VOL 1 NO.21 • JULY 04 – JULY 10, 2021
WOMEN SUPPORTING WOMEN:
Fact or Fiction?
VOL 1 NO.21 • JULY 04 – JULY 10, 2021
We remain committed to mutual growth by investing in newer technologies and sustainable solutions to help you and your business grow. Because we are #CommittedtoGivingMore
PAGE 2
VOL 1 NO.21 • JULY 04 – JULY 10, 2021
Photo: @HairByUgo
EDITOR’S NOTE
‘I WISH THAT MORE WOMEN REALIZED THAT HELPING ANOTHER WOMAN WIN, CHEERING HER ON, PRAYING FOR HER, OR SHARING A RESOURCE WITH HER DOES NOT TAKE AWAY FROM THE BLESSINGS COMING TO THEM. IN FACT, THE MORE YOU GIVE, THE MORE YOU RECEIVE. EMPOWERING WOMEN DOESN’T COME FROM SELFISHNESS BUT RATHER FROM SELFLESSNESS’ – SELENE KINDER
8
CONTENTS
COVER STORY: WOMEN SUPPORTING WOMEN: FACT OR FICTION?
T
here’s so much that can and should be said on the topic of “Women supporting women (or lack thereof)” but where does one really begin? Some women will tell you it’s a myth and women exist to pull others down while others put their all into making that statement a reality. I’d like to think I’m a woman who supports women and that stems from the recognition of their struggles, challenges, and barriers that I too have endured. Of course, if a person who is as overlooked as I have been, misjudged, treated as less than a person, spoken to unfairly, passed over for opportunities because she’s a woman seeks my help, counsel or in simply in need, I will automatically rise to the occasion because for the simple fact that it could easily be me in those shoes. There exists several layers of emotions that an average woman goes through on a daily basis that fire from one end of the spectrum to another. Men are often confused by it because we are raised differently and from the way we communicate to the way we resolve conflict, women must often walk through each of those layers and emerge on the other side whilst most guys could briefly touch on topic over a couple of beers and within minutes have moved on. These two scenarios are completely valid but yet women are vilified publicly for going through those motions the way they know how. We dissect some of the different aspects to this conversation and hopefully, it sparks something interesting and positive. Take care and you’ll see us next week.
LATASHA NGWUBE @latashalagos
AUSTYN OGANNAH
PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Editor: Latasha Ngwube Editor-at-Large: Chalya Shagaya Beauty Editor: Onah Nwachukwu @onahluciaa Contributing Editor: Odun Ogunbiyi @oddbodandthecity Senior Writer: Chisom Njoku @inchisomwetrust Contributing Writer: Boluwatife Adesina @bolugram Uzo Orimalade @uzosfoodlabs House Photographer: Rachel Seidu @rachelseidu Graphics/Layout: Olatunji Samson Digital Media: Oladimeji Balogun Interns: Kehinde Fagbule, Tilewa Kazeem Guest Art Director: Sunny Hughes ‘ SunZA’ www.thewilldowntown.com thewilldowntown thewilldowntown
FA S H ION
Culture’s Biggest Night The Woman-Themed 2021 BET Awards Didn’t Fail To Deliver L I V ING
Money Talk: How To Dodge Sapa W E B S I G H T S D O W N TOW N This Week On Crime And Bad Judgements T H E E DIT
Brand Discovery B E AU TY The Language Of Beauty
T H E S C E N E D O W N TO W N
Tokyo James Unveils The OSU Collection S Ó R Ó S O K E D O W N TO W N
The Class Prefects
04-05 06 07 11 12-13 14-15 16 PAGE 3
VOL 1 NO.21 • JULY 04 – JULY 10, 2021
FASHION
Culture’s Biggest Night The Woman-Themed
2021
Didn’t Fail To Deliver
ZENDAYA attended the Awards in a
CARDI B sent the crowd into
a frenzy when she stepped on stage, revealing she is pregnant again! Reminiscent of Beyoncé’s iconic pregnancy reveal at the 2011 MTV Video Music Awards, Cardi B donned a custom Dolce and Gabbana look which included a fully embellished sleeveless bodysuit with cutout detail on the stomach along with a matching pair of leggings. Her look was styled by her stylist, Kollin Carter.
vintage Versace gown, styled by Law Roach. From the Spring/Summer 2003 collection, the dress was also worn by Beyoncé at the 2003 BET Awards! Now, the dress worn by Zendaya serves as a homage to the Queen Bey. The dress was extended for Zendaya to become a maxi dress, but other details like its cutout top and vibrant violet, lime green and magenta colour palette remained true to the original.
thrive, because can’t nobody be like me and can’t nobody be you like you.” Critically acclaimed rapper and actress Queen Latifah received this year’s Lifetime Achievement Award for her amazing success
CIARA appeared at the 2021 BET
Awards wearing a look by Alexandre Vauthier. The look is from the brand’s Spring 2021 Couture collection and presents itself as a crystalized jumpsuit complete with a pair of matching crystal embellished knee-high boots and a twisted black leather belt. Her look was styled by Maeve Reilly.
throughout her decades-long career. Rappers Lil Kim, Rapsody, MC Lyte and Monie Love honoured her with a performance before Queen Latifah then gave a speech, expressing her gratitude.
SAWEETIE presented an award
wearing a custom Dolce and Gabbana look, styled by Wilford Lenov.
“I want to thank BET for creating an outlet for beautiful Blackness to thrive, to shine,” Queen Latifah said while accepting her award. “When we couldn’t get played on the radio in other places, we couldn’t get our videos played in other places,
BY KEHINDÉ FAGBULE
R
apper Megan Thee Stallion was the biggest winner on a night when the theme of the event was “Year of the Black Woman.” She carted away four awards. The 21st annual BET awards returned graciously. Hosted by another black woman, legendary award-winning actress, Taraji P. Henson from the Microsoft Theatre in Los Angeles, the event had a live audience for the first time since the pandemic began. “Celebrating Black women isn’t a fad or a trend; it’s a forever mood,” Henson said, opening up the show. “There is more than enough room for all of us to
PAGE 4
SEVYN Streeter
Best Female R&B/Pop Artist winner H.E.R. wore an Armani look to the 2021 BET Awards, styled by Wouri Vice.
LAUREN London
kept it classy and chic in a custom Sergio Hudson look.
Host, TARAJI P. Henson wore Atelier Versace to the red carpet. Styled by Jason Bolden.
stunned in a custom LaRoxx look, styled by Deonte Nash. Inspired by the legendary Cher, her look featured a skirt, cropped halter top, gloves, and a head scarf all baring a shimmering crystalgarnished fabric.
SUMMER Walker
appeared on the red carpet in House of SDVR by Sergio DV Robison, styled by @ lvrdpharoh. The dress appears in white rounded off with sheer mesh fabric with ruched detailing throughout the garment.
VOL VOL 11 NO.21 NO.21 •• JULY JULY 04 04 –– JULY JULY 10, 10, 2021 2021
FASHION FASHION
CHLOE Bailey wearing
Di Petsa and Valentino SS 2020, styled by Zerina Akers.
LIL NAS X wore Richard
Quinn Fall 2021 and an Andrea Grossi Season 1 look to the Awards. Styled by Hodo Musa.
QUEEN Latifah wore
Thom Browne to the awards. Styled by Jason Rembert.
RODDY Ricch stepped
out in Bottega Veneta and Nike Skateboarding for the red carpet. Styled by Bobby Wesley.
LIL BABY wore
Casablanca to the event.
KIRK Franklin wore RichFresh and TAMMY Franklin wore
Zimmerman to the red carpet.
MEGAN Thee Stallion
stepped on the red carpet wearing a custom Jean Paul Gaultier gown, styled by Zerina Akers. The haute couture dress displays itself in a cream white colour along embellished straps on the shoulders and side with spiraldesigned breast cups. The left side of the dress is completely open with jeweled straps draped on the hips. Megan accessorized the look with a white clutch, minimal jewelry, and heeled sandals.
ANDRA Day wore Rosie
Assoulin SS19 RTW to the red carpet. Styled by Vice.
there was BET that allowed us to be in our fullness.” Celebrating black excellence doesn’t always mean just the living as BET honoured Rap legend DMX who died from a heart attack earlier this year. A special tribute performance from Busta Rhymes, Method Man, Swizz Beatz and Michael K. Williams was dedicated to
GIVEON wore Chanel to the red carpet.
TYLER the Creator
Macdonald to the awards. Styled by Tim B.
him. One of the biggest reveals of the night however turned out to be Cardi B’s baby bump as the rapper stepped onto the red carpet looking as elegant as ever caressing her stomach. Self-acclaimed African Giant, Burna Boy walked home
ISSA Rae wore
Balmain SS21 RTW to the red carpet. Styled by Jason Rembert.
ASHANTI wore Julien
LIL Kim wore a Dolce and DABABY wore
Prada to the event.
Gabbana Fall 2021 look and a pair of Jessica Rich sandals.
ARI Lennox wore a custom Bishme Cromartie gown to the event. Styled by Ade Samuel.
JENNIFER Hudson wore Dolce and Gabbana to the red carpet. Styled by Wayman & Micah.
with the Best International Act award just days after receiving his Grammy award plaque. Big winners also include Jazmine Sullivan, H.E.R., Chris Brown, Lil Baby, Marsai Martin, Bruno Mars, Giveon, Kirk Franklin, Andra Day, the late Chadwick Boseman, Naomi Osaka, LeBron James, and of course, Megan Thee Stallion amongst others.
MARSAI Martin
wore Anna Kiki to the red carpet. Styled by Jason Rembert.
JAZMINE Sullivan wore
Gucci to the awards. Styled by Joiee.
BET Awards 2021: The Winners
Best Album - Jazmine Sullivan, Heaux Tales Best Collaboration - Cardi B ft. Megan Thee Stallion - “WAP” Best Female R&B / Pop Artist - H.E.R. Best Male R&B / Pop Artist - Chris Brown Best New Artist - Giveon Best Group - Silk Sonic Best Female Hip-Hop Artist - Megan Thee Stallion Best Male Hip-Hop Artist - Lil Baby Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award - Kirk Franklin - “Strong God” BET Her Award - SZA - “Good Days” Best International Act - Burna Boy Viewer’s Choice: Best New International Act Bree Runway (U.K.) Viewer’s Choice Award - Megan Thee Stallion ft. Beyoncé - “Savage (Remix)” Video of the Year - Cardi B ft. Megan Thee Stallion - “WAP” Video Director of the Year - Bruno Mars and Florent Déchard Best Movie - Judas and the Black Messiah Best Actress - Andra Day Best Actor - Chadwick Boseman Youngstars Award - Marsai Martin Sportswoman of the Year Award - Naomi Osaka Sportsman of the Year Award - Lebron James
The City Girls wore Valdrin Sahiti gowns to the red carpet. Styled by Byron Javar.
PAGE 5
VOL 1 NO.21 • JULY 04 – JULY 10, 2021
LIVING
Money Talk: How To Dodge
Sapa B Y: C H I S O M NJOKU
T
he only thing worse than being broke is going broke after having disposable cash. It feels much worse because you’ve already tasted the good life and now you hate yourself for being financially unintelligent and inviting sapa. As a Nigerian, you must’ve heard the term sapa before because it is the dread of everyone. Sapa is simply a state of being extremely broke or poor, usually after spending extravagantly. Now that you know what you’re up against, here’s are a few ways to maneuver sapa and avoid insufficient funds.
Seek out good investment opportunities If you can afford to set aside some extra cash for something tangible, it is highly advised that you put that money away and wait for it to yield benefits. P.S if your pocket is a little tight because you invested, you’re not suffering from sapa. Avoid borrowing to pay your bills While it may make things easier now, borrowing money only increases your monthly payments in the future. Separate wants from needs Do you really need that iced out Cuban or must you Dorime in the club this weekend? When money is tight it should not be spent unless absolutely necessary - that’s how sapa checks into your life. Save regularly Have some of your income directly deposited into your savings account or set up an automatic transfer each month from your checking to your savings account. Alternatively you can try using Piggybank’s autosave service.
Keep track of your spending If you know where your money is going it will be easier to make changes if you need to. Try using BALANCE’s Fritter Finder form for a week or two to find out where your money is going or give Cowery Wise a shot. PAGE 6
Cut or downgrade your services When you know that your finances aren’t what they used to be, you need to put pride aside and cut down on some luxuries. Accustomed to business class flying but need to get financially smarter? You can opt for premium economy cabins that still offer healthy leg room and some of the basics of businesss class flying like fast track check-ins, more kilos for luggage etc. Also consider using Uber X instead of Uber Select. The sooner you start, the better for you.
VOL 1 NO.21 • JULY 04 – JULY 10, 2021
websights DOWNTOWN
This Week On
Crime And Bad Judgements
As Chidinma awaits judgement, Bill Cosby and Britney Spears got theirs mixed up BY KEHINDÉ FAGBULE
Bill Cosby Walks
Super TV CEO Murdered By Sugar Baby Super TV CEO, Usifo Ataga, was allegedly murdered in cold blood by a 21-year-old University of Lagos undergraduate, Chidinma Ojukwu in an incident worthy of the legendary Crime Fighters TV series. It was reported that the deceased, Ataga, had a sexual relationship with the suspect, Chidinma. According to her, the Super TV boss had sent her to secure a serviced apartment the day before where they could stay. She would go on to get the shortlet where they were stationed; eating and smoking. Where things would go down south according to the suspect’s account was when the deceased was trying to forcefully have his way with her. “On Monday, June 14, we were together drinking, smoking and I also went to get food. On Tuesday, June 15, he was making advances at me and I resisted, so he became violent and later had his way. “In the afternoon, he ordered for smoke, ate and we became high because I also smoked with him even though I was still angry about the first one he did. “So, I was on my own, watching a movie on the couch. He came at me again and I said no because I wasn’t happy with him. “I told him that he doesn’t help me but only plays me around, he kept trying to make advances and I was resisting so I had to defend myself. “At some point, he hit my head on the wall and was choking me. I tried escaping but the door was locked so he pulled me back. “I grabbed a knife from the kitchen and stabbed him twice in the neck and threw the knife on the bed. “He then tried reaching for the knife so I picked it again and stabbed him the third time,” she said. Loopholes would however be found when investigations stated that after allegedly killing the man she was in a four-month relationship with, she proceeded to withdraw an unrevealed sum of money from the victim’s bank account using his ATM card. This was before she joined forces with an internet fraudster to clear the deceased’s entire account balance. The yahoo boy is still at large. Further interrogations would reveal that while maintaining that she carried out the killing alone, Chidinma told detectives at the Homicide Section of the State Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department, SCIID, Yaba that she was able to overpower the deceased because he was weak. She revealed that late Usifo became weak after taking three wraps of Rohypnol while she took one wrap. She stated that she strangled Usifo before stabbing him.
Late Usifo Ataga
The disgraced actor and comedian Bill Cosby walked free this week after three years in prison when the Pennsylvania Supreme Court threw out his 2018 convictions on charges of drugging and sexually assaulting Andrea Constand in 2004, when she was a Temple University employee. The abrupt reversal of the first highprofile sexual assault conviction after the #MeToo movement has attracted particular interest, raising questions such as whether Mr. Cosby could still face prosecution over any of the accusations of sexual assault and misconduct that more than 50 women have leveled against him.
Chidinma Here are some reactions from the online jury.
Britney Spears’ Request To Remove Father From Conservatorship Denied Again
A judge has shot down Britney Spears’ request to have her father removed from her conservatorship — at least for now. New court documents that were filed by the Los Angeles Superior Court on Wednesday show that the judge has denied a month-old request by Spears’ attorney, Samuel Ingham III, to remove her father, Jamie Spears, as her sole conservator. These documents are not in direct response to last week’s hearing, where Spears gave an explosive testimony; though Spears delivered a powerful 24-minute statement, the judge cannot make any ruling based on what she said as she still has yet to file a petition to terminate her conservatorship. “The conservator’s request to suspend James P. Spears immediately upon the appointment of Bessemer Trust Compa––≠––ny of California as sole conservator of estate is denied without prejudice,” the court documents filed on Wednesday stated. The new court filings are another legal setback for the singer, but the judge’s denial is nothing new. Samuel Ingham III had filed the request to remove Spears’ father back in November 2020, stating that his client was “afraid of her father” and would refuse to perform again, if her father continued to be in charge of her career. At that time, Judge Brenda Penny declined to suspend her father from the conservatorship, though she did not rule out future petitions for his removal or suspension. Also, at that time, the judge appointed financial company Bessemer Trust as a co-conservator. The paperwork was solely intended for the judge to approve Bessemer Trust as the co-conservator, but also reiterates the judge’s decision to not remove the elder Spears from the pop star’s conservatorship. However, it’s significant that the document was signed by Judge Penny on June 30 — after the singer’s explosive testimony where she told the judge that her conservatorship was “abusive.” A week plus ago, Spears gave her 24-minute testimony, marking the first time she had publicly addressed the court in her 13-year conservatorship. While speaking to the judge, Spears said that her dad enjoys controlling her life, and stated that she believes her conservators, including her father, should be in jail, and that she wants to sue her family.
Here are some reactions from the online jury
Bill Cosby In a statement, the plaintiff, Ms. Constand and her lawyers said the decision was not only disappointing but also expressed concerns “that it may discourage those who seek justice for sexual assault in the criminal justice system from reporting or participating in the prosecution of the assailant or may force a victim to choose between filing either a criminal or civil action.”
What is conservatorship? A conservatorship is granted by a court for individuals who are unable to make their own decisions, like those with dementia or other mental illnesses. Bessemer Trust has asked to resign as co-conservator of Britney Spears’s $60 million estate, citing the “irreparable harm to her interests” Britney expressed in her testimony and her desire to end a conservatorship they say was represented as voluntary.
PAGE 7
VOL 1 NO.21 • JULY 04 – JULY 10, 2021
COVER
WOMEN SUPPORTING WOMEN:
FACT or FICTION?
The idea of women (and people in general) supporting each other has been implied since time immemorial with religions including Christianity supporting the notion of uplifting one another with the Bible teaching humans to “love thy neighbour as thyself.”
The Hashtag
However, in July 2020 social media platforms were flooded with black-and-white pictures of women. Politicians, celebrities, actors and just normal women circulated black and white [B/W] pictures of themselves with the hashtag #womensupportingwomen or #challengeaccepted or on #womenempowerment. In summary, the challenge was to post a blackand-white photo of yourself, and then ‘challenge’ other women who you want to uplift to do the same. Most mornings, people in Turkey wake up to see a black and white photos of women who have been murdered on their social media platforms like Instagram or on their newspapers or TV screens. The black and white photo challenge was started in support of women as a way for them to raise their voice. It was a way to stand in solidarity with the women that were lost due to femicide. It was also to make women aware that it could be their picture that is plastered across news outlets with a black and white filter on top. What brought the spotlight on the challenge was the murder of a 27-year-old Turkish woman by her ex-boyfriend. Women were out on the streets waving purple flags and participating in vigils in many cities across Turkey chanting that they will hold the concerned persons accountable.
Women’s Rights and Feminism
The women’s movement began to develop in North America, mainly because women there were allowed to go to school earlier than in Europe, Asia and especially Africa - and women who can read and write, and who are encouraged to think for themselves, usually start to question how society works. The first documented public incidents of feminism dates back to the fight for women’s right to vote in elections known as the ‘suffragette movement’. By the end of the 19th century, this had become a worldwide movement, and the words ‘feminism’ and ‘feminist movement’ started to be used from that point on. Modern day feminism, often characterized by an increased
PAGE 8
awareness of overlapping categories, such as race, class, gender, sexual orientation is referred to as Cyberfeminism. Cyberfeminism is considered to be a predecessor of ‘networked feminism’, which refers generally to feminism on the Internet: for example, mobilising people to take action against sexism, misogyny or genderbased violence against women. Some examples are the online movement #metoo in 2017 or the #JusticeforUwa movement which swept through Nigeria when twenty two year old Uwalia was raped and beaten to a critical condition from which she eventually died in 2020.
Reality is a far cry from what relationships between women should be. We live in a world where in many cases, women are each other’s worst enemies and go very far to discourage one another either by propagating untrue narratives or using sexual activity to ‘slut-shame’ each other.
Exploring Female Relationships
The Feuds…
Theoretically, women are supposed to be the best of friends. They’re more comfortable with their emotions, affectionate and open-minded — theoretically. That’s why there are so many movies and television shows about girlfriends and female bonds. “The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants” is still an all-time favorite girlfriends movie and of course there’s also the ironically titled “Girlfriends.” Consistent and open communication, painful honesty and fierce protectiveness are feminine characteristics.
Tiwa Savage
Savage vs Shay
In an industry with a comparatively low number of women at the highest level, one would expect the women to stick together in a sorority-like relationship to join forces and combat the patriarchy that stunts the female-artist development within the industry. Two of the leading voices in the Nigerian music scene, Tiwa Savage and Seyi Shay clashed in a Salon. As reported by the Websights arm of the magazine, it got a lot of people talking. It was a case of revisiting old beef as we were told it has been coming for about a decade. According to Shay, it all started after Savage released a song, which would go on to be a hit single; to which Shay coincidentally had co-written with a different artist who ended up handing it over to Savage without informing Shay. As messy as that might sound, it turned out to be
This year has recorded several altercations amongst women. With these said confrontations happening on the biggest of stages, it is understandable how heavily they shook social media and sparked the age-old conversation around women relationships.
Seyi Shay
even more damaging to their relationship. What would happen from that point was a series of clashes that never made it to press. This culminated overtime and eventually got to the point where a diss track was made. Seyi Shay saw an opening and took it as she jumped on the viral “Fvck You” challenge started by Kizz Daniel. As expected on a diss record, she made a few derogatory remarks about Savage, including slut-shaming her. Fast-forward two years later; both parties were present at a beauty salon when Shay said “Hi!” trying to be cordial and Savage wasn’t having it. Important to note that this would not be the first clash within the music scene and quite frankly, wouldn’t be the last one. However, this quickly took its place in the “Women Hate Women” hall of fame.
VOL 1 NO.21 • JULY 04 – JULY 10, 2021
COVER and residencies. “We become, even if only briefly, a family,” Adichie has said of the program. However, now, a rift between Adichie and one of her most prominent students, the writer, Akwaeke Emezi, has spilled into public.
Tope
Adeyinka
Tope Alabi vs Adeyinka Alaseyori Shortly after ‘Savage vs Shay’ happened in the secular music scene, another feud broke out between gospel artists, veteran, Tope Alabi and newcomer, Adeyinka Alaseyori. Criticisms are prominent in art, they are what foster growth. However, how the messages are conveyed is what defines the thin line between criticism and slander. Nigerians felt that line was crossed when a viral video of Alabi criticising Alaseyori’s song ‘Oniduro Mi’ hit the internet. Alabi was publicly critical of the song, saying it does not explain God’s powers fully in a comment that caused a storm as Nigerians bashed how Alabi handled the situation and accused her of trying to ‘gatekeep’ the gospel music scene. With her name trending all over social media platforms, Alaseyori seized the opportunity and went on Instagram Live to perform the song causing the ruckus before closing the session with a rendition of a Tope Alabi classic. This
sent social media into a frenzy as they viewed it as a savage and much needed clapback. Unlike Savage vs Shay, the age difference between Alabi and Alaseyori suggests that they have a motherdaughter relationship; if they were ever cordial. In a turn of events, Alabi acknowledged her mistake in publicly criticising the record. “I am awfully sorry for doing that,” the singer is said to have said about her comment. Ms. Alabi said she has dealt with the situation in private with other stakeholders in the gospel music ministry. She also scoffed at the suggestion that she made the comment out of jealousy. “Adeyinka is my daughter in ministry. Her Pastor asked me to pray for her because she took after me, which I did wholeheartedly. Envy who? Never! I love the girl so much,” she reportedly said.
In a lengthy essay published on her website, Adichie accused a former student of publicly attacking her after a 2017 interview in which Adichie said, among other things, “I don’t think it’s a good thing to talk about women’s issues being exactly the same as the issues of trans women.” Adichie held up the personal feud as a cautionary tale about how social media has been used by “certain young people” as an ideological battering ram rather than a place to communicate and seek understanding. “There are many social-media-savvy people who are choking on sanctimony and lacking in compassion, who can fluidly pontificate on Twitter about kindness but are unable to actually show kindness,” she wrote. “People whose social media lives are case studies in emotional aridity. People for whom friendship, and its expectations of loyalty and compassion and support, no longer matter. People who claim to love literature — the messy stories of our humanity — but are also monomaniacally obsessed with whatever is the prevailing ideological orthodoxy.” While Adichie did not name Emezi or any other students, Emezi soon responded on Instagram, saying that Adichie had published emails without
seeking permission, and that the essay was designed to “incite hordes of transphobic Nigerians to target me.” In a later post, Emezi, who uses they/them pronouns and identifies as nonbinary, criticized the publishing industry for championing Adichie, the author of the novels “Americanah” and “Half of a Yellow Sun.” “Adichie’s social capital originated from the publishing industry,” wrote Emezi, whose memoir, “Dear Senthuran,” was recently published. “You in the industry continue to platform her, laud her work with no mention of the harm her views inflict on the trans community, and on other writers.” The conflict escalated last year, after Adichie defended an essay by the Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling about sex and gender — a piece that her critics seized on as transphobic — as “perfectly reasonable.” Emezi posted a lengthy Twitter thread, saying that when their former teacher “said those things and then doubled down and then mocked those of us who called her out (she called the response ‘trans-noise’), I was gutted.” Later, Adichie received a copy of Emezi’s debut novel, “Freshwater,” and was surprised to find herself named in Emezi’s bio. Adichie requested that it be removed. Adichie’s essay appears to be the first time she has publicly addressed the feud. The dispute between both writers, unlike Alabi vs Alaseyori, looks like it’s never going to end as both parties’ views on gender and sexuality may never align.
The Alliances... Iyabo Ojo and Princess
Chimamanda
Akwaeke
Chimamanda Adichie vs Akwaeke Emezi Critically acclaimed novelist Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie has coached and mentored African writers through her annual creative writing workshop for over a decade. Held in Lagos and Awka, the program has more than 200 graduates, including rising stars like Ayobami Adebayo,
whose debut novel “Stay With Me” was shortlisted for the Baileys Prize, and Jowhor Ile, the first Nigerian winner of the Etisalat Prize for Literature. The workshops, with just 20 students out of thousands of applicants, are intimate and for some graduates, careerdefining, leading to book deals, prizes
On the flip side of the sorority is the story of actress, Iyabo Ojo and Damilola Adekoya popularly known as Comedian Princess. A couple of months ago when Princess’s foster daughter was sexually abused by actor, Baba Ijesha, Iyabo Ojo was all over the case, amplifying the situation to seek justice for her friend. In a typical “mama bear” display, one would think it was Ojo’s daughter that was abused. This goes to show the level of friendship and sense of family between both women as Ojo didn’t relent until she ensured that her colleague, the culprit, Baba Ijesha was reprimanded. Oftentimes we see women have each other’s backs and display pure affection towards themselves. However, Ojo’s handling of the incident as it developed is a testament to the fact that there is love and support on the other side of the debate too.
Iyabo
Princess
PAGE 9
VOL 1 NO.21 • JULY 04 – JULY 10, 2021
COVER Women are used as sexual objects in movies so they appeal to the male gender, that is because they are shot from a male perspective of women.” Ogechi Obidiebube 14 years jail term for offenders less than 8 months after the investigative documentary aired.
Toyosi Ogunseye
FemCo And Other Non-profits Born out of the necessity to propagate sociopolitical equality of both genders and champion women cause, the Feminist Coalition have done their bit to support the average woman. In a society that readily relegates women and suppresses their voices at every turn, several organisations have sprung up in a bid to cater to the woman’s plights.
The Sex-For-Grades Documentary For so long, tertiary institutions in Nigeria have been harbouring cases of sexual harassment by their lecturers. Though never proven, this type of abuse has become endemic over time. After gathering dozens of testimonies, BBC Africa Eye sent undercover journalists posing as students inside the University of Lagos. Female reporters were sexually harassed, propositioned and put under pressure by senior lecturers at the institutions – all the while wearing secret cameras. Reporter Kiki Mordi, who knows first-hand how devastating sexual harassment can be, reveals what happens behind closed doors at some of the region’s most prestigious universities. This might necessarily not be a close bond between Kiki Mordi and every woman in the country but the impact of her journalism in protecting female undergraduates cannot be overstated. This is a sacred bond that promotes sisterhood like none other as some of the lecturers were later suspended and sanctioned by their school authorities. Subsequently, the Nigerian Senate was forced to pass the antisexual harassment bill, while proposing up to
Kiki Mordi
PAGE 10
When it degenerates…
Every human relationship comes with highs and lows. People get along, sometimes fall apart and go separate ways; friendships and partnerships end. In the beginning, the relationship between Adichie and Emezi appeared to be born of mutual admiration. Adichie says she helped Emezi by editing one of their stories, getting it published and writing a glowing introduction “I was very supportive of this writer. I didn’t have to be. I wasn’t asked to be. I supported this writer because I believe we need a diverse range of African stories,” Adichie wrote in her essay. The FemCo group also got in a lot of controversy after being called out by the online jury for mismanaging funds they had gathered to help fund the #EndSARS protest. According to a Twitter user, the feminist group made a discrete withdrawal of the remaining balance after the protest ended and didn’t bother to notify the public, prompting that they were being shady with their operations. This soon spread across social media platforms as people (including fellow women) criticised the group for its alleged corruption. In Kiki Mordi’s case, in all of its bravery and good fight for social justice, another woman was sabotaged. It was reported that Ogechi Obidiebube, a BBC reporter, attempted suicide for not being ‘credited’ despite her immense contribution to the sex-for-grades documentary. The documentary, which was later nominated in the current affairs category of the 48th International Emmy Awards for television programming as well as for the Grierson Awards, also known at The British Documentary Awards, won Mordi the 2020 Michael Elliott Award for Excellence in African Storytelling whilst completing sidelining one of the big brains behind it, Obidiebube. This politics did not start with Ogechi Obidiebube as insiders revealed that it is a common theme with the organisation’s Head of West African Language Services, Toyosi Ogunseye. According to reports, Ms Ogunseye who is a former editor of Sunday Punch, is known for stripping credits off her subordinates. Another significant case of this happening was when she tried to take another BBC reporter, Ms Ruona Meyer off the production of “Sweet Codeine”, another BBC Africa Eye investigation revealing the drug abuse problem in Nigeria, in 2018. The producers, however, insisted that Ms. Ogunseye’s request could not be granted because the BBC commenced the investigation even before her arrival at the corporation and had expended enormous resources into its making. Till date, the reason behind Ogunseye not willing to give due credit to her female journalists is unclear.
Gender Agenda fused with why aren’t male arguments exaggerated? We must prevent delusion of a narrative which might be the genesis of this conversation, the gender agenda. It suggests that all of the discussions about women not supporting women are men deliberately putting women under the microscope. Let’s look at it from the perspective of the male gaze. You know how women are used as sexual objects in movies so they appeal to the male gender, that is because they are shot from a male perspective of women. The gaze isn’t confined to movies alone, it affects how all heterosexual men view women. It is the blueprint of how social media works and one way or the other it influenced how social media was built so what makes gender agenda any different? There’s a general presumption by men that women can’t stand women and this notion is the alleged reason why women squabble with one another. An idea that was just a mumble between men has become a blanketing view of female on female disagreements. To put it simply, a woman can’t call out another woman for her wrongs with the whole gender being blamed. However, the male gender can and it is justified. There’s a theory that believes that men don’t hate men and squash their grievances for one another quickly and with less drama but how well is that true?¹ At the 2016 Headies, Mavin records boss Don Jazzy got into a huge fight with Olamide over an award both artists believed their proteges deserved. Not until recently, Vector and MI beefed each other for so long it seasoned both their careers. Have we all forgotten the implosion of musical group Plantashun Boiz and the award-winning duo Psquare? The tale of twin brothers who still hate each other. How about the memorable “Mr Dele na my boy” diss from Davido to veteran journalist Dele Momodu? Other examples are abundant but they will be redundant to the point. Qualifying one gender solely on the beliefs of the other reeks of patriarchy tabularizing attributes that make them less manly. Disagreeing with something or someone regardless of gender is normal, why then is the less flattering pinned on women and how deeply has the gender agenda influenced this now normalised hypothesis? In what ways has this nomenclature and the male gaze subconscious affected us? These are the questions we ought to ask rather than saying women hate women, men don’t fight men or a woman shouldn’t wear this or she shouldn’t look a certain way. Unlearning gender wars and agendas and relearn working together to truly achieve a collective goal.
VOL 1 NO.21 • JULY 04 – JULY 10, 2021
THE FASHION EDIT
BRAND DISCOVERY
BY CHALYA
‘The Shoes’ by INOLA OJÉN. They looked fashionable, stylish, practical, functional, and at the same time feel comfortable and luxurious. And of course, I didn’t have to break the bank for them. I did my homework. Who are they? Where are they? And how can I get some of their shoes? I shot them an email via their website INOLAOJEN.com, and in no time I got a reply. I found out, to my delight that they are actually a Nigerianowned brand making shoes out of Italy! So you know I had to have a conversation with the designer and creative director of the brand. She was really pleasant to talk to. She told me how she started the luxury brand. She was inspired by her aninability to find a variety of shoes and styles in her extended size. “I believe every woman deserves shoes that complement her style or mood, and in her size too” she said. “The INOLA OJÉN brand cherishes support for women’s feet while allowing her to feel feminine at the same time without being afraid to reveal her inner sexuality on her feet.” She believes shoes must serve the owner well, be durable and classic with the occasional special accouterment, material, and accessories to stand out in a crowd. After years of sending email messages to numerous shoemaking companies, she decided she could create what she was searching for. And so she did just that! Today makes it a month since she launched her very own shoe brand. INOLA OJÉN admits that it has been a lot of hard work and perseverance to get to where she is today. Not giving up, taking time off work, sometimes for an extended period, particularly during the factory search period. Did I mention that she is actually a medical doctor? Ah yes! She sure is! She is able to juggle both careers effortlessly. I am thoroughly impressed! “A woman’s beauty and confidence in her shoes is a projection of true empowerment.” INOLA OJÉN So like many of us often do on the World Wide Web, I fell into a rabbit hole while looking for nothing in general but everything in particular. Yeah… read that again. Actually, let me start by apologizing before letting you in on this gem I just discovered. My apologies I’ve been missing in action. I have taken on a couple of projects which I am passionate about and they have ‘stolen’ most of my time. But I am not complaining at all! Now back to my gem of a find. While looking for inspiration for practical and ideal shoes to wear for an event, I stumbled upon
Now let me talk about the craftsmanship of her signature heel which she has aptly and creatively coined The ‘Talking Drum’ Heel. She says it was created as a symbol of
the expression of personal rhythm. The talking drum is a communication device common to many tribes across West Africa. It uses the rhythms and intonations of spoken words to convey messages. The first INOLA OJÉN collection is called the Rhythm of Expression. Express yourself and dance to the music you create with your talking drum heel. How appropriate for shoes that are lovingly and impeccably handcrafted in a family-owned factory in Italy. They have produced shoes for some of the bigger luxury brands. The age-old traditions have been passed down from generation to generation. She says they were able to fuse her idea of incorporating something traditional to her Yoruba culture and fine Italian craftsmanship. No prizes for guessing that I do LOVE me some good shoes. Especially ones that are not “what’s so expected.” If you catch my drift.
PAGE 11
VOL 1 NO.21 • JULY 04 – JULY 10, 2021
BEAUTY
BY ONAH NWACHUKWU
THE LANGUAGE OF BEAUTY
Photography by Eleanor Goddey, Makeup by Adella
b
g ac
K
nowing the right words to use when discussing the topic of beauty can be a little tricky, especially as new terms pop up quite frequently. The secret to sounding like a beauty aficionado is knowing the basics; that way you can drop a term or two in between conversations. That is why we have compiled a list of terms, from A-Z, for you to get acquainted with.
Bangs
Hair that falls over the forehead, usually falls just above the eyebrow.
Anti-aging Serum
Products that fight signs of aging.
The Concentrate Serum LA MER
PAGE 12
Naomi Campbell
Curls
Embrace your natural curls. From a simple updo to an afro, there are lots of ways you can wear your curls. Simply find the one that works best for you.
k d h
VOL 1 NO.21 • JULY 04 – JULY 10, 2021
BEAUTY
Dermaroller
ef i Dermarolling
A process that involves rolling a small wheel, which has hundreds of tiny needles across the face to gently prick the skin, and in turn reveal tighter, plumber skin.
Henna by @hennaplace
Temporary body art using dye from the Lawsonia inermis, also known as the Henna tree. It can be done in different colours.
Exfoliate
To rub parts of the body with a substance in order to remove dead skin.
IT Cosmetics Colour Correcting (CC) Full Coverage Cream
Henna
Popular for their BB and CC creams, sheet masks, cushion compact, and lots more.
m
Skin Illuminating Pressed Powder black UP
Illuminator
Korean Skincare
Laser Treatment
Beauty treatments using laser technology for different skin concerns. Treatment ranges from laser hair removal to laser skin resurfacing and lots more.
A makeup product designed to give your skin an all-over glow.
g Facial
A skincare treatment for the face that includes exfoliating, steaming, peeling, extractions and even facial massages for better-looking facial skin.
Grooming
Matte Makeup
A powdery, skin-like, semitransparent finish to makeup. Try the modern approach.
Bejewelled Hair Man Grooming
Keeping a clean outlook. Ensuring that your skin, face, hair, nails and other parts of the body look nice.
Jewel Your Updo Adding decorative accessories to your updo is a perfect way to style your hair.
French Manicure a Different Way
Nail Art
A type of art that can be done on fingernails and toenails. To be continued next week
PAGE 13
VOL 1 NO.21 • JULY 04 – JULY 10, 2021
THE SCENE DOWNTOWN
RUNWAY
TOKYO JAMES UNVEILS THE OSU COLLECTION BY KEHINDÉ FAGBULE
W
orld’s oldest Cognac house, Martell in partnership with award-winning fashion designer, Iniye Tokyo James popularly known as Tokyo James hosted the unveiling of The OSU capsule collection that showcased at the 2021 Milan Fashion Week. The private event which took place in Victoria Island, Lagos, witnessed a slew of notable personalities, celebrities, fashion designers and media who gathered to experience a world of high fashion and boldness paved from tenacity and ambition through the eyes of Nigeria’s renowned creative. Here are some of the looks from the event.
Zlatan
THE DESIGNER, TOKYO
PAGE 14
VOL 1 NO.21 • JULY 04 – JULY 10, 2021
THE SCENE DOWNTOWN
GUESTS
Bolajo Fawehinmi
Waje Juliet Olanipekun
Lady J and Immanuel Anosike
Omawumi
Chef Tolu Eros
Spanky Manolo
Ronami Ogulu
Momusa & Bankhead
Enyi Omeruah TG Omori
Veronica Odeka & Bukky Karibi Whyte
Eniafe Momodu
PAGE 15
VOL 1 NO.21 • JULY 04 – JULY 10, 2021
SÓRÓSOKE DOWNTOWN
THE CLASS PREFECTS
though we aren’t exactly the same and we disagree on so many things he’s the perfect fit. Not to disregard the time and energy previous co-hosts put into the show. They’ve taken us to where we are right now but I think this version is the best version. It has moved from being a hobby to a business.
BY TILEWA KAZEEM
When you start something without knowing exactly how it’ll turn out, it’s daunting, and it’s made even more challenging if you’re doing something only a few others have attempted. Failing is an impediment you can’t avoid thinking about. Nigerian-born Immanuel Anosike must have been plagued by these thoughts around the time he decided to start his own podcast in his Philadelphia apartment, but, as the saying goes, being brave doesn’t mean one is without fear or worry, it’s choosing to be brave despite it that matters. A few years later, The Class Prefects, a podcast hosted by Immanuel Anosike and Mikey Oshai, has become a household name where relatable personal and social conversations you would usually hear in hushed tones are trashed out and intelligently discussed. Our very own Tilewa Kazeem sat down for a conversation with the two hosts to learn how it all began.
How much of an escape is podcasting and recording The Class Prefects to you? Imma: I didn’t realise the hour or two we spent recording every week was therapeutic until I moved back to Nigeria and I realised that being able to vent how you are feeling and what you are thinking about is a good thing. Mikey: Recording is really cool. I would say it is like an escape because when we get in the studio, it feels like we are in another space. I’m being my most authentic self and I can speak my truth without the fear of being judged. It is something I look forward to especially when we do the highs and the lows. I really enjoy that. What is the process for making money from your podcast and getting sponsors?
PAGE 16
You spoke about starting a podcast of your own. Can you speak a lot about that? Give us an exclusive. Mikey: It’s coming and it’s coming soon. That’s all I can say about that. What do you both do for a living? Imma: I’ve had a few jobs, I have a degree in Environmental Science. I work at a Public Relations company called CEO PR. I handle PR, Social Media Management and Content Creation. Mikey: I’m a photographer. That’s my day job. Before the show I was in law school trying to figure out my life. My photography career started while working on the show. Could you offer advice to someone thinking of pursuing a career in podcasting? Imma: You definitely need a job or a source of regular income because a podcast is not going to make you any money for like the first year or two. In my case, I taught myself things like graphic design, production and a bunch of other skills which I now use to support myself with my job and podcasting. So I would advice someone coming into this to have a job you can use to float and invest in things like recording gear and also have a plan on how you can monetize your podcast if you want to.
P
lease tell us why Class Prefects was chosen as a podcast name, and how the podcast idea developed Imma: The name is our second or third name change. It started as an idea to create a podcast 4 or 5 years ago. I was at the University at the time in Philadelphia and my friends and I usually had conversations about a lot of things every week. One of them, Sarah who co-created the show with me, introduced me to podcasting which was relatively new at the time. After that, we did the research, got a mic and started recording in my living room. Our first name was The Gist with a basic logo just to get started and we made our first episode in January 2016. Along the line, we learnt editing, the production and we recorded when we could. Over time, Sarah left and the name “The Class Prefect” came as a result of the new hosts because The Gist sounded too generic. The idea behind that was we felt like we were in a classroom giving lectures and class prefects were always loved and hated. I was a class prefect in primary and secondary school, Kelechi (a host at the time), was also a prefect as well so with that it just made sense.
You’re a co-host on the show Mikey, tell me about how that happened? Mikey: When I met Immanuel, I wanted to have my own podcast and it started as me coming on as a guest on his podcast. I did it 3 times and the reaction to each episode was great and just like that I got sucked in. It happened organically. He just kept asking me to come and I became a host.
Mikey & Imma
Imma: We had little donations earlier on but it’s nothing significant. Now we have a subscription/crowdfunding link that people can donate to us at the end of every episode. In America podcasting is huge and people make a living off it whereas in Nigeria like everything else it is behind. I’m not saying other Nigerian podcasts are getting sponsorships but when you aren’t talking about finance, business or tech but on shows like ours that discusses culture, commentary and just banter it’s harder. Hopefully, Nigeria catches up then we can feast. How did you meet your current co-host? Imma: All my co-hosts have been my friends and I tend to work solely with my friends because I feel I can rely on and trust them. I rarely work with people outside my circle unless you are recommended by someone I know. My latest co-host Mikey and I are very similar in very many ways. He also is a very big podcast listener so when he came on 2 years ago right when I moved back to Lagos he was the perfect fit. We watch and listen to the same things
Is there anything you wish you knew before you started your podcast? Imma: I wish I had known how to organise the business side of things. To have treated it more as a business than a hobby. Nigerians would not consider podcasting a lucrative job. Considering that, what drives you to get up in the morning and do it? Imma: Right now, podcasting is taking off in Nigeria. In America it is already an established source of income for people and with Spotify coming here this year, I think things are really going to pick up. But for me, it was never about the money. I’ve been doing this for 5 years and I only recently started making money off of it. It’s more about the stories I’m sharing and what I have to say as opposed to making money. So, personally, that is what wakes me up every morning. What other areas do you want to explore outside of your current role on the show? Mikey: I want to direct movies and shoot music videos. I want to move from stills to videography and I also want to have my gallery. There’s a ton of things I want to do but I’m taking my time I don’t want to overwhelm myself. Do you have a podcast you draw inspiration from? Mikey: I’m heavily inspired by The Read. That was where the whole idea of starting a podcast grew from. I listen to The ISWIS podcast and the likes. You have been on the show for some time now. What lessons can you take away from the experience? Mikey: The show has taught me a lot about myself and having the strength to persevere. I see the show as a journal where each episode I recorded serves as a time spam and attached to it are emotions, my highest highs and the lowest of lows. Lastly, I’ve learned that no matter what you are struggling with, you shall overcome with time.