THISDAY STYLE MAGAZINE 13TH JUNE 2021

SUNDAY, JUNE 13, 2021

U R IB R A K S O

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G N G !I D N N I D NA T A S T S L L L L I S STT I

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

Olorogun Oskar Ibru is the first son of the late business Mogul Olorogun Michael Ibru. Oskar heads most of the companies under the Ibru Organization.

He faced a challenge recently with his recent spell of the dreaded Covid virus which had him incapacitated for seven weeks! He spent an afternoon with EXECUTIVE EDITOR Style, RUTH OSIME talking about his journey to hell and back and how the experience has changed him as a person.

CONTENT Society HIS EXCELLENCY GOVERNOR OF OGUN STATE DAPO ABIODUN TURNS 61 PG 6-7

Fashion PINK REIGN PG 10

TIMELESS PIECES PG

SURVIVORS PG 11

20-21

• CAPSULES • COLOURS OF LIFE PG17

MEN ACCESSORIES PG 22

WEEKEND WATCH RECOMMENDATION ON

ARISEPLAY

WORK THE WALK PG 18-19

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

Most times, they say the grass is always greener on the other side. But sometimes, this is a misconception because it is not necessarily the case. There are people who are just happy by nature and content with what they have be it little or large. At the same time, you can also be rich but still empty inside. There have been cases when even with all the wealth, you actually envy those who though not as privileged, are actually happier than you with all your trimmings. The point I am trying to make here is that, seeing your cup as half empty or half full, is your choice. And it is that choice that will determine how you cope with life’s hard knocks and challenges.

Our cover personality this week, Olorogun OSKAR IBRU is one man who might have it all, but his strongest trait is his jovial countenance. Oskar has remained a happy camper ever since l have known him. Witty as always not to mention his flamboyance, he is always a breath of fresh air in every gathering.

So when we heard of his recent challenge with the COVID virus, many people got worried because his case was so severe. Some did not think he would survive. But being a fighter and also a very lucky man, Oskar survived his ordeal and has literally lived to tell his tale. His experience has made him appreciate life even more. People should take a cue from a personality like his because after all, what is life worth if it is devoid of gaiety and laughter? How bad can things be if we do not remember to appreciate the little things that makes life worth living? Regardless of circumstance, we don’t have to wait till near death experiences to re-evaluate our lives. We should learn to live for the moment and learn not to allow daily challenges overcome us as a people. Yes, it is tough. Yes, we live in crucial times. But do we throw the baby away with the bath water and stay morose and heavy-laden forever? No. We have to build ourselves with prayers and resilience.

Now and again, do something you enjoy. WALK THE WALK and indulge in things that can lighten your mood and share more special moments with loved ones. Add some colour like PINK REIGN into your daily existence. Find the time.

Make the time. Reach out. Connect. Life is too short for it not to be precious.

You can’t wait till life isn’t hard anymore before you decide to be happy.

Instagram: @thisdaystyle | Twitter: @thisdaystyleon | Instagram: @thisdaystyle | Website: www.thisdaystyle.ng

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SEGUN OLOKETUYI & BIMBO ASHIRU

ONIKEPO BRAITHWAITE

RONKE SOYOMBO & YINKA OGUNDIM

TOMI COKER JACK CHAGOURY

UDY KALU & CHARLES NKATA ETIGWE UWA FOLASHADE OGUNDAIRO

ABDULRAZAQ ISA CHRIS NKWONTA

MODELE SARAFA-YUSUF

DEBBIE OGHENE BIODUN FARI-AROLE & YEMISI AKANNI

BOLA ODUKALE

LANRE TEJUOSO

SEGUN SENBANJO

GBENGA OBADARA

FEMI IBITOYE

BUKOLA OSUNSANYA

KAYODE OJO

OLUOMO OLAKUNLE TAIWO

HRM ADEWALE OSIBERU SEGUN & BOLA OLUGBOYEGUN

HRM ADELEKE IDOWU BASIBO

REV M. OLUSINA FAPE

HRM OBA BABATUNDE AJAYI

SOLOMON OLAMILEKAN ADEOLA

SELIMOT OLAPEJU OTTUN

YEMI & AYOTUNDE LAWAL

HIS EXCELLENCY GOVERNOR OF OGUN STATE

DAPO ABIODUN TURNS 61

Recently, the Governor of Ogun state, HE Dapo Abiodun turned 61 and a lunch reception was held for him at the Presidential lodge in Abeokuta.

With friends, family and members of his team, speeches were made about him with the most poignant one made by his wife Bamidele who said they met when she was just 16. She went on to extol his attributes and these sentiments were mirrored by others who also had their bit to say about this special day.

Dapo in return, rose to the occasion and thanked his guests for honouring his invitation and seized the opportunity to announce his various projects on ground and his plans to ensure Ogun state remains a hub for business opportunities, welfare growth and financial empowerment for the people he has pledged to serve. Dapo is leaving no stone unturned and is working back to back to leave a lasting legacy that will long outlive his tenure.

It was a lovely evening as the celebrant enjoyed a brief moment of celebration from his ever-sobusy schedule.

PHOTOS: KUNLE OGUNFUYI

GOV DAPO & BAMIDELE ABIODUN OF OGUN STATE

DEP GOV NOIMOT SALAKO-OYEDELE

AREMO OLUSEGUN OSOBA

LAMISSA & TOBI ABIODUN

TOKUNBO TALABI

BEN AKABUEZE

RONALD CHAGOURY

OLUSEGUN OGUNSANYA

DAPO OKUBADEJO

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STYLE & DESIGN

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9530 Sunday, June 13, 2021

STYLE & DESIGN

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, 9530 Sunday, June 13, 2021

ANU

COLEMAN DOMINIGO

BLUE MMOMBO

MIMI ONALAJA

IDIA AISIEN

MIMI ONALAJA

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VIOLET EZEDIMORA

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BY FUNK KUFEJI

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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 will be 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 which covers initiatives in health, education and community service.

WARIF offers assistance to survivors of rape and sexual violence through the WARIF Centre a safe haven where trained professionals are present full time, 6 days a week including public holidays to offer immediate medical care, forensic medical examinations, psycho-social counselling and welfare services which include shelter, legal aid and vocational skills training. These services are provided FREE of charge to any survivor who walks into the Centre.

I met one of our neighbors who we call Uncle “ChuChu”. I greeted him and as I made to leave, he called me back and said he needed me to run an errand. I stopped and went back to the Marwa Tricycle and he told me to enter inside and collect the item. Immediately I did, he carried me and laid me on the back seat of the Marwa tricycle. I did not understand what was going on, so I shouted his name loudly to please give me the item and let me go, rather than allow me go, he quickly covered my mouth with a white handkerchief that was in his hands so my voice could not be heard. He further dropped the curtain of the Marwa tricycle with his other hand as I struggled on.

This is Oghenetejiri storyMany people still don’t believe that pedophiles exist in our society. Their basis for this assumption is because most African families follow a communal lifestyle where many people are responsible for raising children; as well as pointing them to the right direction. I believe my story will serve as an eye opener to the sad realities and menace our society is currently dealing with.

My name is Tejiri and this is my story. My parents are strict disciplinarians and they do their best to provide our basic needs such as: food, clothing, shelter and quality education for me and my siblings. This is because my parents are illiterates and have been disadvantaged in many ways due to inadequate education. They made up their minds not to spare any efforts in ensuring we are properly educated. In my school, I am doing well academically and I can boldly say am that I am a highflyer. It’s necessary to mention here that am not the only child of my parents because I have two other siblings, an elder brother named Ogenemedoh. He is 2 years my senior and a younger sister by the name OgheneruKevwe, she just turned 7 last month.

We live in a densely populated area in Lagos and most of the houses in my community are quite old. We live in a small apartment popularly known as “Face me, I Face you”. My mom is a trader who deals in foot wears and her shop is located beside my house among other stores in the neighourhood. In the evenings, most children in the neighbourhood come out to play with their counterparts and I and my siblings look forward to playing with our friends every evening after school. We always have so much fun playing hide and seek game, folk tale stories telling, rolling dices amongst others. Our parents are also not left out because they also engage in chats and banters with their friends whilst others simply take cold chilled beer and listen to news on the radio. The presence of the adults around is to monitor us and ensure we are safe and keep out of trouble.

This particular evening, my mom had just closed for the day from her shop and i greeted her as she entered

the building. As her usual custom, she left to go have her bath so she can join other mothers in the day’s discussion. Meanwhile, we were playing the “Hide and Seek game” and it was my turn to search for others who had gone to hide. I counted 1 to 10 and shouted the usual “Ready or Not, Here I come” and raced off to look for my playmates. I was able to find all of them except one in my group so it occurred to me to start checking the tricycles simply referred to as “Keke Marwa” parked in front of our building. I would look inside and run along to the next until I got to this particular one and I met one of our neighbors who we call Uncle “ChuChu”.

I greeted him and as I made to leave, he called me back and said he needed me to run an errand. I stopped and went back to the Marwa Tricycle and he told me to enter inside and collect the item. Immediately I did, he carried me and laid me on the back seat of the Marwa tricycle. I did not understand what was going on, so I shouted his name loudly to please give me the item and let me go, rather than allow me go, he quickly covered my mouth with a white handkerchief that was in his hands so my voice could not be heard. He further dropped the curtain of the Marwa tricycle with his other hand as I struggled on. Since, I was little, he overpowered me and removed my pants, and then he also removed his own belt and penetrated me with his private part. I was in so much pain as he raped me and there was blood all over the back seat of the tricycle. In what looked like a dream, suddenly, I saw someone open the Marwa curtain and it was my elder brother who caught him in the heinous act.

It turned out that my mother had sent my elder brother to buy Spaghetti so she could prepare dinner for the family, then my brother decided we go together and some of the children directed him to the spot of the Marwa. They told my brother that was the last place they saw me.

The perpetrator on noticing he has been caught in the act jumped up and ran away, my brother was also

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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9530 Sunday, June 13, 2021

STYLE & DESIGN

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, 9530 Sunday, June 13, 2021

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confused and ran to the house shouting my mother’s name on top of his voice and my mom told me she knew something was not right from the tone of his voice. She told me that she quickly drained the pail of water on her head, covered herself with her wrapper and ran out.

My mom said she ran out confused and shouted what is the matter to my brother. According to my brother he simply told my mummy, “Uncle Chuchu is on top of Tejiri” repeatedly and my mother shouted “what” with a loud voice and ran along with him to the scene of the incident. My mother saw me and carried me straight into the house and called our family nurse who came around to take care of me, since I was bleeding from my vagina.

Additionally, my mother told my dad and they quickly left to the Police Station to report the rape incident. The entire compound was aware by now and there was a lot of pandemonium but my parents did not mind.

All they cared about was my welfare and also for the perpetrator who was at large to be caught and brought to book. Since the perpetrator was nowhere to be found.

Stigmatization set in from my neighbors, who pretended to sympathize with us and this further traumatized me and my family.

As a result of my ordeal, I began to experience flashbacks, shame, anxiety, nightmares and loss of appetite. I became depressed because the perpetrator had not been found despite all the efforts by my parents and security agencies. I found it very difficult to talk about the assault because of fear, hurt, and shame in my community and school. My teachers and friends were very supportive but they did not have the requisite knowledge of a professional in handling trauma so I began to perform poorly in my academics. I can tell you without a shadow of doubt that I might not have been alive or well enough to write my story if I did not come in contact with the WARIF centre. At the Centre, I went through proper medical assessment, treatment and counselling services for free. I am starting to feel better and I am going to continue my counselling sessions. I believe I can take on the world and achieve my dreams again. I want to be a medical doctor, own a NGO and be an advocate for gender based violence especially victims of rape and other forms of sexual abuse. I know there are many other girls that might go through my experience and I want to be able to help them. The perpetrator has also been found and I am sure he will be made to pay for what he did to me.

I have a bit of hope again and I hope my story will give you hope as well.

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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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9530 Sunday, June 13, 2021

Olorogun Oskar Ibru is the first son of the late business Mogul Olorogun Michael Ibru. Oskar heads most of the companies under the Ibru Organization. The Organization, established in 1956, became one of the largest conglomerates in Nigeria. By 1990 it had between 9,000 and 11,000 employees. By 2009, the Ibru Organization was a multi-billion dollar business with interests that include shipping, agriculture, aviation, banking, marine and oil and gas.

Although not born with a silver spoon from birth, from a young age, Oskar grew up amidst wealth as a privileged child. But this in no way made him sheltered. From a family whose feet are firmly planted on the ground, Oskar’s background ensured humility and respect for people was the watchword in their home. This explains why he has friends from all works of life and of different ages. A very amiable man, Oskar has maintained his sense of humor and joviality till date.

For someone who seems to have everything at his fingertips, Oskar has had his own share of challenges.

Like the phrase says, ‘The rich also cry’.

Fortunately, he has been able to overcome life’s hard knocks and is still standing. One of the said challenges was his recent spell with the dreaded Covid virus which had him incapacitated for seven weeks! He was in a coma for three weeks and spent another four weeks in treatment. Many did not think he would survive but Oskar is a ‘cat with nine lives’ and is in no hurry to go anywhere anytime soon. He spent an afternoon with EXECUTIVE EDITOR Style, RUTH OSIME talking about his journey to hell and back and how the experience has changed him as a person. Oskar is married to an American named Wanda and they are blessed with three children, You are one of those people refer to as being born with a silver spoon. Looking back at your youth, what type of measures did your parents take to instill discipline in you?

My parents were very grounded people. Humility is the watch word of the Ibrus and right from youth, we were always told to be careful how we behave and what we do with ourselves because we have a name to protect.

However, the silver spoon wasn’t quite so silver. Actually, it was more bronze than silver because I was born in No 6 Moshalashi street, Shomolu. When my father started the Fish business with my mom, he built a bigger house for us and that when the silver started coming.

You just have to keep moving and try your best to make your own surroundings as pleasant as possible and anybody you can assist, feel free if you ca n afford it, not only in money but also in relationships. I like people a lot.

How old were you at that time?

My father started business in 1956, I was born in 1958.

From 1958-63, we moved to Ikeja and when the war started in 1966, we moved to Apapa and from there, I went on to school in England.

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What do you miss most about your childhood that is conspicuously missing in today’s times?

There is a lot of things we could do in our time.

Things are very dull now, people are sitting in front of a television playing with these computers and phones.

Even in meetings, people are on their phones. In our days, we used to play ludo, football, make kites from newspapers glued together with chewing gum or eba!

We were very ingenious having fun and playing around.

We were happy bunch of people, we would roll tires on the road or dance in rain. We were always busy. My mother taught us to cook and at a very young age, we starting assisting her in the kitchen. But now, there is no interaction. We talk through the computer which is rather depressing.

Do you also miss the freedom you had in your youth compared to today’s times where safety isn’t guaranteed anymore?

We had no fence in our house in Shomolu, it was more of a compound than a house where about 60 people lived. My parents and I were on top floor, the penthouse, the middle floor had my grand parents and all their siblings and then a whole bunch of cousins from Delta were on the bottom floor. So it was really fun living together as one big family and even the employees became members of the family too.

How did you celebrate the festive periods?

Firstly Uncle Phillip, my father’s immediate brother made sure we all spent Christmas at his house in ikeja, we came from all angles and there was no discrimination in terms of relationship with wives because we were one big family.

Are you the oldest of all the grand children?

I have an elder sister Christiana. I am the alpha male of the family.

Who played the most pivotal role in making you the man that you are today?

My mother influenced me a lot in her behavior and style of life. She welcomed everybody as the door was always open. You can barely visit our house and not eat. She was so much fun and full of laughter but also a disciplinarian. Once in awhile, I got a good whipping if I misbehaved.

Do you think such disciplinary actions is missing in today’s parenting?

I know it’s missing which is terrible! The way some kids talk to their parents, if my son mistakenly talks to me like that, I don’t think we will be together anymore. I try to bring up my children the way my parents brought me up. There is certain amount of discipline and fun but mostly, I want them to enjoy their lives. I try to do for my kids what I wanted to do at their age that I couldn’t do so I am passing the wish I had onto them.

So sometimes you draw the line?

I am lucky with my son. His effort is E but his result is A! Sometimes my wife gets mad at me but what can I do?

He’s blessed that way even if I have to say so myself.

Now with the way things are in falling apart in Nigeria with both the rich and poor feeling the pinch, a popular Pastor recently suggested everyone have a plan B because of the seemingly impending doom ahead of us. What is your take on that statement?

First of all, plan B shouldn’t exist in terms of survival. If

plan A doesn’t work how do you know plan B will work?

It’s a difficult thing for me to abandon all the people I know here and only come home when they die.

You just have to keep moving and try your best to make your own surroundings as pleasant as possible and anybody you can assist, feel free if you can afford it, not only in money but also in relationships. I like people a lot.

One can say you are a cat with nine lives as you have experienced near death situations in the past. Before the last incident you had, tell us about some similar situations you’ve had in the past?

Because we had many businesses all around the country I preferred traveling by road and got to stop in different places to know what is going on in the country as interaction with people is very important to me.

During that period, I had several bad experiences. There was an incident where I travelled from Port Harcourt to Benin Republic without eating. When I got home, I just sat down and slumped! When I woke up, I found myself in the hospital. Several near misses have happened other times too and each time, I come back stronger.

But l have come to accept that I need to stop all the traveling now.

Let’s talk about your most recent incident where you caught Covid. How did you catch it and when did it become serious?

It’s in the air, I didn’t get it within the house. Like I said, I like being around people. When it first happened, I knew something was wrong immediately because I kept getting tired when I walked. It got to the point where they were carrying a chair to follow me around and that was when l decided to take the test and it was positive.

The first time I tested positive, I was immediately given drugs and I went home. After five days, I was okay.

Then it hit me the second time after seven days. This time around, I couldn’t breathe and was taken to the hospital at Ikeja. Within a few minutes of my arrival, I went into coma for almost three weeks and all I felt was pain. I was placed on oxygen and even at that, it felt worse.

You were unconscious for three and spent four more weeks in recovery. Were you masked all through the seven weeks in the hospital?

I was using the oxygen mask, I wasn’t on the ventilator.

The last four weeks I ate very well.

You had a room with two beds, you said one person you shared the room with didn’t survive. Was this during your four week recovery period?

Yes. During this time, I also heard about other people

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that had died too. The day I came in was the day my brother Bolu Akin-Olugbade came out dead. And seven weeks and three days later, another brother, Kiti Rhodes died too. It was terrible. I was shocked and I have reached out to their families.

How many times have you had this experience and how is this one different from the others?

Three or four times. Each time was different. One or two was not just clear at all but I knew I was somewhere else but I didn’t die.

In this last one I didn’t get to see Jesus, it seemed my Aunty Grace was trying to fill out the form for me to get on transit and return but I heard from her and my father that just on the other side, were my mother and two grand mothers.

Did these experiences feel so real?

Yes, It was so real that I felt it happened and I still feel same way even weeks after. And because it had happened to me before, it’s as if it is getting clearer with time.

When you came out did your family narrate their trauma while you were gravely ill?

Oh yes! My wife went through hell. She didn’t have to tell me herself. People did. Also, two of my friends weren’t at rest with my condition too. My son was very strong. He was there every day. Also, my brothers had to get me medicines from Ghana because the medicine needed at that point in time wasn’t available. They initially went to Cameron, Benin Republic before they found it in Ghana.

Are you involved in any charitable ventures?

Of course! I just finished giving out malaria treatment packs to people both here in Apapa where my businesses are and also in Delta in my village. Once you test malaria positive you can treat yourself with the pack, the instructions are there and they are for those who can’t afford it otherwise. During Covid, I gave out a whole lot of food, I personally supervised the distribution because if I had picked one person to distribute, all these things worth millions will not get to the people as it should.

Some people who have experienced covid especially as severe as yours, have had side effects. Do you have any of those?

No I don’t. At first I had slight problem breathing but within one or two weeks, it was all gone.

You’ve been married to Wanda your wife for over 30years. What do you find most endearing about her?

She has always been a sweetheart I can’t say anything less than that. She is a very disciplined person and has been the one there to discipline me. She has been blending very well, she is very strong, she works very hard. She has a tea room in Oniru, a botanical garden, an event center in Delta. She is also working on a hotel attaching it to the center. She has an NGO called Pathways. It’s like a school where they are taught how to make a bed, catering services, how to dress, speak and behave to people. It’s more like tourism plan as she intends to make more people visit Nigeria. The students are between the ages of 18-30. When they are done learning, they get a certificate with her stamp which enables them get a job. She is indeed a hard worker.

Tell us more about your near death experience, you spoke about how you went to another realm whilst incapacitated.

Yes I did but it wasn’t my first time. This one was just a very conspicuous one as I really remember everything

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Alero Adollo aleroadollo@yahoo.com

through the realm and got back.

How has this incident changed you as a person?

What are the things you did a lot of but you now do less of?

First of all, I don’t like going out as much as I used to before, I try to get earlier sleep. I try not to put myself on any unnecessary extra-curricular activities. I think am godlier now although I have always been a good Christian to the best of my knowledge.

You once dabbled into politics, are you still interested in venturing into that again and if not, what are the things you want to do now, more than ever, to make a positive impact especially after your near death experience?

I will never run for any position again, I feel I am too big to be a Commissioner, and I am a little bit too old to be a Governor because it’s a lot of work. You have to know the people and definitely I am not running for President, but I am still a politician. I remain a leader and things are not done without my knowledge in my own constituency. I am from Ughelli North. As an Urobo man, I know things about the Urobos. I am involved in them, just not running for any position.

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, 9530 Sunday, June 13, 2021

Was it the time you came out from the hospital you found out about the death of Bolu and Kiti?

Yes almost immediately I got to know. There was someone I shared a room also with who made it and he kept me going. His wasn’t as severe as mine.

How did he keep you going?

Well he was always talking and there was a night I had a seizure and I was told he helped out. Even though I wasn’t responding to him, he kept talking to me, his name is Dolapo. We have been friends since my school days and he was there with me for several weeks before I was moved to another hospital.

The first time I tested positive, I was immediately given drugs and I went home. After five days, I was okay. Then it hit me the second time after seven days. This time around, I couldn’t breathe and was taken to the hospital at Ikeja. Within a few minutes of my arrival, I went into coma for almost three weeks and all I felt was pain. I was placed on oxygen and even at that, it felt worse.

that happened. I had actually ‘crossed over’ even though I don’t know how it happened. I remember it was very difficult getting there. I arrived at a very classy airport.

As l was stepping into the hall, I looked to my left (front) and I saw my Aunty Grace who had passed a couple of years back. There has been a slight rift between us while she was alive and I wasn’t very happy with her. So I was a bit disappointed when I saw her. I was actually about to hide from her when something told me God won’t be happy if I did so I let go of my grudge. Just as I was about to go to her, I turned to my left again (back) and saw my father coming towards me very angry look on his face. He looked so young like a 40 year old man while my aunt looked 22 and was very beautiful. When I asked him why he was angry, he said I shouldn’t be there and that I should get back to where I came from.

It was more or less like he has spoken to God and it had been agreed between them that I should go back.

My dad wanted me to back and work for God and also there were things he was supposed to do and he wanted me to go back and complete it. While he was yelling at me, Aunty Grace who was there, became my savior and told my dad to calm down assuring him I will go back. I then turned to my right and saw my elder brother who has also passed on. He was a little bit grumpy and I don’t know why because we never spoke in this trance. On my return, unlike the difficulty I faced when going, coming back was very easy! I just slipped

Did you do any thanksgiving when you came out?

I haven’t done one yet. I am waiting for the appropriate time. Firstly I want to be sure I am perfectly healthy and secondly because of the covid situation and the social distancing. I don’t want to risk lives until the time is right.

Have you thought of doing something that will not necessarily involve crowds but just to show gratitude to God? Yes that will be before my wife travels which is anytime now.

How have kept up with the exercises?

I still do my physiotherapy, I swim every day, I play tennis and do my exercises.

What are your plans for the next couple of years, your retirement plans?

Thankfully I have already built my own house in the village even though I am actually supposed to move to my father’s house but I really don’t see that happening this time. My father built 19 rooms for his 17 children and just in case, included two other rooms. Everybody wants their room so I have to maintain the house and let everyone have access to their rooms. I have already built my own house because I know that when I go, my son will be in his own house already. I am trying my best to see if I can relocate fully back home. The longest I have been able to stay away was last year when the covid started, for six months. Before that, I was visiting weekly and I love it at home. That is a retirement place I have made for myself. Even as at now, I don’t go work up every morning. People come to me now.

Within the next two years, when I will be 65, I will retire to my village finally. I also have a beautiful resort and home in Ghana and in Benin Republic so I can visit there more often than America. My kids are all back so what am I looking for? It’s a beautiful resort, I have different animals there.

Yes, as I get older, I get closer and enjoy nature more. I am also building a ‘museum’ called ‘ogua’ in my language. It’s like a meeting hall. I don’t want it built by my son. If I have meetings, it will be held there and that is where I intend been buried along with my sweetheart.

I want to live till 104 years. My dad died at 86 while my grandmother was 97 so I am very positive about living longer on earth.

CAPSULES

BY FUNKE BABS-KUFEJI

The days are evil and the the world is moving in different directions and we are following.

What is going on and what did we do to deserve the pain and anguish in the land. Who we offend for fatherland oooooo....

Children are crying, mothers are wailing, fathers are confused as they cannot feed their children.

The street is not laughing and the home is boiling over, what can the righteous do in a world where nothing makes sense.

Daily recall of men of God, monthly tears fermenting 6 feet, what exactly is the meaning of life when joy is squeezed out .

Homes are broken, lives dysfunctional, purchasing power non existent, earnings reduced. We did not bargain for a hostile life in a hostile environment amongst hostile forces.....all the average human being seeks is a life where he/she will be given the opportunity to birth their dreams.

What then can we do when faced with despair and despondency, do we give in or do we fight when our balloon has lost the ability to be inflated.

Can a wounded soldier fight, can a soul who lives her days in daily torment due to different agents of socialisation survive in a world where no one seems to care.

Can anyone thump their chest that this is a world they are comfortable to bring innocent lives into, because walahi the daily bombardment with negativity takes the biscuit.

E get as e be, I tell you, mad people invade sane village and village square scatter, who will bell the cat ooooo, ę gba wa biko.....

Many are unemployed with no hope for tomorrow, many don’t even know where the next meal is coming from, many are homeless, many have been orphaned and people are celebrating in the midst of people who have nothing to lose, pray tell, what do they expect to happen?

Many do not even dare to dream these days as waking up at all is fast becoming a luxury, I see so many people around with heart wrenching life issues, whilst others have turned Dom Perignon to tap water. What a world, the inequality rankles.

As a people in our country we are resilient, whilst that is worthy of applause, it has now become a sin to be tolerant, when resilience becomes so inane that when pushed to the wall rather than face our antagonists and fight, we chisel through. We need to advise ourselves lest we end up flat on our faces pressed down in the miry clay, lifeless.

When people charge at us and ask us what we can do, we face them head on and tell them what we can do, we have been underestimated, it’s time to let the world know that we cannot be toyed with. We are Nigeria, we are Africa, we are the world, nobody, I repeat nobody can stop the flow of the sea at sea, neither can anyone kill the spirit of a determined people.

Depression dared us and we resisted, frustration challenged us and we resisted, all side effects of questionable governance over 60 years post independence. Vested interest has now decided to dare us, as a people united in purpose we must call their bluff and tell them we are not fooled. We will not listen to their call to unnecessary carnage to birth self interest. We say No, we will resist all that want to use our blood as manure for their dreams. The gentleness of a deer does not reduce his speed when he meets with a charging lion, we have sheath our claws to build, because destruction is an enemy no one wants around them.

A call to change is a quiet resistance of status quo, what is status quo but a spirit of a people who have refused to see that they have the power to be the change they seek rather than expecting it of others. Nothing wrong in expecting the best, but you do not shine your shoes with water. It’s time to get into the “spiritual trenches” and birth a new dawn in the present tide, remember, the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty through God.

Colours of Life with Koko Kalango

Jesus in Joshua Joshua is a type of Jesus. If you have been following this series, you have probably notice that I am slightly obsessed with Hebrew, Judaism and Biblical history in general. Though I am not sure when exactly, along the way I picked up the fact that Yeshua and Joshua are the same Hebrew name meaning ‘Yahweh saves’ or ‘Yahweh is salvation’. ‘Jesus’ is its Greek form. So, the name ‘Joshua’ already directs us to Jesus.

Deuteronomy marks the end of the Torah, the collective name for the first 5 books of the Bible, meaning ‘instruction’ or ‘law’.

Moses’ death is recorded at the close of this book and it definitely feels like the end of an era. After all, Moses has been the central figure since his birth in Exodus.

But even beyond that, the role of Joshua points us to Christ. Joshua led the Israelites into Canaan to take hold of the Promised Land which God had given them. Likewise, Jesus leads believers into the eternal life which He promised. He leads us into God’s rest.

Towards the end of the book of Joshua we are told that the LORD “gave them rest on every side, just as He had sworn to their forefathers” (21:44). It is such a hallelujah moment after all the battles the Israelites had fought. Yet, in the New Testament letter to the Hebrews, we are told that this rest was not all-encompassing (Heb. 4). It was physical rest from war and a nomadic lifestyle, but it was not permanent. In fact, it fell apart in the following book of Judges.

I suppose their rest in the book of Joshua is not permanent because it was never meant to be. It was a placeholder for – a pointer towards – the eternal rest they could have in the Messiah Jesus. When He came, He offered rest that was not based on extraneous circumstances, unlike the rest of the Israelites in Canaan: “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.”

Matthew 11:28 The rest of Jesus – a Sabbath-rest which Hebrews 4 speaks about – is based on Him and Him alone. I believe it is both the peace we experience as His followers here on earth, and the heavenly rest we will experience in our next lives.

And while the entire story of Joshua displays our need as humans for rest that only God can give, there is a particular event in the book which specifically shadows the saving work of Jesus on the cross. Let me give you a hint: a scarlet cord.

The scarlet cord appears in Joshua 2, the famous story of Rahab and the spies. At a time when God’s covenant was only with the Jews, this Gentile prostitute was allowed

to join God’s family because she had faith that He was “God in heaven above and on the earth below” (2:11), and she acted accordingly. (This faith was so noteworthy that Rahab is one of the examples in the Hebrews 11 Faith Hall of Fame). As a sign of her protection from the destruction of Jericho, Rahab was instructed to hang a scarlet cord from her window. Any family member of hers would be saved by virtue of being inside the house from which the scarlet cord hung.

Did a light just go off in your head? Because it did in mine.

The scarlet cord is a symbol of Jesus’ blood.

Like we discussed in my write up on Jesus in Exodus, Jesus’ blood protects us from destruction and from the wrath of God. Like the scarlet thread, the blood of Christ is not concerned with where the people inside the house come from or what they have done or who they used to be. The scarlet cord did not work based on who was inside the house. At the time when they made the covenant, the Hebrew spies had no idea which of Rahab’s relatives would be there! No, the cord worked because of the covenant that was made between Rahab and the spies. The same is true for Christians. When we enter into the new covenant with God through His Son Jesus Christ, its power to cover our sins and save us has nothing to do with who we are or where we are coming from, and everything to do with His atoning work on the cross.

Finally, Rahab’s engrafting into the Jewish people is a shadow of our engrafting. I expect that most people reading this are not Jews, which means you probably were not born into a covenant with the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. I wasn’t either.

But by satisfying all the demands of the Law, Jesus made a way for those of us who were once far away from God to draw near. In his epistle to the church in Ephesus, Paul tells us Gentiles to: “remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ. For He Himself is our peace...” Ephesians 2:12-15 Joshua was great, but I would take Jesus over him any day. Would not you agree?

COLOURS OF LIFE SHOW Watch our show on DOVE TV, DSTV 349, Saturdays at 3pm or on you tube at Colours of Life TV. Check our daily devotional @ coloursoflifeministry

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STYLE & DESIGN

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9530 Sunday, June 13, 2021

STYLE & DESIGN

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, 9530 Sunday, June 13, 2021

WORKTheWALK! They say diamonds are a girl’s to be a close second. Whether or prefer chic flats, Instagram swoon over the hottest IT shoes. invest in right now or you want some buzz worthy Designer shoes

JW ANDERSON CHAIN LOAFERS

BY FUNKE

best friend, but shoes have you’re obsessed with stilettos makes it easier than ever to If you are looking for shoes to to be bang on trend, here are every girl should covet.

PRADA PUMPS

CHIOMA IKOKWU

BABS-KUFEJI

MACH MACH CRYSTAL DOUBLE BOW PUMP

AKUNNA NWALA

KIKA OSUNDE

LISA FOLAWIYO

THE ATTICO DEVON MULES The Attico’s Devon footwear is made to be seen. Set on pyramid-shaped block heels that perfectly mirror the sleek square toes, these mules are fast becoming a fashion favourite.

JW ANDERSON CHAIN LOAFERS The JW Anderson chain loafers have captivated the feet of the fashion It pack everywhere in the world and they are absolutely loving it.

If you can get your hands on a pair right now, then better do so fast.

MACH MACH CRYSTAL DOUBLE BOW PUMP Made with a satin material in baby pink, classic black or crisp white, these heels are designed by the sister duo Mach & Mach. The heels are decorated with crystal double ankle straps topped off with a crystal double bow. Rock them casually with jeans or with your favourite outfit and you are sure to steal the shoe show.

FISAYO LONGE

ALEXANDER WANG PVC NOVA SANDALS Alexander Wang drew inspiration from the 90’s to create this wearwith-everything sandal, featuring transparent vinyl and studs along the edge, finished off with a sling back strap

TOKE MAKINWA

THE ATTICO DEVON MULE AMINA MUADDI PVC PUMPS

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ALEXANDER WANG PVC NOVA SANDALS Alexander Wang drew inspiration from the 90’s to create this wearwith-everything sandal, featuring transparent vinyl and studs along the edge, finished off with a sling back strap

PRADA PUMPS The Prada pumps is fast becoming the most desired shoes now and, especially, when we can gather together once again.

The slingbacks are perfect for those who want to maintain the concept of style and comfort.

Available in different shades, this chic footwear has become the darling of influencers.

ALEXANDER WANG PVC NOVA SANDALS

CHICHI ADOGU

BOTTEGA VENETA MESH LACE PUMPS. We have been seeing these shoes everywhere and it’s on everyone right now from celebrities to instagram influencers. It is dubbed Bottega’s biggest hit and many more fashion It girls are waiting to get their hands on a pair.

BOTTEGA VENETA MESH PUMPS

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THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9530 Sunday, June 13, 2021

STYLE & DESIGN

KIKA OSUNDE

NNENNA OKOYE

AMA GODSON

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, 9530 Sunday, June 13, 2021

STYLE & DESIGN

STELLA ADEWUNMI

Timeless

GEMMA BELLE

PRICILLA

ALEXADRIAH SHO-SILVA

PIECES

The fashion world is known for setting trends and forecasting what’s new, hot, and worthy to be worn. However, as much as fashion is obsessed with newness, it also frequently circles back to styles of old and wardrobe staples that have an unlimited shelf life. Certain wardrobe items are timeless classics belonging to any wardrobe.

These items stand the test of time because not only are they universally flattering, they can be interchanged to create a myriad of looks that carry you throughout the years.

BY FUNKE BABS-KUFEJI

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STYLE & DESIGN

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, No. 9530 Sunday, June 13, 2021

STYLE & DESIGN

THISDAY Style Vol. 22, 9530 Sunday, June 13, 2021

BY USIADE ISIOMA

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FOR MEN

ACCESSORIES

FASHION

Even though men’s fashion has always been popular in the spotlight, the attention to the finer details often gets overlooked. Accessories for men tend to be ignored, while the front runners of apparel such as shirts and jeans get our top focus and consideration missing the fact that accessories can easily make or break our outfit and style. While fashion is cyclical, the advice given has held true for a long time, and will probably hold true indefinitely in the future. Never underestimate the power of wearing good men’s fashion accessories. STYLE has outlined below the top 12 best accessories every man should own and wear.

Cufflinks Belts

Belts are somewhat simple, yet they really help tie your outfit together. In a more formal occasion, match your belt and shoes. In a casual setting, you can opt to wear mismatched shades; as matching belt and shoes casually can look odd. For a more casual or militaristic look, consider a web belt.

AUDREY LUNDA

Rings

Men’s rings should not be limited to marriage, nor should they be limited to gold or silver. A statement ring can outrightly uplift your look. Simple brands are usually best to wear so as not to distract the rest of your outfit. But do not be afraid to try exotic materials.

JEREMIAH OGBODO

Eye Wear

Good glasses can really elevate an outfit.

If you don’t need prescription glasses, stick to sunglasses. Consider your facial shape when wearing eyewear; rounder faces look better in glasses that are more rectangular, and faces with sharp features, such as a strong jawline, can easily wear round glasses.

NEO MOBOR AKPOFURE

Hats

Hats can often be very difficult to wear properly. Felt hats, such as the classic fedora or trilby are great for formal or semi-formal wear. For very casual wear, beanies, baseball caps, beret or bucket hats are more appropriate. Reserve hats with a real brim, such as the panama, for a time you wear a collar. BUCKMAN

Cufflinks go hand in hand with French cuff shirts. By their nature, French cuffs are very formal. Choice of design is wholly up to the wearer; just avoid gaudy designs, such as large gemstones. The formality of French cuffs may be toned down using coloured, silkknot cufflinks. MAI ATAFO

Necklaces

Necklaces seem to go in and out of style in men’s fashion. If you want to wear a necklace, keep the pendant somewhat understated. Leather cords can work well for a casual look.

IKECHUKWU OGBONNA

Ties

Most people think of ties as only for office wear. Ties can easily be worn in a casual setting though. Keep the conservative silk ties for business meetings. Experiment with rougher textures or interesting patterns for more casual wear. Wool knit ties are always an interesting choice when you want to dress up, but still have fun with what you’re wearing.

OZOEMENA JOSEPH CHUKWU

Bracelets

Recently, bracelets have exploded into popularity in the men’s fashion world.

Leather cord bracelets are very popular and look good on every man. In fact we can safely say it’s one of the sexiest accessories men can adorn.

DOTUN

Scarves

Scarves are great; but only when the weather or outfit requires it. A heavy scarf in the heat is completely inappropriate.

But a colourful peekaboo scarf around the neck or outer pocket, or a silk one worn with a dinner suit does the trick.

Scarves are a very large accessory and can easily help provide a pop of colour to your outfit. AKIN FAMINU

Watches

Almost every man owns a watch. Most like to match their watch strap to their belt, if it’s leather. Fabric straps are more casual and metal straps should be gold or silver.

Keep the watch somewhat plain and avoid skeleton watches unless the watch is of very good quality and uses an interesting movement. UTI NWACHUKWU MASCARA WAND

Footwear

While not a true accessory in the sense, footwear is arguably one of the most important pieces of clothing in any outfit for men. Shoe styles are incredibly varied.

Leather is best for all but the most casual of times. Sandals should be relegated to very casual, or beach wear, and should be worn without socks.

MODEL FOR KIMONO KOLLECTION

Bags

When choosing a bag, never forget that their primary purpose is to hold your items.

For a dressier or sharper look, choose leather. Many people like to match all their leather goods. Messenger bags are great and the cross-body strap is comfortable.

Only use a briefcase for the more formal meetings. ALEX EKUBO

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