Babajide, one of the sons of Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Musiliu Obanikoro, talks about his father’s life and career with MOTUNRAYO JOEL

Tell us more about yourself.

I went to a few primary schools, but I finished from St. Saviours, Ebute Meta railway compound, Lagos. I then moved to King’s College, Lagos. After my secondary school, I had the opportunity to travel to the United States to further my education. I was at St. Cloud States University, where I studied Political Science for my first degree and Criminal Justice for my minor. I went on to obtain a master’s degree in Public Administration from Pace University, New York. After my education, I worked for a while and relocated to Nigeria.

What was your childhood like?

I spent the first nine years of my life with my maternal grandmother who lived in Ikorodu, Lagos. She solely brought me up and was my custodian. I used to spend holidays with my paternal grandmother and cousins. During the holidays, we were many in the house , I had a great time. It wasn’t until 1989 that I met my parents after they moved back to Nigeria from the US with my siblings— Gbolahan and Shalewa. We lived at Alagomeji, Yaba in a one-bedroom apartment where we shared either the toilet or kitchen with our neighbours. Then we moved to Iponri Estate where we lived in a three-bedroom apartment till 1994 or 1995. We later moved to Ebute Meta. My family and I lived there till I moved out of the country.

How do you react when people view you as a silver spoon kid?

I believe everyone is entitled to their opinion. It is everybody’s dream and wish to be a silver spoon kid, if that is what I’m termed as, glory be to God.

Did your father influence your decision to join politics?

I wouldn’t say no because that would be a blatant lie. By nature, I think God created me as someone who loves to make impact. When I was in secondary school, during my second term in J.S.S.2, I remember calling a few friends together. I told them that our class captain was weak and should be removed. We all then decided to match to our class teacher’s office to lay our complaint. She then followed us back to our class and conducted an election. I won the election. I remained the class captain from J.S.S.2 till we finished secondary school. Other students tried to get me removed but they failed. This is just the kind of person I am, I love to make an impact and contribute my quota to making things better. The same thing happened in the university, where I was a member of the African Students Association for a year. The following year, I contested for the position of treasurer and I won. In my final year, I contested for the presidential position and I won. I contributed immensely to the association. I defended the association a number of times and I guess I got this nature from my father.

Does he force his career choices on his children?

No, but he guides you. If you tell him what you want to become, he will guide you on how to achieve your goals. He would give you full support.

How did you feel when you lost out in the House of Assembly elections?

It was painful, but I didn’t think it was the end of the world or that I was a failure. I believe there is life beyond politics. I just wanted to contribute my quota, but since people didn’t want me, I didn’t mind. Though in my case, I don’t think it was the people that didn’t want me, it was a group or hierarchy that denied me the opportunity of serving my people. This is why people like me are adamant, insisting that Nigeria can’t continue like this.

To what extent did your father contribute in ensuring your victory at the polls?

My father helped financially and morally, spiritually. He threw everything he could possibly throw into my political career. Even the blind could see that he gave his best. Just that we are in a state where the opposition party has eaten deep into the system, this has given the party an advantage over other parties. It took the Peoples Democratic Party a long time to wake up and realise this. The good thing is that our thought level is slowly changing and individuals now vote for candidates and not parties.

What kind of father is he at home?

He is a family man, he puts his family first at all times— I learnt that from him. He takes his children’s welfare seriously. If you introduce yourself as a friend to any of his children, he would give you a listening ear and grant you uttermost respect. He is a complete family man.

Is he sociable?

He is a moderate socialite and I have that nature too. He isn’t too outspoken neither is he an introvert. He doesn’t drink or smoke.

To what extent does he cherish his religion?

He is submissive to Islam, submissive to faith, but he isn’t a 100 per cent practising Muslim. This is my view of him when it patterns to religion.

What do you like about him and vice versa?

I always tell him to exercise a bit more patience and try to listen more. Other than that, he is a great father. He is someone one can change overtime. For example, if you want him to do something, even if he insists on not doing it, if you give him time, he will give you what you want.

How did he train his children?

There is one thing I know we cherish in my family— honesty. If I am dealing with someone, I want our relationship to be straightforward, no pretence. We were brought up to be honest, to tell the truth at all times even if it will cost us anything. He was on the strict side with us while growing up; he ensured we weren’t spoilt kids.

How did he discipline any child who erred?

I received a lot of beatings then and we clashed a lot. We have had our times, but we are better now, our relationship is better.

Did he use a cane?

He started out correcting me with a cane, but as I grew older, he used his hands. After a while, he stopped.

What special privileges have you enjoyed being his child?

I have enjoyed a lot. Sometimes, when I go somewhere and I mention my surname, people become hospitable. There are also times people make things difficult for me just because I’m his son. That is life; nevertheless, I have enjoyed more benefits than pain.

How did he feel when he lost out at the PDP Lagos governorship primaries?

He is someone who takes life easy. He moved on with his life after the primaries. He doesn’t dwell on things. Though, we didn’t lose the honourable way. Some people made sure he lost. For the love of progress and the party, he succumbed to their pressure and worked whole-heartedly to support the party at the polls.

What does he say about Jimi Agbaje?

He will tell you, ‘Lagosians missed out on this one.’ He might not know Agbaje well, but he knows the Lagos Governor-elect, Akinwunmi Ambode more than Agbaje. They have been in the system more than Agbaje. He would have preferred Agbaje to win.

What is his favourite food?

He knows that best, his diet has become interesting. There is a certain type of oil used to cook his meals; he doesn’t take sugar and milk. His diet is special.

Does he read what people write about him?

I think he has a thick skin for that. For years, people have been writing all sorts and he has learnt how to ignore those lies. 99 per cent of the things written in the papers are not true, he just ignores them.

What does he do when he wakes up and the last thing he does before he sleeps?

When he is in Lagos, at night, my brother and I talk with him till he falls asleep. In the morning when he wakes up, he prays and looks at his schedule for the day. Before, he used to work out every morning but now that he is getting old, he just does little exercise.

How does he handle misunderstandings with your mother?

They have been married for over 35 years and they understand each other perfectly. I don’t know how they settle their quarrels, but I know it doesn’t last long.

What special moments do you remember while growing up?

I remember when he came back from the US once, he picked me up from Ikorodu and we went on a drive. On the way, he began to sing one of Sunny Ade’s songs. I still remember staring at him as he sang the song. Whenever I think about that day, I smile. There are times he used to sing for me specially— he still does— and I always cherish those moments.

How close are you to him?

My brother and I are very close; we are like five and six. But I’m glad my relationship with my father is much better.

Does he advise you on the type of woman to marry?

No, he doesn’t force you to do something; he only encourages you and gives you guidelines.

How does he relax?

My father doesn’t relax; he is always up and doing. Even when he travels abroad, he keeps calling Nigeria to find out how things are going.

What is it that Nigerians don’t know about him?

He is a family man; he always puts his family first. He cherishes his children. His diet is special to him alone. He is also very conscious of his appearance— he always wants to appear clean. He is always dyeing his grey moustache black. He loves the fact that people are always telling him he looks so young. I encourage everyone to continue telling him that he looks very young.

What is the secret of his youthful look?

I don’t know. Maybe it is his diet; he is disciplined with his diet. He is always exercising. Those are the simple things he does.

What else don’t we know about him?

He is also very cosmetic too. If you recommend any cream to him and say that it will make his skin smooth and clear any spot, he will go for that cream.

Does he splurge on that?

He isn’t a lavish spender; I think I imbibed that from him.

Who is his best friend?

Kayode Bawala is his supposedly best friend apart from my brother and I. Also, my mum.

Who are his role models?

I don’t know, but I know he reads a lot of autobiographies, I don’t know his role models.

What does he say about President Goodluck Jonathan?

He thinks President Jonathan has done a lot of things. An example is the fertilizer issue in the North; my father always gives him kudos for that. He also commended the President for his decision to privatise Power Holding Company of Nigeria. My father also thinks the President has done a fantastic job in terms of railway construction and road connection. He is always praising him.

Why did he decide to go into politics in the first place?

I guess he wanted to serve. This was in 1988 or 1989, I was eight years old. I know he wanted to serve his people. He just wanted to contribute his quota.

Does he have any regrets about joining politics?

No, none that I can remember.

If he was made the governor of Lagos, what would he have done?

Health and education are very paramount to him. I’m sure we would have had better health and education systems if he was governor. He also likes a system that works. Take a look at his track record: when he was council chairman, he was the one who introduced automatic crediting of accounts instead of cash payments. When he was Commissioner for Home Affairs and Culture, he was commended and he still gets commended on what he put in place for those who went on pilgrimage. He made improvements in major areas he found himself.

What are his dreams and aspirations?

I don’t know what his dream and aspirations are. Maybe, he wants to be the President of Nigeria, I’m not sure. For now, he is content and happy. He came and conquered. What he is planning now is a lifetime legacy—something he will be remembered for. He wants to put in place things that would give him the opportunity to give back to the community.

How does he like to dress?

He likes to dress simple.

Does your family fear for his life?

No, because he doesn’t step on toes. He is an honest man. He is someone who has occupied many top offices in Nigeria, but no fund misappropriation allegation has been brought against him till date. People can cook up lies, but none of them is true. He has a clean record.

How did he handle the controversies regarding his appointment as Minister of Foreign Affairs?

He was once an ambassador, and he qualifies to be a Minister of Foreign Affairs. There are no requirements for that appointment— it is political.

What does he think about Gen. Buhari?

I don’t know, but he is hoping and praying for the best for the sake of the nation.

What has been the saddest moment for him?

I think it was the time he lost his father or when he lost my elder sister.

How does he handle female admirers?

How else should he handle them? Obviously, he looks and walks on. He is legally married to my mother, who is the only woman I know he is legally affiliated to.

Describe his daily schedule?

I don’t really know because he isn’t a 9-5 man. He doesn’t have a daily schedule. He has a spontaneous lifestyle.

What does he splurge on?

He isn’t a lavish spender. People think he is a billionaire but honestly, he is your average civilian that has one house in Lagos and another in Abuja where he lives. People think he is a billionaire. I thank God he isn’t begging to eat but he isn’t rich. We should pray to God to continue to protect our secrets. He doesn’t have any luxury car. Even his kids have more luxury cars than him. He is like your neighbour next door.

What makes him happy?

My mother makes him happy; I can beat my chest to that.

Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.

Contact: editor@punchng.com

Bankole, the only son of the late Dr. Stella Adadevoh, tells ARUKAINO UMUKORO about his mum’s heroic efforts in the country’s fight against Ebola

Please introduce yourself.

My name is Bankole Cardoso. I am the son of Dr. Stella Ameyo Adadevoh. I am an entrepreneur. I was born and raised in Nigeria. I went to Boston College in the US for my undergraduate degree, where I studied Business Management and Accounting. I worked with PriceWaterHouse Coopers in New York. After that, I worked in a private equity firm called the Carlyle Group, in the US. I’ve been back in Nigeria for about two years now and I launched a company called Easy Taxi in Nigeria.

How was growing up?

It was wonderful. My mum was a very loving person. I was her only son and with me, it was even more. She showered me with love and gave me everything. There was nothing that she wouldn’t do for me. She taught me many things. She taught me to be faithful and strong. She was such a strong person. The only reason why I could still be on my feet after going through this, is because of what she taught me. She was always there, but she still made me stand on my own. She was the perfect mother because of her love and care.

Can you tell us about your mother’s profession?

My mum, Dr. Ameyo Stella Adadevoh, worked at First Consultants for 21 years, the same hospital I was born in. She was synonymous with First Consultants. Also, many of my best friends and my whole family were born there. She treated generations of different families; parents, grandparents, great grandparents, children and grandchildren. That was the case in my whole family as well. She treated everybody. I have met many patients of hers who have said that she was such an exceptional doctor because she really cared for them. She followed up on them all the time and prayed for them. Medicine was definitely her calling. She was educated at the University of Lagos, and then she went to the University of London to continue her career. Later, she decided to move back to Nigeria to continue her career because she didn’t want to stay in England. She always said that she wanted to be here to make an impact on the health care system. She was selfless and extremely dedicated to her profession. She was there seven days in a week. She would even do house chores for her patients and go on house calls for free. Even those who couldn’t afford to pay for the health care, she had a tab at the hospital, she would give free medical care or tell them to put it on her bill and she would pay for it.

Your mum was said to have also discovered swine flu in Nigeria…

When swine flu came to Nigeria, she was the first doctor to diagnose that, just the same way with Ebola.

Everyone sees your mum as a heroine for the role she played in stopping the Ebola Virus Disease outbreak in the country. Do you also see her as such?

She was indeed extremely special and what she did was heroic. Despite the pressure and stress she was under, she was just concerned for Nigeria at the time. She kept saying, ‘I hope this doesn’t stigmatise Nigeria, I hope this doesn’t give us a problem.’ To me, she is a heroine, 100 per cent.

Can you recollect her encounter with the late Liberian diplomat, Patrick Sawyer, who brought Ebola into Nigeria?

The actual story was that when this man (Sawyer) flew into Nigeria from Liberia to attend a conference, he fell ill on his arrival and was taken to First Consultants because the general hospitals were on strike. When he got there, he was first treated for malaria on a Sunday. That weekend was my dad’s 60th birthday and my mum wasn’t in the hospital. We were all at home celebrating. On that Monday, she went to the hospital and saw him. Immediately, these were her own words to me, she said she was very disturbed, because it looked as if blood was seeping through his skin. She said she knew it was not malaria. When she asked him where he had been and he said Liberia, she immediately suspected it could be Ebola. Interestingly, three months or so before, we were just watching the news when she said, “Nigeria is not prepared for Ebola.” Back then, she immediately did her research on Ebola, noting that Nigeria needed to be prepared if there was an outbreak. She printed those papers long ago. So, when this man came, she immediately suspected; although at the time, she didn’t have any positive result that it was Ebola. The Liberian officials there were very furious and said she must release him, claiming that she was holding him against his will; and she had kidnapped him. But she said she could not let him leave the hospital for the public good, and he must stay there because she suspected he had a haemorrhagic disease which was infectious.

How was that period for you and your family?

It was incredibly stressful. I hardly saw her at the time because she was always busy at the hospital, with government officials and the World Health Organisation officials, and also having to care for this sick patient. She got home at 3am every day, and was up by 7am. I couldn’t see her for about three days and with the Ebola disease, one couldn’t predict the outcome. My dad and I went to the centre at Yaba every day, but we were not allowed to come close to her. At first, we could come close to the window to see her, but eventually, we were not even allowed near the window. I didn’t see her for about 10 days while she was in there.

When last did you see her and what were her last words to you?

The last time I saw her face-to-face was the day I went to the centre to give her her footwear and her iPad. She was physically very weak. This was someone I had never seen fall sick in my life. But then, she was physically very weak. I took all the stuff to her and put it through the door, she had to go and collect it because I couldn’t go into the room. We spoke through the window, I was crying. But she was adamant, she said, “Don’t worry, son. This thing is not going to kill me, but I am very proud of you.” Those were the last words she told me. This was about 10 days before she died. The WHO doctor, Dr. David, told us that it was only a matter of time (before she died), that we should expect the call the next day or in the next week. We were waiting for the call. But he kept telling us that it was a matter of time— it was worse than receiving the actual call.

Did she influence your career path?

She has always been involved in everything I have done. She always gave me advice. Last year April, I was supposed to give a TED X talk in Abuja, and I was going to talk about patriotism in Nigeria. I told her about it, we were supposed to go together. But it was cancelled because of some issues at the time. Before then, she did research, and sent me an email on her thoughts. I still have it. She basically wrote the speech for me. Five months later at the event; after she had passed on, most of the words I used were from her. I made her the centre of the speech, that she was a patriot.

You are a scion of two powerful dynasties; your mum was the grand-daughter of Herbert Macaulay and the great, great grand-daughter of Ajayi Crowther. Do you think your mum’s part in stopping the Ebola outbreak in the country was a stroke of fate?

These things are funny. I can’t answer that but a lot of people say that. Luckily, she was prepared. That’s what I can say. We had a Nigerian that was prepared. Maybe it’s her lineage, I don’t know, that’s what people say. I wished it wasn’t her, but I am thankful for what she did (for the country). Till today, I still get telephone calls from her patients, because they had a special bond with her. She was great in what she did. She didn’t need this to stand out or stamp her greatness.

A health trust has been named after your mum, what is it about?

The Dr. Ameyo Stella Adadevoh Health Trust is strictly a non-profit organisation. After going through this very difficult time, my family and I decided to set up this trust. We have done a lot of research and we have met with the World Bank, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, and other big international organisations; and we have decided to focus on training and ethics, because my mother believed in these. She used to quiz her doctors all the time, and gave them homework; things to read and she asked them questions. She recognised the challenges in our health care system.

Was your family stigmatised in any way at the time?

We were not stigmatised outrightly but we did our best to keep away from people. People wanted to visit us at home then but we said no, they had to stay away. We needed to be responsible. My father and I were placed under quarantine for 21 days. I didn’t know at that time that I would be alive today. But people were very kind to us and showed their support for us.

Were you scared of dying?

I was scared of falling ill, but I was never scared of dying because I didn’t think I would die.

What are some of the values you have learnt from your mother?

I wrote down the five main lessons I learnt from her— how to be a good person, because she cared for everybody. There is a disabled man on our street who came around every Sunday. She bought him a wheelchair, and she always gave him money and showed him care. She also taught me how to be incredibly strong, and how to get things done. If she wanted to do something today, she got it done. She taught me how to enjoy life, she loved enjoying life, and she enjoyed it to the fullest. Also, she taught me the importance of faith because faith is the bedrock of life.

How did she create time for the family?

As a busy doctor, till today, I don’t know how she did it. I don’t know how we shared her with many people. She had a huge heart and had time for everybody.

Where did she usually take you out to?

We went out visiting family or some came around to visit us. When I lived in the US, whenever she came around, we would go to see Broadway shows. Also, she loved shopping. We would go out shopping together. We would take walks in the park, and go to the museum; those were the kind of things she enjoyed— museums, arts, history and theatre.

What kind of reaction do you get when people realise that you are Dr. Stella Adadevoh’s son?

They say, “Oh, I’m so sorry, she was an amazing woman, she was this and that.” I’m used to it now. Initially, when the episode was still very fresh, I didn’t want to hear that. Now, I’m happy to hear it.

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

While she was here, she opened all the doors for me, with everything I did in life. When I started my own company here, she wrote down a list of about 50 people I should visit. She would hand every patient of hers my company’s flyer. It’s amazing that she continues to open doors for me after her death. Her name is still opening doors for me.

Was she a disciplinarian?

She wasn’t a disciplinarian, but she was thorough, strict, but was fair.

How social was she?

She was incredibly social. She had weddings to attend every weekend with her geles and aso ebis. She and her close friends travelled everywhere and did everything together. Her close friends include Mrs. Violet Hecksher and Mrs. Maiden Ibru. Mum was just fun to be with.

How did she discipline you whenever you erred?

I was a naughty and playful child while growing up. She would just shout at me, she never really spanked me. Honestly, she used to pamper me.

How did she react whenever she was angry?

Whenever she was angry, the funny thing about her was that she would definitely show it. But the next day, she would be the one to approach the person and say, ‘that upset me, but I know why you did what you did.’ She always analysed everything and then she never remembered it again. She was a peacemaker.

What were her likes and dislikes?

She liked drinking tea. She loved going out to weddings, parties and meeting people. She loved travelling, even last year, she travelled to many places and she just wanted to see the world. Church and her faith were big things for her. She was very prayerful.

What was her daily routine like?

When she woke up, she would go downstairs by about 7.00am to watch television, and drink her tea. Then, she would leave for the hospital and get to work at 8am. She would do her ward round and see all her patients. She would be at the hospital till around maybe 3pm and go home. Sometimes, she had to go back to the hospital in the evening. But most times, we would just relax and have dinner at home together.

What were her hobbies?

She was always up to date with the news, she enjoyed reading the papers. She also had a library; she loved reading books, and always had current books in her collections. I have collected a lot of books that I got from her. She loved reading and acquiring new knowledge. She loved Nigerian authors, including Chimamanda Adichie. She also loved reading the Bible. She was also a big movie person. She liked romantic movies, action and comedies. She loved her iPad. She also loved cooking. She knew how to cook Nigerian soups and dishes. When she was younger, she participated in sports such as hockey.

Did she have a favourite meal?

Mine is jollof rice and she cooked it a lot. Hers was definitely one of the soup delicacies, like ogbono.

Did she have a favourite drink?

Coke was her favourite drink.

Are you still angry with Sawyer, the man that brought Ebola to Nigeria?

I have overcome the anger. I don’t think anybody would ever know his real motive of coming to Nigeria. But I think his actions were completely irresponsible. That’s how I would leave it.

How long were you angry with him?

I was angry at him, I was angry at God, I was angry at many things. But one had to channel it into something positive like the health trust. And that’s what I’m dedicated to and focused on now, full time. Like we would always say, if my mother was here now, she would have forgiven him (Sawyer). I can never forget what happened, it’s going to be a part of my life forever, but I forgive him. My dad also feels the same way.

How do you think she should be remembered?

She was the person that bonded our family together. She was incredibly dedicated to family and everybody understood that and appreciated that about her. She was just the most loving person you could think about. That’s how I remember her. Beyond that, Nigerians recognise that if it wasn’t for her correct diagnosis, we would not have had elections; we would not be where we are today. I think that is a legacy. She prevented us from going backwards. Our way of immortalising her is by continuing what she would have done, making that same impact on people’s lives and on the medical profession, subsequently, the whole country. That’s why we have set up the health trust in her name. Government and other people can do what they think is right to immortalise her. I think the way government could immortalise her is by revamping the health sector, and improving on health care in the country. There should be a change, for such not to happen in Nigeria again.

How have you and your family coped since her death?

To lose a parent, especially in that way, is incredibly painful. The first three or four months were just hard. But, luckily, there was a lot of family support, everybody pulled very close together, and I drew on my faith as well. It’s something one cannot explain. Yes, people fall ill, and they have maybe one or two years for a chance to say goodbye; but in this case, it was so quick. There was no chance (for us) to say goodbye to her, properly.

What do you miss most about her?

The love. It was like she used to bug me and I miss that. I miss her phone calls every day, three or four times a day, and I would say, ‘mum, I’m busy,’ and she would call me again. I’m happy that we always used to express our love for each other. She knew I loved her, I still do.

Can you recollect some memorable moments with her?

There are so many. Whenever I remember her, it’s just happy memories. Till today, we would just laugh when we think about her because she was always in a good mood, she was always happy. She brought the family together. People were always coming to our house. She loved to go out to parties and dance. She loved dancing. She was just a very happy, spirited person, and she was very faithful. She was 57 years old, but she was very playful, sometimes like a little girl. She was so innocent, so selfless.

What kind of music or artiste did she like?

I know Whitney Houston was one of her favourites.

Do you have fond memories of her when you hear any song by Whitney Houston?

Yes.

Which particular one?

“I will always love you.”

Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.

Contact: editor@punchng.com

Ajijola is a daughter to Oyo State Governor, Abiola Ajimobi. She talks about the kind of life her father leads as a public servant with OLUFEMI ATOYEBI

What are you doing now?

I am a student of Woldingham School, Surrey, London. I am 17 years old. I left Nigeria when I was 10 years old. Before I left, I attended International Community School in Abuja and Ibadan International School, Iyaganku. Then I attended a preparatory school in England.

How would you describe your parents?

My parents are caring and loving and because I am the youngest, they give me much attention. It is always fun being around my father because he jokes a lot. We watch a lot of movie series together at home. He likes crime movie series which involve thorough police investigation. Every time I am at home, I sit down with him to watch movies at night. That is how he relaxes. I do not like going out, so I enjoy his company whenever he is at home.

How did he relate with his family before he became governor?

He created a lot of time for his children because he is a complete family man. We would go out driving around the estate almost every night. He taught me how to drive. He ensured that I enjoy his company every time.

Have you ever had any disagreements with him?

I had a major disagreement with him last year. He wanted me to read law but I preferred to study political science and international relations. I was not sure if I wanted to study law but he wanted me to do it. We had an argument over it and at the end, he said he would support me in whatever I chose to do. He is okay with me studying political science now.

How did you resolve the disagreement about your choice of career?

We sat down and talked about it. He wanted to know why I chose the course and I explained the reasons for my decision to him. I was able to convince him and he agreed with me. That was how we resolved it.

Did you choose the course because your parents are politicians?

I have seen the change that my father has been able to make in Oyo State and I want to be an instrument of change also. I want to be able to make Nigeria a better country by contributing to its transformation as my father is doing now.

Can you recall anytime he punished you?

None of my parents has ever beaten me because I listen to them and do what makes them happy at all times. I like spending time with them.

What is your plan for the future?

I want to be a politician. My highest ambition is to be Nigeria’s first female president. I am aware of the demands and qualities needed to reach my goal. My parents have taught me to be confident and to be strong in my beliefs. They taught me not to be influenced by other people. Most importantly, they taught me to be God-fearing. These are important qualities of a leader.

Do you think that politics has reduced the affection and care that your parents have for you?

I think normally, they now have lesser time to be with me but because they know that their jobs as governor and First Lady will not give them enough time, they go the extra mile to make sure that I do not miss out on anything. They still spend time with me.

How often do you speak with your parents when you are not in Nigeria?

I call my mother everyday but my father speaks with me at least five times in a week. I call to tell them what happens in school every day.

Apart from the disagreement over choice of career, was there any other quarrel between you and your parents?

I am their baby so they pamper me. We get along very well.

How does Governor Ajimobi relax at home?

He does not really have time to relax until late in the night. That is when we watch films together until around 3am. That is our bonding time.

Does your father help your mother with domestic work?

Well, he is not a good cook even though he pretends to be one. I do not really think my mother needs his help when it comes to domestic work. But they create time for bonding like going on a walk late in the night or driving around the estate in the night. My mother cuts my father’s nails but he does not do same for my mother.

What is his favourite food?

Dad likes pounded yam. He also prefers eating meat. He likes sausages and steak too. He used to sip champagne in the past but he has stopped.

What about you?

I do not really have a favourite food. I like pasta and I eat anything good.

What kind of a person is your mother?

She is an amazing woman; caring, selfless and loving. She is my best friend. She is always looking after the good of everyone around her.

Does being a daughter of the first family in Oyo State put a burden on you?

There is really nothing like that. I just see them as normal people. I do not think anything has changed in the house. I treat their status as normal. Their status does not reduce my freedom.

Do you miss anything from the time your father became a governor?

I left Nigeria for England at 10 and when I was here, I was not really going out. I did not stay in Nigeria enough to pick anything from the past. But since I grew up knowing my father as a senator and later a governor, I still do whatever I wish to do. I do not know if there is any difference between then and now.

How do your friends relate with you having realised you are a governor’s daughter?

I do not really tell people who my parents are. Some of my friends know who my parents are but it does not change anything. In England, we go out as children of normal parents. Nobody really cares about what one is.

Do they treat you specially?

I do not get any special respect from my friends. They do not behave in any way different to me. I choose my friends wisely. I make sure all my friends are on the same level. The status of my parents does not dictate who my friends should be. It does not matter who you are or what your parents are, once I like you, you become my friend. In four years’ time, my father will no longer be in government as a governor. My friends will always be my friends.

Did he increase your pocket money after he became a governor?

I do not really need to spend money and if I need to, my mother gives me what I need. She keeps all my money for me.

Would you say that your mother is a bit strict?

They are the same at home. I do not know if I should describe her as being strict. She is just a normal mother. I feel being pampered but not spoilt, it only shows that they love me. When I go wrong, they tell me not to exhibit such behaviour again. They want me to be the best at all times.

Who chooses what your father wears daily?

My mother does that at all time. I help him to choose what he wears once in a while when I am around. Today (Friday), I chose his tie. But my mother does that every day.

Do your parents encourage you to do domestic chores?

I cook noodles with chilli, rice, eba, pasta, vegetable soup and I can prepare pounded yam from poundo yam. I can bake cake also. My mother taught me all these. When she was teaching me, she said I would cook for my husband someday and my father sometimes.

Has your mother ever influenced your choice of friends?

As a good mother, she tells me what to do. I do not keep friends that she does not like. I have a few friends though. I have five friends in Nigeria and she likes all of them.

How do you feel each time they return to Nigeria after visiting you in school?

I always feel sad. I feel like returning home with them. I love Nigeria and I always want to come back. After my studies in England, I will like to return to Nigeria after a year holiday. I want to work in Nigeria and my ambition is to start in a law firm and from there, we shall see what the future holds for me. Right now, I study a bit of law. I do not want to study law as a first degree.

How about your siblings?

We get along very well. I see them every month and they also visit me in school. I am also their baby and they take good care of me.

Do they assist you in your study?

Yes, they do. If I do not understand a topic, they come to my aid. One of my sisters earned a degree in political science and she is also a lawyer. She understands what I am doing. She helps me a lot. She tells me what to do to excel in school.

How do you cope with seeing a lot of people in your home every day?

I do not mind because I love being around people. I love seeing them and it is exciting having them around. I like to speak to them because they help me rehearse my future. When eventually I am ready to do politics, I would not have to learn how to relate with people.

Have you ever seen your parents quarrel?

It does not happen often. They understand each other but as human beings, they could disagree and agree later. Their relationship is protected by the love they have for each other.

In the morning, they eat at the table but we do not eat at the same time. I do not eat early so what I do is to sit with them if I am awake by the time they are eating. My mother likes fresh fish and vegetable. She also likes oats and cereals.

Your mother has dual citizenship, Nigeria and Lebanon. How much of her Lebanese background do you know?

I have visited Lebanon to see her family. I was there last year and her family has also visited Nigeria. There is plenty of food to eat in Lebanon. They feed visitors very well.

Do you speak the language?

When I was in Nigeria, one of her cousins was teaching me Arabic language but when I moved to England, I forgot about it. My other siblings visit Lebanon more than I do. When I finish my study, I could spend some time there.

When your father was reelected, how did the family celebrate?

We were all at home. We hugged one another and danced to good music. We had food, drink and cake to celebrate. I congratulated him specially. I want him to rest more now because he works too hard. I want my mother to also rest more. She is the first lady and the work is huge. She needs to rest. My father is strong and I have only seen him fall sick once.

How do your parents keep fit?

My father has a treadmill and he walks a lot at night but not a rigorous exercise. My mother used to jog every morning at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium but now, she uses the treadmill with my father once in a while. A trainer also visits to take her through aerobics.

Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.

Contact: editor@punchng.com

Moyo, son of a former Minister of Works, Adeseye Ogunlewe, talks about his father’s political career in this interview with MOTUNRAYO JOEL

Please, tell us about yourself.

My name is Moyo Ogunlewe. I have three brothers and two sisters. I attended Chrisland International School, Lagos and then I moved to Eton International School, Lagos. I also attended Lagos State Model College, Igbogbo, Ikorodu. After my secondary education, I enrolled for A Levels before obtaining two Diplomas in Accounting and Business Administration from the University of Lagos. I felt Business Administration isn’t a top discipline, so I travelled abroad to obtain a degree. I enrolled at the University of Buckingham, United Kingdom, to study Law. I later obtained a master’s in Trade and Maritime Law in oil and gas. I returned home to attend the Nigerian Law School.

How was your childhood?

I wasn’t born with a silver spoon. The honest truth is that I was born in Igbogbo in Lagos State. My childhood was a bit rough because my father was a civil servant while my mother was into business. We can only thank God for how far He has brought us. Everyone thinks we had a flamboyant lifestyle; no; we started from the scratch. We had to make things happen for ourselves.

What challenges did your family face?

We faced a lot of challenges. When I was growing up, we lived at Ebute Meta and later moved to Ikeja. We were always moving around. My family didn’t start off at Victoria Island or Lekki. Those are people born with a silver spoon. I still know my roots which is why I’m close to the people.

How did he climb up the ladder to become a minister?

My father was a permanent secretary for four times. He got into the employment of Lagos State government as a clerk. He worked very hard to reach the top of his career. If I must say, he sacrificed a lot; he sleeps at 4am and wakes up at 6am. Diligence and hard work made him who he is today.

People would have expected your father to retire and get a house on the Island, why did he choose to live here (Ojodu)?

I can challenge anybody today that says my father has houses all over Lagos. He only has three houses – this house (in Ojodu), the second one which is at Ikorodu his hometown and the last one is the house given to him when he was a permanent secretary. He doesn’t have a house in Abuja. The records to prove this are available. People pass remarks, claiming he has a house in London. We don’t even have a toilet there. Nigerians may find this hard to believe, but that is the truth.

Did he influence your decision to go into politics?

No, he never wanted me to go into politics. We are still not on the same page regarding my decision to go into politics. He never supported my ambition to contest for a seat in the Lagos State House of Assembly. Everything I did was through the support I got from friends and neighbours who believed in me. My father has never been in the frontline of my political career.

How did he feel when you lost?

I didn’t lose the election. I won the election but I was rigged out with 84 votes which I am challenging at the Tribunal. The other party claims I was defeated but I have facts to prove my point.

Since your father didn’t want you to go into politics, what would he have wanted you to become?

He got me a job at one of the top law firms in the country, but I didn’t want that. I’m still young which is why I gave politics a try and I enjoyed it. I believe Nigeria needs youths like me.

Describe your father at home?

He is a wonderful man, someone I cherish. He has been there for me. If I need anything, he always provides it. My father makes sacrifices. He starved himself of so many things so his children could get quality education. He is an excellent father. He returns home at 6pm every day no matter where he is. This is a good virtue I want to emulate.

Is he sociable?

He doesn’t go out often though he goes to parties once in a while. He loves to read. He has so many books and he only drinks coke.

What do you like about your father and vice versa?

He is a father that will fight for his children any day, any time. At the same time, he doesn’t believe in going through the back door to get something. The only thing I don’t like about him is that whenever I tell him we should do things this way, he always says no. He wants things done his way. Sometime ago, I told him I wanted to work at any of the top oil and gas firms in the country but he said no. Most of the time, he wins whenever we have arguments.

What special privileges have you enjoyed being his child?

I have enjoyed so many privileges being his son. My father has built a name for himself. I am grateful to him.

There are so many reports about his relationship with Mr. Misiliu Obanikoro, what is your view on that?

They are like brothers but people may think differently. Siblings are bound to have disagreements. If they have a disagreement, it is minor. We are all very close. My father still calls Obanikoro.

Who would he have wanted to become governor of Lagos State?

He is a member of the Peoples Democratic Party. He supported Jimi Agbabje

What does he like about Agbaje?

His charisma I guess. Agbaje is a likeable person. I personally respect him so much. He is one of those who fought for my political career.

What does he say about the new governor of Lagos State Akinwunmi Ambode?

My father was part of the Lagos State government, I’m sure he knows a lot about him. The most important thing is for him to govern Lagos the proper way.

Over time, who has been your father’s favourite governor?

It would be (Lateef) Jakande. He did so much for Lagos which I personally enjoyed. For example, he constructed what we now call the Jakande classrooms. Now, what are being constructed by governors are bridges.

Does he read what people write about him in the newspapers?

He buys three newspapers every morning. He also goes online to read. He just laughs when he reads articles written about him which aren’t true.

What does he do when he wakes up and before he sleeps?

He sleeps at 4 am and wakes at 6pm. When he wakes up, he jogs. He then takes his bath, eats and attends meetings. Before he sleeps he watches the Cable News Network, reads and writes his books. He is writing about four books at the moment, I’m so excited.

What is his favourite food?

Garri and sawa (herring).

What is his favourite drink?

Coke.

How does he handle misunderstandings with your mother?

I don’t get involved in their marriage, but he is cool in nature. He doesn’t have any problem.

What challenges did he face in his political career?

He faced a few challenges, but he worked so hard to make an impact. Nigerians easily forget. When he was removed from office, they found nothing against him. My father is a simple man.

Would he have preferred to stay longer in office?

Man proposes but God disposes. At that particular time, he had a lot of remarkable ideas. For the two and a half years he was minister, he made a tremendous impact, so many changes in our road networks. He is still celebrated till today.

What does he say about ex-President Goodluck Jonathan?

My father is very reserved. He was part of the system and he tried to contribute his own quota but his contributions were always side-lined. Some other people had an agenda to be in the good books of Jonathan. He tried his best, it is sad that he was always neglected for the truth. I know he did well. I am proud of him. Nigeria is a country where the closer you move to someone, the better for you. But my father is not someone that will knock on someone else’s door for a favour.

What does he say about President Muhammadu Buhari?

They are still close, but political party has divided them. I’m sure if President Buhari needs his advice, he would be glad to offer it.

Did he advise you on the type of woman to marry?

No, he didn’t do that.

What special moments do you remember while growing up with your father?

I remember the time I failed Mathematics in J.S.S 2. He was on his way to a political meeting when he stopped at my school to collect my academic results. I expected him to beat me after seeing that I failed Mathematics, but he didn’t. Instead, he advised me to read ahead of my school work and told me to put in more effort. He also got me a lesson teacher. Every night, he and my mother would coach me. What he did really touched me. Sometimes, beating a child is not the solution.

How does he discipline any child who erred?

He disciplines us by talking to us. He sits with us and talks some sense into our heads. He makes one reflect on one’s mistakes.

How does he relax?

He sits under the tent outside his house and interacts with either his security men or anyone around. He doesn’t go out often.

What is it that Nigerians don’t know about him?

There are so many things — he is a Manchester United fan, he likes to watch boxing at night. Whenever Mayweather is fighting, he wakes up to watch the match. He even wakes up before me. He likes to drink garri and eat shawa (herring) with his family. He inspires every young man that comes to him. He likes to listen to Celine Dion and Fela. He also he loves children.

What romantic thing has he done for your mother?

They both had a great time when they travelled to the United States.

Who is his best friend?

His best friend is the late, Funsho Williams. He misses him so much. He still talks about him.

Who are his role models?

The late Nelson Mandela and the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo. He has about 100 books on Awolowo which he (Awolowo) personally signed.

Why did he join politics?

He has a flair for politics, he loves to help people. He doesn’t believe in godfatherism. He plays good politics.

If he were made President, what would he do?

The whole issue of free education would return. His passion for education is seen in his children. He values education.

What are his dreams and aspiration?

For Nigeria to be a better place and for us to live in unity no matter our different tribes.

How does he like to dress?

He wears native attire a lot; he doesn’t wear his cap in a particular way. He is extremely simple in his dressing.

Does your family sometimes fear for his life?

No, because he always says the truth. We live in a country where there is freedom of speech. The majority of Nigerians hide from the truth because they don’t want to step on toes, but we live in an era of democracy. We shouldn’t be scared of telling the truth. In fact, my father is writing a controversial book, I can’t wait for the book to be out. The book is about how elections are rigged in Nigeria. Now, he wants to tell the world the truth. I’m going to be part of the book. We need to speak the truth.

When will the book be out?

We are waiting for the right time to publish it. We need to say the truth or else there will be problem for our nation.

When did he experience his saddest moment?

The time his best friend was killed and when his elder brother died.

What does your father splash money on?

He can go all out for his children education. He makes a lot of sacrifices and he has only one car.

Describe your father in four words.

Loving, caring, simple and attentive.

How is his relationship with Bola Tinubu?

Tinubu is a friend of the family, they are very close friends. He is a father to me. They are brothers in different political parties. We are close families.

Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.

Contact: editor@punchng.com

Babajide, one of the sons of a former President of the Nigerian Bar Association and a candidate of the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria during the 2012 governorship election in Ondo State, Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN), tells ARUKAINO UMUKORO, about his father

Can you tell us about yourself?

My name is Babajide Akeredolu. I am the last of four children of Rotimi Akeredolu, and a graduate of the New Jersey Institute of Technology and the Colorado School of Mines where I got my B.Sc and M.Sc. in chemical engineering respectively. I’m currently rounding off a master’s degree in mining engineering at Queens University in Canada. I’ve been actively focused on research in heavy crude oil and oil (tar) sands, specifically the undeveloped Ondo State heavy oil. Beyond academics, I’m an active photographer, graphics and web designer and I also host a radio show called ‘No Rubber’ on Gidilounge radio.

How was growing up for you with your dad?

Growing up with “Your Excellency,” as I fondly call him now, was rather interesting. My dad is the funniest person I know. Everyone that worked for us always had a nickname; Tortoise, Okongwu, Bororo, just to name a few. He is funny and at the same time, a disciplinarian. But I guess discipline is necessary for any child growing up in Nigeria.

What are some of the values you have learnt from him?

Honesty and with courage are some of the biggest values I picked from my dad. He is brutally honest and fearless. That combination is rather rare in Nigeria, especially among individuals who have attained national significance. I am proud he has stayed the same way over the years regardless of his status.

How did your father enforce discipline on his children?

To put it plainly, my dad did not spare the rod, except maybe, when my sister was involved. I heard tales of how my brother got more disciplinary actions than I did. I am glad I am not the first child.

How does your dad react whenever he is angry?

When it comes to us children, we would know he is angry when we hear the words, “Are you serious?” It is really that simple. He isn’t one to raise his voice.

How much influence did your father have on the career choices of you and your siblings?

I am not a lawyer. I think that is quite telling as to my dad’s influence on our career choices. There is a medical doctor, an engineer who went into finance, and another engineer. My sister is the only lawyer of the lot. My dad is very supportive of any of our career choices. He didn’t insist on a specific career. I had a free reign to make my decisions. I remember one time I told him about my passion for photography and he suggested that he would help me get a new camera. He was very understanding and tolerant of my choice.

How has your dad’s name opened doors for you?

I’ve been rather fortunate that I haven’t had to use his name to open any doors.

Your dad is a former President of the Nigerian Bar Association, and he contested for the Ondo governorship election in 2012. What did he tell you about his foray into politics?

It was in the summer of 2011 when my dad visited me in Colorado and he complained that people had started posting his pictures all over Ondo State and he had no interest in contesting. His people convinced him and by November, he called every one of us to tell us that he would be running for governorship and that we should pray for his success. He mentioned that it wouldn’t be easy dabbling in the murky waters of politics but he must answer the call of his people.

Do you think he would still contest for governorship in Ondo State in the near future?

I honestly don’t know. In my opinion, this will be the biggest decision in his political journey yet. On the one hand, I’m inclined to believe there is some truth to the rumours that he may be called upon to serve on President Muhammadu Buhari’s cabinet. I guess the question then becomes; do you serve as a minister or opt to run for governor? His heart is definitely for the people of Ondo State. I am looking forward to what he decides.

Your dad has always been vocal on national issues, even during his tenure as NBA President. Which do you think he is more passionate about, law or politics?

Neither. I think his tenure as NBA President was a testament to the fact that law and politics are intertwined. Politicians create most of the laws, while lawyers interpret them. Nonetheless, I’ve really only heard my dad argue amongst his friends about political issues. So, maybe it’s politics.

Your dad is widely regarded in law and political circles. How would you describe him as a father?

I must reiterate that he is funny and loving and he truly puts family first. My dad is one that it really doesn’t matter if he was in a meeting with President Buhari, if my mum or my siblings called his phone, he’d pick that call in a heartbeat and make sure everything is alright. I really appreciate this about him.

What are his views about the new government of President Muhammadu Buhari and that of former President Goodluck Jonathan?

His views are quite public already. He worked hard to see President Buhari get to where he is and his influence wasn’t just limited to politics. He was actively involved in defending President Buhari in the courts. He is very hopeful and confident that Nigeria will be great under him. With regards to President Goodluck Jonathan, he was quoted in the dailies advising that ex-President Jonathan retired; I’ll leave it at that.

In 2012, your father contested on the platform of the Action Congress of Nigeria, which formed an integral part of the All Progressives Congress, How close is your dad to Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu?

I honestly do not know. I think it is fair to say that their relationship is built on a common interest in seeing Nigeria emerge great.

How does your dad create time for his children and family, despite his busy schedules as a lawyer and politician?

Growing up, we used to have special family outings. Nowadays, things are a little different with all of us in different states and countries. He makes sure he visits everyone whenever he has the time.

What are his likes and dislikes?

He does not like dishonest people. He hates sycophancy. He likes Fela and knows virtually all his songs. He is a fan of cars and he likes to sing.

What is his daily routine like?

His routine is much like —wake up, pray, tease my mum, tease every employee at home, head to work, come home, and tease my mum some more.

What kinds of books does he like to read?

I don’t think he is the reading type.He likes to read case briefs.

What is his favourite meal?

As an Ondo man, it is pounded yam and egusi soup. Growing up, we never had ‘fried rice Sundays’ like many families I know. It was ‘pounded yam Sundays.’

Can you describe his relationship with your mother?

They have a great relationship. They generally have very disparate political opinions about many things and the house usually gets heated with debates. It was fun hearing these debates growing up. My dad is a kid at heart though. He is the type that will tickle my mum’s feet while she sleeps and runs away. Thirty-four years of marriage later and he still makes her laugh all the time.

What is your dad’s favourite drink?

He like coke but I think he would pick palmwine over anything else whenever it is available.

How social is he?

My dad is very social. He is also jovial and he is a great dancer. It is also impossible to miss his laughter.

Who are some of his closest friends?

My dad is close to quite a lot of people, many of whom I don’t even know. I do know that his Loyola College Ibadan friends are the ones I grew up seeing all the time. I even know their anthem because of this.

What are your dad’s hobbies?

I would say definitely lawn tennis and soccer. He played a lot of tennis and soccer back in the day. We were raised to play tennis.

What are some interesting things you would like to share about your dad that Nigerians don’t know about?

If anyone wants to hold an event and wish my father to be in attendance, the person only needs to play any song of Fela and Osondi Owendi by Osita Osadebey. Our home is actually called “Osondi Owendi Villa.” He is a lover of plants. He is colour blind and my mother always picks his shirt and tie for his suits. He has a listening ear and counsels quite a lot of people for free. He isn’t one to brush anything aside. Our home is like some botanical garden. He is deeply religious and recently donated a church chapel in memory of his late dad and in honour of his mother. He is also a great singer and was in the choir in his church until increased work load got the better of his time.

Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.

Contact: editor@punchng.com

Abimbola is one of the daughters of the Peoples Democratic Party chieftain, Ebenezer Babatope. She talks about her father’s life and career with MOTUNRAYO JOEL

Kindly introduce yourself.

My name is Abimbola Babatope. I’m the third child; I have two sisters and a brother. I attended Command Children’s school, Ikeja, Lagos; Polytechnic High School, Ibadan, Oyo State; and Lagos State Polytechnic. I then travelled to the United Kingdom for further studies. I attended Eton College, UK and Middlesex University, UK. I studied Insurance at Lagos Polytechnic and I obtained a degree in Business Management at Eton College. I’m proudly Ijesa— I don’t take nonsense and I don’t joke with money.

How was growing up with your father?

I had a normal childhood, nothing extraordinary but my father was always travelling. He was hardly at home; if he wasn’t travelling, then he was in prison. I grew up with my mother and grandparents.

Some people may consider you a silver spoon kid, what is your view on that?

There was nothing special about my childhood and I am not a silver spoon. My siblings and I fetched water; we were usually given house chores by our mother despite the fact that we had a maid. My siblings and I had morning duties and we learnt how to do one thing or the other around the house. I’m industrious in nature because of my upbringing and I learnt many things while growing up. If I don’t introduce myself, one wouldn’t know I’m Babatope’s daughter.

What are some of the things you learnt from him?

I have learnt that in life, one has to be fast and smart because time waits for no one. Any opportunity lost cannot be regained and I always tell my children that.

Did you visit your father when he was in prison?

Yes I did. It made me know many parts of the country. His adventure in prisons got me enlightened; I never knew some places such as Jos and Yola exist before then.

How did you feel seeing your father in prison?

In school, whenever I told my friends that my father was in prison, the first thought that came to their minds was maybe he was involved in armed robbery. It was hard explaining to them that he was jailed due to his political leanings and views. I didn’t like seeing him in prison; no child would like that.

How did your mother handle it?

My mother handled it the best way she could. As the saying goes, when one has problems, that is when one knows one’s true friends. Many people avoided our house when my father was in prison. They left us to handle our issues. You would have people around you when there is peace and comfort but when one has problems, one is left alone.

Did any of your siblings follow your father’s career choice?

None, but one of my sisters is a lawyer and the other studied mass communication. My brother studied cinema production.

Did your father influence his children’s career choices?

Growing up, we all witnessed his imprisonments and all that happened. No one wanted to experience the same thing. Politics in Nigeria is not a fair game, it is a dirty game. Moreover, politicians don’t tell the truth. What they speak is what the society uses to judge them. The society doesn’t take time to find out things about them.

Would you have wished your father was not a politician?

Yes, because one has a better life and better relationship with one’s children if one is not a politician. The times when my father had to go for political crusades or serve jail terms were lost, they can never be regained. I would have preferred if he was a common citizen.

Do you think his absence affected his relationship with his children?

It affected us while growing up, but things have changed. I’m a mother now and I have seen all there is to be seen. My siblings and I are working on building our relationship with our father, but the relationship isn’t how it ought to be. We are closer to our mother. The parent the children see all the time is who they call their super hero. We are all closer to our mother because she was there, we saw her more. She is our super hero.

Describe your father at home?

My father is different, what gives people pleasure in life affects him. My father buys newspapers and magazines and no one dares touches any of them till he has read them. He does this every day. After reading all of them, he listens to all local news stations and international news channels. This is one reason I don’t watch the news and I’m the opposite of my father. My children know this. I grew up in a ‘news’ environment. I prefer to focus on things other than the wars and killings going on in the world.

Describe his personality?

My father always makes one laugh. He uses funny words to tease people. My parents don’t engage in physical fights when they have any misunderstanding, but once we see my father sweeping, washing plates or doing house chores, we know they just had a misunderstanding. He does these chores to make up or appease my mother. They don’t argue in front of us. It is the house chores that exposed their arguments.

Is he sociable?

My father is not sociable. When he goes to any ceremony, he is usually the first to arrive and the first to leave. Whenever he goes to wedding ceremonies, he gets to the venue before the couple. He doesn’t go to wedding receptions, once the church service ends, he leaves. We don’t like going out with him because we miss out on the food. Once, he travelled to South Africa to watch the World Cup. One would have thought he would go to the stadium to watch it, but he didn’t. Instead, he stayed in his hotel and watched it on television. He also sings during his free time; he likes to listen to Ghanaian songs and Fela. He also knows how to dance like Ghanaians, for a long time, I thought he was a Ghanaian.

What do you like about your father?

He sticks to his words. If he says yes, he sticks to it. But the only thing I don’t like about my father is that he doesn’t spend time with his family. He is over 70, and I tell him that he has served Nigeria all his life; it is time to relax with his family. Instead, he prefers to travel to Ijesa in Osun State, to settle disputes or one issue or the other. He puts other people before his family.

What special privileges have you enjoyed being his daughter?

We haven’t enjoyed any special privilege, if any of us gets a job through my father’s connection or name, he will object to it. He would tell us to refuse the job or favour.He prefers we work to make a name for ourselves. He says things should be done the proper way.

Who would he have preferred to be governor of Lagos State?

My father doesn’t care who wins or which party wins; all he cares is for the winner to do the job properly. He feels if one is elected governor, the person should do the job properly even if the former governor was from another party. He says one should work according to one’s knowledge and ability. A leader should create a name for himself. He says leaders shouldn’t state the obvious. For example, a leader shouldn’t brag about fixing bad roads— this isn’t news. He believes leaders should do something new.

Does he read what people write about him in the papers?

My father loves to read, he reads wide. He also has a good memory. He memorises dates and times, including what is written about him. If one writes an article today, some weeks later, he will tell when the article is out. I always advise him not to reply to what people say about him. He is ageing and he should focus on God and himself.

What time does he sleep and what time does he wake up?

My father sleeps between 8pm and 9pm and he wakes up at 3am.

Why does he sleep early?

He always wakes up to write, he loves to write. If you want to know my father’s thoughts, go to his table. Apart from writing about things that need to be changed in Nigeria, he also writes things that United States President Barack Obama should put in place. Immediately he finishes praying when he wakes, he begins to write. He has a lot of notes on his table.

Describe his schedule?

He goes out but his day ends by 2 or 3 pm except he has meetings. He always eats breakfast in the morning and comes back home to eat his lunch especially if he is in town. Once he is home, his people come to see him. He eats his dinner between 7pm or 7:30pm.

What is his favourite food?

His favourite food is pounded yam.

How does he discipline any child who erred?

He shouts on them, I learnt that from him.

What special moment do you remember while growing up?

I had so many special moments, the only special moment I can remember is with my father and younger sister. He is so fond of her. If he tells her to scratch his back in the room, we are sure he has bought her a gift. On his 40th birthday, my younger sister made a remark that touched him. At the church service, she asked where the late Obafemi Awolowo was. I think that statement got them close. He felt that at her age, she already knew things and she was about three or four years old when she passed the remark.

How will he describe Awolowo in one sentence?

The best thing that has ever happened to Nigeria.

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

My father doesn’t care who my siblings and I marry, all he wants is for us to love our partners. When I was getting married, my husband wasn’t too financially buoyant, but my father didn’t object to our wedding. He even encouraged me to remain strong.

How does he relax?

He relaxes by sleeping, that is the only thing that can get him to relax.

Is he very passionate about Nigeria?

Yes, I always tell him not to carry Nigeria on his head, but he doesn’t listen.

What are those things Nigerians didnt know about him?

He is emotional; his dreams always come to past. He also says he is God’s favourite child. My father can be a disciplinarian when he wants to be. He is a thorough-bred Ijesa man.

What does your father splash money on?

Newspapers and his cable television subscription.

Who is his best friend?

He has so many friends; he doesn’t have one best friend. He has so many friends.

Who are his role models?

The late Obafemi Awolowo is his only role model.

What does he say about ex-President Goodluck Jonathan?

He said Jonathan did his best, but the man trusted people who caused his downfall. He says this was his only mistake. He also said Jonathan did his best for Nigeria and that he handled Nigeria’s situation in the best manner.

If he could change things about Nigerian politics, what would they be?

To him, many politicians are there to make money. In his time, they were there to serve, if he has his way, he would change all that.

Does he have any regrets about joining politics?

No, I think he was born to be a politician.

But why did he go into politics?

I don’t know why. Till date, he still loves politics.

If he was made president, what will he do for Nigeria?

He will not discriminate between tribes; he will ensure all ethnic group share one view.

What are his dreams and aspirations?

The only dream he has is for Nigeria to go back to the way it was many years back and for things to work.

How does he like to dress?

He likes to dress in the Yoruba style.

Does your family fear for his life?

Yes, we always want him to be around his family because of safety.

What does he say about President Muhammadu Buhari?

He prays he doesn’t make the same mistake Jonathan made. Although, he thinks he will do his best and change things that need to be changed.

When did he experience a sad moment in his life?

I think it was the time his father died and he could not attend the funeral because he was in prison. He never had a chance to bid the old man goodbye.

How did he say he coped during his days in prison?

He used to tell us that when he was eating, there would be flies on the food but he couldn’t throw it away. He saidthings were tough. He said there was a time the prison officials called him and told him that food prices had increased. He stated that he didn’t care about how they got food because they brought him there.

How is his relationship with Bola Tinubu?

He doesn’t harbour ill feelings towards him, if they see each other, they will greet themselves.

What does he say about former President, Olusegun Obasanjo?

They are friends; Obasanjo gave me the name Omawunmi. My father calls him my godfather. They are friends and they will always remain friends.

Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.

Contact: editor@punchng.com

Adewale is one of the children of veteran actor, Kareem Adepoju, popularly called Baba Wande. He talks about his father’s passion for acting with GBENGA ADENIJI

Please, tell us briefly about yourself.

I am Adewale; a son of Nollywood actor, Kareem Adepoju otherwise called Baba Wande. I hail from Osogbo, Osun State. I am a chartered accountant. I work with First Registrars Nigeria Limited; former subsidiary of First Bank Nigeria Plc. I am married and have children.

Your father is a prominent Nigerian actor, why didn’t you follow in his footsteps?

My father told all his children a long time ago that whoever was interested in acting should first choose a career by going to school. He said we should not make acting our first career. He believes in what he does but wants us to make different career choices before showing interest in his profession. He is aware that movie practitioners are not well remunerated because of piracy despite their commitment to their profession.

Have you ever featured in any of his films?

Yes, I have acted with him in some of his movies. I acted in Obuko Dudu, Owo Gbemu and Agbami Aye. I played some key roles in the movies. He writes good scripts and he always discusses well with me. Whenever I was on vacation from school, I would be with him to read the scripts for any new movie he was producing. I had followed him to locations many times and it was fun seeing many actors and actresses interpreting roles in a creative manner. It is natural for me to like the job that my father does.

What are the memories of your childhood with him?

I remember that he used to take us to the National Theatre, Lagos to watch plays. We were also at the Cultural Centre, Ibadan, Oyo State with him. We used to have a wonderful time whenever he took us to those places. If any of the famous film-makers then was having any event, my father would take us along with him. Whenever he was shooting a new film, I would be with him. I travelled with him to many places. We are from Osogbo but he travels everywhere because of the nature of his job.

How many wives does your father have?

He has two wives.

Can you recall the popular faces you used to see in your house when you were growing up?

The veteran actor, Ishola Ogunsola popularly called Isho Pepper; Sunday Omobolanle (Papi Luwe), Adebayo Salami (Oga Bello), Samson Oluwole; Aderupoko and many others. I also recalled that it was my father who introduced me to one of the notable actors at that time, Lukuluku. I was so happy to see him that day. I was with him at a location that day when he called me and introduced me to the actor. He also has a cordial relationship with the popular cinematographer, Tunde Kelani of Mainframe Productions. They worked on the film, Ti Oluwa Nile.

How did your colleagues in school treat you as son of a respected actor?

I have a record in my school, University of Ado-Ekiti, where I earned B.Sc Economics. I contested for the office of the Director of Socials, Students’ Union Government. I won the election landslide. In fact, I got the highest votes in that election among other contestants for the various offices. I am not sure if anybody has broken that record because I won across many faculties. Many students took my campaign posters to their friends and colleagues to convince them to vote for me because of who my father is. I am so happy with the positive ways people react each time they know I am his son. I have no regrets being his son.

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

Yes, he did and it was a day I will never forget. When I was seeking admission into the university, there was a time the entire process became so difficult despite my score. He came along with me one day to the school and the attention they gave him was encouraging. They accorded him much respect and my name eventually came out on the list. My father always advises us to be wary of what we do because of his name. Anybody can do anything and get anyway with it, but we cannot because we know who our father is.

Your father cracks jokes in films, is he also funny at home?

My father is a very shy person. He is a reserved person. He is cool-headed. He does not talk because he wants to make one laugh but to pass across a certain message which will definitely make meaning to the person being addressed. If he goes anywhere, he will not want people to know that he is around. He prefers to be on his own.

Which of his movies is your favourite and why do you prefer it to others?

It is a tough question because I love all the movies my father had produced or featured in. He puts his best into all his productions.

What about the movie, ‘Ti Oluwa Nile’ which many people assume as his best?

The film, Ti Oluwa Nile just happens to be popular. My father has many other great works. In fact, nobody thought the movie would be successful. It was the first part of the film that attracted huge attention which now made many big movie practitioners to indicate interest to feature in it. Some of his films include Opa Afoju, Ma tuwo and others which are distinct in delivery and stage craft.

What do you think distinguishes him in the make-believe industry?

I think the fact that he is religious makes him different. This reflects in his world view, life and the movies he produces. He has never for once derailed from the accepted norms in the society. One can see this in his story lines.

You painted your father as a no-nonsense man. How did he discipline any of his children who misbehaved?

He is a disciplinarian but he never used the cane on any of us. He travelled a lot when we were young. He could be away for a month and whenever he returned, we were always happy to see him. If he had to beat us, it could be that anyone of us did something bad and our mothers decided to tell our father when he returned. Apart from that, he never used the cane to discipline any of his children.

How does he relax?

My father relaxes by reading the Quran.

How does he cope with his female admirers?

He copes well with his female admirers. Even as his children, we have fans, not to talk of someone who has made a career in acting. It is normal for a notable figure to get female attention but he knows how to handle his female fans.

Did he tell you how he got the appellation, Baba Wande?

He did not tell me but I know the story. He worked with the late Oyin Adejobi for 25 years. He earned the nickname through a full-length story produced at that time. It was a novel that was adapted into film. He acted as Otokiti in the film and the character that played his daughter bore Wande. He has also named his granddaughter, Yewande.

What is his favourite food?

He likes amala (yam flour). He also likes taking pap every morning.

What is his favourite drink?

My father takes water always. That is his favourite drink. He detests sugary drinks.

What are the ideals you have imbibed from him?

He taught us early in life to respect people especially elders. My father gives respect to everybody without discriminating against status. He also encourages us to be religious and let people know always that we have a good upbringing.

Is he into any sports?

Yes, he exercises at home. I recall that he used to walk some distances from our house in Osogbo when we were growing up.

How has your father’s name assisted you?

My father’s name has opened doors for me. By the grace of God, I still enjoy his goodwill till where I am working now. As a matter of fact, people are always willing to entrust things in my care because they know where I am from and who my father is. People do not need to ask, ‘Can we trust him?’ because they can identify me with somebody.

Members of the Osun State House of Assembly held a special plenary for your father when he celebrated 50 years in the industry. How did his family feel about the event?

I was involved in the event. We felt very happy and grateful to the state and the lawmakers for celebrating our father for his contribution to the growth of arts and culture. We thank God for everything. My father is the first actor honoured by members of the Osun State House of Assembly while he is still alive.

What challenges do you think your father has been facing in the industry?’

Like I stated earlier, the issue of piracy is one of the greatest challenges he faces like many other practitioners. This issue has been discouraging him because he puts a lot of money into production only for the pirates to feast on his sweat. For instance, Ti Oluwa Nile still sells but it is the pirates that make money from it. The government needs to assist in the fight against piracy. There was a time I saw a hawker selling Kunle Afolayan’s October 1 in traffic at Maryland, Lagos. I seized one of the copies from him and I wanted to cause a scene. He ran away when he saw that I was ready to apprehend him.

How would you describe your father?

My father is down-to-earth, religious and straight-forward. He is blunt and bears no grudges. He speaks his mind without being sentimental.

What is his view about the state of the film industry?

The film practitioners need to speak with one voice. There are factions in the industry but he does not pitch tent with any of the groups. He relates with them all. He is not happy with the state of things in the industry really.

How does he like to dress?

He wears what fits him. If he wants to wear native attire, he will also put on a traditional cap to match. He also wears casual wears.

What is his preferred car brand?

He does not have any preferred car brand. He drives what makes him comfortable.

What is his schedule now?

He handles projects for some state governments now and he stays more in Osun State.

How close are you to him?

He is my friend even though he is my father.

Did he tell you some of his disappointments in the course of his career?

Yes, regarding his productions, he expected so much from the film, Ma tuwo but he was disappointed. Quality work was put into that film but things did not turn out as he envisaged. I don’t know whether publicity caused it because the film is a masterpiece. Also, some people had promised and failed him in the past. He always gives his best to his work and one can imagine how he will feel when someone promises to assist him in a certain production and reneges. There is a prominent person in this country that has done that to him before. His career has not been a bed of roses.

Would you have wished he chose a different career?

No, never. If he had been a doctor may be nobody would have known him. Maybe I would not have enjoyed the kind of privileges I enjoy now. It is through acting that he earned a name and sent us to school. I would never have wished him to be anything else.

Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.

Contact: editor@punchng.com

Akinmade is one of the sons of a former Attorney General of the Federation/Minister of Justice, Prince Bola Ajibola. He talks about his father’s life and career with MOTUNRAYO JOEL

Tell us about yourself.

My name is Akinmade Ajibola and I am a legal practitioner. I have been practising for 15 years. I studied law in the United Kingdom, University of Buckingham to be precise. I later obtained a post-graduate diploma in Petroleum Law at the University of Dundee, UK. I gained a master’s degree in Construction and Arbitration Law at King’s College, London. I was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1999. After my education, I engaged myself in legal practice in and outside Nigeria. I got involved with a number of international arbitration assignments involving commercial arbitration.

Where did you have your primary education?

I went to Chrisland Primary School, Lagos; I was one of the pioneer students. I had my secondary education at Command Secondary School, Lagos and King’s College. I proceeded to college in Hove, UK near Brighton, and did my A Levels.

While in school did your father visit you?

While I was in the secondary school, he had a busy schedule serving in government and he could not always meet up with the regular visiting days. But he would seek the indulgence of the school management to allow him see me on other days. I remember once he visited me, during our discussion he was concerned about my understanding of the Yoruba language—it was poor. After I explained to him, he got out of his car, took a pen and paper, placed it on the boot of his car and began teaching me Yoruba. He taught me Yoruba alphabets, tone marking, phonetics etc. This lasted for three hours. I never forgot that lecture.

How was growing up?

My childhood was fun. I was fortunate to commence schooling early at a time when education was a primary concern on the list of our family priorities. I left primary school at class five, instead of primary six. I was also trained at a few vocational centres. At the age of 10, I got involved with computer programming and I could write in computer language. Growing up, much emphasis was placed on learning through exposure. At a young age, I was exposed to countries around world, either through holiday or visiting friends and family. Despite all these, within the four walls of our home, there was strictness. We weren’t spared or allowed to be indolent. We watched television during weekends . My father would be the one to switch on the television; we weren’t allowed to touch it. I still remember days when my father would bring out the video recorder from its box and connect to the television. We watched only two movies –‘Extra Terrestrial’ or ‘Jesus Christ superstar.’ I think I may have watched them nothing less than 50 to 60 times. I prided myself at that time for being able to recite the entire script, from one character to the other. We watched them too many times and that was our recreation. There were times I attempted to step out of those boundaries confined upon me, from time to time. I would go out to play football with friends on the street. This I did from time to time, and I was punished. Now, I appreciate that upbringing.

How did he discipline any child who erred?

He would use very harsh words. At the same time, if he felt one deserves accolade, he would praise of speak highly of the person to others.

There was a slight disparity; my older siblings, particularly the males, received the harder end of the discipline. The females were relatively spared. I think my father was gender-sensitive which I can understand. For younger males, we had learned a bit from the pitfalls and mistakes of our older siblings, so we hardly got him upset. I personally had to be creative in exempting myself from any harsh punishment my father would impose. Punishments included withdrawal of privileges or certain comfort my father felt we were entitled to. We were made to see any entitlement as not permanent. Once, I was to travel out, but my father withheld my trip and moved it to the following year because I misbehaved. Until I proved to him that my behaviour was reformed, he didn’t allow me to travel.

People may describe you as a silver spoon kid, how do you react to that?

I have never quite understood what that term connotes. I may understand how it is commonly perceived, but I think in our case, it only meant a number of things—opportunity and choice. It definitely did not mean ease. It meant one then had the choice to take advantage of opportunities presented to one. Some people don’t take advantage of opportunities. We were presented with some opportunities early in life, but what I appreciated was that we had been prepared to take advantage of these opportunities.

Did he influence your career choice?

I would reply yes and no. The honest answer is that we had an option in terms of what we wanted to study. It had to be a professional calling within the old school parameters— accountancy, law, medicine and so on. He encouraged me to study law because that was what he knew. He also felt that he had a duty to the profession to give back where he had taken from. He wanted to train better lawyers and make the legal profession better. But he allowed us to make our choices. I think I was influenced by my environment.

What career choices did your siblings make.

I have four brothers and sisters ahead of me and each of them studied law, while my mother qualified as a nurse in the UK. We all ventured in the same direction. After our education, each of us became practising lawyers in Nigeria and abroad.

Describe your father at home?

He is a gentleman, in words and deeds. He was always purposeful and accommodating. Indeed, he enjoys the company of people—family and friends. Our home was always full of visitors. He is humorous; a character his children have imbibed. He usually punctuates his discussions with jokes and stories. Many of his colleagues, especially the younger ones, can attest to this.

How does he keep himself busy?

He is involved in religious and humanitarian activities.

Is he sociable?

He is extremely sociable; he finds it easy interacting with people of different age groups, tribe, gender and race, this is an admirable trait. He is quite vast in knowledge and he can be described as a people’s person.

What do you like about him and what don’t you like in him?

I admire his modesty, honesty and integrity. Irrespective of his status in life, he leads by example. He is humble and I draw strength from that character. He has the ability to maintain these values which is quite admirable. On the contrary, as humans, we all have a manner of approach to things and we feel others should respond the same way. He is blunt and I love him. He doesn’t hold back in expressing himself regardless of who that person is or where one is.

What special privileges have you enjoyed being his child?

His contribution to the legal profession has been of great benefit, and people appreciate this. My family always gets warm reactions from people. I’ve been highly regarded just because I’m his son, all thanks to my father who was able to lay a good foundation.

You must feel good being his child?

It is a thing of pride, even if he was not my father I would still see him as a mentor in the legal profession. However, being his son draws a sense of responsibility. He has laid an example of right approaches to things and we have learnt from them. One example is the period when he served as Attorney General for close to seven years. Throughout the seven years, he refused to collect any remuneration from the federal government. He felt public service was service to one’s country and that one should have a choice as to whether or not one is capable of doing the job. He is one person who changed the idea of public service. This is one of the approaches to how this country should be administered. Also, thrice, he was sent a convoy of drivers and cars, but he asked for the cars to be reduced to two. He also requested for the tinted glasses in each of the vehicles to be striped. He saw no reason why he should be in a public vehicle and shield himself from those he served. He was one of the ministers one would see in the traffic on Ikorodu road, Lagos, driving. He refused to live in the government accommodation; instead he lived in his personal house. He lived there for many years, only sometimes work commitments made it necessary for him to live in the official quarters.

What is his view on the country’s current political system?

He has expressed his view on this many times. But from what I have read, he is very much disturbed by the diminishing value system that has become prevalent in terms of governance, integrity and, probity of public service. It has led to the erosion of institutions, especially if the person who heads the institution has a defective character. He says this is the major reason why many institutions have failed. However, with the present government, he is more optimistic than ever about Nigeria’s future.

What is his best food?

I’m not very knowledgeable about that, but I am almost certain he is someone who enjoys simple but healthy meals. He is still very active and agile. He is more concerned about eating healthily. He also enjoys farming.

What challenges did he face in the career?

While he was Minister of Justice there were many attempts to induce public officers into corruption within his ministry and within government which he resisted. This made the then Commander-in- Chief and Head of State accord him respect within the cabinet. He also tried to change the culture in civil service – that is the poor culture of low productivity and their being process, rather than result-oriented. These would have been his biggest challenges. As a judge of the International Court of Justice, a position he was elected, not appointed, he had to present himself before the United Nations Security Council for countries to vote. He ran in a contest with three or four other Africans vying for the position of judge. During the election, each of them had to attain a block of votes one of which was directed by the UN delegates from India at that time. Building interaction with representatives of those countries, the representative of India called him aside and said they would vote for him not necessarily because he was more qualified than the other candidates, but because they were aware that while he was serving as Minister of Justice, there was an occasion when an aircraft arrived into Nigeria with prohibited drugs. The Indian representative said that the aircraft belonged to airline operators from their country. He said efforts were made to secure the release of the aircraft but my father resisted; even when my father was offered a specific amount of money as bribe (which ran into millions of dollars), my father still resisted. This, he said, was the only reason why they would vote for him. This made him win the election and he became a judge. Even after he was made a judge, he recalled years of continuous reading throughout the night. He had to bring himself up to speed to the extent that within his first few years, he was often consulted by the President of the International Court of Justice and referred to as the wise man of the Court.

Did your family fear for his life while he was minister?

That is a natural concern when one is in public view. There were times he had anxious moments. We have witnessed times when there was need for security arrangement just to assuage the situation. But he is someone who personally doesn’t fear for his own life, but rather fears his failure to do what he stands for.

Does he read what people write about him in the papers?

He is an ardent reader of everything; he reads every newspaper one can think of everyday. This is his practice hitherto. He has books and materials of various subjects. He of course takes interest in national affairs.

What time does he sleep and wake?

Throughout his active life, in the years he served in government, by necessity, he had to work late and wake early. Sometimes, he slept for not more than four hours a day. This has always been his nature. In school, he said he was accustomed to not sleeping for long hours and on beds either. He would regularly take a nap on an armchair and that would be sufficient for him for the day.

Describe his daily schedule?

Currently, I think he is active in the administration of the Crescent University of which he is the founder. He also engages himself with his non-governmental organisations. During his spare time, he goes to his farm.

How does he relax?

He exercises or takes a walk. It has become his practice. Otherwise, his days are full of activities, when he is home, he has numerous visitors.

How does he handle disagreements with your mother?

He is patient to a large extent. He doesn’t like conflict and would try to avoid situations where conflict was bound to arise. He is fair-minded and being a judge, he always listens to both sides whenever any issue arises.

Do you remember any special moment you shared with him?

When I was called to the Nigerian Bar, he was the chairman of the Council of Legal Education which is the body in charge of administration of legal education in Nigeria. This meant that he would be the one to present our certificates. I felt special receiving my certificate from my father, which was a memorable day.

Did you enjoy any special preference as a child?

I enjoyed what we all enjoyed. He is someone who accepts each child for what that child has the propensity and aptitude for. If any of us liked a particular activity, he would indulge us with it. I remember that I liked to travel and during the holidays, he particularly would allow me the privilege of travelling.

Who is his best friend?

He belongs to many organisations and I think his “best friend” has varied over the years. His close friends are from his group of classmates at the Baptist Boys High School, the set between 1950 and 1955. Till today, they maintain a close friendship. On a yearly basis, they get together for their alumni meeting. Aside this, his friends cuts across the world and country – people from all geopolitical zones.

What is it Nigerians don’t know about him?

People may not know that he is very religious with his beliefs and service to God. He also has a sacrificial heart; he would allow others to benefit from an opportunity over him.

Describe his mode of dressing?

He was popularly called the bow-tie- wearing minister, a trend he made popular in those days.

What are his hopes and dreams?

His hopes and dreams are for a better Nigeria, starting from the basic, which is the education for the Nigerian child.

Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.

Contact: editor@punchng.com

Silifat and Nurudeen are children of the late prominent politician from Ibadan, Oyo State, Adegoke Adelabu. The duo tells OLUFEMI ATOYEBI that the death of their father in 1958 denied them quality education

How much of your father do you know?

Nurudeen: I am the only surviving son of the late Adegoke Adelabu. I was two years old when he died but it is difficult to forget what he looked like and the affection he gave us. I also learnt a lot about him through my siblings and the life he led.

He was a political hero and contemporary of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo. They were at the centre of the country’s politics at the same time. When Awolowo was the Premier, my father was the pillar of the opposition at the time. He put Awolowo and his Action Group on their toes with constructive criticisms as the opposition leader in the Western Region House of Assembly. He is still regarded as a hugely successful politician of his time because of his hard work to ensure that governance was felt at the grass roots. If there is no criticism, government will shirk its responsibilities. My father provided the necessary ingredient needed to make the Western Region breathe at the time.

Silifat: I am the fourth daughter in the family. My father was a hero that this country has not given his deserved honour. A hero is not always appreciated until after his works are reviewed, mostly after his death. My father was a great thinker.

More than five decades ago, he thought of what this country would look like, what must be done to sustain its sovereignty and unity among ethnic groups that made up the country. Long before the constitution came up with social services, my father emphasised the need to provide social amenities like schools, water and good roads linking the cities and the rural areas. He knew the economic advantage and employment potential in agriculture and many other areas. In the early 1950s, he wrote a book, Africa in Ebullition. You need to read that book to know how intellectually sound he was. His brilliance and intelligence were not all about big grammar or complex English; it was about propounding ideas, saying things the way they were and challenging political leaders to use their offices to better people’s lives. Those were great qualities of a leader which my father pointed out in the book and with his many works.

How did he treat his family?

Nurudeen: Like I said, I was just two years old when he died. But my brothers and sisters attested to his generosity, kindness and fear of God. He loved children and did a lot to unite his large family. He loved his children so much and if not for his death at the age of 43, we would have had the best education anyone could think of.

Silifat: He was a father who cared for his children. He had a solid foundation for all his children but death denied him the opportunity to actualise what he had for them. They were mostly female, many of who have died. We lived in one house despite the fact that my father married many wives. The house is located at Oluokun in Ibadan. Despite his wealth, it was the only house he built.

My father was a disciplined man who trained us in God’s way. He would not tolerate nonsense from any of his children and he hated children loitering around. He wanted us to keep doing something tangible at all time just as he managed his lifetime resourcefully.

As a Muslim, he ensured the ethics of the religion had a firm root in our lives. But despite that, he still accommodated other religious beliefs.

My father attended Christian schools; St. David’s CMC School, Kudeti, Ibadan, between 1925 and 1929 and CMS Central School, Mapo. Therefore, he had knowledge of other religions but he knew Allah very well.

What about his friends?

Silifat: Many of them are dead. He would have been 100 years old this year if he had lived to see this day. Not many people attain that age. But I remember some of his friends like Fani-Kayode and some others.

What were the challenges the family faced after his death?

Silifat: We found it difficult to have good education. Some of us ended up with secondary school certificates. My late elder sister and a few others attended university through scholarship from his friends. I was in primary six when he died. I miss him a lot. I wish he were alive to witness when I got admitted into secondary school.

Nurudeen: It was difficult but God sent some of his friends to us. We got scholarship from them. Credit must also be given to my mother and my father’s other wives. They struggled to ensure we went to school. They bore most of the tuition. My father was the only child of his parents hence there was none of his relations to assist us. We would have loved the government to come to our aid because of what our father represented in Nigeria but we had little help from the government. He was an unrecognised nationalist. What we expect from the government is to recognise him as a national hero like some other distinguished Nigerians. He was a patron of Nigerian politicians.

What kind of relationship exists among his children after his death?

Nurudeen: With the name he established in Nigeria, we have no reason to fight one another. The family is united. The first generation of his children is aged. Some of them are dead but the grandchildren continued in the family tradition of oneness. We appreciate one another and that is why we are still one family.

Silifat: Like I said, before his death, he established unity in the family and when he died, we remain united. He had 32 wives but some of them had no children. We have a committee that handles his remembrance and anniversary every year. All the surviving children and grandchildren are members of the committee.

Is any of his children polygamous?

Nurudeen: What I can say is that all his children emulated his brilliance and academic excellence. He was brave so are his children. Among his grandchildren, we have a journalist, doctors, pharmacists and bank workers. One of them, Adebayo, is a Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria. He is a very brilliant young man with all the traits of a leader. There are many grandchildren like that in our family.

Silifat: Things have changed now but we have many of his children who are as articulate as he was. He was a man of action and today in the family, the trait is a permanent feature. We have brave family members.

What kind of food did he like?

Silifat: He loved moin moin and solid pap. He also liked amala and draw soup.

How did he keep fit?

Silifat: My father jogged a lot. He did a lot of shadow boxing at home too.

During his days as a politician, there were disagreements with the rival group. Was there any time the children felt threatened?

Silifat: We understood his way of life. He prepared us for hard times by telling us that we must stand up for what we believe even in the face of opposition. He told us to be bold and brave because we would be remembered for what we stood for. He was in the opposition so we accepted him the way he was. Whatever he faced in the House among his political colleagues did not affect his family.

How did people perceive your father when you were young?

Silifat: We lived at Kudeti in Ibadan. People in the area regarded my father as a hero, a leader and philanthropist because he did a lot for the people. When he was in government as head of the Ibadan Division which now comprises all the 11 council areas in Ibadan, he facilitated employment for many of the youth.

I remember that one day, he invited some elders from the Akufo area of Ibadan for a meeting and when they came, they told him that many of their children were unemployed. He employed all their unemployed children almost immediately.

Does being Adelabu’s children put any burden on you?

Nurudeen: The truth is that when people realise who I am, they accord me special treatment. At the Local Government Service Commission where I work, my bosses respect me for who I am.

Silifat: People are happy to associate with me when they realise that I am Adelabu’s daughter. They often tell me that from the history they read of my father, he was a good man. That is why it is good to leave a good legacy. His good name paves the way for his children.

What kind of cars did he own?

Silifat: He had two cars, a Datsun and another car. He was a successful man and he could have bought many cars if he wanted. His humility showed in his life.

Nurudeen: I grew up to know the only house he built. We were raised there. I still go to the house. My mother and other wives lived there. My mother died in the house.

He was known to be a no-nonsense politician. Did he have time to joke at home?

Silifat: He was a jovial person at home. He shared a lot of jokes with his children. We ate at the same table.

Did he ever beat you or any of your siblings?

Silifat: He did not keep a cane in the house. He never beat any of his children but he could shout at us. He loved quiet moment and often told us not to make a noise whenever he wanted privacy. He loved reading hence was always in his study.

Did you ever think he could still be alive if he was not involved in politics?

Silifat: God has dominion over all human beings. He decides when a man will be born and when he will die.

Where were you when he died?

Silifat: I was at home when it was announced that he died in an automobile accident. I did not see him leaving home that day because we had gone to school.

Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.

Contact: editor@punchng.com

Tinu is one of the daughters of ex-International, Mutiu Adepoju. She talks to MOTUNRAYO JOEL about her father’s life and career

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I’m the first of four girls. I am 22 years old and I am glad to say that I have just completed my examination. I live in Spain with my family.

Which schools did you attend?

There’s not really much to say about the primary and secondary schools I attended. Regarding the university, I just finished my junior year as a Telematics Engineer undergraduate in Spain.

How was it like growing up with a famous father like Mutiu Adepoju?

I had a beautiful and interesting childhood; my father is an excellent father. My parents made sure we had the most normal childhood as possible and that we remain focused.

What are the values you imbibed from your father?

My father has a lot of values and I think I’ve learnt so much from him. However, the values I’ve imbibed and cherished include perseverance, humility, generosity and hard work.

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

I wouldn’t say that because I don’t use my last name to get things easily.

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

He is a loving and caring father. He also advises us a lot. I remember him telling us that we should not only focus on his achievements, but also think of what we can do to make an impact. 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 of growing up with him?

I have a lot, but my most memorable moments are the car trips we made to other cities to watch football matches, just the two of us. He is a father who enjoys the closeness of his family and children. He likes us all to have a good relationship.

How close are you to him?

I am quite close to my father in the sense that I can discuss anything with him. I also offer him my opinion on issues when the need arises. We have a great ‘father and daughter’ relationship.

What do you cherish most about your dad?

I cherish the fact that he is always there for us and he has been a very good father. I cherish everything about my dad. He loves spending time with us and telling us stories.

How does he spend time with his children?

My father doesn’t joke with family time. Despite his busy schedule, he always makes time for family outings. If we aren’t all relaxing together at home watching television, then we are probably heading for the cinema. There is no boring moment with my father. He is the best dad.

What other sport does he do apart from playing football?

My father enjoys running. He also plays squash.

When did his love for football start?

I think it started way back when he was a young boy; he had always known he wanted to be a footballer.

How did you feel whenever you watched his tapes, especially the ones Nigeria emerged victory?

I am very proud of him. It’s an experience one can’t really put into words. Many people wish they were in my shoes. It gives me great joy that I have a football hero as a father. I feel very proud of him.

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

My favourite is the one when he scored against Spain at the 98’ World Cup.

Do you know why he is nicknamed ‘headmaster’?

Yes, I think it was because of his ability to score with his head. He knew how to use his head (literally and otherwise) to score goals that left his counterparts in awe. I remember him saying that back then in secondary school, his mates were always scarred to use their head to drive the ball into the goal post. He, on the other hand, was very eager to use his head. It was a big advantage to him because he could jump so high.

How come you didn’t take to football?

It isn’t easy to find a female team, and I’m not good at it anyway.

Is he one that would influence his children’s careers?

I think it’s too early to be talking about careers, since I’m the oldest and I’m still 22. But he did influence us to play team sports when we were younger.

But who among his children has passion for football like him?

No one is as passionate about football as he is (smiles). But I would say that my youngest sister is the one that likes football the most.

How did he discipline erring children?

His disciplinary tactic is done verbally. He talks with the child about the error she made and why she shouldn’t do it again.

How does your dad handle criticisms?

He handles them quite well. My dad says everyone has an opinion and is entitled to their opinion. However, he listens to advice and criticisms from people who are much older than he is. He usually gives their advice a second thought, and doesn’t just brush it off.

How did your father feel when Rashidi Yekini died, considering their friendship?

It was very painful to him that Nigeria lost the best scorer of all time.

What is the most important piece of advice he has given you?

He says that one is never a failure if one works hard for what one wants, even if one doesn’t achieve it.

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

We don’t live in Nigeria; in Spain he is not as famous as he is in Nigeria.

While he was still a footballer, how did he make time for his family?

He had a busy schedule, travelling here and there. But he made it a point of duty to keep his family happy all the time. There were times it was difficult since he had to travel out of the continent to play. He would be away for two months or more, but when he came home, he made sure we all had the best of times as a family.

How is his relationship with your mother?

They have a good relationship and they communicate well. I would describe their relationship as one that is very loving and stable.

How did they meet?

While he was playing football for Shooting Stars, he fell in love with my mother. He met her through a friend. I think that was in 1989.

What do you admire about their marriage?

I admire the fact that my parents have been together till date. I admire the way my dad communicates with my mum. They are best of friends which I think is very important in marriage.

How do they handle quarrels?

We (children) don’t get to know about their quarrels. Growing up, I used to think my parents never argued because I had never seen them have an argument. But I think they have a good form of communication and they talk to each other a lot. Their love for each other too has played a big part in the success of their marriage.

What romantic thing has your father done for your mother?

My father is always so sweet to my mother. He always buys her gifts. Whenever he travels, he makes sure he buys her something no matter how short the journey is.

What are his likes and dislikes?

He detests lies and insincerity. Those are the things I know he doesn’t like. He likes honesty and simplicity. He also likes one to be compassionate. He also encourages an active lifestyle. He likes one to be involved 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 likes to read and watch movies.

What are his favourite outfits?

He dresses simple; jeans are definitely his favourite.

What is his favourite meal?

He likes amala (yam flour) with ewedu.

What is his regular schedule like?

During the week, he goes to the office and during the weekends, he does sports.

Would you say he is a socialite?

I wouldn’t describe him as a socialite because he doesn’t attend parties much.

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

No, I was too young to remember.

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

I think being among the few players that represented Nigeria in three world cups is his legacy.

Would you encourage your children to play football?

Yes or any other sports. Sports can help build confidence in children. It also motivates them to excel academically and can help build social skills.

When did he experience his saddest moment?

This was when his parents died; it affected him.

Where does he see himself in the next three or five years?

He hopes to have accomplished a lot of things by then. He also hopes to be working on something that makes him happy in the next three to five years. By then, he wants to be as close to his family as possible.

There are many mixed views about Super Eagles former coach, Stephen Keshi, and his input in Nigerian football. What does your father say about him?

My father says that he has contributed greatly to Nigerian football.

If your father wasn’t a footballer, what would he have been?

He would have become a Physical Education teacher, I guess.

Does your father advise you about men, marriage?

It’s quite too soon for me to be thinking about marriage.

Who is his best friend?

His best friend is Ike Shorunmu; Super Eagles goalkeepers’ trainer.

What is the first thing he does when he wakes and the last thing he does before he sleeps?

He always prays; my father doesn’t joke with his prayer time.

List five things Nigerians didn’t know about your father?

I can only recall a few things. His favourite colour is blue, he likes to watch “La que se avecina” a Spanish sitcom, and he has both Nigerian and Spanish nationalities.

If he could change things about himself, what will that be?

He would have loved to have at least one boy; we are four girls (smiles).

Does he have memorable moments about his time at Real Madrid?

He has quite a few memorable moments, but the one that stands out was the day the team was promoted from Second Division B to Second Division A.

Why did he choose to allow his family live abroad?

It is because we had relocated too many times through the years. It wasn’t an easy decision though. Despite the distance, we are still as close as any family should be.

Does he communicate in the English language or Yoruba with his kids?

He communicates in both; it all depends on where we are.

Does he have any regrets?

I don’t think so. My father is happy with all he has been able to accomplish and his impact on Nigeria’s football tournament history.

Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.

Contact: editor@punchng.com

Ali, a son of the Chairman of President Muhammadu Buhari’s Transition Committee, Ahmed Joda, talks to MOTUNRAYO JOEL about his father

Tell us about yourself.

I am Ali Joda, one of the children of Ahmed Joda. I started my education at Capital School, Kaduna State. My parents were then residing in Kaduna State. My father was a civil servant in the employ of the Northern Nigeria Government then. He later moved to the Federal service. I think that was towards the end of 1967. During the period I spent in Lagos State, I attended Corona School, Victoria Island, Lagos. Two years after, I returned to Capital School. I proceeded to Barewa College and later moved to King’s College. After I completed Form Three, my father sent me to the United Kingdom to prevent me from playing Polo; I used to sneak out to play the game. I studied at a school in Oxford then I moved to another high school in Geneva to complete my high school education. For my tertiary education, I enrolled at Bradford College, I studied Business Management and Administration and I have a minor in Accounting.

How was it like growing up with your father?

It was a difficult one because his work kept him busy especially during the civil war. He was always out on official duties; we didn’t see much of him. I remember complaining to my mother, but I never complained to him. We hardly saw him at home for two consecutive weeks; he was always on one assignment or the other. This continued as he moved from one position to the other in his career. However, when he was home, he used to take us swimming during the weekends. This was in Kaduna State. I still remember visiting family friends after we moved back to Lagos. These were good times; I enjoyed those days.

Has your father’s name opened doors for you?

My answer is yes and no. Though, people always ask if I’m his son whenever they hear my surname. Sometimes I prefer not to mention my surname and other times, I acknowledge that he is my father. He is a father that does not want his children to use his name especially when we were looking for jobs. Hence, I never did. Of course, there were certain doors that were opened because I introduced myself as his son, but it was in selected places.

How does it feel to have such a surname?

I must say it is hard to cope bearing my surname sometimes because people expect so much from us his children. Many people think we have the world at our feet. But it isn’t so.

People may describe you as a silver spoon kid, is this true?

Those that know me very well will not say that. With my father, one gets what one deserves. He doesn’t tolerate indiscipline; he is actually a disciplinarian, though my late mother was much more of the disciplinarian at home. Growing up, he was tough. At one point, I felt like he was trying to choose my friends for me; he preferred certain friends of mine to others. I guess he heard some things about some of my friends.

What kind of father is he at home?

He is a good father, but of course a disciplinarian. The worst thing one could do to him is tell a lie. If one told a lie and my mother found out; such a child would be in serious trouble. She also would discipline such a child.

Growing up, how did he discipline any child who erred?

He gives the child a certain look which automatically speaks his mind.

Did he beat or flog?

If there was a need, he would, but he didn’t do it often.

What fond memories of growing up with your father do you have?

I remember the weekends we spent together when he would take us swimming. Other times, he would gather the family and take us to a beach. These are some of the memorable experiences I still have .

Did any of his children take after him in his line of profession?

I don’t think so. My sister is more into activities of non-governmental organisations. She started one herself; it is a woman-activism NGO. My brother is in a different field, he is into real estate, while I’m into telecommunications.

Did he at any point influence the career choices of his children?

No, I wouldn’t say that. I personally have always been interested in telecommunications. The same goes for my siblings. We were allowed to do what we wanted to do.

How did your family handle his appointment as Chairman of President Muhammadu Buhari’s Transition committee?

I didn’t expect he would be called to such an assignment because of his age, but I know President Buhari has a lot of regards for him. We supported him all the way.

Describe his relationship with President Buhari?

I know that President Buhari at one point came to my father’s house for a visit. I still remember back then in 2010, my father had a minor accident on a staircase, he broke his leg. This affected him and he wasn’t moving much. President Buhari used to come to visit him. They seem to be close.

What is his your father’s favourite sport?

He swims and plays golf once in a while. That was how he knew I used to sneak out to play polo. He used to hear my name being called out by the commentators (smiles).

What is the most important advice he gave you?

He always taught us to be humble, truthful and honest. He says one should respect other people’s feelings

Growing up, how was he able to shield his family from the limelight?

He brought us up in a humble manner; he ensured we had a normal childhood.

What are his likes and dislikes?

He dislikes dishonesty. If one is straight forward and honest with him, he will respect that person.

What are his hobbies?

At the moment he likes to read and travel; he travels a lot. He also has a farm; I think it is one of his hobbies. At 5:30am , he is already on his way to his farm. I suppose this is what keeps him going at his age; he is 85 years old yet still strong. He is very fit. I think if we try to stop him from travelling, it may affect his health.

What is the secret of his good health?

I think it is because he is always on the move. He isn’t sitting down idle, and we can’t get him to slow down. Maybe the best thing is to let him continue, if we try to slow him down, that may cause his health to deteriorate. Also, he hardly goes to the hospital. The only time I think he went to a hospital was when he broke his leg.

What is his favourite food?

He likes meals made from leaves of the plant used to make zobo drink. He also likes Chinese food, Indian meals, and French cuisine. The local food I know he likes is a particular leaf.

How is this leaf prepared?

Sometimes, groundnut paste is added to the leaf to give it a different taste. Other times, it is cooked alone.

At home, how does he like to dress?

He usually liked to wear casual, but in the last few years, he likes to wear kaftans.

Describe his daily schedule?

If he is in Yola, Adamawa State, by 5:30am he is off to the farm. He then takes his breakfast between 8 and 8:30am. In less than an hour after this, he is off to his other farm. He spends some time there then comes back at around 12 noon. After that he does other things or visits. Though he has very few friends left, most of them are gone. He eats his lunch at about 2pm, and have a siesta. At 4pm, he is off to the farm.

What time does he sleep and what time does he wake up?

I’m certain he wakes up some minutes to 5am since he gets to his farm around that time. He doesn’t have any particular time he sleeps. During the transition period, he had late nights. Sometimes, he slept at 12pm.

Is he sociable?

It depends on his mood, but he is sociable, though not very much.

When did he experience his saddest moment?

I think it was the period my mother died.

And when did he experience his happiest moment?

One of his happiest moments was when I had my first son in 1997. He left his board meeting quite early to catch an early flight. He was really excited.

Where does he see himself in the next three to five years?

He just wants to have a quiet life. He accepted the transition assignment because he felt it was a duty to the country and I think he couldn’t say no too.

Is he a private person?

Yes, my father is a private person.

While you were much younger did he advise you on marriage?

Not really, the only time he spoke to me about marriage was when my mother expressed her view about me getting married. He didn’t talk much on that area.

How did he handle misunderstandings with your late mother?

I never saw them argue, I guess he made me feel this way. Though, he did say to me that marriage isn’t a bed of roses. They knew how to handle their misunderstandings discreetly.

Who is his best friend?

His best friend is dead. He died in 1991. He has very close friends though.

What are the things Nigerians did not know about him?

He is time-conscious and loves punctuality; he doesn’t appreciate one showing up late for meetings. Also, he looks at things critically and once he has made up his mind about something, he doesn’t change his view. Of course, his views are not always right, it is human to err.

If he could change things about himself, what would they be?

He is tough, may be that is something he wants to change.

What are some of his achievements in the political sphere?

He isn’t a politician. At one time, he got chosen from the North-East as presidential candidate, they were six of them and he was selected. They pushed him into it but he didn’t want it.

What is his view about former President Goodluck Jonathan?

He has written him a few times, his views were not hidden. In one of his interviews, he asked him to declare that he would not contest for the presidency; I think it was the last presidential election. My father said if he did that he would get acceptance from people. His views about him are not hidden.

How did he feel when former President Jonathan contested?

I think that was one of the reasons the General Muhammadu Buhari support group was born.

What is his view on corruption?

He is disgusted with corruption. Sometimes, he is naïve about it. When one tells him that something negative is happening probably in the economy for example, he says ‘how can that be?’ He doesn’t believe things like that can happen, until he gets firsthand information. There were certain things I mentioned, and he got angry with me. He felt they weren’t happening, until I was proved right.

People may describe him as a rich man, what is your view on this?

That is an impression people have, probably because of his social standing. People think the same of me, they say I have billions stashed somewhere. I thank God I can pay my children’s school fees which is my topmost priority. Also, it depends on what one terms ‘rich.’

What is his view on Boko Haram?

He is disgusted with it.

What type of books does he read?

He reads wide.

What do you think is his legacy?

The name he has is his legacy. Where ever he goes, people have a great deal of respect for him. It also has its disadvantages because people think he has the power to do many things. He is the kind of person that wouldn’t do such a thing. People may respect and listen to one, but this doesn’t guarantee it will result into anything.

How many more years does he hope to live?

I wouldn’t know that, but I think he has an open mind. He knows he can die anytime.

How many wives does he have?

He has one wife and four children.

Why didn’t he marry more than one wife?

He wants only one wife.

Did he allow his children to marry outside their ethnic group?

He has no problem with any of his children marrying whoever they want. My sister in the United States is married to a white American. As long as that is what the child wants, he has no problem with it.

If any of his children were to go into acting or music, how would he react?

He would accept it; I don’t think he would have any problem with it.

What does he splurge money on?

He is a conservative spender.

Does he read what people write about him in the papers?

He doesn’t really read them, he may see them though.

During the transition period, was your family at any point scared for his life?

I don’t think so.

Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.

Contact: editor@punchng.com

Dotun is one of the children of a former governor of Ekiti State and a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, Adeniyi Adebayo. He talks about his father’s political life with GBENGA ADENIJI

Please, give a brief profile of yourself.

I am Richard Adedotun Adebayo; one of the children of Otunba Adeniyi Adebayo. I attended Grange School, Lagos for my primary and secondary education. I later went to the United Kingdom to continue my secondary education. I earned a university degree in the UK before moving to the US for a master’s degree. After my education, I returned to Nigeria for the Law school. I am now home working.

You studied Law like your father, was he the one who influenced your career choice?

He influenced me and also encouraged me. My father is a lawyer but my mother is not. My elder sister studied Law too. Law is a discipline that I have always been familiar with. I grew up knowing Law because my father is a lawyer. Hence, I told myself that I should examine the discipline critically. That was one of the reasons I decided to study it.

How often did he visit you when you were abroad studying?

My father created time to visit me when I was studying abroad. Sometimes, he would come around while on a business trip to the US. My parents also visited me together. They used to take me to Nigeria during Christmas and vacations. There was a day my father gave me a surprise visit. He was going to England and decided to visit me. I was surprised because he did not tell me he would be visiting. I was going to the dining hall with some of my friends when he came. I was so happy to see him. That day, we went out for a dinner along with an uncle and my sister.

What memories of your childhood with him can you remember?

I recall that every Sunday we were always in church. This aspect has not changed. I remember that we would wake up early to prepare for church and after service, we would have breakfast. I recollect that episode quite well and of the video games we played together when I was younger. We attended events. It was a typical upbringing and we bonded very well. We went on holidays mostly to the UK and sometimes to the Europe and the US. It was a very good childhood.

How does he punish any erring child?

My parents do not use physical discipline on any one of us who offends. They use more of verbal correction. If a child sits at the dining table with my father, that child will know immediately if he or she has done anything wrong. One will immediately be looking for ways to correct his or her ways because he is a caring father that one will not want to offend.

When he became a governor, how comfortable was his family?

It was definitely a privileged and blessed life. We had security and people looking after us. It was a nice experience but not a life of luxury. I was not in Nigeria when my father became a governor but I was always at the Government House each time I came home. Besides, I was not in Nigeria throughout his time in office but I was around enough to understand the period he was in office.

Did you enjoy any special treatment from friends at the time your father was a governor?

No, there was nothing of such. My parents did not raise me to lose touch of my friends or misbehave in any way because of their status. Yes, things were different because of his job as a governor at that time. But that did not change any of us a bit. No doubt, there was protocol that ensured some strict schedules. Things did not change. Our parents treated us the same way they did before my father won an election to become a governor. Also, our friends remain our friends.

Does he guide you on your choice of friends?

That is not a problem because we always have good friends.

Did he have time to spend with his family when he was a governor?

Yes, he did. He was very busy then but that did not stop him from spending time with us whenever he was free. I like football like he does. Hence, if there was a football match in Ekiti between the government team and other team or a boxing competition which he could take his children along, he would not hesitate to include us.

How much pocket money did he give you at that time?

It was the same way he gave me pocket money when he was not a governor. I cannot remember exactly how much it was back then but it was on a monthly basis. It was a normal amount when compared to what the parents of my friends gave them at that time. At first, the money came through my house master who kept it and gave me when I needed it. The school has a policy on that and after a while, I was getting it via my bank account.

How was life in the Government House?

There was a regimented part which mandated one to adhere strictly to protocol. One cannot decide to go out without security. At a time, I felt it was frustrating especially when one had to get supervision before going anywhere. But with the benefit of hindsight, all was for one’s best interest. It was meant to keep one safe. Anyway, there was freedom for us and we never felt imprisoned.

How is life outside the Government House?

It is quieter.

What was your impression about governance when your father became a governor?

I discovered that there is always a lot of planning and decisions to make as a governor.

How did he react when he lost re-election?

At that time I was about 15 years old. I remember that I called him on the phone and he was only interested in making sure we were okay. Of course, nobody wants to lose an election but he accepted everything in good faith. I think the character of a man is best measured in how he reacts when things are not good than his reaction when things are good. My parents teach us that everything in life happens for a reason. We bounced back and returned to Lagos to continue our lives.

What kind of father is he?

He is an honourable man. I have imbibed many values from him. He taught me to be loyal, honest and

morally sound. I know that it is good to do the right thing always because I have seen him doing the right thing many times.

How is his schedule now?

He is a very busy man especially during the last general elections because he attended many meetings.

What is his favourite food?

My father likes rice and he eats pounded yam more whenever he is in Ekiti.

How does he relax?

He plays both lawn and table tennis. He also likes to be with his family members and friends. My father enjoys watching the TV too.

How close are you to him?

I think I am closer to him. I understand him more than my sisters do because I am a man. There are things that my father will do which I will understand better than my sisters.

What is his favourite drink?

He likes clean water. Occasionally, he uses a glass of champagne to celebrate an event.

Has he ever inspired your interest in politics?

Yes, he often shows willingness to guide me if I have interest in politics. I am still taking my time because I am not there yet.

Does being a child to a popular politician and having a grandfather who is a distinguished Nigerian put a burden on you?

This comes up in conversations a lot. If anything, it is an encouragement and not a burden in any way.

How have you benefitted from his name?

I feel glad whenever people speak glowingly about my father. This happens often and I am always happy. I do not go to places announcing who my father is but his name connotes integrity. However, in terms of his contacts, he can use them to help me if, for example, I am looking for a job. He can tell me to meet someone in a company but that is where it ends. No one will hire me because I got to a company through my father. He will not influence anything. I have to prove that I deserve the job through merit. His contact will get me to an interview stage but my competence must take over at that stage.

How does he like to dress?

He likes native attire and wears suits too. He also wears jean and T-shirt if he wants to be casual.

Have you ever seen your parents quarrel?

One of my friends once told me that my family is weird because we do not fight. He used the word ‘weird’ to show how strange it is. I just laughed. Honestly, I have never seen my parents quarrel.

Does he advise you on choice of partner?

The relationship that exists between my parents has shown me the kind of partner I want when the time comes. There has been no direct discussion on that. But his love for my mother has greatly influenced me on what my decision will be when I am ready for marriage. My father is primarily concerned about our happiness.

Tell us about his interest in the arts.

My father attends arts exhibitions and buys art works that he likes. My mother likes art works too.

How sociable is he?

He is very sociable. I think one has to be sociable to be able to run for a political office. He attends landmark events like when an individual is celebrating 50th or 80th birthday.

Does he have a nickname?

Yes, he has a nickname. His friends and those close to him call him ‘OTB.’ It is a shortened form of his traditional title, ‘Otunba.’

What is his view about politics in Nigeria?

My father did not go into details when we discussed about it but I know that he is interested in a better country where there will be equity for all.

What kind of music does he listen to?

My father has a collection of music cutting across diverse genres. He also has all the works of the late Fela Kuti.

Who are your father’s friends?

My father’s friends are his colleagues and members of his party, the APC. His friends also cut across diverse groups.

Would you have wished he didn’t join politics?

No. Like people say that politics is like a calling, I have seen that politics is my father’s calling. What I have known about politics comes from him. To me, what I know is a small aspect and I care so much about it. One can then imagine how much he cares about impacting on people’s lives positively. I never wished he was something else. I know he is doing what he is called to do.

Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.

Contact: editor@punchng.com

Muktaar is one of the sons of Senator Ganiyu Solomon. He talks about his father’s political life with GBENGA ADENIJI

Give a brief profile of yourself.

I am Muktaar Olatunde Solomon. I am the second of the three sons of Senator Ganiyu Olanrewaju Solomon, otherwise called GOS by his admirers. I am currently working freelance as a property developer and previously a client manager at a well-known estate agency in London. I always seek new opportunities and enjoy being surrounded by ambitious people with innovation and grit.

What childhood memories with your father can you remember?

There are a lot of memories I had with my father when I was growing up. However, I will highlight the ones that stood out because they entail principles that have stuck with me over time. The first is that we do not waste anything in our house. My father made it clear to us all, the importance of being content with what we have, right from our growing up days. We were not allowed to make a fuss about anything we were given as we understood and appreciated that there are people who could not afford or access the least of such things.

The second memory was the day my father took the broom and started to sweep the floor of our house. As with a lot of households in Nigeria, we had house helps when we were growing up, but whenever my father was around, he would not allow them to do anything as he expected us to do the cleaning ourselves. That day, he took the broom from one of them and showed us how to sweep the floor.

When I saw that, I realised that we don’t always have to wait for people to do things for us. If we want something, we get it ourselves. We were also taught the importance of keeping a clean environment. Since we do not want to keep sweeping every time, we kept our surroundings clean at all times.

The third memory was when my father and I had a mini break-dancing competition in his room. He had just returned from work while I was on his bed playing with Lego. He came in, locked the door (at this point I thought I was in trouble as we had been told not to play with our toys on his water bed), played a song of the artiste, MC hammer and started break-dancing. Of course, I showed him my moves also. But this stuck with me because I always see him working hard. I realised that sometimes one needs to relax in order to ease stress. I guess his way of relaxing that day was through break-dancing, although I have never seen him do that again since then.

Did he choose careers for his children?

My father did not choose a career for any of us. But like most caring parents, he gave suggestions and we also discussed their possibilities. He is always keen to listen when we talk about our education and future and he also gives his thoughts as best as he could without being pushy.

For example, during my postgraduate degree, I studied International Human Resource Management, after which I got a contract for the London 2012 Olympics in recruitment. However, when we spoke about the possibilities of doing recruitment in Nigeria, my father made the challenges clear to me and we also brainstormed on the solutions. That is the kind of father he is. When one is dwelling on the problems associated with a particular undertaking, he is busy working on the solutions. We are a team.

Where are the places he takes his family to for relaxation?

As you may know already, my family is quite big and my father is a very busy man. Normally, if we wanted a quiet time together, we would spent time with my late grandmother. We could be with her for a whole day especially during the Eid-el-Fitri celebration. We would talk, share stories and listen to praise poem from grandmother. Now, we just spend time as a family to relax wherever we are because home is where the heart is and home is wherever the family is.

How does he discipline any child who misbehaves?

From my memories of the growing up days, I know that my father is a disciplinarian. However, if any of us misbehaves, that child will get disciplined in one or two ways. He will either teach us a lesson by himself or call our mother to discipline the child who erred.

There was a time I crashed his car while trying to park. I was 16 years old then. My father immediately enrolled me in a driving school for such not to happen again. Notwithstanding, he still sent me to my mother to discipline me. I definitely learnt that day because in our family, one child is too old to be beaten.

What do you think made him succeed as Mushin council chairman given the volatile nature of the area?

Mushin is a unique area and despite people’s various perspectives of the area, it is one full of opportunities and it is also diverse. Little wonder, my father calls them ‘common, yet uncommon people.’ Growing up there, I saw a lot of loyalty which the people exhibited towards my father. I could not fathom him.

But looking back now, I think he was able to succeed because he is a people’s person and a good leader. He is not the typical boss that sits back and calls the shots while waiting for others to do the work. He leads by example and he is also not shy to be involved in any grass roots issue. He is a very good example of a successful grass roots man and typifies a quintessential democrat.

Did he ever encourage you to join politics?

My father never encouraged me or any of his children in any career direction. However, he did give me the tool needed to succeed in life which is education. This tool is what a child can ever ask from his or her parents.

Who are your father’s friends?

My father surrounds himself with his family members and people that have similar goals and aspirations to make his immediate community and Nigeria a better place.

How do you feel about his being a politician considering the notion that politics is dirty in Nigeria?

I respect him a lot for being a politician in Nigeria because he is innately different. I am very fortunate to learn directly from such a man and more privileged to be his son. I see his passion for his people and he is a man that takes pride in Nigeria and being a Nigerian. He is professional at all times, which reflects in his decision-making and he always sees the big picture in anything he does.

Your father has held key positions in the nation’s political space, what are the things you can identify as his contributions to the sphere?

From being a council chairman to the lower legislative chamber of the National Assembly before moving up the ladder to the Senate, I can hold my head high to say my father did his very bit in human capital development. Over the years, he had served humanity in personal capacity and even established the GOS Foundation as a platform to sustain the vision.

What is his favourite quote?

Call my father a bibliophile and you won’t be wrong. He is an example of a bookworm. One needs to visit our house or his office to see what his library looks like. He buys and keeps books a lot. In fact, he relaxes more by reading. He reads from leadership books, biographies to fictions. His favourite quotes cut across many disciplines. There have been some key words he used which stuck to us and we even recite them to each other sometimes.

With his busy schedule, how often did he visit you when you were studying abroad?

My father visited us twice a year and he made sure he saw and spent time with each of us before he left. He always wanted to know what we were doing and to meet our friends. He asked us about our studies and aspirations every time he was around and smiled with an impression depending on how we answered him. Anytime he did not come, my mother did.

Did you enjoy any special treatment from colleagues when you were studying in Nigeria and abroad?

On the contrary, I did not enjoy any special treatment from colleagues when I was studying in Nigeria. This is because the majority of those who surrounded me had their parents in similar positions. Getting special treatment was out of the question as we were always taught by our parents to be humble.

Would you have wished he chose another career different from politics?

There is no other career that I can honestly wish for him. It would be difficult for me to see him in a different career path, although he had been into private business, including real estate, before joining politics.

Did he discuss his ambition to be Lagos State Governor with his family?

The key to having a happy family especially in his type of job is never to bring the work home. The rule is to leave work where it is and leave home where home is. We never discussed politics at home. However, he had his regular entourage of people, who came home from time to time. But he never discussed his ambition with any of us. I would not say that I was unaware of his ambition to be governor as that would be false. We spoke after his party’s governorship primaries and that was when I let him know I respect him the more because I saw the importance of pursuing one’s dreams regardless of the odds.

What is his favourite sport?

My father watches a lot of football and surprisingly, wrestling too. I believe he is a Chelsea fan as he once tried to force the club on us.

How does he relax?

When my father relaxes, he just stays at home all day reading. That is all he does. He stays at home and walks around in his pyjamas with the occasional popping in so everyone notices he is at home.

What are his best songs?

He listens to any good music, especially those with traditional flavour. For instance, I know he listens to such great artistes such as Haruna Ishola, Ayinla Omowura, Ebenezer Obey, KSA and K1 De Ultimate among many others. He listens to foreign songs too but they have to be oldies.

What is his view about the conduct of politicians as one himself?

That’s tricky. I really can’t tell. But one thing I know is that he does not discuss people; he discusses issues. Even if he feels strongly about such things, you would hardly hear from him. He is slow to speaking but fast to listening. He is not taciturn, however.

What are the benefits you have derived from your father’s name?

Honestly, I have received very little from my father’s name possibly because I studied abroad and just starting my life and business in the UK. To the people here, it is just another name. But I am keen to know what benefits such name could give me. Nonetheless, I will not support unfair treatment and unnecessary nepotism.

How does he handle disagreements with his wife?

Since I have come to know my parents, I have never seen them have disagreements. Now that I am no longer a child and I know it is in human nature to disagree from time to time, nevertheless, I am sure they handle it well. But we have never witnessed any disagreement between them. I plan to instill same culture in my family in future.

Does he advise his children on their choice of friends?

He gives us advice about our friends but he does this in an indirect way. My father understands the importance of independence and wants us to feel that we make the decisions of choosing our friends by ourselves. As children, we do feel like we know it all because we want to exert our independence. Like I said earlier, my dad likes to meet our friends. Thus, we will not want to introduce someone who is not of good behaviour to him.

What is his relationship with the National Leader of the All Progressives Congress, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu?

To the best of my knowledge, their relationship is excellent. I recall as a child, in 1999 that Asiwaju Bola Tinubu visited us at our late grandmother’s place on Palm Avenue, in Mushin. It was my first time of meeting him. But after that, we paid several visits to him as governor, often during the Eid-el-Fitri celebration.

I still have a family picture we once took with him and his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.

How did he react when his party, the APC, won the 2015 presidential election?

The same way every positive-minded Nigerian reacted. Importantly, as a party man, his joy was beyond the ordinary Nigerian because it is with different interpretation, despite the fact that the change mantra was across board. He saw change coming and knew the gamble would pay off and it did. I am happy too.

What is his favourite meal?

There are a lot of meals that he is always ready to eat. He likes roast plantain and groundnuts.

What is his favourite drink?

He takes water but it must be room temperature.

How sociable is he?

My father is as sociable as anyone could imagine him to be. He is a very reserved gentleman, who appreciates his own company. However, with his role in the politics, I am positive that there are more than a few formal and informal obligations that he often needs to fulfill.

How do people react when they know you are his child?

I do not really tell people who my father is. The only time I give such information is when I’m filing forms that need details of parents and I am usually not present to witness their reaction.

What kind of father is he?

He is the kind of father I would wish for even in my next life. My father is my hero – very calm, calculated, positive, self-effacing and highly unassuming with an equally sound mind.

What are the ideals you have imbibed from him?

There are some values I have learnt from my father. He taught me the importance of chasing one’s dreams; perseverance; the difference between being a boss and a leader, to always stay humble and away from vanity.

How does he like to dress?

I think my father likes to dress smart and casual. He always dresses appropriately for any occasion. He is a very fashionable gentleman. I can say this because sometimes we bump into each other wearing same clothes. I can confidently say he has style, considering his age.

How does he react to things in the newspapers about him?

Ironically, my dad hardly attracts negative news. He has no scandal and no shady deals. So, often the news reports about him are usually positive and how does anyone react to positive news? Positively, I guess. But generally, my father believes in critical reporting because according to him, criticism helps the politician to be on his toes and to do things right. He always says criticism helps to show the strength in leadership.

Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.

Contact: editor@punchng.com

Abdulrasheed, one of the sons of former Minister of Information and Culture and veteran journalist, Prince Tony Momoh, talks about his father’s life and career with MOTUNRAYO JOEL

Tell us about yourself.

My name is Abdulrasheed Momoh; I am the first son of Prince Tony Momoh. I am 45 years old; I was born on July 6, 1970. I have three siblings— two brothers and a sister, we are all married. I studied Painting at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State but I am currently a stockbroker. I joined the stock market to prove a point. I had a cousin who was always teasing me about my knowledge of issues. He said I had knowledge about fine arts only, so I decided to prove him wrong. He has about 10 degrees – he is a chartered accountant, a stockbroker, you name it. I decided to sit for the exam that qualifies one to be a stockbroker, but I didn’t pass. The second time I wrote it, I passed. I took the new challenge or profession as a bet. Now, I’m enjoying the work. I thought that as an artist, one begs to collect one’s money, but in the stock market, people want to see you face-to-face because their money is involved. Though things haven’t been the same since the market crashed.

Can you recall the schools you attended?

Yes, I attended Yewande Memorial School, Surulere; Command Children School, Ikeja and then Command Secondary School, Ipaja, Lagos.

How was it growing up with your father?

He wasn’t at home most of the time; being a journalist, he was always on the move. My siblings and I were closer to our mother. However, my father has really changed. Back then, he was very strict. Whenever he came home, we would all run into our rooms. We didn’t really have a good rapport with him but when it was time to pay our school fees, then we would go meet him.

How has your father’s name opened doors for you?

That is a big question I ask myself sometimes. I haven’t really mentioned his name to curry favour. When I was young, I loved to go to clubs. I remember him calling me aside and warning me about my ways. It wasn’t until the day armed robbers followed me home, shot my dad in the leg and took away things, before I retraced my steps. I kept asking myself, ‘What would have happened to me if my father had died?’ That incidence made me feel guilty and I still feel guilty to date. After that, I got my senses back and became more responsible. I guess that is why I don’t use his name to get things done. I even found it difficult using his name while growing up, he was just too strict and he didn’t train us to use his name to curry favours. My friends still ask me why I haven’t used his name to open doors.

Would he have loved you to use his name?

If I may ask, what is wrong with my own name? People think my father is super rich, they think the same of me, but things are not that way.

Some people may describe you as a silver spoon kid, what is your reaction to this?

This isn’t true; I worked for everything I have today. For many years, my mother was the one shouldering the responsibilities of the family, till my father was financially stabilised. When he was a minister, he used to tell us that the position was temporary and nothing changed in our way of life. When he was appointed the chairman of Nigerian Airways, nothing changed in our lives especially travelling by air. I still travelled by road. My family has gone through a lot, but I still thank God.

But some people refer to him as a rich man?

No, he is not, we are just comfortable.

What kind of father is he?

He is a jovial father who likes to crack jokes. We have a great relationship. Whenever he is in Lagos, we hang out together, he is a great father. There is no dull moment when one is with him.

Growing up, how did he discipline any child who erred?

He flogged us with the cane. He was very strict, my mother on the other hand used to shout. But now they have calmed down. Whenever any of us turned 21 years, he would write a letter to that child saying, “You are now old enough to make decisions on your own.” He would then relate with the child as a friend.

Do you have fond memories of your childhood, growing up with him?

My father used to like taking pictures. This made me remember happy moments. But for about 10 years, he didn’t take pictures and I felt I lost a part of my life. He was no longer into photography, he began writing. I still remember my birthdays; he made them memorable with all the gifts and love he showered on us.

Did any of his children take after his profession?

Yes, my sister did, she is studying Law. My father is the only one in the family who can’t draw. We all can draw including my mother, who is a fashion designer. He also is the only one who can’t speak Yoruba.

Did you convert to Christianity like your father did?

Yes, I did, though I would describe myself as a freethinker just like my father.

What challenges did he face while he was a journalist?

I wouldn’t know much about that, but I remember him complaining about Daily Times. He got tired of the way things were done there, and he lamented about the politics at the place. At one time, he travelled abroad and the late Dele Giwa told him that he had been appointed as a minister, he was shocked. He was made Minister of Information and Culture. He then became the overall head of those who used to give him stress. It was a miracle because he didn’t fight for the position.

He was the longest serving minister during Ibrahim Babangida’s regime. I think he spent four years but the only period I know he faced challenges was when he was appointed the Chairman of Nigeria Airways. He said there was much waste in the place and he desperately wanted to leave. He was the last chairman of Nigeria Airways. He said people kept making use of free air tickets which affected the airline. At a point, the airline couldn’t pay the salaries of its members of staff.

What is the most important advice he has given you?

Tough times don’t last but tough people last. He also says, ‘What is not yours isn’t yours, your time will come.’ The time he was shot in the leg was a blessing in disguise; he kept saying it happened for a reason. Prior to the incident, his blood pressure was high and his doctors had given him some drugs, but he refused to take them. After the robbery attack, he spent nine months at the hospital. He would have had a stroke but for the incidence. He says everything happens for a reason.

People describe him as someone who is hospitable …

Yes, there was a time we were about 38 in our house. The house was full of friends and relatives.

What are his likes and dislikes?

He doesn’t like when one soils his name or image. He is meticulous and likes to help people; he could give his last kobo to a stranger.

What are his hobbies?

He likes to play tennis and take walks.

What is the secret to his good health?

What one sows, one reaps, and what one eats will manifest. Though I think his secret is that he doesn’t worry himself about things. He has an understanding wife and a supportive family.

What does he say about Nigeria?

He prays for Nigeria to return to the way it was, when the system worked.

What is his best food?

Our general meal is pounded yam and groundnut soup.

Describe his daily schedule?

He wakes up at around five or six o’clock in the morning to study in his spiritual library and he reads for about two hours. Then, he reads newspapers. He dedicates his mornings to having a quiet time before he goes to work.

Describe his mode of dressing?

He likes to wear native attire. When he is home, he prefers to wear shorts. Almost all his native attire were sewn by my mother.

What time does he sleep?

If you call any of us around one or two o’clock in the morning, we would be awake. It is a tradition in my family, we don’t sleep early. My father sleeps late too. I guess it is a habit we got used to over the years.

Will you describe him as being sociable?

Yes, he is, though he doesn’t know how to dance. Wherever he is, he pulls crowd. He likes to crack jokes; he is fun to be with.

When did he experience his happiest moment and vice versa?

I think it is my mother who would know that, but the only thing I can say is that he is never sad. He is always happy. I can’t really tell what makes him happy, it is his nature. Even when things are rough, he is happy. Back then, when things were rough, he came back home with a movie to watch and he bought suya. He and my mother would sit down and enjoy themselves. He doesn’t let things get to him. My mother knows the kind of man she is married to. She is proud of him, even when things are rough. He suffered to achieve what he has achieved today, we just thank God for everything. When he was shot in the leg, he said he wished he saw the armed robbers again so he could pray for them and thank them for saving his life. He would have had a stroke.

Where does he see himself in the next three to five years?

That is for him to answer; I don’t know where he sees himself in future.

Did he advise you on marriage?

Yes, he did it indirectly though, he didn’t interfere in our private lives. He just used to tell us that birds of the same feather flock together. He advised us to move with the right people.

How does he handle misunderstandings with your mother?

What is the best answer for that question? When a woman is shouting, ignore her and let her shout. I think silence is golden. When a person is angry, let the person be. Generally, if my mother is upset, he doesn’t say anything, he lets her calm down.

Describe his temperament?

He hardly shouts, he doesn’t get angry easily.

Name three things Nigerians don’t know about him?

He can go an extra mile to help people. At a point, it could be so bad that he used to allow okada men sleep in our house. The house was always full. Some people may have seen this as a risk, but he didn’t. My father helps anybody. He also likes to explore latest gadgets.

If he could change things about himself what would they be?

I don’t know about him, but for me, it’s my stomach, though his is bigger than mine.

What is his philosophy?

He taught us to always tell the truth. He believes in telling the truth and being your brother’s keeper. For him, family comes first.

What kind of book does he read?

He reads a lot of spiritual books; he reads the Bible and Qur’an, he has a library for his spiritual books. He reads books on Law. He is a fast reader and he writes a lot too.

Who are his closest contemporaries?

I know Sam Amuka is one of them.

What does he splurge money on?

He doesn’t splurge money on anything, though he spends money on people’s problems. He doesn’t buy cars or spend cash extravagantly.

Does he read what people write about him on the pages of newspapers?

I don’t know if he does, but whenever I draw his attention to something that was written about him, he says it is normal and that people only write about persons that are alive.

In his view, how has the media changed compared to his time?

I remember him telling someone that journalists have become envelope journalists who write what they are told to write.

Does he talk about the state of things in some newspaper firms especially the late payment of salaries?

We don’t really talk about his journalism career.

He was one of founding members of the Peoples Democratic Party, what does he say about the current state of the party?

He still says birds of the same feather flock together. I think he had an issue with the way the party was run. He said no party could defeat PDP except themselves. In his view, the party destroyed itself.

How did he get into politics?

He started as campaign manager; I guess he just wanted to join politics.

Describe his relationship with President Muhammadu Buhari.

They have a good relationship.

And what does he say about Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu?

He says he is digital and that he is one politician who thinks ahead. He says he has an answer for every question he is asked. He says he is one of the best politicians.

Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.

Contact: editor@punchng.com

Thomas, the eldest son of Nigeria’s first military Head of State, late Major-general Johnson Thomas Aguiyi-Ironsi, tells ARUKAINO UMUKORO about his father’s legacy

Please tell us a bit about yourself.

My name is Thomas I. Aguiyi-Ironsi (CON). I was born some 60 years ago and my father was Major-General Johnson Thomas Aguiyi-Ironsi (Ochiagha 1 Ndume), the first military Head of State of Nigeria. My mother, Lady Victoria Nwanyiocha Aguiyi-Ironsi, is a contractor, farmer, fashion designer, grassroots politician, and currently a Local Government Commissioner in Abia State Local Government Commission. My parents originated from Umuahia North Local Government Area in Abia State. I am a product of Army Barracks’ schools (in Nigeria) and private schools in the UK. I undertook university studies in Canada and Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna, where I obtained a Bachelor of Arts, in International Relations and M.Sc., Political Science. I am a 1980 United Nations Disarmament fellow. I have four children, three girls and one boy. My first son, Robert, a banker, died in a ghastly motor accident in Australia in 2007, at the age of 29.

How was growing up with your father?

What I recall was that we were always travelling. By 1957, I had made my first trip by ship to the United Kingdom. By 1959, I was in Germany. By 1961, I was back in the UK. Even when I came back from school on holidays from the UK, my father insisted that I also follow him on some of his official tours. I soon understood that this exposure to travelling was a form of education, as one was exposed to various aspects of other people’s culture. However, while growing up with my dad, the pivotal force was my mother. She gave direction in all we did, and she was always by his side as we sat as a family, watching television or listening to music.

What are some of the values you have learnt from your father?

I would submit that children of most senior military officers learnt more of their values from their mothers. Officers tend to take no nonsense from their sons, but spoil their daughters. If a man is going to relate to a woman later in life; certainly, how his dad treated his mother will have some influences. My dad was devoted to my mum. I saw him gave her gifts. By observing him, I learnt generosity, discipline and hard work. I also learnt how to keep my cards close to my chest. My dad told me a few years before his demise that, ‘If you are going to Oxford (UK), say you are going to Waterloo Station. In other words, don’t trust people.’

How did he discipline his children whenever they erred?

The disciplining was done by my mother. If one saw his size, we would all prefer to be punished by mum. On a serious note, he was just too soft to punish his girls.

How close were you to your father?

As a first son, I was very close to him, especially in the 1950s and 1960s cultural lens. On a visit to him in the Congo in 1964, the engine of the aircraft had affected my hearing. He was so concerned that on my return, he insisted that I was put on the business class of the plane.

How did he react whenever he was angry?

The late Ikemba Nnewi described my father in the following words, ‘General Ironsi was every inch a soldier; a towering stance, comportment full of command, eyes and voice pregnant with restrained authority. Here was a man that could never pass unperceived.’ I remember him only once tapping my hand when I allowed some sausages to fall on the floor while he was preparing Sunday breakfast.

How has your dad’s name opened doors for you?

My dad left a good name, and I thank God for that because he left no vast fortune. His name has opened doors, but one has not always left the room with something.

You are a career diplomat and you became an Ambassador, and also once served as the Minister of D

efence. How much influence did your father have on the career choices of his children?

Obviously, with our dad’s legacy of military service, my siblings and I were drawn to the public service. We wanted to interact and assist people. Consequently, two of my sisters became lawyers, another two are on the medical field, and another one, Louise, is a journalist. My brother, John, is involved in transport, and Caroline Ada was in insurance and accounts.

How would you describe him as a father?

He was caring, and I would say that he was the most courageous man I have known. At Ibadan, before he was taken away, his only concern was to ensure that I was calm and not frightened. No wonder, the Austrian government gave him their national honour for bravery in the Congo. I recall that he always had time to listen to what I had to say and proffered advice. I could burst into his office and he would not shout me out.

Is it true that your father joined the Nigerian Army against the wishes of his sister, and why?

In his days, the army at that time was not considered as one of the best professions to go into. The better professions was the railways and to become a clerk. She wanted him to be a clerk. The railways and post office were considered good posts in the 1930s and 1940s. Younger Nigerians need to recall that we were under colonial rule at that time. Civics must be taught at primary school level.

Your father came into power following Nigeria’s first military coup in January 1966 led by the late Major Kaduna Nzeogwu. It is claimed that your father was forced by some military officers to become Head of State. How true is this?

Of course, it was against his wishes. But he was a soldier; he was the head of the army, and it was a national duty when he was told to keep law and order. It was a legitimate group of people who, the deputy senate president, I believe, was the one that gave him the authority. Dad was handed over power legally. He did not take part in any coup. Some of those that know the truth are still alive.

Six months after becoming Head of State, your dad was assassinated, alongside Lt. Col. Adekunle Fajuyi, on July 29, 1966 in Ibadan, what was the true picture surrounding that event?

I don’t want to dwell at length on this. Many neo-historians, sycophants and cowards have misrepresented him. We all await the verdict of history. Dad was not involved in the planning or execution of the January 1966 coup. His ‘failure,’ if it can be adjudged as that, was not taking an immediate military action against the coup plotters who killed many high ranking officers from Borno and the Middle Belt. Hausa military officers joined the mutiny of July 29, 1966 in retaliation for the death of the Prime Minister, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, and that of the Premier of Northern Nigeria, Sardauna of Sokoto. What most Nigerians do not know is that my dad was a favourite of the Sardauna, and his support ensured that my dad was selected to head the Nigerian Army. Some reports have stated that my late dad cried when he heard about the death of the Sardauna. He could never have had a part in anything that would involve the death of the Sardauna. I do not want to open old wounds that are still healing. To do so is immaturity of thought and lack of the spirit of forgiveness. It cannot in any way contribute constructively towards nation-building, but rather, it would frustrate the needed effort tailored towards national integration and unity.

Did your father think the Igbo were marginalised?

My dad did not believe the Igbo were marginalised. He did not know how to play politics and he relied too much on civil servants. He grew up in Kano where Hausa was the spoken language, and he had numerous friends from Northern Nigeria. Like my mother, he also spoke Hausa like a Kano donkey. His close bodyguards were from the north and the Middle Belt of Nigeria. Tribalism was never part of my dad’s make-up. He wanted to live the life of a senior British military officer. He believed merit should be the order of the day.

Can you describe your father’s closeness with the late Fajuyi?

He was his boss in the military that was like a family then. Consequently, they looked at each other as brothers.

What did he tell you about his six-month tenure as Nigeria’s first military Head of State?

He did not discuss that with me. He could not have discussed that with anybody. Rather, he was doing things to improve the society, he carried this torch to the end, he consulted with the traditional rulers, he went to the North and West to try and see how they could implement peace in the country.

What would have been his views about the country today, with Muhammadu Buhari as a democratically elected President?

With the current realities on ground today, my dad would have given his total support to President Muhammadu Buhari. My dad introduced a National Orientation Committee to wipe away bribery and corruption, inefficiency and other laxities in the public service. President Buhari also believes that corruption and other acts of indiscipline should be stopped. Some elements believe that President Buhari is against the South-East, but I believe President Buhari would not entertain nonsense from me.

How would you describe your father’s relationships with former Heads of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, and Olusegun Obasanjo?

Dad was their boss; they were junior officers to him then and they looked up to him. In the Army of those days, he was more like an elder brother and they could come to him for anything, even monetary assistance. It was like a family setting and they did visit our house. Gowon used to visit our home when my dad was in London. I recall him telling me to reduce the volume of the television. In later years, Gowon’s closeness to the family has always been maintained. The same can be said of Obasanjo also. My dad and Obasanjo were together in the Congo.

Who were some of your father’s friends?

My father travelled far and wide and he made numerous contacts. He had friends in the household of Queen Elizabeth II, as well as in his village in Umuahia. His professional contacts were all over Africa, and reached Ireland, Canada, and New Zealand. Nevertheless, my mum testifies to the fact that he and Major-general Robert Adebayo (retd.) were very close. Dad was also close to the then High Commissioner in the United Kingdom, Attah, and he had numerous friends from Northern Nigeria.

Your father died at the age of 42. What was his vision for Nigeria?

It was the job of the head of state to correct and bring order to the country. He would have loved for order and peace to reign in the country. That was what he set out to do, but he was not allowed to finish the job. But he would love to have seen that accomplished, that the people of Nigeria are one, because he believed in one Nigeria. As a soldier, then there were only about 7,000 or 8,000 in the Nigerian army. Of course, he would have loved to see the Nigeria Army become a very professional force and widely respected in the whole world. Also, the army, to a large degree, has continued the good job in peacekeeping operations worldwide. That is something he would have been happy with.

Would you like to share personal experiences before and after his assassination?

Yes, I was with my father in Ibadan. I was with him before they knocked at his door, and he told me to remain inside as he opened the door. I heard the shouts of, ‘There will be no killing here.’ I saw his gallant Kanuri orderly crying because he could not defend my father. I say, thank you, to the Nigeria Police that disguised me and put me on a train to Lagos to be received by my mum. In the room before he was murdered, my father said to me, ‘Take no vengeance.’ As a 13-year-old boy, I did not comprehend the full meaning of his words. Today, I know that God alone should take vengeance. Both Lt. Col. Fajuyi and my dad died for national integration and unity. May their heroic souls rest in peace.

Have you forgiven your father’s killers?

Yes, I have forgiven them, but I have not forgotten.

How did you and your family survive the civil war?

I was sent back to the UK to continue my studies late in October, 1966. My mum and other siblings remained in Biafra throughout the civil war. She refused for them to be sent out of Biafra to Gabon. My mum worked in relief, looking after the soldiers. She is a very strong woman. And my sisters had private tutors to teach them. One of my sisters was nearly captured during the civil war. Kidnapping young girls did not just start, it had always been; but it is very sad that it is still present in 2014/2015.

What is the history of your father’s famous swagger stick, which was said to have been named after him?

Most senior army officers carried a swagger stick. But my dad carried a stock baby crocodile, about two feet long, which he got from the Congo. It is interesting that his name, Aguiyi, also means crocodile in Igbo. But it’s just that some people thought the crocodile had some magical property inside it, and that unless it was removed from him, he could not be killed. Even in the Second World War, some British Generals carried umbrellas.

Did the crocodile really have magical powers as the rumours claimed?

Well, the dead don’t talk.

What was your dad’s daily routine? What were his likes and dislikes?

Very soon, my mother would release her memoirs and answer numerous questions pertaining to my father’s personal life. I would prefer not to comment on certain aspects until her book is launched.

What were your dad’s hobbies?

His hobbies included collecting antiques, especially silver. He also loved watching wrestling.

What was his favourite meal?

Mum says his favourite dish is garri and vegetable soup.

What was his favourite drink?

I can say that he liked his Johnny Walker whiskey. He could drink everyone down in the Officers’ Mess and still be the first on the parade ground the next day. Ask General Adebayo, he is still alive.

How was his relationship with your mum?

They were very close. In the UK, he liked to prepare Sunday breakfast for us and served my mum breakfast in bed. My dad was devoted to my mum.

What are some fond memories you have of your father?

I love to watch him riding horses. My father was a first-class horseman. I wish every Nigerian officer, from Lieutenant to Major, could be taught how to ride, and swim as well. I also loved staying with him when he was driving. He was a very good driver. In the UK, we used to go on long trip with the family.

What is your father’s legacy in Nigeria’s history?

His legacy is obvious. He came into power following a military coup, to correct the ills in the country, and after him, so many other military coups happened to also correct the ills in the country. We are still going on with the efforts to correct ills in the country today. He would have wanted Nigeria to develop and be at peace, with every citizen having a sense of security. The battle still continues for us to have peace and security in the country.

Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.

Contact: editor@punchng.com

Tokunbo, a daughter of a former Vice-Chancellor, University of Lagos, Prof. Oyewusi Ibidapo-Obe, talks about her father in this interview with MOTUNRAYO JOEL

Briefly introduce yourself

My name is Tokunbo Somorin; I work as an Assistant Professor of Clinical Medicine with the University of Texas in Houston, Texas. I am the third child of Professor and Mrs. Oye Ibidapo-Obe.

Where did you have your primary, secondary and tertiary education?

I attended University of Lagos Staff School, International School, Lagos and the College of Medicine, University of Lagos.

How was your childhood?

It was amazing. I must say, growing up on the UNILAG campus was a privilege. We had constant power supply, safety was not an issue, and school was within a walking distance. Even though our school was a walking distance, my mother or father used to drop us at school to ensure we were not late to school. During that period, in the schools I attended, I always ranked top. I also made lifelong friends and majority of our friends are people I grew up with.

Did your parents visit you often in school?

They really had no reason to, maybe a few times when I was at the Medical school in Idi-Araba, Lagos. My dad visited me a couple of times, his visits attracted too much attention because he was the VC, and since home was literarily 20 minutes away, I preferred to go see them anyway.

Your father is well known in Nigeria. How does it feel having him as a dad?

I am grateful, I feel blessed.

Did your father influence your career choice?

My mum had more of an influence on my career choice. She definitely played a major role while I was in Medical School. Till this day, my dad still jokes about how her name should be somewhere on my certificate. The fact that I now teach medicine is definitely my father’s influence. I am extremely grateful for the support I received from them. They shaped my life and made me who I am today.

Did they impose their career choices on your siblings and what career paths did your siblings follow?

My parents advised each of us and guided our career choices. My brother, Bambo, has a BSc in Chemical Engineering with an MBA. Mobola is a lawyer; currently a doctoral candidate.

Niyi is a civil engineer and also a doctoral candidate. I would say they guided their children, but they did not impose anything on us.

Describe your father’s personality at home?

My father is always relaxed and cool, he is a wonderful father. My dad is awesome. We have cultivated a habit of getting together when we are all home to just talk and have fun. Also, he always seems to have one paper or the other to write; therefore, he spends time in his study working as well.

Is your father jovial at home?

He is jovial at home; there is no boring moment with him.

Nigerians know a lot about your father since he is a public figure, but what is that thing Nigerians don’t know about your him?

He is a family man. My dad loves to spend time with us, especially his grandchildren. Being together over the Christmas holidays is a tradition; he loves to see his grandchildren excited while opening their presents. We all spend a whole day together every year. On a lighter note, he loves Archie comics and he watches Ben 10 and other cartoons with his grandchildren.

What were the challenges he faced at the start of his career?

He was a Professor and lecturer when all there was to the job was the title. I think a lot of university lecturers at the time I was growing up were underpaid. This is an area I think government needs to pay more attention to.

How would you describe your parents’ marriage?

Most times, when I look at my parents, I admire the love they have for each other. I believe their marriage is ordained by God. I lack words to describe their marriage; theirs is a blessed and happy one.

Did your father advise you on the type of man to marry?

I don’t recall, I married the son of a University of Lagos Professor of Chemistry. My father knew his father long before we knew each other.

How sociable is your father?

My father is very sociable. He is amiable and he is an outgoing personality. It seems people always have a compliment or two about him, even now when I run into people all the way in Houston and even some of my patients, the first question is, ‘Are you Prof’s daughter?’ I also used to get a lot of ‘Omo Oyeee’ while I was growing up. My Dad has fantastic interpersonal skills and runs an open door policy.

What are your father’s favourite meals?

He likes rotisserie chicken; I think it reminds him of when he was schooling in Canada. He also likes ketchup.

What is his favourite drink?

I am not sure he has one. I should think it is water when we are together.

Describe your father’s temperament?

I would describe him as someone who is cool; it takes a lot to get my dad worked up. He gives a really long rope. He doesn’t lose his temper easily. He is patient.

You are saying he doesn’t get angry easily?

No, he doesn’t. He is a great dad.

What do you like about him?

I love everything about him. He is such a wonderful father; the best father one could ever dream of having. I am proud to say he is my dad.

And what don’t you like about him?

I think he sometimes works too hard. I am always telling him he needs to slow down. When I was much younger, I hated asking him for help with my Maths homework; it always ended up being a Maths lesson.

How did he discipline a child who erred?

He disciplined us using various ways. Sometimes, he took away our privileges (game consoles, cable decoder etc). Other times, he would give us punishments such as pick pins, kneel down and raise your hands. It all depended on the gravity of the offence.

Has he ever spanked you or your siblings?

Of course, he has. I can remember all the periods I received a spanking from him. But to be fair, they were few for everyone. Maybe Mobola was the only one who never got spanked by my dad.

How does your father handle criticisms?

He handles them constructively. Now, I, on the other hand, take up any critic of my dad or mum personally.

What is his view on the current state of the nation and President Muhammadu Buhari’s style of leadership?

I think he is hopeful, like most people, hopeful that Nigeria improves.

What does he say about President Goodluck Jonathan?

Dad says, ‘Goodluck Jonathan was the President of Nigeria.’ My father has respect for authority and has instilled that in us.

 Where does your father see himself in the next five years?

He still sees himself teaching by then. I know he plans to work till retirement. I also know he had plans to return to the classroom after the Vice-Chancellor term at UNILAG ended, then he was asked to be the pioneer Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University at Ebonyi State, this has also taken him away from the classroom. On the other hand, he plans to focus on academic research and mentoring in the public sector. I think he is capable of doing quite a lot of other things apart from teaching.

Who is your father’s role model?

God is his first role model. Other names include his father, the late Chief Ladipo Ibidapo-Obe, late Chief V.O. Ojutalayo, and Professor Chike Obi. I also know he has a lot of respect for former President Olusegun Obasanjo and many elder statesmen. Other names are Prof. Ayo Ogunye and Prof. Abass, who both had a lot of influence on his career.

What does he do first when he wakes up and the last thing he does before going to bed?

The first thing he does on waking up is to put on his glasses. I know my parents pray together before setting out for the day and before bed.

Does he read what people write about him in newspapers?

Yes, he does; we all do.

What has kept his marriage strong?

I believe love, prayer, a wonderful and loving woman. My mum is a great person; the best mother one could ever have.

What has been your father’s lowest moment or most trying period that you know?

I think it was the period when school fees were raised by the Federal Government and also when UNILAG students went on a rampage. Even after they looted and burnt our residence, personal cars and other property, we still received death threats and many more. My father was ready to walk away from it all at some point; he did not want any threat to his family at all. But till this day, he believes the act was not committed by UNILAG students. It was an extremely trying time for all of us. But God was faithful then and has remained faithful. Also, when my grandma passed away was a very low moment for him.

Did he fight in the Biafra war, and where was he at that time?

No, he did not. He was an undergraduate at UNILAG during the war and thanks be to God, we understood the war did not get to the stage of having to draft people into the army before it ended.

How does your father like to dress?

He dresses formally mostly on week days and to formal events. On informal occasions, he likes slacks and shirts. He wears complete national dress to church on Sundays and to functions.

In the religious sector, who are his role models?

Pastor E.A. Adeboye is definitely one of his role models. He is a Mathematician like him and a ‘GREAT’ Akokite. His wife, Pastor (Mrs.) Folu Adeboye, and my dad are from the same town, Ilesa. Pastor Adeboye himself is also from one of the neighbouring towns in Osun State. They both treat him like a brother. I also know he has a lot of respect for Dr. Olukoya, who was very supportive during his term as UNILAG’s Vice-Chancellor.

What do you know about his childhood?

He has not always loved school but has always been brilliant. His mum adored him, but was tough on him. His early education was in Ilesa; I think one of his primary school teachers influenced his choice of Mathematics as a first degree.

What is his advice to you when it comes to money?

His approach is frugality. My dad is a conservative spender.

What special privileges have you enjoyed as a result of being his daughter?

I believe a lot of my professors in medical school wanted me to succeed. They had all eyes on me, most of them were harder on me, and I could not get away with half of what other students were getting away with. I could not miss lectures; I had to study extra hard and in advance, because I never could avoid a question. In retrospect, maybe it was because they did not want to be accused of favoritism. Then, I saw it as a burden, now I realise it was a privilege, and perks of being the VC’s daughter.

If he wasn’t in the education sector, what else would he be doing?

Probably in the petroleum sector, he was already at British Petroleum (later African Petroleum) before joining UNILAG. My dad has fantastic interpersonal skills and I believe he could be anything he wants to be. He can carry out a conversation on any sector or career. However, I believe he will also make an excellent UN representative or an ambassador but still as an academic.

What values have you imbibed from him?

I have imbibed hard work, diligence, and being principled.

Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.

Contact: editor@punchng.com

A former Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce, Mrs. Teju Phillips, is the first child of the late billionaire, Deinde Anthonio Fernandez. She talks to KEMI ASHEFON about the life her father lived

Where were you when you received the news of the death of your father, Chief Deinde Fernandez, and how did you receive the news?

I was here in Nigeria; I just got back from seeing him in the hospital. That was about three weeks ago in Europe. I saw him in bed and you know when you have a loved one who is old, you don’t really want to see their death. I just saw sickness and I knew my father, who was a strong man, would get over whatever was there. When I came back, I was getting news of the progress of his health, but two or three days before he died, I had been really sad; even before I got the news, I was already crying. So, when it came, I was wailing in the house. I thank God that I had a few days of beautiful memories with him.

Did he have a premonition of his death?

No, he did not. I had a happy moment with him the last time I saw him. It was a memorable time when I visited him. He was still bubbly in his voice and very sound; I just thought everything would be alright one day.

What were your fondest memories of him?

There are so many. Do I want to talk about the time he took me abroad to school or the time he would take me to the jewellers or the time he would bash me to tears?

Why did he beat you, were you very naughty while growing up?

Even as an adult, I am talking about two or three months before he died, he still spoke to me like a little girl. To him, I am still his daughter. But he prepared me very well for life. For the fond memories, it was packed full of so many things. Nobody would know the extent of the love he had for me in those tough days. I guess most of us, his kids, we are like him, tough too.

What were the lessons and values he imparted in you while growing up?

The discipline is that, you must appreciate the value of money; you must learn to spend and keep money. And he was quite tough; you don’t get everything you want, no. But he had his own way of spoiling us.

How was that?

Like he would just decide if a thing is good for you, he would give you more than you expect. For example, if I say I want to do a project and he believes you are going to succeed in that project, he would support you more than you ever expected and if he believed there is no end to that thing you want to do, forget it, he was not going to give you a kobo.

So, he was your business mentor?

He was a mentor on so many things — behaviour in life, choice of so many things that you will do in life and even when it is hard, he turned to you and said no. He had his moments and we all appreciated that and I guess his peculiarities are him. He lived life the way he wanted it and God made it possible for him.

He was very prominent on the African scene, he was the Permanent Representative of the Democratic Republic of Congo to the United Nations, and he was advisor to the President of Mozambique and Special Adviser to the President of Angola. But he never did anything for Nigeria?

He was a man of the people who knew how to manage people. He endeared himself to them and they appreciated him. He represented so many countries in the world, but previous governments never gave him any opportunity to serve. He was not honoured in Nigeria. They didn’t give him the opportunity to serve them, it is sad.

But did he try to?

He tried, several governments, they appreciated him abroad. In his own way, his people in Nigeria, he touched lives and they really loved him for that. He believed in Africa a lot and believed that it should be a united Africa and his sermon all the time was that it is best when we are united.

What are the things you will miss most about him?

His phone calls, those phone calls are educative. We spoke for three, four or five hours. In fact, we had done eight hours on the phone, from night till morning time.

He kept in touch anywhere he was?

Anywhere and anywhere I am. I am going to miss his calls. I knew I have a genuine, natural relationship with him. He fought with me but he also loved me.

How was it growing up as his child?

It was normal. I didn’t school in Lagos but in Ibadan after which I travelled to England.

Was he a strict father?

Yes, in terms of morals, of what you wore and how you wore them—conservative shoes, glasses, clothes, etc.

Was he particular about the career choices of his kids?

He was the one who chose and ensured that I read Accountancy and not Business Studies that I wanted to study initially. I didn’t regret doing that. He had time for his kids.

Some people saw him as elusive?

My father was not elusive. He was a man of the people and loved having people around. He didn’t believe you must have a certain amount of wealth before he related with you. Though he was a bit reserved in his way, he believed in a peculiar lifestyle. He did things his own way. He didn’t care about what others thought about him but what he did for himself and kids mattered to him.

Some people have described him as a recluse, who was always hiding all over the world. How does that make you feel reading that?

Excuse me! You are free to form your own impression but I know he was not like that.

Did he whip an erring child?

No, my dad had his way of instilling discipline. Instead of beating with the cane, he would scold you with words. The things he would say to you, you would never forget in your life. He checkmated us with a sense of value.

Were there lessons instilled in you while growing up?

He taught us to work hard, study hard and he had words of wisdom for everyone, including his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He always said, ‘you have what I have in me, go and climb your mountain.’ He taught us to be proud of who we are. I remember when someone was trying to mimic a white man and speak through his nose. Dad said, ‘When you speak loudly and authoritatively, you will be heard.’ He never had any form of pretensions around him.

As the children of a billionaire, people would assume that he threw money at his kids?

He would give you money but there was discipline around it. If the money was not spent judiciously, he would not give you another time. Being in boarding school, I had less to ask. But when you did well, he rewarded you. I remember when he bought me a wristwatch and took me to Tibet to buy bangles.

While growing up, which famous faces did you see at home or visited?

Dad took me to see Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Ambassador Ogbu, Chief Folarin Coker and a host of others that I cannot remember now.

He was a friend to the late Nelson Mandela, Kofi Annan and a host of others. What do you remember about his friendship with all these great men?

For those two people, he made them to speak to me in my house on the telephone. I spoke to Kofi Annan and I spoke to Mandela on the telephone. When he was with them, he would say, ‘talk to my daughter, she is in Nigeria.’

What was his philosophy of life?

He was keen on hard work—it cannot be substituted for anything in making profit. He always sermonised on laying a good foundation for everything you want to do in life. He would always tell you, ‘the best asset God gave you is your brain, use it and get out of any mess.’ I will always remember his counsels and the life values he imbibed in us. He loved God and always said, ‘your boss can be your lord but not your God. Nobody can take God’s place in your life, so fear him.’

Was he a church goer?

He was a one who believed in direct communication with his God. He did things and projects for churches. He built a small structure in a church in Lagos in memory of his mother.

Who was his mother, your grandmother?

She was Juliana Durojaiye Fernandez, nee Palomeras. She was caring, dedicated, a believer in marriage and gave all that it could take to bring up her kids. She was a very beautiful woman. His father, my grandfather, was Kanut Akinwande Fernandez. He hailed from Isale Eko. My grandfather was born Yesufu but converted to Kanut, a Brazilian name. I spent time with them and then, Papa would read stories to us, especially ‘Ali Baba and the 40 thieves.’

But there were times rumours went agog that Deinde Fernandez was not your father?

Those were the talks of illiterates. Look at his picture and then mine, I look exactly like him.

What were his thoughts on Nigeria, especially the new government of President Muhammadu Buhari?

He believed that we have got it right. But before now, he complained. That gave him a bit of peace before his death.

What food did he like to eat?

He loved good food— local and international— as long as it tasted right. He loved small, fresh fish. To him, he believed when the fish is small, it tasted nice. He was not a vegetarian and he ate chicken, pounded yam and he loved any well-cooked food.

He was reputed to fly Tuwo from Nigeria to New York….

Yes, he loved African foods, he enjoyed eating them. He was not pretentious in anyway. He would eat Western food in the most cultured way but he would come back to his level and appreciate the African cuisine.

How did you handle the image of being a Fernandez?

Like my father, I loved people around me and I don’t allow who he was to get into my head. I am simple, I don’t make noise and I remain who I am.

Would you describe him as a fashionable man?

Yes, he was very trendy. He set the pace in fashion. He was simple, but trendy.

Was he flamboyant?

Flamboyance is a relative term of your wherewithal. He lived a simple, sophisticated and civilised lifestyle.

But there was a picture of him dressed in animal skin with two tigers in front of him, yet you described him as a man who had no drama around him?

Yes, no drama. He was a genuine person, when I said drama, it means he had no pretensions. He was a real man, he was happy with himself; he said it as it is, no drama. It is either you like it or you don’t like it.

What were his hobbies?

Yes, he used to swim and loved horse-riding and probably went for horse races. Football? I never heard him talk about football.

What about him and the women in his life?

There was nothing extraordinary about his marriages. He lived a normal life maritally. He was never married to two women at the same time. Some people are lucky to have a good marriage and stick to their partners for a long time but some are not. When one is over, you move over to another one.

When will he be buried?

The family will get together and decide on that. He was a pan-Africanist, a man of style, who had time for indigenous affairs of his people; a genuine supporter to so many individuals. He was Omo Eko Pataki and he would be buried as such. I will also want to state that contrary to media reports about the age of my father, he was born on August 12, 1929, making him 86 years old at the time of his death.

Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.

Contact: editor@punchng.com

Dotun is the first child of a former Minister of Health, the late Prof. Olikoye Ransome-Kuti. He talks about his father’s ideals with GBENGA ADENIJI

Tell us about yourself.

I am Dotun; the first child of the late Prof. Olikoye and Mrs. Sonia Ransome-Kuti. I am a veterinary doctor. I have been in private practice since 1986 when I graduated from the university. I run a veterinary clinic in Lagos.

What were the memories you can recall growing up with your father?

My father was more of a hardworking professional when we were growing up. He was always going to the Lagos University Teaching Hospital at the time. He was a professor then and even on Sundays, he was always at work. We hardly spent much time with him. When we were much younger, he used to take us out for a walk around the Federal Palace Hotel in Lagos. He was a loving father and loved to make people to stay focused. My father made us to know that education is important and that clothes and shoes are not too important.

Since he was so busy, did he not try to create time for his family?

Like I said, on Sundays, he always took us out. We used to go to Fela’s shrine in Kalakuta Republic before it was burnt. My father, the late Beko and Fela as siblings, were very close. They were lovely human beings.

Was Olikoye, the medical doctor, a different man at home?

My father lived a regimented life. One could predict what he could be doing at a particular time by merely looking at the time. By 6pm, we were sure he would be coming back from work. By 7pm, we knew he would be taking his dinner and by 9pm or 10pm, we could predict he had gone to bed. He did not belong to any social club. Nothing changed when he became the minister of health except when he was travelling on official assignments.

He was a quiet man. He loved classical songs like that of Ludwig Van Beethoven and others. He was, however, crazy about Fela. By the time he died, I inherited many records of the late Fela because he got a copy of every album Fela released. Fela autographed all the albums he released for him. My father was also a good dancer.

You studied veterinary medicine. Was your father the one who influenced your career choice?

My younger brother, Gboyega, is a medical doctor practising in the US, while my sister is a lawyer. My father and his brothers (Beko and Fela) had a philosophy that one should strive to be the best in whatever profession one chooses. There was a time my father asked me what profession I desired and I told him I would love to be a doctor of dogs. He approved it. My father really stressed my brother who chose to be a medical doctor. It is like somebody who wants to go to a secondary school and the headmaster of that school is the person’s father. That person is in trouble. The person must not fail or be lazy. I love animals so much and I am close to dogs.

Did your father love dogs too?

Of course, he did. He had a misty; a Yorkshire terrier, Texas; a golden retriever, Utah; an Alsatian mix; and Duchess, a lhasa apso, which was the one with him till his death.

When he became the minister of health how comfortable was his family?

Nothing changed at the time. When he became the minister of health we were living in Alaka in Surulere and he moved to Ikoyi. My mother’s younger brother, my brother and I refused to go with our parents to Ikoyi. We saw ourselves as Surulere boys and when we eventually moved to Ikoyi, we did not stay too long in the main house. It did not make any difference to us. My father was the kind of person that if anybody wanted to see when he was a minister, I would simply take the person to him. I did not have to tell him that a visitor was coming to see him.

Did he discuss with his family when the Ibrahim Babangida regime invited him to be a minister?

No, he did not. I knew that when he got a phone call, he thought it was a hoax. He thought it was his younger brother, Beko, who was playing a prank on him. He had to end the call and jokingly said, ‘‘Beko, you are stupid.’’ But Babangida called him again on the phone and it was then he knew it was not a joke. I felt he took the offer which was one of the easiest ways he could reach the people in terms of the provision of quality primary health care. It was an opportunity for him to do some of the things he wanted to do for his country regarding health care delivery even though his brothers were against it. Fela, in particular, was not happy that he accepted the offer. For the Kuti brothers, such a thing never affected their relationship. My father could have explained that he only wanted to accept the offer because of his vision for the health sector. His brothers would have also argued that he should not accept it for whatever reason. They would have accepted one another’s opinions and moved on.

Did he regret working for the military?

No, he did not. Like I said before, he used the platform to do some of the things he wanted to do in the health sector.

How did you feel that he worked for the military?

I was studying in Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria then. I did not see anything wrong in it. We were only happy that we had a three-bedroom bungalow within the premises where he lived as a minister. He had many official cars, which he did not use. As a matter of fact, Babangida had to force him to use his official black Peugeot 505 because he was driving his Volkswagen Golf then.

How was he able to blend medicine with activism?

My father was really not an activist when compared to his two brothers. He only used his field; medicine, to shape many things in the society.

How did your friends and schoolmates treat you when your father became a minister?

We did not even know what it meant to be a minister during that time. There was no special treatment from anybody. The only thing people could relate to me was that I am Fela’s son even though I was a minister’s son. This was because I was part of the school’s music band and was very sociable. I organised shows too. I was more of a Fela kind of person than a professor’s child. I partied hard and read hard.

Was there a time your father beat you for wrongdoing?

The Kuti brothers did not use the cane or whip on any of their children. I felt may be because their father was a disciplinarian, they vowed never to use the cane on any of their children. But because I was troublesome, I forced my father to beat me few times. He used the cane slightly on me and not the way some fathers would. He studied me and knew I loved going out; hence, he decided to punish me by restricting my movement. It was worse than caning. He could also do same if I did not do well in school.

Did he ever visit you in school?

Yes, he did. I attended Igbobi College, Lagos and I was a day pupil and there was no way he could visit me. He visited me when I was in England. Before my Ordinary Level result was released, my parents sponsored me to go abroad and do Advanced Level. While I was there, my O’ Level result came out and he came to see me. He asked me if I wanted to go to Lower or Upper class. I chose the latter. After about a month, I told him I wanted to go to Lower and take all the courses. I did and a day after the school closed, he ensured that I was back in Nigeria. My parents valued education. They starved to give their children the best of education. There was a time I did not do well in a subject. When he visited me, he was annoyed and told me that he and my mother were living on N6,000 a year to send me to England to study. They sacrificed a lot for us to attend good schools.

Why didn’t you earn a degree in England?

I did not study for a degree in England because it was expensive. Also, I needed three A Level papers and a special paper. My brain could not assimilate that.

How has his name opened doors for you?

No, my father’s name has not opened doors for me. People often tell me that my father was a great man and that he was very honest. That is where it all stops. There is nothing as good as a good name. Everybody acknowledges that. People admire my father in me and that is where it stops. On our own as members of the Kuti family, we are trying our best to keep the good name.

What was his favourite food?

At a time in his life, he started eating cabbage, carrots and others. Generally, he loved everything because my mother cooked his meals. My father never ate outside the home.

How did he handle arguments with his wife?

I never saw them argue. If they ever did, they probably did not do it in our presence. My mother adored my father. Anything my father said was the way my mother would let it be. None could convince her otherwise.

What was his favourite drink?

My father took beer. He could drink a glass of beer for two days.

What was his favourite cigarette?

He loved the pipe cigar with its aroma.

When did he quit smoking?

My father stopped when he became a minister because he banned smoking in public places.

Did you ever sneak to the shrine to watch the late Fela?

Yes, when I was 14 years old. That was one of the few times my father beat me. We had to disagree to agree because the bottom line was that if I had to live with him, I must be ready to abide by his rules.

What kind of father was he?

My father was warm, understanding and very wise.

Does your father’s feats and name put any burden on you?

No. I do what I know is right, hence I carry no burden. I try to do the best in whatever I pursue. What was it that my father and his brothers did that Nigerians cannot do? They were only dedicated, hardworking, selfless and did what they knew was right. Everybody can do that but it seems tough because the society is filled with a lot of antics.

Was he into any sports?

My father loved football. He was a goalkeeper in his school days. Besides, he played lawn tennis.

What were those values you learnt from him?

I learnt honesty, dedication, firm trust in Nigeria and to do unto others what I want them do to me.

How did he feel when Fela died?

The way one would feel losing one’s loving, naughty younger brother. Remember, I told you that they were very close. He left the US for Nigeria when he heard that Fela took ill before his eventual death. The death of Fela was painful because I used to be close to him. I used to play in his band. Each time Fela visited our house, he was always with his wives and many other people. He usually came with them in two coaster buses and cars. We would be asked to go to our rooms as he narrated his escapades with the police, Customs officers and others to my dad.

Where were you when your father died?

At the time my father died, he did not know he was going to die. He travelled to the UK for a conference and died in his hotel room. We greeted warmly when he was leaving for the UK. The news of his death was a shock to me. It was the late Beko who broke the news to me. It was the last thing on our mind then. My younger brother had to fly to the UK from the US to arrange how to get his remains home.

How do you remember him every year?

We hold a memorial lecture for him annually. We also give out scholarships in his honour.

How did he like to dress?

My father loved safari suits.

Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.

Contact: editor@punchng.com

Chinwuba is one of the children of the late ‘Lady of Songs,’ Christy Essien-Igbokwe. He talks about the life of his mother with GBENGA ADENIJI

Please give a brief profile of yourself.

I am Chinwuba Kaka Igbokwe, the second son of the late Christy Essien-Igbokwe. We are four boys. I studied Geological Sciences at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State. I am a music producer, businessman, and President of the Christy Essien Igbokwe Memorial Foundation.

What memories of your late mother can you recall?

I have good memories of my late mother. She was such a good woman that I did not know she was famous until I got into the university. One of the lovely things about her was that she always created time for us despite her busy schedule. This thus made it difficult for me to believe she was one of Africa’s biggest musicians.

I really do miss her meals. My best memory of her was when I would sit in the kitchen to be fed by her. She was the best cook in the world. But now, my wife has taken that title.

Where were the places she took her family to for relaxation while you were young?

The places she took us to? We visited mainly our country homes in Awka (Anambra State) and Eket (Akwa-Ibom State). Although during most festive periods when my mother had big shows or was on tours, she took us along and made sure we were lodged in the best hotels around the places. Back then, I did not know why she would ensure we were lodged in good hotels. But when I grew older and started my own family, I understood that it is important for parents to give quality time to their children notwithstanding how busy they may be. My parents, especially my mother, did her best to make sure we had great memories growing up.

Your mother was a celebrated singer; did she encourage any of her children to follow in her footsteps in terms of career choice?

Yes, she did encourage us all in our respective fields. She, however, did not force any of us against our will. My mother was surprised when we showed interest in music production. I remember when I was in primary school and she helped me to secure roles in a popular television series then, Ripples and a couple of stage plays. I would have continued acting but I was too shy to watch myself on the television.

Did you ever watch her perform?

Yes, I watched my mother perform many times. She had so much energy and I remember fondly the times I performed with her. There was a moment she got the crowd ecstatic and I got caught up in the frenzy and jumped off the stage and sprained my ankle. After the show, she told me how to keep my cool while on the stage. It was really a wonderful show.

Which of her songs do you like most and why do you like it?

I like many of her songs. Let me quickly add that Seun Rere does not make my top 10 list of my mother’s songs. I like Ever liked My Person; Kaanyi Gba Egwu; Tetenula; Ego Emebigo Uwa; Akwa Ibom; Taking My Time; Change the System and Ife. I could go on and on. I love her songs because they relate to real life situations and they are timeless.

In what ways did she enforce discipline on any erring child?

Discipline is an understatement; my mother’s name should have been used to replace the word ‘discipline’ in the dictionary. She could use anything to beat any offending child. My mother could use the cane, slippers and her hand. These were used to shape me and my brothers to become the fine young men we are today.

Can you recall any time she disciplined you and what you did wrong?

I recall she spanked me when I misbehaved but now, I cannot remember what I did wrong.

Who were her friends?

My mother kept good and few family friends. They included a circle of three to five families. But her closest friends were members of her family and of course, God.

What was her best form of relaxation?

She relaxed by praying and singing praises to God.

 How close were you to her?

Let me say that we were like the characters in the American animated series of short films created in 1940, by William Hanna and Joseph Barbera, titled Tom and Jerry. The animated characters depict best of friends that gossip and fight a lot. She was not just a mother to me but a confidant. Before her death, she helped me choose my wife. That should convey our closeness.

What are the ideals you have learnt from her?

There was a saying of my mother: “No matter what you do people will never be satisfied, so do good, do your best and satisfy your conscience.” That is one of the things I learnt from her.

How did she settle misunderstandings with her husband?

My mother kept her marriage and married life strictly between her husband and herself. We never saw her argue with her husband in public or in front of us. You can say she was old-fashioned but I learnt how to keep a family together from her.

In what ways would you say her name has helped you?

Of course, her name has helped me a lot. One of the favours I get from being her son is that people give me a listening ear because I am her son. It is then left for me at that stage to impress them by seizing the opportunity.

What kind of mother was she?

She was the best mother any son or child could ever wish to have.

What was her favourite meal?

I cannot remember if she had any favourite meal. Maybe her native delicacies; atama soup, edikaikong and affang soup.

What was her favourite drink?

She enjoyed châteauneuf-du-Pape, a French wine, Appellation d’origine contrôlée.

What was her normal schedule like?

My mother woke up by 6am for family worship, entered the kitchen by 6:30am and by 8am, she would have a bath and be ready for the day by 9am. Before leaving the home, she often had her personal prayers for one hour and nobody could make her miss it for anything. From 10am to 6pm, she handled the day’s business and from 6pm, another family prayer would hold. By 7pm, dinner would be served after which she searched for her ‘gossip partner,’ which was either me or her husband.

How do you feel each time you listen to any of her songs since her death?

I feel blessed, honoured and privileged to be her son. When I listen to her songs, it is like she is talking to me.

Did you receive any form of special treatment from schoolmates and lecturers by virtue of who your mother was?

I guess I did sometimes. People did things for me all because I am Christy Essien-Igbokwe’s son.

In music, your mother excelled brilliantly likewise in acting especially in her role as Apena in the rested television series, The New Masquerade. What can you say you missed most about her?

I miss her character. I have always said that I will still produce a situation comedy on my mother’s last 10 years before her death. My mother was a comedian to the core, always making us laugh at every opportunity. She was too lively and a great person to be with. There was never a dull moment with her.

How sociable was she?

She was very sociable and full of life. Whenever we had parties or gatherings at home, she was always the life of the party. She loved seeing people around her. She would cook and call the neighbours to eat with us.

You performed with her on the stage. Tell us about the experience.

I performed with her on the stage many times and each time was a new experience. She always had something new to offer. There was always a new lesson about showbiz and the arts to learn from her. I earlier talked about her exciting performance that got me overjoyed on the stage.

How did she like to dress?

She was a woman of class. Her outfits were African-inspired. When she passed on and we re-launched her foundation, we had a fashion show showcasing her style. I tell you, most of her clothes sewn over 20 years ago still look like today’s current fashion trends. That shows how fashion forward she was.

Would you say your late mother’s musical feats and popularity put any burden on you?

In a way, there will always be pressure on anyone who has such a famous and legendary mother, because anything one does will be compared with her achievements not with what is available. In a way, it also keeps me on my feet and like she always use to tell me, ‘Life is not a competition; we shall all cross the same finishing line.’ Also, it is on record that what the states located in the littoral areas in Nigeria are enjoying today is as a result of the abrogation of the obnoxious onshore and offshore oil dichotomy made possible by God using my mother. She mounted campaigns that saw the regime of Gen. Ibrahim Babangida initiate and abrogate the dichotomy; thereby ending the struggle that lasted decades.

Where were you when she died?

I was at home waiting for her to return from the hospital. I saw her a day before her death in the hospital. After spending some time with her, I asked her if she needed me to get her anything from the house as I was leaving, and she smiled and said no. That was at 3:42pm on June 29, 2011.

That was the last image of my mother alive, and I do not think it will ever leave my memory. Sometime, I tell myself that if I had stayed back maybe she would have not died so soon. But I still thank God for the times we spent together and for giving me such a lovely woman as a mother.

How does her family remember her yearly?

We reflect on her life and how she touched the lives of many people. We choose to celebrate her rather than mourn. We have inaugurated a foundation; Christy Essien Igbokwe Memorial Foundation to keep her legacy alive. We hold an annual event to remember her and keep her other charitable programmes going.

Her hit song, Seun Rere, is didactic for the young in particular. Did she at any time particularly play it for her children to listen to?

No, she did not. I cannot remember her playing it but she always told us if we wanted to learn life’s lessons, we could listen to her 1998 songs.

Your mother’s songs break tribal barriers. She sang in Igbo, Hausa, Efik, Yoruba and her native Ibibio. Do her children also speak these languages?

People ask me this question a lot. I can tell you that at least, I can boast of two of those languages; Igbo and Ibibio. I think I try.

Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.

Contact: editor@punchng.com

Please tell us a bit about yourself.

My name is Anas; I am a son of the late musician, Dan Maraya Jos. I am a businessman.

What was life like growing up with your father?

It was fun. I remember how he used to pick us up and take us to see many interesting places, and to see his people.

What are some of the values you have learnt from your father?

I learnt a lot from my father. He taught me many things about life. He taught me to always tell the truth and be honest in whatever I do. He taught me to do good to others. My dad taught me to be at peace with all men regardless of our differences. He was humble, yet confident: We are trying to do things and live our lives the way he had advised us to.

How did he discipline his children whenever they erred?

He did not use harsh words, but he always spoke gently and told one where one was wrong.

How close were you to your father?

I was close to him as expected, and I attended many events with him. We had a very good relationship.

How has your dad’s name opened doors for you?

He has left a good name for us and we enjoy goodwill because of the name.

How much influence did your father have on the career choices of his children?

He always advised us about life issues. But he did not impose anything on us.

How would you describe him as a father?

Describing my dad, I would say he was a loving father. He was caring and sweet. He was a hard man to hate. We always had good conversations whenever we were together. Dad used to teach us about life and other issues. He would educate us about the history of Nigeria and other countries. He was a good story teller, and that also showed in his music. Dad always preached peace and unity among Nigerians. He was also a humorous person. He had a fond, but funny nickname for me.

One of his close friends once recalled how he came to my dad to ask for money to buy medicine, and my dad gave him enough money, but he still apologised to his friend, noting that he would have given him more if he had at that moment. That was how humble and simple dad was.

How old was he when he started his music career, and what is the history of the instrument he used whenever he performed?

My dad started music officially at the age of 18. Dad created the kuntigi as his musical instrument of choice and used it to perform throughout his career. The kuntigi is a small, stringed instrument made from a small oval-shaped sardine can that was covered with goatskin. It added more melody to his music.

Some have drawn similarities between your father and the late Fela Anikulapo-Kuti in terms of his music creativity and significance, do you agree?

In a way, yes. Fela and my dad were both pioneers of their kinds of music. They both had friendly personalities and used their music as tools for advocacy.

What do you think made your father’s music influential?

I think his music became influential and is still relevant today because he used it to address issues in the society.

Can you mention some of your father’s popular songs?

Some of my father’s most popular songs include Dan Amalinki (Motor Conductor) and Likita (Doctor), among others. Others like Wakar Karen Mota (Song of the Driver’s Mate), Aladu (the name of one of his children), and Only God Knows Tomorrow, were some of his favourite songs. The focus of his music was people and issues. People described him as a praise singer, but he actually used his music to celebrate local heroes, including the rich and famous and ordinary people.

What is the meaning of his name, Dan Maraya Jos?

His name means the Little Orphan of Jos. This was because he became an orphan at a very young age. So, people just started calling him Dan Maraya because of that.

What do you think he would have become if he had not become a musician?

Had he not been a musician, maybe my father would have been a social worker, growing up as a son of a kings maker.

How did your dad come to embrace music as a career?

Dad was born in Bukuru. He lived in the royal palace in Bukuru, Jos after he was adopted, when both of his parents had died. Dad had his primary education, although he dropped out of school at a young age so as to learn historical music like his father. He was motivated by the story of his father as told to him by his adopted father. Dad pursued the learning of historical music passionately, and he made music that touched the life of many in Nigeria and beyond. He was given an award the first time he went to perform in one of the radio houses in America, over two decades ago. He died at a time when many of his songs were yet to be released.

Did you go with your father to any of his performances when he was alive?

Yes, I went with my dad to many events and saw his performances.

What was the experiences like and what made them interesting events for you?

He represented Nigeria very well in many international and local cultural festivals and performed for Presidents, world leaders and Heads of State. I remember his second to the last performance during the opening of a new university in Jigawa State, Kafin Hausa University, I think last year. When he came up stage to perform, everyone was excited. And when he removed his kuntigi from his pocket, the students and everyone at the event went wild with excitement. That was a memorable moment that showed dad was held in high esteem by many. There was this other performance during the wedding of one of the daughters of former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar. I was there too. Dad gave a wonderful performance. Many of Atiku’s friends, including governors and foreign dignitaries, were there and they kept on spraying my dad with money during his performance. Atiku also wanted to meet dad personally.

Your dad was said to be close to some former presidents and top government officials. Who were his closest friends?

All I can say is that my father, Dan Maraya Jos, played in the war front during the civil war to encourage soldiers of the Nigerian Army. He also performed during President Muhammadu Buhari’s military regime in the 1980s, and for other Heads of State. I can also say that baba was close to a lot of those presidents, not just because of his talents, but also at different stages during his lifetime.

Did he play any other musical instrument aside from the kuntigi?

Yes, aside from the kuntigi, dad also played the ganga (drum).

What was his favourite mode of dressing?

He was always dressed in traditional attire, but in his early days he dressed like the average youth of those days.

What were his views about Nigeria, tribalism and national unity?

Dad was saddened by the tribalism that nearly wrecked the country. He expressed this not only in his music, but he was consistent on his position. He spoke passionately about the need for all Nigerians, despite their region and tribe, to be united. He talked about one Nigeria, and he used his music to unite people from the North and South.

What should your father be remembered for?

His legacy is that he used his music to unite Nigerians. He would also be remembered as a famous musician, poet, philosopher and philanthropist.

Your dad was honoured with the Member of the Order of the Niger and the Office of the Order of the Niger by the Federal Government, because of the impact of his music. What do you think can be done by government to honour his legacy?

We think government should totally support the initiative we, as a family, are working on, with the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria, North Central Zone. We also hope to set up a foundation in his honour, which would be called Dr. Dan Maraya Jos Foundation, and which would also host annual lectures and symposiums in universities and higher institutions to mark his remembrance.

How did he spend time with his children?

He loved to spend quality time with his children. Sometimes, whenever he travelled out of town, he took us his children along, especially during our holidays. He took us to visit many places such as Abuja, Yola, in Adamawa State, Taraba State, and Ghana. Dad ensured he provided for us; and for people around him. Dad was widely travelled. He had been to India, United States of America, and other countries.

How did he react whenever he was angry?

My dad was never angry. I never saw him annoyed. He did not fight or get angry with anybody, even when he was forced to do so. He treated everyone equally, both Christians and Muslims, and non-believers.

It was reported that he died of cancer at the age of 69, how did he die?

Dad died after a protracted illness, but he did not die of cancer. When we went for the test, the doctors did not mention cancer. He died at the age of 83, which was the age written on his epitaph at the place he was buried.

Were you with him before he died and what was your last conversation with him?

Yes, I was with him when he died. Also, my mother and others were beside him. He said we should live in peace with one another and with others, and that by God’s grace, we would all make Al Jannah Firdaus (Heaven).

How did you receive the news of his death and how have you and your family coped during this period?

I was sad when he died. Everybody was sad. We have coped by the grace of God. But I miss him every day.

Was your dad a rich man when he died?

I would say he was comfortable, and he was a philanthropist. He was able to provide for us, and he always looked out for others. He never kept money for himself and I don’t think he owned a bank account. Dad was a generous man. He single-handedly sponsored the drilling of some boreholes in Ungwan Dan Maraya and some others in Bukuru, Jos, Plateau State, as a form of charity. He did not acquire wealth to himself, but he was able to give us, his children, good education and good upbringing.

What were his likes and dislikes?

Dad did not like dishonesty and lies. He was a man of peace and liked to be around people. He also liked watching football and golf. He preached honesty. So, he did not like cheats. He did not like it when one tried to shortchange his fellow man for whatever reasons.

What was his favourite food?

His favourite food was traditional Northern dishes such as tuwo and miyan kuka.

What was his favourite drink?

Dad did not have a favourite drink, maybe water. He never drank alcoholic drinks.

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

He loved planting trees so as to give shade to his surroundings and for aesthetic appeal. He loved feeding birds and saying his prayers five times daily. Dad used to be nicknamed Johnny Walker; he was a drummer at the time and loved to dress like Johnny Walker, with a walking stick to match. That was when he used to stay at Bauchi Road in Jos.

What do you miss most about your father?

I miss the way he used to sing to me whenever I felt sad. He always sang for me just to make me happy. I miss that. Also, whenever I went out, dad would wait for me in his sitting room until I returned late in the evening.

Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.

Contact: editor@punchng.com