THISDAY STYLE MAGAZINE 13TH FEBRUARY 2022

...NOT IN THISDAY STYLE? THEN YOU’RE NOT IN STYLE

VALENTINE GIFT IDEAS INSIDE

NBANJO CHRIS OGU BIAMILA FEMI GBAJA

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2022

INBAJO VP YEMI OS

LOGUN SUBOMI BA O OGUNBANJ ABIMBOLA

OGUN BOLAJI BAL

S N O I T A R E N E G G N I D L I BU NEVERSTOP !

0 9 @ E G E L L O C I B O IGB

EVERSTOPNEVE OPNEVERSTOPNE

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CONTENT Society AN EVENING WITH KOLA OLOGBONDIYAN PG 6-7

RALPH’S CLUB COMES TO LAGOS PG 8

Fashion

© 2020 BBC STUDIOS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

10 RED-HOT STYLES TO STEAL THIS LOVES SEASON PG 8-9 20 UNIQUE VALENTINE GIFT IDEAS PG 18 CAPSULES COLOURS OF LIFE PG 19 VALENTINE’S DAY GIFT IDEAS PG 20-21 SURVIVORS PG 22

The prestigious Igbobi College was established by the Methodist and Anglican Churches in 1932 in the Yaba suburbs of Lagos, Nigeria. Ninety years later, it still stands tall on its original site, with most original buildings intact. It is one of the oldest legacy colleges in Nigeria and has been the alma mater of many prominent Nigerians.

THISDAY STYLE FASHION DIRECTOR/EXECUTIVE EDITOR RUTH OSIME

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EDITOR PRINT OLUFUNKE BABS-KUFEJI EDITOR DIGITAL KONYE NWABOGOR

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SENIOR ART DESIGNER MATHIAS ARCHIBONG 07054965500 CONTRIBUTORS ISIOMA USIADE GUEST CORRESPONDENTS AZUKA OGUJIUBA ZINA ANUMUDU JOANNA MACGREGOR SEYI ALAWODE PHOTOGRAPHER TY BELLO DIRECTOR, PRINT PRODUCTION CHUKS ONWUDINJO 08077092196

No matter how cynical we have become as a people with the daily rudiments and challenges of living in a climate as tough as ours, there is still something that lingers in our system that makes our lives just a tad more bearable. It is called LOVE. We receive and give love to those we hold dear. Our families. Our friends. Our co-workers and basically anyone that crosses our path at some point in time in this journey of ours called Life. Some have it in abundance to give and collect while others have it in small doses. Whatever the case, Love is one of the most cherished gifts known to man.

It comes as no surprise then, that in the month of February, we are dedicating an edition or two to Love. And as we all know, Red is the colour of Love. A colour so hot it consumes the room when worn by women. A colour that awakens and ignites at the same time. Red…represents fire. It’s hot. It’s dangerous. It’s as alluring as it is intimidating. There’s a particular bounce to a woman’s step when she is in a red dress…hence the coin phrase; Women In Red! This is the Love season. Let us learn to share it more. Life might not be the way you want it, but you have it to make the best of it. We might not love certain people because of their flaws, but we must learn to love them regardless of these flaws. We might not have the type of love we crave or yearn for, we might not be in a good place emotionally, mentally, physically or even financially, but we have the power to control our minds and decide to remain happy regardless of where we are in the aforementioned categories. We can choose to see the cup as half full instead of half empty.

Love is a very powerful tool. If you do not have it all, treasure what you do have because simply put…life is too short!

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FASHION DIRECTOR/EXECUTIVE EDITOR

2022 COMMITTEE: CHARTING A NEW COURSE President Mohammadu Buhari hosts the 2022 Committee made up of Governors, Senators, Elders Statesmen, Captains of Industries, Political Class, civil society and Technocrats. The event held at State House Abuja.

GOV ADAMS OSHIOMHOLE

PHOTO; SUNDAY AGHAEZE. JAN 31ST 2022

ALIKO DANGOTE, GODWIN EMEFIELE AND JIM OVIA

KASIM IMAM

ABUBAKAR ATIKU BAGUDU

ALIKO DANGOTE AND PRINCE NDUKA OBAIGBENA

MD ABUBAKR

ABDULSAMAD RABIU AND WALE TINUBU ATAHIRU BAFARAWA, ANYIM PIUS ANYIM AND SANUSI DAGGASH

DAVID UMAHI AND OLUSEGUN OSOBA

BABAGANA KINGIBE

SAMINU TURAKI

ADAMU ALIERO

IBIKUNLE AMOSUN

IBRAHIM SAMINU TURAKI, MAGAJIN GARIN SOKOTO & GOV DAVE UMAHI OF EBONYI STATE

President Buhari Hosts 2022 Committee BIANCA OJUKWU

LAWAL DAURA AND FEMI ADESINA BARBARA AYIMO JAMES

LIYEL IMOKE, UDO UDOMA AND TIMIPREY SILVA

ADAMU MUAZU AND SIMON LALONG

LAWAL BATAGARAWA

President Mohammadu Buhari hosts the 2022 Committee made up of Governors, Senators, Elders Statesmen, Captains of Industries, Political Class and Technocrats.

The event held at State House Abuja.

SARKIN DAWAKI KANO, AMINU BABBA, AND KAYODE KOMOLAFE

PHOTOS: SUNDAY AGHAEZE

ABDELMUIZZ BELLO, GBEMISOLA ADEGBITE, FAUZIYA ALI MOHAMMED, HAFSAT UMARU SHINKAFI, NELLIE OKORO, FRANCIS AMANZERE GODWIN EMEFIELE & JIM OVIA

MAGAGIN GARIN SOKOTO, AHMAD DANBABA YAKUBU DOGARA PRINCE NDUKA OBAIGBENA & ALIKO DANGOTE

NUHU RIBADU MD ABUBARKAR AND ADAMS OSHIOMHOLE PRINCE NDUKA OBAIGBENA & ALIKO DANGOTE

YUSUF MAGAJI BICHI

MR YEMI

O ADELEYE

FEMI STEF

SAM OHUOTU

FOLASHADE MODEYIN

SHOLA & FUMILAYO OJO

MUSA WADA_ TONY KOMOLAFE

CLARA KOMOLAFE

MARIYA WAZIRI

PRINCE PLULIPOABUJI

TEEJAY YUSUF

GOV IDRIS WADA

DAKAS SHAN

DINO MELAYE

WILSON & RONKE TOLUFASHE

TUNDE OGBEHA

NNENNA UKEJE

ARCHBISHOP EMRITUS JOHN ONAIKAN

HUSSAIN EJIBUNU

TOM ZAKANI

RAYMOND DOKPESI

SUNDAY ADELEYE

JIDE ADENIJI

SOLA ADEDOYIN

RICHARD AKONMODE & YEMI OLUNUDI

T J FANIYI

GANIYU SALUDEEN

SALMAN IDRIS

SAM ABONENIE

LEKAN MUSTAPHA

BARAKA SANNI

BAMIDELE SALAM

KOLA MODEYIN_

An Evening with Kola Ologbondiyan An evening of celebrating the capacity, competence and courage of Kola Olongbondiyan as the immediate past National Publicity Secretary of People’s Democratic Party, was held recently at Nicon Luxury Hotel, Abuja. From his life as a Journalist all the way to his delving into the political terrain, Olongbondiyan has invested a lot on social currency so it came as no surprise that personalities from all walks of life turned out in droves to share this special occasion with him.

PHOTOS: JULIUS ATOI

KOLA & OMOLOLA OLOGBONDIYAN

GOV IBRAHIM IDRIS

DAVID MARK

ENIOLA BELLO

BOLAJI ADEBIYI

MR & MRS AKIN BANKADEYINKA

OLUSHOLA AKANMODE

YOMI AWONIYI

OLAIYA OLOBATOKE

MALAMI SANI

DEBO OLOGNNEGBE

STYLE & DESIGN

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Red is a sensual colour so you need not flash acres of flesh to get the attention you want. Keep your silhouette simple and pair with black shoes to tone things down a little. If you want to go all-out, finish the look with a pair of bright red shoes.

You can never go wrong with a classy red dress, It makes the person wearing it look incredible no matter the shape or size. This dress on DOROTHY BACHOR is undeniably a red hot look to sport this love season. The magic of this dress is that it’s versatile, so not only is it great for the night but, it’s ideal during the day too. A pair of nude heels would add the perfect finish to the look.

STYLE & DESIGN

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9775 Sunday, February 13, 2022

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MPHO TSILA is just all the inspiration that we need to slay like a lady boss. Though the bra top to work might just not be appropriate, you can serve it hot at work on valentines day if you throw in a camisole instead of a bra top and slip into the bra top if you are painting the town red after work on valentines day.

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MERCY EKE

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TENICKA

MPHO TSILA

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BIMBO ADEMOYE

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VEEKEE JAMES

STELLA

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PRISCILLA

It might seem like a daring red look to spot this love season, but leather pants are a hot trend to jump on right now. These fitted pants on PRISCILLA will spice up your valentine look, You can pair them with a red or white shirt or even a corset to give off a sexy biker look.

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If you want to look showstopping this valentine’s day, this is the look to steal.

This red slit dress looks absolutely amazing on MERCY EKE, hugging and flowing in all the right places.

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TENICKA looks powerful and striking in a long red blazer and dress. This ensemble is the epitome of classy. A few accessories will complement the look perfectly. Anyone stealing this look will feel like they’re ready to paint the town red with its simplicity and elegance.

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Date night in the month of love is incomplete without a stylish red mini dress just like what BIMBO ADEMOYE has on. Get your V-Day fashion on point with a mini dress. you can keep it simple by opting for neutral makeup so all eyes are on the dress.

LISA OMORODION

DORATHY BACHOR

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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9775 Sunday, February 13, 2022

10 Nothing beats the charm of the colour red when it comes to dressing up. From being the colour of love to making style statements, red has a fiery style that can literally elevate any look. It’s the season of love and nothing shouts “look at me” better than a bright red outfit. Here are some inspirational red looks to steal from our celebrities and fashionistas.

BY ISIOMA USIADE

RED-HOT STYLES TO STEAL THIS LOVE SEASON

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AGUNBIADE ESTHER

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Who says you can’t rock a catsuit just like LISA OMORODION. Worn tastefully like she has the catsuit is one outfit that is bound to get everyone looking your way.

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One-shoulder necklines have always been a statement-making fashion style. Whether you like to go all out with your style or like to keep it minimal, this is a perfect look for any occasion that screams daring. AGUNBIADE ESTHER

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This dress screams gorgeous with its power sleeves. You can easily accessorise the look depending on your personal style. If you’re someone who loves to dress glam, pair this dress with a pair of pantyhose just as STELLA.

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STYLE & DESIGN

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9775 Sunday, February 13, 2022

www.poloavenue.com

Style it With AVENUE 11

NEVERSTOP RSTOPNEVER EVERSTOPNE OPNEVERSTO RSTOPNEVE

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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9775 Sunday, February 13, 2022

BUILDING GENERATIONS IGBOBI COLLEGE @ 90!

The prestigious Igbobi College was established by the Methodist and Anglican Churches in 1932 in the Yaba suburbs of Lagos, Nigeria.

Ninety years later, it still stands tall on its original site, with most original buildings intact.

It is one of the oldest legacy colleges in Nigeria and has been the alma mater of many prominent Nigerians.

At the recent gala to celebrate this milestone, the THISDAY Style team had the opportunity to speak to some of the ex-students. The likes of Jide Coker who is currently a Board of Governors member, Folusho Phillips the Chairman, with other members like Femi Banwo, Yomi Badejo-Okunsanya, Seni Adio chairman of the 90th anniversary and more running run the school. They were very excited to relive some of their memories from their days as students, and they also shared their plans on how to keep giving back to the school to ensure it maintained its status.

VP PROF. YEMI OSINBAJO “Most of us here old boys, owe a lot to who we are, our personalities, our values and our world view to our time at Igbobi College.

“It was in Igbobi that I realised that I had a strength in the Arts, it was also there that I realized that I could never be a sprinter.

“Igbobi placed a value on academic, sports and literary achievements. You were called on stage to receive your prize during the assembly, so you were recognized. But on the same stage, you could be publicly whipped for extreme bad behaviour, so reward and punishment were on that same stage and so it taught you very quickly the difference between good and evil.

“Igbobi celebrated orderliness, honesty and self-denial. Anyone caught stealing became an outcast. there was just no excuse. There was also no special treatment. It didn’t matter whether you were from a wealthy or a prominent family or the son of a driver. The khaki that we wore was essentially a leveler. What was admired and celebrated was high achievement and exemplary character.

And it shaped our world view. Money was not just important, excessive display of wealth was discouraged but character and achievement was always celebrated.

“To maintain such high value, solid teachers of character were required, and these teachers were not impressed with anything but performance and good behaviour.”

“This is one school that I cherish and I’m super happy to be a part of the school” “In Igbobi I had the opportunity to meet a potpourri of different types of people.”

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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9775 Sunday, February 13, 2022

CHIEF (DR) CHRIS OGUNBANJO CON LIFE AT IGBOBI COLLEGE During the years Chris spent at Igbobi College, the school was often referred to as ‘the school in the bush’ because it was quite far from the town. It was located on a kolanut plantation which belonged to the famous Madam Tinubu of Lagos. The distance between the Yaba Bus Stop and the beginning of the bush path leading to it was two miles, and the entire area was just barely developed; what is today known as Ikorodu Road was not there. The school had a main building in which the classrooms and a science laboratory were located. The chapel was by the gate and there was an administrative building, part of which served as residential quarters for the principal and vice-principal. There were also quarters for other members of staff, two football pitches and a pitch for cricket.

At that time also, boarders used to wear an air of superiority over the day students who had to trek a two-mile bush path before getting to school. Fortunately for Chris, he was a boarder and did not have to go through the trouble of transiting from home to school on a daily basis. However, each time he left home in Ile-Ife to return to school, he travelled overnight in a cocoa lorry on arrival to Lagos.

Although he was in the boarding house, Chris cultivated a close association with several day-students who were more familiar with the surrounding village set-up. At regular intervals, weekends particularly, he and his schoolmates went out to explore the neighborhood of the College. The playing fields, orchards, lawns and roads were beautifully laid out by the principal, staff and students and these often left sweet memories in him. Ogunbanjo recalls that ‘the day-students always had the opportunity of having their lunch with the boarders’. The school only ended each day after games and other extra-curricular activities had been concluded.

In terms of discipline, Igbobi College was a great force to reckon with. The teachers, prefects and senior students were highly involved and there was great respect for the senior students from the junior ones. The hostel experience was much dominated by Christian life, in spite of the characteristic mischievous practices of male boarders.

They had morning and evening prayers, and their food was always served under hygienic conditions in the dining hall.

The Principal, Reverend J. Allen Angus, was a strict but humble person and managed the affairs of the school in a manner considered largely satisfactory by students, teachers and parents. Working with the school’s motto – Omnes Unum in Domino/ All one in the Lord’ - in mind, he ensured that all boarders participated in Bible classes, which often preceded Sunday service.

Angus was Spartan in the type of training he preached and gave to his students. He did not allow wasteful spending. Thus, a student, for example, would be required to offer his exercise books for inspection to ensure that all the pages were actually exhausted, and justifiably too, before permission was given for the issuance of a fresh one. Also, damages done to any of the school’s properties by students were paid for from the pocket money which such students received. Angus ensured that admission into the school was based strictly on academic merit and good character. For Chris, as for many of the students in the school at the time, he was ‘a great guide and inspiration’ The teachers imparted knowledge and positive educational and moral values upon the young Chris and it was with great fondness that he always remembered them in his adult life.

He was an obedient, diligent and intelligent student throughout his stay at Igbobi College. “I never got into any trouble with the school authorities because I could not

bear the pain of being beaten’, he recalled.

‘Therefore, I did all my work as meticulously as possible. Students studied for a minimum of three hours every evening and this always ended at about 9.00 pm. Chris kept the times for meals, prayers as well as lights out. He could not afford the implications or trouble of a different lifestyle. He comported himself very well and always kept to school rules and regulations.

Academically, Chris thought of himself as an average student, although some of his mates always described him as more brilliant and clever than they were. As he would say, “luck was always on my side as whatever l prepared for in an examination was what I usually found in the question papers.”

In truth it was just that Chris always made extensive preparations during the term and long before his examinations.

Thus, he never failed any examination.

Somewhat ironically also, he often had better results than many of his classmates who, in his own mind, appear to have studied harder than himself.

Chris academic sojourn in Igbobi College ended in December 1941, when he passed the Cambridge School Certificate Examinations with a distinction grade and got an exemption from the London Matriculation Examination. He bade farewell to Igbobi College and thus ended a phase which opened up to him a new vista of dreams, anxieties and expectations.

His subsequent association with the school was definitely on a different platform as an old student. It was not a complete break, as he continued to participate in efforts at maintaining and enhancing the greatness of Igbobi College. That became the ultimate ground of his involvement with the school when, following the unanimous decision of all stakeholders, he assumed the responsibilities of Chairman of Igbobi College Old Students’ Association Trustees in 1991.

SUBOMI BALOGUN

HON FEMI GBAJABIAMILA “I’m glad to be here today, particularly when I walked in and looked around to see so many people and faces that never got the chance to attend Igbobi College. They are all gathered here tonight, I saw them, perhaps their one-time opportunity to hang with Nobility.”

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“We are here for fundraising. We are here to raise funds for the school and I want to trust that even our guests who were not part of the school will join us in promoting the college and promoting education.”

I had the unique privilege of going to some of the best institutions. I am an Igbobian. I left Igbobi Grammar School in 1952 with a Grade 1. It is the goal getting attitude of Igbobi College l have held on to till date. We learned so much about loyalty, wherever you are looking for a noble Nigerian, look for an Igbobian. At the age of 13, I converted to Christianity even though my parents were Muslims. I sought their consent and approval. I have since then, embraced this religion with great fervour and this is what has seen me through my journey in life. The rest, as they say is history.

This shift in spiritual focus happened while I was schooling at Igbobi College, and after school, I took up employment as a class room teacher.

My greatest achievement is with all that I’ve done in life, I don’t carry airs. I don’t see anything as exceptional. I am still the same simple Subomi Balogun. That is the greatest thing. I would still want to see my former classmates and friends, even if they are crawling on the ground, lame and can’t walk. I would still want to go there and recognize them and say “It’s Subomi saying hello to you.”

CHIEF (DR) CHRIS OGUNBANJO CON & SUBOMI BALOGUN 15

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FEMI OLUBANWO What pertinent role have the old students played in ensuring the standard of the college they left behind remains so till today?

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fter working assiduously to gain the trust and confidence of the proprietor missions that all we seek is the development of the school and

Do you recall any particular fond memory of your days at Igbobi college?

JIDE COKER

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9775 Sunday, February 13, 2022

not ownership, we have spent a tremendous amount of money to renovate, rehabilitate and rebuild physical infrastructure in the School following the dilapidation that set in during the 30 years government control of the school. But since school is ultimately about learning, and learning is judged by academic performance in this clime, our priority in more recent years has shifted to improving the quality of teaching and learning by various intervention programs introduced and or paid for by the old boys. These include an Educational Quality Management system introduced about 3 years ago, which has produced outstanding results for the entire 2021 graduating class in the recent WAEC Exams. So, the school is in fairly good shape with physical infrastructure although we still seek to do much more; and is in a good place academically, which we intend to sustain and improve upon in the years to come.

Who was your favourite teacher in lgbogbi college and why?

My favorite teacher was Mr Adewusi.

He was in charge of plays and production and I acted in the play ‘Sango’ under his directorship. He was a very nice and a complete gentleman.

OSCAR IBRU

FOLUSO PHILIPS Who was your favourite teacher at lgbogbi College and why?

I remember our Mathematics teacher Mr. Okembe who is now late, may his soul RIP. He was a very patient teacher who appreciated that students often find Mathematics difficult. He spent a lot of time making sure we understood the fundamentals of Mathematics. He was gentle but firm. When I changed school later with another teacher maths became my worst subject.

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mmmm...can you really say there were fondest moments?..ICY’s fondest moments was the memory and fact of being part of a strong institution that moulded me into what I am today with childhood friends I still see on a weekly basis.

The other moments were moulding moments and those were not fond moments at all. As the VP said things eg his near fight were for flimsy reasons. My first day in ICY from corona school vi (was classified as an àjé butter), a senior prefect jumped in from of me and told me to start picking up paper in the gutter. At first I refused ( in ICY slang it was called Mòló) then I got the hottest slap...Guess what?..I did the chore whilst crying at the same time...then I asked myself...can I survive till form 5?

OLUSEGUN AWOLOWO

How did Igbobi College shape you to become the man you are today?

It equipped me for life and emphasized loyalty, integrity and leadership.

BOLAJI BALOGUN What character trait do you have that you know Igbobi college instilled in you?

What fond memories do you have of Igbobi College?

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YOMI BADEJOOKUNSANYA 16

here are quite a number of things Igbobi College instilled in me principal amongst which is nobility.

This nobility can be translated into self confidence and an awareness of your educational pedigree and heritage.

There is a consistent consciousness of who you are, what you represent and what is expected of you.

This is what many non-Igbobians mistake as pride. Far from it.

Rather, Igbobians are just immensely proud of what the college has turned them into.

Ce ce ce ce!

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LANRE TEJUOSO

Topmost in my Igbobi college memoirs is the period I was receiving some bullying from more physically advantageous schoolmates. I cried home a few times and my father kept on telling me to go defend myself and never yielded to my request to follow me to report to the school principal. I was forced to go develop my boxing skills and the rest is history. I became the potential bully that could not be touched.

The “Aje butter” became the “Aje kpako “ in the end.

What pertinent role have the old students played in ensuring the standard of the college they left behind remains so till today?

Role of Old Boys in restoring Igbobi College I can identify three areas in which the Old Boys of Igbobi College have made great contributions in trying to restore the school to its former glory.

The first has to do with Infrastructure. When ICY was handed back to the Missions through the persistent intervention and engagement of the Old Boys with the Lagos State Government, the school was in an extremely deplorable condition. It had been treated as another facility of government, with little care or concern. Dormitories had been converted into offices and the School’s Chapel was in a terrible state of disrepair. What was more painful was that the Government insisted that students enrolled under the government scheme were not to be charged fees until they passed out, creating an extra burden for the school, with very little left to fix things.

Our buildings, especially because we are a boarding school had become part of our heritage as you would those of Eton College that have stood from one generation to another.

So, the Old Boys got together and funded the production of an Infrastructure Masterplan for the school, which has become the bible of all infrastructure development Projects going on in the school today. The strategy was to refurbish rather than knock down and rebuild to maintain the “feel” of a school that sits on 16 hectares of Land in the middle of Lagos. (Lagos State had taken 16 hectares).

Old boys have spent N800m to date in constructing or repairing drainage, internal roads, buildings, water, electricity, dining room, the chapel, classroom rehabilitation, science laboratories, ICT facilities, and staff quarters – all of which were in bad shape.

The second intervention focused on the quality of education. About four years ago, ICOBA Europe funded the production of an Education Mas-

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9775 Sunday, February 13, 2022

terplan to focus on the educational aspects of the school where the target was our teachers. Under the supervision of a notable education consultant, the school started to implement this voluminous Education Quality Masterplan (EQM), which has also become the bible of the school on all educational development issues in the school. This includes teaching style and the development and training of teachers.

This program has resulted in a very notable improvement in the quality of teaching in the school, which is now being reflected in the performance of our students, who had remarkably impressive results in the recent WAEC exams. Consistency in such good performance is what we now want to achieve, and we wait patiently for that to happen.

The third aspect of intervention has been the personal participation of old boys in the lives of the students. Different sets sponsor annual debates, annual essay competitions, sports prizes in athletics and soccer, mentoring, counselling and talk sessions. Every graduating set of students at their valedictory service are made to affirm their loyalty to the Igbobi Creed and thereafter are formally inducted into ICOBA by being given the traditional ICOBA “aso oke” to sew their first ICOBA cap. Old Boys also Reaffirm their loyalty every year during the annual Founder’s Day Thanksgiving service.

Old Boys maintain a physical presence by holding their regular set meetings in the school premises to keep an eye on the boys through interaction and show students what it truly means to be an Igbobian, even after leaving school.

Going forward, the Old Boys have prepared costed plans to: 1. Build a digital innovation center - a Tech hub, that will serve the Fintech and digital community in the Yaba area including the Igbobi boys 2. A sports complex for the school, to which other schools will have access.

3. Renovate and expand our boarding facilities – our dormitories, dining room, the buildings which have been there for over 70 years, as we try to maintain the tradition of Eton and other Timeless schools 4. Upgrade our classrooms, even as they remain in the old traditional exterior structures but need to be transformed internally and equipped accordingly 5. Put in place a maintenance structure and system, which will ensure that these investments are protected and even enhanced continuously.

All these are driving our bid for a N1bn Endowment Fund and the focus of ICOBA in restoring the school to its former glory …and more.

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SENI ADIO

ABIMBOLA OGUNBANJO What fond memories do you have of Igbobi College?

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very student at Igbobi College was innately a rascal in their own little way and so I would categorise my memories

PASTOR PAUL ADEFARASIN Who was your favourite teacher at lgbogbi College and why?

ld boys have played numerous roles. In addition to obvious of providing funds to endow projects, they have given their time to mentor students. Notably, some have taught as adjunct faculty. Old boys also endowed and donated a revamped curriculum to make both the content and methods of teaching contemporary and fit for a dynamic learning environment. We still have a long way to go to recapture the preeminence Igbobi College strives for and to sustain the same for another 90 and many more years.”

more as life experiences than fond.

I learnt not to start trouble if you weren’t ready to physically or verbally defend yourself. I learnt how to be independent, when the driver doesn’t pick you up after school and you have to make your way from Yaba to Apapa all on your own by way of public transportation as an 11year old. I learnt to be compassionate, seeing your classmate get caned for an offence you both committed but he got caught and you have to console him. I learnt to share food with friends who were not as financially buoyant as I was fortunate to be. I learnt that when you work hard you are commended by your tutors and family and rewarded with goodies. Finally I Iearnt team spirit through my sporting activities from which you were taught to go above and beyond what is required to help your colleagues.

My favourite teacher at Igbobi College was Mrs. Aluko.

My admiration for her was not only because she was exceptionally brilliant but also because she had the most impeccable way of effectively communicating her thoughts to her wards. She was well versed as a teacher and her vast repository of knowledge about particular subjects simply reflected her remarkable intelligence quotient. She raised the bar for me as a young Igbobian and seeing the same exemplary brilliance in her biological children took the bar a notch higher. It left an indelible impression on me.

More so, her husband and herself, together with their children, represented a strong family friendship with the Adefarasins that pre-dated and superseded my Igbobi days.

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UNIQUE

S A E D I GIFT

Valentine’s Day only comes around once a year, and it’s the perfect opportunity to let your loved ones know just how much they mean to you. Picking out a cute Valentine’s gift is one simple way to show someone special how you feel and rekindle some of the romance that gets a little lost in everyday life. Of course, presents aren’t everything but if you’re feeling generous, a gift is a welcome surprise that’ll certainly show your appreciation. STYLE is here to match you with the perfect present for that love one, whether you’re looking for something fun, romantic or just downright practical, we’ve got tons of good ideas that’ll brighten up their February 14.

Valentine gift set

A valentine’s gift set could have a variety of gifts ranging from perfumes, chocolates, makeup, wine to phone accessories; a combination of things you know your partner would love. You can get them easily at any walk-in store.

Electronic Love Note

An adorable box is a better way to send love notes to that special one straight from an app on your phone. The heart spins whenever a new message arrives, making this a cute Valentine’s Day gift for any modern romantic.

mini projector, you can make movie time an intimate affair in the comfort of your home. You can both enjoy a romantic time together watching your favourites movies and TV shows.

Customised throw Pillow

Nothing says “I love you” like a pillow with your partner’s picture or their name with cute romantic words from you. Or maybe their favourite quote or a picture of both of you. Whichever way you choose to customise the pillow, they’d definitely love it.

Gift Cards

songs that mean something to you as a couple as well.

Digital painting

A beautiful work of art is a perfect way to express your undying love. Capture that smile or any memorable feature or event with a digital painting. Trust me, they will always be happy to remember.

Sleek Wine Chiller

Wine chillers just got a serious makeover.

This clever gadget will allow your spouse to take charge of the temperature of their wine.

They can sip their favourite wine exactly the way it was meant to be enjoyed from a wine glass.

Therapeutic Massage Gun

We bet your special one won’t be expecting this splurge-worthy present, making it a unique Valentine’s Day gift.

A professional massage tool isn’t just for fitness enthusiasts anyone can benefit from a little deep muscle treatment.

It is completely normal to be confused about the perfect gift for your partner in this season of Enchanted love, so why not let him/ At-Home Treasure Hunt Rose Valentine’s Day her choose. Opt for a gift card Impress your is the perfect that can allow your partner to choose a significant other opportunity gift from different online and physical with this mesfor a romantic stores. merizing galaxyscavenger hunt. themed rose. The Scavenger Box Box of Lingerie glass dome contains a single makes creating your Whether you’re iridescent rose lit up by 20 LED fairy lights. very own treasure hunt easy. both looking to A carved wooden base completes the It comes with everything you need heat things up display-worthy ornament. to lead your love to a secret treasure box in the bedroom secured with an adorable heart-shaped or you just want Wristwatch combination lock. Once you’ve customto treat your other Watches are ized your clues and set a romantic scene half to some comfy ideal romantic with the rose petals and LED candles, new underwear, a box of degifts for many reasigner lingerie is an awesome Valentine’s place a sweet message or gift inside the sons. They are pracbox.

Day gift idea. tical and a declaration that you’d be together every VR Headsets second of the day. Your loved one could Create a playlist of songs they You can give like easily wear this gift every day to remind your partner the Feed your partner them of you. virtual reality with carefully seexperience by lected songs that Mini projecgetting him/ he/she enjoys. tor her a universally Create a playlist This is actucompatible VR headset. of songs they like ally a gift for you You don’t have to choose from and don’t forget to add as a couple. With a

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the very expensive VR options, you will find affordable VR headsets on konga or Jumia.

Super-Soft Throw A snuggly blanket is something you can both appreciate; it’ll offer your partner some extra warmth and comfort.

A Year of Dates

Sometimes the simplest Valentine’s gifts are the best of all. Giving your partner a year’s worth of dates will help switch up your usual routine and let your other half know you love spending time together.

Upgraded Apple Watch Straps

If their prized accessory is their Apple Watch, spoil your sweetie with a luxe collection of two new watch straps and four open-face cases.

Heart-Shaped Waffle Maker

Don’t “heart-shaped waffles” just say it all? Imagine your spouse’s delight when they wake up to this romantic and delicious breakfast. This is a budget-friendly mini waffle maker.

Leather Toiletry Bag If your other half is obsessed with their grooming tools or beauty products, give them a luxe leather train case to help keep everything organized.

Love Letter Necklace

Writing love letters will forever be one of the most romantic gestures a person can make. This creative Valentine’s gift combines the traditional love letter with a contemporary gold bar necklace. Write your own words to be inscribed on the jewellery or choose the words of a meaningful song or poem.

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9775 Sunday, February 13, 2022

STYLE & DESIGN

Alero Adollo aleroadollo@yahoo.com

e n i t n e l a V

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9775 Sunday, February 13, 2022

STYLE & DESIGN

CAPSULES

BY FUNKE BABS-KUFEJI

Many faces carry loneliness and pain, too many people are battling the issues of life alone and they smile through their hurt wondering what they did to deserve the blows life is dealing their fragile form.

A little light they say will change the colour of darkness, so why are we weary and tormented when we carry the light of our salvation.

The good book says that love covers a multitude of sins, are we giving love to one another or we are starving our journey of this important ingredient…. Are we too scared to love our neighbours because they throw our empathy and kindness back at us, or we are just afraid to reach out, period. We live in our safe corners building fences to keep others out and inadvertently we keep purpose and growth out as we can only spread our wings whilst free.

Love never told us that pain will not come but that if there is pain, there is a Balm in Gilead.

When we reach out to others and strap them on, we touch the heart of the Creator, when we give of our time to encourage and nurture, we partner with God to grow his own, when we open our arms to calm their storms, we open the doors of our lives to the Master…

We were not designed to walk alone, in creation we were imbued with quality gifts for the use of others but unfortunately we daily build walls that shut out communion and community because we want to protect our souls, unknown to us we die daily when what is meant for others suffocates inside us.

Love is life, it’s the air we breathe, it is critical to our physiology, we cannot shut it out, we must not close it in. We must aspire to infuse each day with the love of the Master, a fragrance that keeps our lives beautiful.

Why are so many people depressed…….it is because love is not in their mix, as love flushes out negative energy.

There are 4 types of love, Agape is the divine love, Eros is the erotic love, Storge is the familial love whilst Philia is the platonic love, in all we do love must always be at play, be it with family or with friends or in romantic liaisons or for that matter the greater good, it is an emotion that begs for expression as you cannot have it without giving it to others and when you give it, it enriches recipients, just as faith without works is dead, love without works does not exist.

We must love the way we have been called to love so that the world will will make sense as hate does no one no good, unfortunately we enjoy feeding hate more than we do love, we feed negativity more than we do positivity we enjoy our pity parties where we serve bitterness and hopelessness, if we could only see that it is with love that we actually win, then we will break down the walls and embrace one another as this journey is less complex without solitary moves…..

We daily stop the Almighty from expressing his ultimate love through us by blocking his voice, we are not interested in things that don’t support our selfish interests.

Love your neighbour as yourself and everything else will be added unto you as love’s labour is never lost. Many don’t even love themselves that is why the world is in the state it is in.

with Koko Kalango

Love Is In The Air Cheslie Kryst’s story is the typical American Dream. The daughter of a beauty queen, she also competed in and won several beauty pageants culminating in her being Miss USA 2019. But she was not all beauty, she was brains as well.

This 2019 Miss North Carolina graduated cum laude with a degree in marketing and human resources from Darla Moore School of Business.

She went on to get a law degree and practiced as an attorney, handling many welfare cases, pro bono. Cheslie was also an accomplished fashion blogger and show host. She had a few firsts in her kitty – oldest woman to be crowned Miss USA and the longest serving Miss USA, thanks to COVID-19.

On 13th January 2022, she had a riveting interview with Denzel Washington. On 30th January she wrote on her Instagram page ‘May this day bring you rest and peace’. And on this day, she jumped to her death from her apartment on the 29th floor of her 60-story building in Manhattan, leaving a note handing over her possessions to her mother.

On Tuesday 14th December, Olalekan Odunare, a man in his early twenties, jumped to his death from Berger Bridge, into the lagoon in Epe, Lagos. He held an Ordinary National Diploma certificate in Quantity Surveying from the Lagos State Polytechnic and he worked at Alaro City, a mega estate in his suburb of Lagos. Odunare left behind his parents, at least one sibling, his wife and their 11-month-old daughter.

In both cases, those closest to the deceased (Cheslie’s mother and Olalekan’s wife), said the victims had suffered depression.

Mental health related deaths is a worrisome trend today and many of us know a family in our circle that has suffered this type of painful loss.

Even now, in this season when love is in the air, someone is on the brink. That person may be closer than we think.

LOVE YOUR NEIGHGBOUR (Matthew 22:39) We live in a harsh environment. Times are tough the world over, and none of us is spared; the rich, the poor, the beautiful, the not-sobeautiful, the successful the unsuccessful.

Pressure on every side is weighing us down, and many of us are trying very hard to just keep our heads above the waters.

But the hardship seems compounded if you are an average Nigeria; insecurity, anaemic healthcare, poor education, unaffordable housing, inefficient transportation system.

Our streets are swarmed with children who should be in school but are hawking. Our streets are full of youth hustling under painful circumstances, men and women trying to make a living, the odds stacked against them. People

are hungry, angry, desperate.

The problems around us are so many that, like me, you can feel overwhelmed. It is better to feel overwhelmed than to feel nothing. But we cannot stop with feeling. What we feel should move us to positive action.

Do you know that with just N40,000 you can help a family get medical insurance for a year?

Do you know that with just N150,000 annually you can send an indigent child to school? Do you know that by paying your staff the minimum wage of N30,000 a month you can help put food on their table? And who knows, your little act of love my save someone who is on the brink.

MAKE TIME FOR PEOPLE We live in a fast-paced world, and we are always on the move. We are sometimes so focused on reaching our goals that we don’t notice people along the way. We seldom pause long enough to hear what they are not saying, to see what they are not showing, to sense what they are not betraying, to pick their cries for help.

Today we are all connected online but we are also lonelier than ever. Beginning in this season of love, can we intentionally create time to listen to and talk to those in our lives?

Beginning in this season of love can we add to our prayers of; ‘Lord bless me, Lord prosper me, Lord promote me’, ‘Lord make me a blessing to someone today. Lord lead me to someone who is about to give up so I can be your voice of hope to them.’ Can we pray ‘Lord make me your hand, your heart to someone today’.

And then can we be sensitive to those around us. Let us not be carried away by people’s beauty, success, fame. They may just be a Cheslie.

Let us not ignore the plight of the poor and disadvantaged around us, they may just be an Olaleye.

Beginning in this season of love can we be intentional about reaching them before they take the plunge?

For daily devotionals follow us @ coloursoflifeministry. We can be reached at contact@coloursoflife.org COLOURS OF LIFE SHOW Our Colours of Life show airs on YouTube @ coloursoflifetv, 5pm (WAT) on Sundays. Last week, our guest was 10-year-old Damilola Odulowe, who has the unusual ability to memorise entire books of the bible. Last week, Pastor Tolu Odukoya-Ijogun was on the show to talk about life, death and the big picture as she shared the remarkable story of her parents, Pastors Bimbo and Taiwo Odukoya. Today, to round off season three, we would be discussing ‘Escaping Sexual Bondage’ with Dr Gary Maxey.

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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9775 Sunday, February 13, 2022

STYLE & DESIGN

RY

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RED ROSES FROM REGAL FLOWERS

RED CARNATIONS

LA PERLA SILK PYJAMAS

CA GRENG E C I R SA VERUTOUT EN C OR M F

MOND OLD DIA WHITE G IS BRACELET TENN UE NILE

BY BL

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silk pyjama or a pair of cozy slippers, she will fall heads over heels when she sets her eyes on the perfect. set. As for him a nice pair of sweatpants he can wear all day long is perfect to gift him or any other man in your life.

S LES IRE S W D ATS BU BE EAR

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k ee y w ll a ia ry. r n fic to ou a f i y o e th e o rr r t t e’v t ss e’r te fo an w ye e l w g g w , st is s pin pin u day be o n ay ea op op y oli he .

D t d s m sh e sh ki is h ve ifts ’ e e n ich ut u’r or th gi l g i t n wh in yo ife ve to tfu e l y, -m r w lo as h a V a st he d, he de ug aw la het ien ls t f i tho in w fr ee y o t s y f So bo ke ent mo a pl m t go

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of ng r, ot anti nice l a w it a nd en a b nd ves e sp be ng pe e lo w to ’ve thi to s If h ne d u e . e ee f yo om use ore om n f i c s s r x e t ve u ith e b ve ne ift, b r w ood ave ly lo u e g h Yo a g or h s a ou bab i y o n y o him love han ll pr e t e’ he on il f m spo ay o ore ut, h if s irl to e d * m g o and r g ne to th ittle in es the ho ile *l mm on y o w p sm ja rph an ne g a ea like w a brin is no ld .

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CLOTHES From pretty lingerie to a pair

e, iv an t a m ov wo get n in a to ly ive ers te, o t c g i s xa to flow wh e al e t , r ’t if t k sn e g ha pin ps a I i J i y in w r l E Da ent e of es o d Tu UF s ’ K e al r s e Sin f v nsu d ro or r B t n o BA le ice re u ic re ons E a V o a s ti NK or e ch you clas rna f U F s a f er nic y. I om d c BY w s da fr e y o R k fl a g alw ne’s pic ies. n i ft ’s ti n lil .

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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9775 Sunday, February 13, 2022

STYLE & DESIGN

YUKI AKINOSHO

WHITE GOLD DIAMOND TENNIS BRACELET

BY BLUE NILE Y-3 SWEAT PANTS

BISOLA AIYEOLA

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s ti r a e he for e th ed s ’ r e c uy tru nti n a s or g e e e i a o ld b n to h th it h ice k. t N n O ay cou ow oot way n a tric ILT KI IC w M t T n A st tely s k et its the the HA KH MA e e O t i k T ic fin ea sw arm llet d do AU u e n a w a l e q at d rtai as an ry p ou h h c h t e s “ .” Th re c an ies vou elf s e a k s h a om o s r go c g ma ere r w r co as a you n yi to th o o h e sa is s but an ate she ak m ld h r, r m ol r e o ugh de ou hoc e o you h T ro en If y , c if h al th y g te. ake nd me an alle t c rt a ed p lve ea ook ve er h e c RED VELVET HEART SHAPED h om CAKE h

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STYLE & DESIGN

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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9775 Sunday, February 13, 2022

THE

SURVIV

By Dr. Kemi DaSilva-Ibru

Dear Reader, Welcome to the WARIF Survivor Stories Series, a monthly feature, where stories of survivors of rape and sexual violence are shared to motivate and encourage survivors to speak their truth without the fear of judgement or stigmatization and to educate the public on the sheer magnitude of this problem in our society. The Women at Risk International Foundation (WARIF) is a non-profit organization set up in response to the extremely high incidence of rape, sexual violence and human trafficking of young girls and women in our society. WARIF is tackling this issue through a holistic approach that covers initiatives in health, education and community service.

This is Omowumi’s storyLooking back, I wonder why and how I got myself involved with such a person. How did I not see any of the signs that he was an abuser? I have suffered a great deal and despite these struggles, I’m glad I have this opportunity to share my travails with others. I sincerely hope it will educate and encourage other survivors to speak up and get the necessary interventions to set them on the path to healing.

My name is Omowunmi*, I am 28 years old and I am the first and only daughter of my mother. I never met my father because my mother got pregnant during her teenage years and did not know who was responsible for her pregnancy.

Due to the shame and embarrassment that this brought to her parents, she was sent to the village to live with her grandmother; with the hopes that, on delivery of the baby, a paternity test would be conducted to ascertain who the father of her child was from amongst the three boys who had sex with her.

She had to drop out of school because she was pregnant with me and she never got back the opportunity to return to formal education. Just like that, my mother’s dreams and hopes of becoming a medical doctor were dashed and another chapter of her life began! She felt sad, ashamed and worthless throughout her stay in the village, thus, it was a thing of joy and relief when she finally gave birth to me hale and hearty.

She thought her days of pain and shame were over, till she realized that her parents had moved out of the area where the incident happened and they were not ready to incur the cost for a paternity test.

Upon return to her parent’s house, she chose to learn fashion designing was enrolled in a fashion Institute. My mother focused on her skill and learnt very quickly, she was finally able to impress her parents and regain their trust. They reconciled and their relationship was restored to normalcy. Five years down the line, my grandparents set up a fashion outlet for my mum. She continued living with them for another five years and during this period her business became well established. At this point, she sought her parents’ permission to move out to be on her own. After initial resistance, my grandparents allowed my mother to move out to start life on her own with me and my nanny.

Two years later, my mother met an old schoolmate named Michael* from a wealthy family who schooled abroad and had returned to set up a business in Nigeria. She was sceptical about going into a relationship with him because she feared that, like the others she had encountered, it would not work if he found out she had a teenage daughter. However, Micheal loved my mother dearly and accepted me as his daughter. They got married with the blessings of their parents and began their lives together as a couple.

After I finished my secondary education, my stepdad sent me abroad to further my studies and I did them proud by graduating with first-class honours. Upon returning to Nigeria, my stepfather wanted me to settle down in marriage immediately but I insisted on bagging my Masters’s degree before getting married to which my parents agreed.

Before I returned to the United States for my Master’s in 2020, I met a guy named Abolore* on Facebook. Right from my undergraduate days, I was usually wary of strangers, and

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only dated who I knew personally. But, this time, I don’t know if it was boredom or loneliness, I felt comfortable with an online friend.

I hid nothing from Abolore and we became best of friends although we had not seen each other in person yet. We used facetime and even phone calls to keep in touch daily. I would call and we would keep chatting until I fell asleep. It was during one of these moments that I told him that I had something to tell him. He was anxious to know what it was, but I held off till 6 pm which was the usual time we spoke. At the said time, I told him that I would be returning to the United States for my Master’s programme. After I broke the news, he was silent for a while and eventually opened up to say he would not be able to cope with me being away. I assured him that we would always be in touch, and though I would get busy with the programme, I would always find time to speak with him even if it was for only a few minutes.

He insisted we met in person and when we did, it was a wonderful moment for me. “Abolore” was 6 feet tall, bodily built, a fine gentleman, fashionable, he had poise and manners. We met at a 5-star hotel, he came earlier so he wouldn’t keep a lady waiting, he held the doors open for me and pulled back the chair for me to sit and he took care of the bills. I had already begun to develop some feelings for him because of how much we interacted and this physical meeting further cemented it. Before the date ended, he asked me to be his girlfriend and I accepted.

It was a fantastic start and we continued to date throughout my stay abroad. I dated him exclusively and turned down many other suitors that approached me. From the look of things, I was certain that he would propose to marry me on my return to the country. I had told my parents all about him and they were looking forward to meeting him. He promised to pick me up from the airport on my arrival, so I informed my parents not to bother the driver. My stepdad, whom I now refer to as Dad, frowned against it but I assured him that it will be an opportunity for him to meet with Abolore for the first time. I had a hard time convincing my dad but he eventually accepted.

I arrived as scheduled and I was ecstatic and also anxious at our second meeting even though, we see each other regularly over video calls and snap chats. True to his words, he was already waiting. I heaved a sigh of relief but immediately began to feel uneasy. ‘Something about him is not just right’, I thought to myself, ‘maybe it’s the fatigue from the journey or my emotions playing a fast one on me’. Abolore gave me a warm hug and a peck on my cheeks. He collected my luggage and we headed for the car park.

To my utter amazement, as we approached the car, I saw a guy seated in front beside the driver’s seat. He put my luggage in the boot and opened the back seat for me. I hesitated and called him aside but he told me that the person was his business partner and a trusted friend. He assured me that the said person wouldn’t be coming into my parents’ house, but he had to come along because they had a business appointment to attend to as soon as they dropped me off at home. The meeting was an impromptu one, if not, he would have informed me earlier. I felt a bit relaxed after the explanations and I entered the back seat.

As soon as I got into the vehicle, it felt as though I inhaled a substance and I began to feel weak and dizzy, within a few seconds, I was asleep. I didn’t know how many hours passed, but I woke up in an abandoned building at an unknown location. I was tired and in shock. My head was just beginning to clear and I immediately asked for Abolore, but no one answered me but there with me was his so- called business partner and four other guys. I wasn’t sure of what to do, I was very hungry and thirsty. I told the business partner how I was feeling and he went away to get some food and sachet water.

After eating the food, I began to feel weak and dizzy, I couldn’t coordinate myself or do anything unassisted, this made me realise the food had been laced with drugs! At this point, Abolore and his gang took turns raping me. He was the

RS

first to rape me, so he found it difficult to penetrate, when he finally did, there were bloodstains everywhere. He had a look of surprise on his face, and he went away, probably to tell his friends not to rape me as well, but they did not agree to his request. He did not return to the room until his gang had finished. Oh! how I wept, I wept at my foolishness and ignorance. How on earth did I trust this stranger? One whose family I never met?

Abolore came later that night to ask for my parent’s number.

He told me that it was the only way to set me free and that if my parents paid a ransom, he would ensure that I was released safely. This was because they usually killed most of their victims after collecting the ransom, so their hideouts would remain unknown. The kidnappers contacted my parents and demanded a ransom of N20, 000,000. My parents asked to speak with me first to ascertain that I was still alive. The kidnappers then put the phone on speaker to listen to our conversation. I was crying while speaking to my parents and begging them to pay the ransom.

After spending 5 days with the kidnappers, my vagina was swollen and painful as a result of their constantly raping me throughout the period. I was also experiencing abdominal pains, fear and constant nightmares. My feet and ankles were also swollen because my ankles and hands had been cuffed.

I was filled with regrets and bitterness, but not without hope that I would escape or be rescued someday.

At my parents’ end, they had reported the case to the police and had gone to the airport to confirm that my flight arrived as scheduled and I was among the passengers that alighted from the plane. They also found out, in the process, that someone picked me up from the airport. My parents, called back the kidnappers to tell them that they were willing to pay any amount for my release. They threatened my parents that if they told the police, I would be killed. My parents promised not to tell the police and I noticed that the kidnappers allowed me to have some freedom; they were excited at their fortune. My parents immediately informed the police about the drop-off venue.

On the 6th day, in the wee hours of the morning, I heard loud gunshots and footsteps approaching the uncompleted building. One of the kidnappers tried to drag and run away with me but couldn’t do so because I was handcuffed and couldn’t move fast. He headed for where the keys to my cuffs were, but the gunshots grew louder so he abandoned me and jumped over the fence along with his other companions.

After a bit of pursuit, the police was able to arrest 3 of the 6 perpetrators including Abolore. We were told the others escaped with injuries. That was how I was rescued and handed over to my parents.

At the police station, we were referred to WARIF CENTRE for medicals and psychosocial counselling. I was medically attended to by the medical practitioners and the counselling sessions have helped to restore my dignity and give me hope.

All of these were done free of charge!

I want to thank the WARIF centre and its entire team. I no longer abhor bitterness and hatred, thanks to the therapy sessions. I have also stopped blaming myself for my misfortune and I can gladly say, I am making progress on my healing journey.

Dear survivor, please know that you are not alone and it is not your fault. Help is available.

If you have been raped or you know someone who has, please visit us at The WARIF Centre - 6, Turton Street, off Thorburn Avenue, Sabo, Yaba or call our 24-hour confidential helpline on 08092100009. For questions or more information please contact: info@ warifng.org *Real name of survivor changed for confidentiality

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