft-hearted, so whenever my mother was beating us, he would start complaining. He would say, “Do you want to kill them?” But I think it is good that both of them are not too hard or too soft.

You said he wasn’t always at home, so how did you spend family time?

We used to go on road trips to Ibadan. It was fun. I remember he had a Peugeot 504 car; we would all jump into the car, singing and discussing. That was when the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway was in good shape.

Is any of your siblings a broadcaster?

None of us is a broadcaster. I think it is because Bisi Olatilo is a brand name. It will be hard to fill his shoes. For example, if I approach someone and introduce myself as Olatilo’s daughter, and then the person asks me ‘‘Can you give me the kind of good package he gives me? I obviously can’t match his packaging style . But by God’s grace, my father is trying to build an empire for his children so that we will not rely on his name but on the good production package his company produces.

How did he discipline his children when they erred?

He would shout at us. Whenever he does that, it is worse than beating. But that didn’t happen much when we were young. We tried to be of good behaviour always.

Did you sometimes wish he was more around?

That is a very dicey question because his not being around helped him to work so hard to give us the best. He put in so much time and effort into his business. If he was at home and we didn’t have what we had while growing up, I don’t know how life would have been. I just thank God that my father is doing what he loves in order to provide for his family. I appreciate and thank him. I actually don’t know if I would have wanted him to stay at home more, because most times when he was home, we used to play around a lot. He tried as much as possible to utilise the time he spent with us.

How does your mother handle the issue of female admirers?

Any woman who has a husband who is into showbiz will get jealous once in a while. It is just normal. But I think a woman needs to understand her husband. My mother made up her mind not to listen to hearsay. Even if my father is not popular, women will still admire him. There should be a level of trust between a couple. My mother trusts our father and it is a good thing.

How does she handle rumours?

She listens to what he tells her and does not believe in rumours. There was a time they said he owned a house in the United Kingdom which was untrue. There were also rumours that he bought a house in Victoria Garden City, Lagos and that we were living there. They were lies. My mother disregards rumours.

Who were the famous faces you saw in your home while growing up?

I remember we used to see Ras Kimono, Blackky, Dele Momodu. We also once did a jingle for Bola Tinubu, Christy Essien Igbokwe. These were some of them.

How do you feel being his child?

I feel like a normal child. There are no special feelings. Maybe people might think differently but there is nothing extra-ordinary about it.

Do people see you as a silver spoon child?

I wasn’t born with a silver spoon. We acquired our silver spoon along the way. We thank God for His mercies, I still remember those days we ate eko(pap). My mother would hold a stick to beat any of us who refused to eat. We used to cry while eating it. But I’m glad today that things are different. We are grateful to God for where we are and that my father still enjoys what he does.

What price did he have to pay for stardom?

I would say family time. He does not keep friends He only has acquaintances and friends in the industry.

How comfortable is he, being a society man?

I think it’s like breathing, he doesn’t do anything extra. I don’t think he remembers when it all started; it’s become his way of life.

What do you like about him?

My dad is generous. He can give out his eye, but most times, people abuse his generousity. It doesn’t change who he is though. He is also family-oriented.

What don’t you like about him?

I don’t like his temperament. When he gets angry, it can be really bad. But he snaps out of it within minutes. However, at that point when he is angry, one will not want to be around him. It rarely happens though.

How close are you to him?

We are quite close; he is closer to his female children.

Did he use to visit you in school?

No, that was my mother’s job. But whatever my mother did, it was because of my father’s support. If he didn’t provide money, she wouldn’t be able to come visit me.

What values have you imbibed from him?

My father is a stickler for details, almost a perfectionist. I try to strive for that and emulate it though it’s not easy.

What qualities do you appreciate in him?

The way he loves his family. He doesn’t joke with his family. This really strengthens the love between us. If there is no love in a family, that family will be disunited.

How does he relax?

He hardly relaxes, when he is at home, he is either watching the news or writing a script. We used to make fun of him. Even when he is on vacation, he still calls the office to check the progress of things. I guess that is his nature. But when he is at home, he uses that time to relax, though he may be thinking of work, at least he is in a relaxed environment.

What does he do before going to bed?

I hardly see him go to bed. He comes home late because of work.

What does he say about the crisis in the nation?

He is as distressed as I am. I never thought Katsina could become a danger zone because it was peaceful when I served there. He is praying and wishing that the chaos ends. He believes Nigeria can be a better place.

Did he influence your career choice?

No, he didn’t influence my career choice. I took the decision to become an entrepreneur. I always wanted to be an employer and as a woman, it’s better to have one’s business. He helped me to fulfil my dream.

What is his favourite food?

He doesn’t have a favourite food now but for a very long time he used to like noodles. I remember then we used to make it for him every morning. But when the news about killer noodles broke, he stopped eating noodles. He also likes groundnuts and soft drinks.

Before getting married, did he advise you on the type of man to marry?

Not exactly, but I wanted a man who is like him in certain aspects, the way he loves his family and his hardworking nature. So maybe he did influence my choice.

What is his special drink?

It used to be a drink called Pinky, but he has stopped taking alcohol. He likes soda drinks.

What is his style of dressing?

He likes to dress in the Niger Delta style. He is in love with the style.

Tell us about his exit from the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria?

I was still young then. I don’t know what happened exactly, but I still remember that the house we later moved into when we moved out of the FRCN premises was inspired by my mother. She was the one that bought the land. At first, my father wasn’t interested in living in the area when my mother showed him the land, but she still decided to keep it. When we were asked to leave FRCN because of an issue I’m not too sure about, we moved into the house built on the same land. I am glad my mother bought the land. We would have been homeless. It all happened for a reason, when a door is shut, God opens many others. If he wasn’t out of FRCN, he would not have been able to build his company.

Did he force any of his children to learn the three major languages, Igbo, Yoruba and Hausa?

No, he didn’t force us. We all speak Yoruba, and his ability to speak three different languages was not something he planned. He grew up in Kano which was how he learnt Hausa. But his ability to grasp the three languages easily really helped him.

How does he handle criticism?

Like any other human, he sometimes gets hurt but he usually chooses to dwell on constructive criticisms.

What vision does he have for his company?

He hopes to grow his business bigger, but in the long run, he hopes to own a television station.

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