JUSTICE BOLAJI RATIFIED AND SWORN IN AS THE LORD JUSTICE OF LSS OAU

Following her election by Justices of the House of Lords (The Judicial Arm of the Law Students' Society, Obafemi Awolowo University), Justice Oyeniran Bolaji, from part 5, was presented before the Law Students' Representative Council (LSRC, The Legislative Arm) for ratification as the Lord Justice (LJ) of the Law Students' Society, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria.

She was duly ratified by the majority aye of the LSRC at exactly 7:54pm at the LSRC Sitting in the old Moot and Mock Court, Faculty of Law, OAU. Accordingly, at exactly 7:59pm, she was sworn in as the LJ by the President of the Society, His Excellent, President Adetunji Oluwatobi Paul.

Congratulations Lord Justice Oyeniran Bolaji!

Reported by:
OLABODE, OLADAPO SAMUEL
Public Relations Officer,
Law Students' Society,
Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria.

Full Biography of Oluwarotimi Akeredolu (SAN)

Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu SAN was born on 21st of July 1956 in Owo to Reverend J. Ola Akeredolu of the Akeredolu family and Lady Evangelist Grace B. Akeredolu of the Aderoyiju family of Igbotu, Ese Odo, in Ondo State.

Akeredolu started his primary education at Government School, Owo. He proceeded to Aquinas College, Akure, Loyola College, Ibadan and Comprehensive High School, Ayetoro, for his secondary school education and Higher School Certificate, respectively. He attended the Loyola College in Ibadan before he proceeded to the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University) to study Law, graduating in 1977.

In the University of Ile-Ife, his outstanding leadership capabilities soon came into fore spurring him to engage in the politics and governace of the student union at that time. He was elected as the vice-president of the student union, University of Ile-Ife in the 1975/1976 academic session.

Upon graduation, he was called to the Nigerian Bar 1978 where he meritoriously served the Nigerian Bar Association in various capacities at both the state and national levels. The record of his immense service spans almost three decades. Aketi was the secretary general of the Nigerian Bar Association, Ibadan branch from 1985 to 1986. He has been a member of the National Executive Council of the NBA from 1985 till date.

He served as the publicity secretary during the regime of late Alao-Aka Bashorun. A period considered as the golden era of the bar (1988 till 1989). He was also a member of the legal aid council from 1989 till 1991. He became the vice-chairman of the Ibadan branch in 1991 and subsequently, the chairman between 1992 and 1994. He first became a member of the body of benchers at the same time (1997 till 1999) and was subsequently re-appointed in 2006. He remains a member till date.

Aketi, as he is fondly called, was appointed Attorney General of Ondo State from 1997–1999. In 1998, he became a Senior Advocate of Nigeria. He embarked on far-reaching reforms as the state's Attorney General. Some of his achievements are still visible in the state judiciary till date.
He was Chairman of the Legal Aid Council (2005–2006).
Aketi was conferred the prestigious title of the Senior Advocate of Nigeria in the year 1998.
Perhaps, what stands out as the highest point of achievement at the bar was his election, unopposed as the president of the Nigerian Bar Association.

Aketi forced himself to the consciousness of the entire country and beyond through what has become his trademark; unyielding opposition to bad governance. He was a member of the governing council, Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies between 2008 and 2010, a member of council of legal education, a member of council, International Bar Association and Pan African Lawyers Union during the same period.

He currently serves as NBA representative in the National Judicial council. A devout christian, he is the chancellor of the Anglican church, Owo diocese.

Aketi is a recipient of myriads of awards including the Obafemi Awolowo University Alumni Association Merit Award, 1995; The NBA award of recognition on the conferment of the SAN title in 1998; Loyola College Old Boys Association Merit Award, 1995; Sportwriters' association Merit Award as a legal adviser, 1995; the Sportwriters' association Merit Award as a patron, 1998 and the Qatari bar assocation award among other numerous awards.

In a lecture in December 2009, Akeredolu said no amount of electoral reform or judicial system could give Nigeria free and fair elections, if Nigerians themselves refused to take practical steps to ensure that their votes count.
In 2012, the Nigerian Bar Association named its new secretariat in Abuja after him with its president citing the reason being the need for "generational identification and recognition of those who had contributed immensely to the development of the association.

Read: Biography of Engineer Oluseyi Makinde

In an undying quest to serve his fatherland, he initially entered into the governorship race in Ondo state under the flagbearership of the then Action congress of Nigeria now nomenclatized as the All Progressive Congress in the year 2013.
Due to his tenaciuos and selfless nature, he again entered into the gubernatorial race for the second time in the year 2016 under the flagbearership of the All Progressive Congress and on Sunday 27 November 2016 he was announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission as the winner of the Ondo State governorship race. He was sworn in as the governor of Ondo State on 24 February 2017 in Akure, the Ondo State Capital.

He married Betty Chioma Anyanwu Akeredolu of Emeabiam Owerri west local government. The marriage blessed is with four successful kids all making their marks in different facets of life.

OAU WATER AND MY CRY: MESSAGE TO GREAT IFE CEC; UNIVERSITY MANAGEMENT AND THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT

“Without the truth, there is no knowing; without the life, there is no living; without the cry, there is no soothing.”

I am not an activist. I am not a human rights advocate. I am just an innocent student being pushed to the wall. Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, is my institution of learning and I will do everything within my power to protect her integrity and promote the good image of the institution. It is my duty. It is our collective responsibility. However, it is also our obligation to cry out when things are going wrong and when situations are becoming unbearable. We need to be consoled. They call me The Smiling Man and here is my cry.

Water is known to be a universal basic resource. Daily, we utilise water for one thing or the other. We drink water. We use water for cooking, cleaning, washing, laundry and so much more. Water is important for daily health and sanitation.

Source of water being supplied is a key factor to the overall wellness of an individual. As a student of Great Ife, the major direct source of water supplied runs through water tanks and pipes. Day-to-day, students rely on the water supplied through those channels from OAU Dam in order to carry out various domestic activities such as bathing, cooking, washing, among others. Sadly, some even drink this water.

Although it is not news that the water being supplied from the University dam is devoid of characteristics of purified water, i.e. colourless, odourless and tasteless. It is deplorable that the mechanism employed in supplying water to the various halls of residence keep getting from bad to worse. Unfortunately, the management is just folding their arms and instead, watches as the ‘OAU water’ keeps flowing to various halls of residence and the university community.

Using ETF Hall as a case study. At the commencement of 2016/2017 academic session, the water tanks supplying water to the hall of residence have been in deplorable conditions. The storage tanks are very dirty. Some have no covers. The drain valves are in a state of disrepair. The water inlets are faulty. Consequently, students are left with dirty and noxious water. Equally, the faulty drain valves lead to constant wastage of water which thereby causes occasional scarcity of water supply. Surprisingly, the porter’s lodge is located directly in front of those faulty storage tanks. Members of ETF Hall Executive Council act as onlookers while students’ lives are in danger.

For cooking, residents of the Hall rely on these water reservoirs. Regrettably also, some students with “humble” backgrounds drink cassava flakes with the water supplied from those tanks. And the stakeholders are watching.

In a report of an international workshop jointly organised by WHO and InWEnt (Capacity Building International), Health as a Cross-Cutting Issue in Dialogues on Water for Food and the Environment, a table of the list of health issues associated with lack of (safe) water supply was drawn:

Health IssuesEnvironmental
DeterminantsSocial
Determinants
Truly Water–borne
diseases
Typhoid, shigellosis, cholera,
Hepatitis A, AmoebiasisLack of safe water supply
Lack of proper storage system
Improper handling of water at the level of household
Improper sanitation systemSocioeconomic status
Low health awareness
Behaviour

Water-related Diseases
Malaria, WNV, Filariasis, DengueImproper irrigation
Storage system
Improper SewerageImproper housing
Sleeping behaviour
Social status
Water-based diseases
Schistosomiasis, DrancunculiasisLack of safe water supply
Lack of proper storage system
Improper sanitation systemSocial status
Water-washed Diseases
Skin Diseases, TrachomaShortage of water supplyCrowding
Hygiene behaviour

Clearly, our lives are in danger.

MESSAGE TO THE GREAT IFE CEC

“To make democracy work, we must be a nation of participants, not simply observers. One who does not vote has no right to complain.” – Louis L’Amour

I voted.

As much as I respect the OAU Students’ Union; being our leaders, it is quite unfortunate that the vibrant Central Executive Council has turned into a departmental executive council. Issues affecting the welfare of Great Ife Students are being addressed on WhatsApp pages. No more megaphone announcements. No more deliberations. No more congress.

A Students’ Union is meant to be a pressure group that is meant to consistently keep the school management on their toes. Being a pressure group does not mean we have to be aggressive and rude thereby leading to school closure. We can simply be diplomatic and open to consultations, though adamant. It is our lives, and remember health is wealth.

Accordingly, I urge Great Ife CEC to put their house in order and lend our voice to the OAU management. You are our leaders and through our votes, we entrust, to a reasonable extent, our wellbeing on this campus in your hands. You wanted it and we gave it to you. Wake up and live up to the task.

MESSAGE TO THE UNIVERSITY MANAGEMENT AND THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT

Thousands of Great Ife Students have been severely affected by the poor condition of OAU water. I have spent more than four years on Great Ife Campus and I have witnessed students being rushed to the University’s health centre based on the poor condition of OAU water. Students are really suffering and their health is in jeopardy.

We are admitted into OAU to study one course or the other. However, the cost of living extremely transcends the cost of learning: overcrowding is a characteristic in various Halls of Residence; bed bugs are our closest pals; classrooms meant for 300 students are being allocated to 1,000 students; parents’ salaries are being withheld; yet, we are still being supplied with unhygienic water; among others. To make matters worse, the corporate world is demanding for a first class graduate. It is simply unfair!

I can’t just continue this article. The pain is just too much. However, I will close with this: water is colourless, odourless and tasteless; we use OAU water for bathing, cooking, and regrettably, some students even drink it . . . SAVE US!

OLABODE Oladapo Samuel
Faculty of Law,
Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria.

Top 10 Babcock University Graduates Making Great Moves in the Entertainment Industry

Babcock University has a history that dates back to 1959 when the Adventist College of West Africa was established. In 1999 it was granted full university status and became Babcock University. The university is named in honour of American missionary, David C. Babcock. Babcock was known for his contribution to the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Nigeria in 1914. There are six faculties within the university: computing and engineering sciences, education and humanities, law and security studies, management sciences, public and allied health, and science and technology. Each faculty is divided into different departments, which offer a range of undergraduate degree programmes. The university is home to two schools, the school of nursing sciences and the Veronica Adeleke school of social sciences. There is also the Benjamin Carson College of Medicine which provides medical education to students. The College of Postgraduate Studies offers three types of programmes for students seeking to further develop their education: postgraduate diploma, master’s and doctorate degree. The university is located in Ikenne, a region in Ogun State, southwestern Nigeria. Babcock University is a prestigious private Christian university located in Ogun state south west Nigeria, Ogun state is a rapidly developing state in Nigeria and is bordered by Lagos State and Oyo State. The University is owned by the Seven day Adventist church in Nigerian which aims at grooming its students in Knowledge and character so they are useful to the society. The university programs cutting across agriculture, Medicine, engineering, law, science and technology, Arts, social and Management sciences.

As aforementioned, Babcock University has produced several prominent personalities in Nigeria. While some of these personalities have become incredibly successful Nigerian Entertainment Industry, others are also successful in other works of life in no particular order.

1. Buju (Now BNXN)

Daniel Benson is a Nigerian singer, songwriter and producer. He was born in 1997 in Gbagada, Lagos State but he is from Akwa Ibom. In February 2018, Buju released his first song ‘Catch a Vibe’ and later dropped his second song ‘A Day in Lagos’ which gave him recognition on Soundcloud and social media. ‘Spiritual with Zlatan Ibile is BNXN’s breakthrough into the Nigerian music industry. Burna Boy signed him in 2020 after the grammy award winning artist listened to his song ‘L’enu’ in club. BNXN drops his first EP in 2021 titled ‘Sorry I’m Late’, after which he has worked with several big names in Nigeria music Industry including Wizkid, and Timaya.

2. Adenike Akinsemolu

Adenike Akinsemolu is a passionate environmental educator and author of numerous studies, which have appeared in reputable publications. Her passion for the environment propelled her to study Environmental Microbiology at doctoral level. Study environmental microbiology in Babcock University. She's an environmental microbiologist by profession. She attended other schools like Federal University of Technology, Obafemi Awolowo University.

3. Davido

David Adedeji Adeleke (born November 21, 1992), popularly known as Davido, is an Nigerian singer, songwriter, and record producer. Davido blends traditional African elements with global mainstream pop. The 29 years old singer gained admission into Babcock University in the year 2011 and graduated in the year 2015 studied music as a course. He's a singer , songwriter and a record producer by profession. He attended other schools like British International School,Oakwood University.

4. Beverly Osu

Beverly Osu was born on September 27, 1992, in Lagos State where she grew up although she is from Delta State, Nigeria. She attended Daughters of Divine Love Convent, Enugu state before gaining admission into Babcock University to study Mass Communication. Due to personal reasons, she dropped out of Babcock University and enrolled at the National Open University. The 29 years old Actress is also a Model and A vixen by profession.

5. Alex Usifo

Alex Usifo is a famous Nollywood actor, director, producer, investor, entrepreneur and a philanthropist. He was born on 16th April 1953 in Lagos State in the western part of Nigeria to Mr. Barnabas Usifo and Mrs. Patricia Usifo. He is currently 64 years old. His father worked with the Central Bank of Nigeria at different branches in the country and rose to a managerial level before retirement. The 69 years old Actor studied information Resources management and graduated from Babcock University in the year 2016. He attended other schools like John Bosco's Grammar School, Ubianja Ambrose Ali University, Ladoke Akintol University of Technology.

6. Chioma Rowland

Chioma Avril Rowland (born May 1, 1995) is an excellent Nigerian chef, model, online media star, and business visionary. Chioma Avril Rowland is an undeniably gifted individual. On her social media pages, she frequently shows off her cooking abilities. The celebrity is also a model who has worked with several well-known Nigerian brands. The 27years old Celebrity studied Economics in Babcock University.

7. Olumide Oworu

Olumide Oworu (born December 11, 1994) is a Nigerian actor, model and rapper. Olumide attended King’s College, Lagos and the University of Lagos. He recently graduated from Babcock University in June 2017. Olumide commenced his acting career at the age of six with the television series Everyday People. He is also known for his role as ‘Tari’ in the Africa Magic Series ‘The Johnsons’. He starred in other television series such as The Patriot, The Men In Her Life, Hammer, Stolen Waters and New Son. The 28 years old Actor is also a Model and Rapper by profession.

8. Priscilla Ojo

Priscilla Ajoke Ojo is popularly known as Its.Priscy on her social media accounts. Priscilla Ajoke Ojo is rated on social media as the most popular and influential celebrity kid in Nigeria today Priscilla Ojo (born 13th March, 2001) is a beautiful daughter of popular Yoruba actress and producer Iyabo Ojo. Priscilla is also an actress, entrepreneur and model.Priscilla Ojo is a young Nigerian actress making names for herself in the Nollywood movie industry. As young as she is, the beautiful actress has made huge amount of money from her acting career. The 21 years old Actress gained admission into Babcock University in the year 2017, studied Theater Arts and graduated in the year 2021. She is also a Model and an entrepreneur by profession.

9. Olúwadámilọ́lá Adédọlápọ̀ Amínù (Minz)

Dami Aminu (Olúwadámilọ́lá Adédọlápọ̀ Amínù), who is popularly known as Mobz, is a Nigerian recording artist and producer from Lagos. He has found his comfort zone in the current Afrobeat wave but he will continue to grow. His infusion of other sounds: trap, highlife, reggae forms the foundation of an end goal of contributing to and maybe changing the African soundscape while creating as much content as possible. The 30 years old music Artist studied International Law Diplomacy in Babcock University.

10. Yewande Adekoya

Yewande Adekoya is a Nigerian actress, filmmaker known for her role in the movie Omo Elemosho, a 2012 film that featured Bimbo Oshin, Muyiwa Ademola and Yomi Fash-Lanso. She was born and raised in Lagos State, but originally hails from Ososa-Ijebu in Ogun State southwestern Nigeria. She began acting in 2002 with Alphabash Music And Theatre Group. She scripted and produced her first content in 2006 titled “Life Secret”. The 39 years old Actress studied Mass communication in Babcock University. She also studied in other schools like Bright Star Nursery and Primary school, Bright Star Comprehensive High School. You can read Yewande Adekoya’s full biography here.

Conclusion

The

It would not come as a surprise that there are lots of celebrities in the Entertainment Industry who graduated from the prestigious University of Ibadan. Many renowned Alumni are already hitting the waves in the industry,while some are just kick-starting their careers, there are also some who could barely get their bearings in the Entertainment world. In this article,we would be looking at the top ten (10) graduates from Unibadan making waves already in the showbiz world, it could be in the movie industry, music,comedy shows, on- air personnel (OAP) , social media sensations , writers etc.

1. Dr Sid

This musician is a popular household name in Nigeria. Though, it could be said that there was a time he was really enjoying the bliss of the limelight,when he was at the peak of his career. But now he seems to be on a low-key vibe, we barely hear about him. Originally named Sidney Esiri, he graduated from Unibadan,where he studied Dental Surgery and obtained his MBBS. Little wonder his stage name seems to be carrying the medical title, 'Dr'.

2. Lepacious Bose

Starting her career from the University, Lepacious Bose graduated from the University of Ibadan with a degree in Theater Arts.

3. Saheed Osupa

Originally named, Akorede Babatunde Okunola, the 52years old popular Fuji musician graduated from the University of Ibadan where he bagged a bachelor's degree in Political Science.

4. Gabriel Afolayan

Born into the popular Afolayan's family,is generally known for his passionate roles in movies. He graduated from the University of Ibadan with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theater Arts.

5. Muyiwa Ademola

He is a popular Nollywood actor in the Yoruba genre. He bagged a Bachelor of Education degree in Adult Education from the University of Ibadan.

6. Professor Wole Soyinka

He is a notable man in Nigeria,known for winning the first Nobel prize in Literature in Africa. He also happens to be a product of the great University of Ibadan.

7. Chinua Achebe

He was a renowned poet,novelist, a professor of Literature. He has written man beautiful piece of work. He got a scholarship into University of Ibadan to study medicine but he later changed his course to English literature.

8. Bimbo Odukoya

Late Pastor Bimbo Odukoya was a pastor and a television evangelist. She was married to the founder of Fountain of Life Church, Pastor Taiwo Odukoya.

9. Femi Adebayo

Popularly known as 'Jelili' from one of his hilarious movies. Femi is a producer,a director ,an ambassador for some Nigerian brands, a lawyer and more . Although he bagged his first degree from University of Ilorin, he later proceeded to the University of Ibadan for his Master's degree in law.

10. Afeez Oyetoro

Widely known as 'Saka' . He is known for his comic roles in movies.He obtained his first degree in Theater from Obafemi Awolowo University and his Master's degree in the University of Ibadan. He is currently on a doctorate degree at the University of Ibadan.

Awards are Rewards, But May not be a True Reflection of Success - Peter Trailblazer

In this interview, Phenomenal comedian, Skit maker and winner, Golden Pasta Drama Competition, Peter Trailblazer tells our team his content creation process and how Awards are rewards but not a true definition of success...

NNI: Can we meet you?

Guest: My name is Peter Adeleke popularly known as Peter Trailblazer. I am a phenomenal comedian and skit maker from Ibadan, Oyo state, born 23rd January, 1996. I'm a graduate of Microbiology from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. I grew up in Lagos with interest for comic acting and I decided to explore my talent with skit making. I grew from being a shy boy into an expressive and expansive skit maker. I won the second edition of the Golden Penny Pasta Drama Competition held in Lagos in 2007.

NNI: What birthed your brand name, Trailblazer and the Corporate Mad man identity?

Guest: I got the name Trailblazer by divine inspiration while on campus. Trailblazer is my signature and it typifies the phenomenal expression of my brand. I realized that comic actors come out in different form. That was why I decided to use a corporate outfit to create humour. You know once you wear a suit, you are regarded as a white collar person that is responsible. Notwithstanding, I use my corporate outfit to do crazy things so as to bring curiosity to the audience and also create sarcasm. It's just like an average Nigerian believes in packaging to be who they are really not.

NNI: How did your journey into content creation and comedy begin?

Guest: My journey into content creation began in 2015 at Obafemi Awolowo University during which I began a funny Life Partner series which went viral on campus. I just wanted to create organic and spontaneous videos in shorter versions to bring life's perspective into visual reality and to pass across salient message. All I wanted was to "edutain" people and I became better as I kept doing it. It was a bold step and now I am glad things are turning out well.

NNI: As a man of many creative hats, have you ever experienced content blocks? What was your experience?

Guest: Content creation requires you to think and make critical evaluations, not because you are not good but because you have to brainstorm on the best way to project the idea to the people. It's a norm for every content creator to experience content blocks. Most times when I experience content blocks, I take a pause, think and discuss with my team on the best way to carry out the production to bring maximum result. Sometimes, I leave the project for some days, and when I get back to it, insight will surely come.

NNI: What is your content creation process like? How do you arrive at the amazing content you dish your audience?

Guest: The process of content creation is fun for me. I always want my skit to inspire people and make them merry. So I combine the element of humor and theatrics to enlighten people and bring relaxation to them. I create content based on trends, inspiration, situation and relatability. I have a team of creative minds that work with me. Though I generally script, direct and edit all my skits myself but I could not have come this far without the support and input of my team. They worked hard to make many of my skits happen. They always had good suggestions and kept encouraging me to go on. I believe that actors must develop relationships within the network so as to provide more opportunities to advance their career.

NNI: What do you think of awards and achievements? How do they measure progress for you?

Guest: I won the second edition of the Golden Penny Pasta drama competition held in Lagos. So I can say that awards are ways of rewarding people who have done well. You are recognizing them for the good works they are doing. Awards also motivate people to do more. However, some awards may not be a true reflection of success because it could be closely competitive and sometimes you only get to nominate the people you know. Some even go a long way to pay for an award. The most important metrics for progress is growth and result. The fact that one doesn't get an award does not mean one is not good. Just keep improving and doing your best. You will definitely be recognized with time.

NNI: As a creative and influencer, how best do you think celebrity status should be managed?

Guest: As a celebrity, a lot of people will actually look up to you. So be real. Be true to yourself. A whole lot of celebrities are living fake life. Just be yourself. Nobody is perfect. Keep improving on your character. More importantly, as a celebrity, why you try to bask in the glory of fame and fan love, you should always be humble. Humility will take you far.

NNI: Many people complain that entertainment content in recent times has reduced in didactic quality. Do you think it's a matter of the creator's style?

Guest: Creators have a huge role to play in the kind of content to produce. However, the society, the trend, and the market have greater roles in influencing the creator's style. Content creators have now realized the kind of contents that the fans want. So creators are now being intentional about it. Hence the quality we see today.

NNI: What spectacular change do you wish to see in the entertainment and creative industry in the future?

Guest: There have been rapid growths in entertainment over the years. However, I will love to see more creatives using the platform of entertainment to address issues about the Nigerian economy. I will also love to see creatives support each other rather than see themselves as competition.

NNI: What advice will you give creatives interested in building a career in entertainment?

Guest: Persevere. The beginning will never be easy. I did a video on my YouTube channel titled, "why upcoming artist won't blow" where I talked about important things upcoming artist should know. As an upcoming artist, know your audience, focus more on your content, be creative, be consistent, persevere (because the beginning will never be easy), stay humble and don't give up.

Biography of Michael Sanni Amanesi (MCLively)

Michael Sanni Amanesi, better known by his stage name Mc Lively, was born in Ondo State on August 14, 1992, into a family of seven that included his parents and five siblings. Mc Lively was born in Agenebode, Edo State, and raised in Ile-Ife, Osun State. After finishing his elementary schooling at Ideal Nursery and Primary School, he went on to Moremi High School to complete his secondary education. He continued on to Obafemi Awolowo University in Ile-Ife, Osun state, where he studied law and was admitted to the Nigerian Bar in 2016, earning his Bachelor of Science degree there as well. In 2013, he became the Master of Ceremony (Mc), and by 2015, he had developed into a comic. In his humor, he also goes by the name Barrister Mike.

One of Nigeria's most popular and skilled comics, the Nigerian comedian is making waves in the business. With his comedic sketches, he has been able to establish a niche for himself in the entertainment business. He earned a degree in law from Obafemi Awolowo University in 2015, spent a year in law school, and was admitted to the bar in 2016. With the help of comedians like Gbenga Adeyinka, Ali Baba, Basketmouth, Tee A, Omo Baba, Okey Bakasi, Klint da Drunk, AY, Julius Agwu, Bovi, and others, Mc Lively has thus far been able to pursue his love.

Mc Lively's background as a lawyer helped him become a dynamic comedian. As a child, he liked to watch Night of a Thousand Laughs albums. He is well-known. He is renowned for using humour to discuss the problems in Nigeria. He gained notoriety as a result of the Agidi film, which highlighted the nation's fuel shortage. When his reverend father delivered a sermon at church, he had the inspiration. Along with his brother, he recorded the script and carried out the shooting. His obstinacy gave rise to the name Agidi. When he first began his career in humor as a stand-up comedian, Mc Lively experienced his fair share of disappointment. His endeavor to become a stand-up comic was a complete disaster. The failure was so severe that he even told a joke in front of the crowd, and not even his girlfriend laughed. Mc Lively said he was unable to sleep that night, but in reality, this occurred four times in the higher institution.

This setback helped him realize his talent for comic acting. Prior to getting into comedy in 2015, he began as an MC in 2013. His buddies are not shocked that he become a comic because he demonstrated his comedic tendencies while he was in the higher institution. Mc Lively is a budding Instagram star already. He has received numerous honors for his comedic video in the entertainment sector. At the City People music awards, he was named the Comedy Act of the Year.

MC Lively is an actor as well as a comedian. He has appeared in many films and received numerous honors. Here is a list of the movies:

Lagos Real Fake Life - 2018
Breaded Life - 2021
The Razz Guy (2021)
Fate of Alakada - 2020
Introducing the Kujus - 2020
Seven and Half Date 2018
Dear Affy - 2020

MC Lively is active on social media. You can connect with him by subscribing to his official YouTube channel and follow him via his handles on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

Because of my Past, People see me as Imperfect - Fatoye Temitope

Fatoye Temitope, a recent graduate of the Faculty of Law, Obafemi Awolowo University, shares her story and her call to give hope to individuals who have a hurting past. in this interview with NELOC News International, she describes the positions of perfection and imperfection.

NNI: Can we meet you? Guest: I am Fatoye Temitope Seun and I am the visionary of Getting Past Your Past Magazine. I am from Osun State, and a Law Graduate of the Obafemi Awolowo University.
NNI: What is GPYP all about?
Guest: GPYP is an organization called to show God's Love to the brokenhearted. We have been called to show that out of the Broken pieces of your life, the Lord can make an edifice of hope through using the non fictional stories of people who have been in one mess or the other and how they were able to get a message out of it.

Getting Past Your Past Magazine - Fatoye Temitope

NNI: How has managing GPYP been since inception?
Guest: Although GPYP is still young - about 1 year plus, it has been sweet so far because I just see myself as a mighty tool in God's hands. I do what he wants me to do concerning GPYP. All the managerial instructions comes from Him. I only do what he has concluded.

NNI: What has been your greatest challenge?
Guest: I had the greatest challenge when preparing for the conference. The challenge came up due to funds until when I got the wisdom (from my mentor) on how to get funds for God ordained programmes.

NNI: Being a student, how have you combined studies with ministry?

Guest: God has helped me by providing strength when I feel so tired and weak. Apart from that, there is wisdom in planning my day and my time. So ministry never disturbed my studies nor my studies affect ministry.

Read: OAU Final Year Student sentenced to Jail for Cybercrime

NNI: What is your general view on Sexual Abuse in the society?

Guest: Sexual abuse is a bad omen for any society where it prevails. Every one of us need to stand up against it with everything we've got. We also need to stand by the victims and help them out of the trauma. Let's Join Hands to fight against Sexual Abuse in our society.

NNI: How well has GPYP helped the society?
Guest: GPYP has helped the society in different areas.

1. Making people who have been victims of circumstances (abuse, mistakes) in the past or still going through them see more to themselves (by making them see Hope in Christ) using the stories of people who had gone through same and the steps they took in getting past it. This is done by the Mess and Message segment of the magazine.

2. We have been able to counsel so many people on how to get out of the bondage of the past and we have exposed them to the healing processes.

NNI: What are your regrets?
Guest: My regret is that I yielded late to the call and passion to Start Getting Past your past magazine.

NNI: Funding for Organisations is usually a problem. How have you managed funds as an organisation?
Guest: Concerning funds, it has always been done by faith and prayers to see where the resources are. Apart from Faith, personal funds, gifts from my parents and seeds from friends and readers of the magazine have also helped in funding the organization.

NNI: Earlier this year, you organised your debut superb conference, inviting many big names. How were you able to pull through?
Guest: Hmm.. All I can say is God. He made the conference a success with the gift of men He gave unto me. The conference happened just like a surprise. I am still surprised the Conference held. To be candid, a day before the conference we were about cancelling it but God surprised I and my team

NNI: What do you think of team management?
Guest: Actually, Team Management is difficult because you have to make your members see what you see. You have to make your team know that you are all together in "this" course and make them do the task they are given... It's a great task but with God's wisdom, prayers (putting their hearts into God's hands), showing them love and reminding them about what they have been called into, it becomes easier.

NNI: How has your past affected your current relationships with people?

Guest: My past has affected my relationship with people positively due to the fact that after making people know about my past, they now see me as someone who is not perfect like them, someone who has also gone through what they are going through or they have gone through. So, they tend to come to me, open up and seek counsel without being ashamed. My past has also helped me to love people more and see beyond their actions or attitudes.

Obioma Adetola Onibata at GDYP Conference

NNI: What advice will you give to other similar organisations and the public?

Guest: My advice to similar organisations is to never relent in their course. Many lives depend on us so, let's join hands. To the public, "Don't be ashamed to open up and seek counsel about what you are going through, We are here for You. Don't die in silence. Speak out!"

The prosperity of a country depends not on the abundance of its fortification, nor on the beauty of its public buildings, but it consists in the number of its cultivated citizens, it's men of education, enlightenment, and character.

The progress of any Society is dependent on men and women who give patriotic, sacrificial and dedicated service to the upliftment of the society they belong.

I want to sincerely appreciate the organising committee of African Expression Weekend( the Luminary Team and Legal Exponent) for the maturity shown in the Round Table discussion we had on Wednesday 8th of November, 2017.

Members of this class have shown that beyond all odds, the interest of Law Students' Society remain of great preference and that was showcased with all sense of maturity and co-operation.

On behalf of the Executive Council and every stakeholder of the African Expression weekend and Clash of Justice(1st ever legal drama), I want to seize this medium to appreciate for indelible contribution.

We also wish to give a clarion call to members of the Society to put hands on deck as we have more reasons to stand strong with our beloved society and to make sure the *2017 Law Week Event* ever organized.

Once again, thank you so much for your support from the beginning of the administration up till this moment.

Yours-in-Service,,

Adetunji Oluwatobi Paul
President,
Law Students' Society,
Obafemi Awolowo University Ile-Ife

Cc:

Paragon Team of IFELAW
Maverick Team of IFELAW
Luminary Team of IFELAW
The Legal Exponent Team of IFELAW
Gentries Team of IFELAW.

ANTHONY I. IDIGBE [SAN] IN LLCOC: MEET YOUR SPEAKERS

ANTHONY I. IDIGBE [SAN] . SENIOR PARTNER

Anthony Ikemefuna Idigbe is the Senior Partner of the firm and has been described as one of the most experienced and well-rounded lawyers of our time. A seasoned legal practitioner with over 30 years experience in Advocacy, Arbitration, Dispute Resolution, Privatization, Capital Markets, Mergers & Acquisitions, Aviation law and Telecommunications, Tony has advised clients on several complex transactions and has earned a reputation for being a thorough bred legal practitioner. He was recently admitted to practice law in Ontario, Canada.

Elevated to the rank of Senior Advocate in 2000, he has worked closely with regulators of Privatization, Capital Markets, Investments and Corporate Finance industries on the one hand, and companies involved in Privatization, Capital Markets, Investments and Corporate Finance transactions on the other hand. He is the Lead Partner of the Legal Advisory Partnership (LAP), a consortium of law firms that provide advisory services to the BPE on privatization process issues. He also possesses wealth of knowledge and experience in Telecommunications Law as well as the workings of the Nigerian Telecommunications Industry, having represented numerous clients in various telecommunications disputes.

Chief Anthony Idigbe graduated from the University of Ife, (now Obafemi Awolowo University), Ile- Ife in 1982 with a 2nd Class Upper Degree (Hons). He also received the Hon. Justice Orojo Prize for the Best Student in Company Law. He finished from the Nigerian Law School, Lagos in 1983 also with a 2:1. He has three Masters of Law degrees from the University of Toronto, Canada (2015); the Robert Gordon University (RGU), Scotland, UK (2012) and the University of Lagos (1988). He also has an MBA from the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) Enugu (1997); Diploma in Advertising from APCON (1999), and several international practice diplomas in International Intellectual Property Law, International Commercial Law, International Joint Ventures, International Mergers and Acquisitions and International Capital Markets & Loans; amongst other educational qualifications. He is a Fellow of INSOL International, the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, UK (CIArB), Business Recovery and Insolvency Practitioners Association of Nigeria (BRIPAN), Advertising Practitioners Association of Nigeria (APCON) and the International Bar Association (IBA). He is also a member of the Institute of Directors (IoD), International Insolvency Institute (III), Lagos Court of Arbitration (LCA), Association of International Petroleum Negotiators (AIPN), International Chamber of Commerce, Nigeria (ICCN) among others.

He was the Founder and first Chairman, Capital Markets Solicitors Association (CMSA) from 2001-2006, and now functions as a Trustee of the Association. He has also served on various arbitration panels, both institutional and ad-hoc, and is presently a member of the ICC Arbitral Panel. He also served as President of the Business Recovery and Insolvency Practitioners Association of Nigeria (BRIPAN) from 2011-2013. Chief Anthony Idigbe, SAN also holds other key positions in prominent organizations.

Apart from acquiring knowledge, he loves to share knowledge and also mentor. He is on the faculty of ESUT Business School Enugu. He is the author of many published books and articles.

RECENT APPOINTMENTS

He was recently appointed by the Securities and Exchange Commission as Chairman of the committee to review some legislation/bills including the Investment and Securities Act (2007); the Nigerian Trade and Competition Commission Bill, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Bill, the Restrictive Trade Practices, Monopolies and Price Control Bill, and other laws/bills relating to Anti-trust and Competition in Nigeria.

He was appointed in February 2012 by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as a member of the Petroleum Revenue Special Task Force.

RECENT AWARDS

NBA Merit Award June 2012 - As a Role Model in Legal Practice
Practice Area
Consultancy and Process Advisory; Dispute Resolution: Litigation, Arbitration and ADR; International Trade and Investment; Mergers and Acquisition; Privatization and Capital Markets; Transport: Aviation, Shipping and Admiralty; Project Finance and Construction Law; Oil and Gas; PPP (Public-Private Partnership Practice).

LLCOC: LEADERSHIP AND LEGAL CAREER OPPORTUNITIES CONFERENCE

LLCOC is a good luck summary to understanding the law:

Entertainment Law, Leadership, ADR (Alternative Dispute Resolution), Legal drafting and writing

LLCOC is beyond the wig and gown

LLCOC will conclude in a grand Sheraton style of Dinner

Fee: 3,000
Date: 30th of June and 1st of July

Delay defeats Equity, start doing the needful by contacting your various class representative in charge of collecting money for the LLCOC'17!

Part 1
Temidayo 08106414688
Ibukunoluwa 08125806575

Part 2
Ezinne 08187979917
Adeayo Coach 08146169428

Part 3
Doja 08167781551
Folakemi 08163271196

Part 4
Laura 08099144190
Niyi (class rep) 08164375209

Part 5
Ammie Dimplez 08132026093
Ogele 07065394285

#LLCOC'17IsTheNewTrend #LLCOC'17IsTheNewDope
#LLCOC'17IsTheNewEducation #LLCOC'17IsASureEvent

LLCOC'17 is also open for non law students to be a part of the Leadership Legal Career Opportunity Conference

You can contact the following personnels below for more information:

Gbemileke David
Chairman LLCOC Committee
08093730876

Adejala Omosileayo
Vice Chairman LLCOC Committee
08139603064

Olanrewaju Abiola
Gen. Sec LLCOC Committee
08165670333

Our Digital Economy is powered by Information Democracy - Ikedichi Egwu

Join us as we walk the talk with Ikedichi Egwu, a brand strategist, digital marketer and Public Speaker as he shares his thoughts on the subject of Digital Marketing.

NNI: Can we meet you sir?

Guest: Thanks for having me on your platform. I am Ikedichi Egwu, and I come from the South East part of Nigeria (Ebonyi State precisely). I am a brand strategist and digital marketer. My journey into the world of branding dates back to when I was in 200L at the Obafemi Awolowo Univeristy, Ile-Ife. I couldn't seem to understand the philosophy driving the African entrepreneurial landscape at that time. My quest to find out stemmed the beginning of what would be later become my career as a brand strategist. Digital marketing for me is a field that encompasses all. Regardless of your industry, sales and marketing drive businesses. Also, the future is digital. Artificial Intelligence is the driving force behind major modern day innovations.

It was the above thinking framework that drove me into digital marketing. Today I have gone on to work with several brands as a digital marketer and brand strategist across the country. Currently, I work with Digital Funnel in Lagos as a brand strategist and digital marketer.

Moreover, I have traveled across several states within Nigeria speaking across multiple platforms on the subjects of branding, personal branding, digital marketing and leadership. So, I am who most persons would prefer to term a public speaker.

I was once a technical drop out from the Obafemi Awolowo University. My philosophy about life was at the core of my decision to drop out of the university while I was already in 500 Level, my final year. (Laughs.)

Well, the good news is that I went back and decided that I would finish up my degree program eventually. I was taking a degree in Crop Production and Protection.

NNI: How has the entrepreneurship journey been for you so far?

Guest: The entrepreneurial journey for me has not particularly been easy. It's been filled with mistakes and lessons, like for many brands out there dipping their toes into the water. The journey, however, has been worth it.

NNI: Your emphasis on Digital Skills is strong. What is the relevance and how can individuals leverage them for growth?

Guest: Well, as I said earlier, the future is digital. In fact, the post covid-19 economy would favour brands that are digitally driven.

Brands would want to look for ways to do things faster and achieve better outcomes. And the solutions that are going meet these needs would be digitally powered. So, your industry not withstanding you either adopt a digitally inclined approach or find your business falling behind your competition.

We are at a time in history when information is highly democratized. What this means for individuals is that there's no digital skill they set to learn that they can't grasp – be it programming; digital marketing; machine learning; IT Support etc. This would confer on the individual advantages that place them ahead of their competition.

NNI: Why do you think people are skeptical about online courses?

Guest: People are not skeptical about online courses, many Nigerians are.

One of the reasons is the speed with which we adopt technologies. It would even be safe to say that many times we have fallen between what they term late adopters and laggards in the information diffusion process. It's a huge setback for us as it sees us crawling behind our contemporaries across the world.

In addition, while the other parts of the world are championing the digital revolution, Nigeria is still contesting leadership of a struggling regional artisan economy – a position it can barely hold on to as focus keeps shifting to its bordering counterparts who have shown a more responsible approach toward governance.

NNI: How does startup branding affect the future of digital revolution?

Guest: This is an era where digital visibility has an impact on the success of any start up – a time when relevance and visibility are like two sides of the same coin. You can only attract the business of customers who have heard about your business and or actually seen it.

So, for a startup that's considering gaining a strategic positioning both online and offline, emphasis must be laid on visibility.

NNI: Is it necessary for Digital Skills to be included in school curriculum? Why?

Guest: As a matter of fact, digital skills must be included in our curriculum if we must catch up with other parts of the world. The world has gone past the industrial revolution. We are talking digital now with AI, Machine Learning etc.

You can't continue to teach students skills of the past and expect them to be relevant in the present. To me that's counter-productive.

If the problem of mass unemployment among the youths is to be dealt with, then there's the need for mass investment in human capital as it applies to what is relevant now – digitization.

NNI: Many have results to prove that digital skills do not yield actual conversions. Is there anything they are doing wrong leading to these results?

Guest: Digital skills yield maximum conversions. In fact, programmers are amongst the highest income earners in the world at the moment.

The challenge, however, is that many persons who come into the digital world come in with the "overnight success" faulty thinking framework. But it does not work that way. You need a certain amount of mastery to begin earning big from your digital skills, and that kind of mastery requires patience and consistency.

Anyone who tries to make you believe that digital skills do not convert is deliberately hiding the truth from you. It's the new untapped oil for Nigeria.

NNI: What is your view on Global Youth Development and growth as regards the digital world?

Guest: I would say Nigerian youths are way behind on a global index. Of course, you could argue that there are many Nigerian youths doing fine when placed side by side with their contemporaries from other parts of the world. But the question would be how many of us and at what age?

Findings would show you how we are way behind. It becomes necessary therefore for the youths to rethink their approach to life. The day I understood that my competition was global was the day my life found a deeper meaning.

NNI: What's your believe as regards interconnected growth? Is it absolutely impossible for a brand to develop in isolation and without partnerships?

Guest: I preach collaboration a lot. In fact, it's my belief that collaboration is the best form of competition. The damage in the country already is something one man can't correct. It's going to take collective efforts to make that happen.

There's a limit to the number of jobs a business which exists in isolation can create. We need to come together to enjoy the economies of scale.

The digital economy worldwide is powered by the democratization of information. So if we don't come together and share intelligence, our digital growth would be slow.

NNI: Research shows that demand is making price for digital skill courses increase. This is fast becoming a problem and turning back potential students. From experience, how can this be solved?

Guest: Well, I would rather choose to not agree with this. In fact, the demand for these skills is achieving the opposite – these courses are rather becoming cheap so more persons can get on board and acquire the skills needed to service the fast-growing demand for them. For example, there are less programmers than we need in the world today.

I began learning programming to further enhance my skills as a brand strategist and digital marketer. It may interest you to know that I have not spent as much since I began the training. As a matter of fact, most of the resource I use so far are free. There's Free Code Camp there, you don't pay a dime to learn. There's Gemn, American Internet Business School, Google and YouTube. Interestingly, Udemy has options for partial or fully funded scholarship for indigent students who may be restrained by funding from taking their courses.

So, what's more? Seriousness and the willingness to commit quality time to learning on the part of the individual.

NNI: What is your advice to fellow young individuals?

Guest: My advice is simple! Yes, the government has failed us and continues to deteriorate by the passage of each day but the responsibility is ours not to further fail ourselves. I understand that it's not easy and probably will not be in the foreseeable future. But if you will continue pushing and not doubt your abilities, there will be no limit to how much you can become.

NNI: What new heights do you hope to scale in the near future?

Guest: I am looking forward to building an inclusive digital community for all Nigerians. The goal is to grow into a household name as far the African and Nigerian digital space is concerned. Also, I look forward to more speaking invitations, but this time, from other countries across the world.

NNI: Thank you for your time.

Guest: Thanks again for having me.

Ifelaw Moot and Mock Team Pummels Team Bowen to Clinch Prize

At the "Annual Bowen University Inter School Competition" which started yesterday, the 26th of April, 2018 and ended today, 27th April, 2018, the Ifelaw moot and mock team bagged brace of awards.

At the opening event Yesterday, 25th of April 2018, the ifelaw team participated in the mooting competition and bagged the Best memorial award.

Proceeding to the mock competition today, Ifelaw team pummeled Team Bowen to clinch the inter school moot and mock award.
It was such a glamorous competition which had several schools in attendance, Bowen University,Obafemi Awolowo University,University of Nigeria, Nsuka,University of Ibadan and others.

Members of Ifelaw team are:

The moot counsels
Ikusika Bamidele
Ogunsemoyin Oluwadunsi

The mock counsels are
Agboola Elijah O.
Ikusika Bamidele F.

The witnesses are
Anjorin Deborah
Ogunsemoyin Oluwadunsi
Olajide Mary
Akintade Victor

Other members of the team

Anjorin Deborah
Ogunsemoyin Oluwadunsi
Olajide Mary
Akintade Victor
Abolade Akinkunmi
Amupitan Caleb
Dosunmu Serah
Ucheakonam Chijioke
Taofeeq Azeez
Johnson Boluwatife

“At least if I’ll finally find a way to let go, give me a reason. Tell me what you see in me from the first time that keeps your heart far away from me. Please. At least do this for me so that I can find a way to adjust in my later love story.”

As I was chatting with her on Whatsapp, I could feel a deep sore cruelly engraved at the centre of my heart. I could see myself crying without tears; losing everything I never for once possessed.

After a few seconds she replied, and I was lost.

“Nothing” Nothing? Did she really mean I would lose everything for nothing? All my efforts, all my fights, all my time, all my thoughts, all my calculated plans? I would lose all my life, just for nothing? Nothing would be my first love story? I tried to comprehend the situation, but I could not. I could not just comprehend it: could not comprehend the end to the last moment of my first love story.

My first love story started even before I became a teenager, though I could not remember the exact age. I loved girls so much when I was in Junior Secondary School that I seldom moved with boys. Beautiful girls swarmed around me like bees probably because my mom was a little bit rich and I was really handsome. No pride. I really had great times being with them. The reminiscence of those days, often made me squeeze my face smiling. I was really charming.

We both attended the same Junior Secondary School and lived in the same neighbourhood. Although those things we had in common were enough to spring some feelings, we were simply acquainted. I got my cliques; and she had hers. That time, I could not really remember what transpired that created such unimaginable distance between us. Maybe I considered her not to be my taste of a girl.

Life truly is unpredictable. It was incredible when I realised I started developing feelings for her when we got separated. That was after our final exams for Junior Secondary School. She was taken to a boarding school for her Senior Secondary School education while I proceeded mine at the same school, Obafemi Awolowo International School, Ile-Ife. We lost connections while the seedlings of my feelings for her started germinating. And I was oblivion of the development.

The reality started crawling in during holiday periods. Once there was a holiday, she would come to the neighbourhood. Fortunately for me, my cousin lived in the same neighbourhood and his house was beside her father’s. Several times, I would pretend as if I was paying my cousin a visit just to see her.

On her own part too, she would leave her house and come to my cousin’s side. So, we had great times together, chatting about those days in Junior Secondary School, while I would be updating her about the current situations in her former school. She would also talk to me about her school conditions and the likes. We really had a great time. Looking back now, I would have wished we never grew up. I would have wished we never really grew matured.

Whenever I was leaving my cousin’s house, she would see me off. Several times on the way, I would want to tell her how much I loved her, how much I wanted to be with her. Expression always failed me those days. Although I was a baddoo, I did not have such courage of telling a girl that I loved her. I just preferred playing with them. Yet the feelings I had towards this particular girl was different from others, and I was afraid to pour out the torrent in my mind. I was afraid of the unknown.

“Elizabeth,” one day I finally summoned courage to tell her how I felt towards her.

“Yes,” she answered.

“I’ve wanted to tell you something for a long time,” I started and I ended, somehow perspiring. I could not utter the next statement. I was just perambulating around the main purpose of the conversation I started. She pestered me to tell her what I said I wanted to tell her for a long time. I could not say the combination of just four words until she said she had to go back home after seeing me off to the usual destination.

I lost the flow; I lost my courage; I lost my heart.

“I love you Elizabeth!”I finally screamed the four words several times. But it was too late. I was sure she was already in her house. I was just there in the balcony of my father’s house torturing my emotions, disturbing the empty house with my silent scream.

As times passed by, she kept on disturbing and pestering me about what I wanted to tell her the other time. I just kept on lying to her. Whenever I actually told her one of those lies, she would tell me I was lying. She caught me red-handed. Looking back now, I kept wondering if she actually knew what I wanted to say. Did she know I loved her already but was just waiting for me to say it? And most importantly, did she feel the same way? I wished I could get an answer each to this emotional questions that would not let me be.

Nevertheless, all talks about my feelings somehow stopped. She ceased to ask me questions, I ceased to give her a clue to my feelings. We simply shared gist about our schools and other related stuffs. With that, we moved on happily ever after.

We both sat down for Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination. She finally graduated from the Federal Government College, Ipetumodu. We were then both seeking admission into tertiary institutions of our different choices. She was processing admission for Accounting in the University of Abuja while I was processing admission for Medicine and Surgery in Obafemi Awolowo University, OAU. During that period we spent more times together and our friendship grew stronger. Then, I didn’t need my uncle as a cover-up anymore. We both visited each other regularly. People in the neighbourhood, together with our parents, all knew we were close friends. I was sure some even thought we were dating. Yet, I was afraid to express my feelings. What the hell my problem was then?

Finally, we both gained admissions as exactly as we wanted. She travelled to Abuja for her university education while I stayed in Ile-Ife for mine. We got separated again, but thank God for social media. Through 2go, we were able to connect on our smartphones. We would spend several hours chatting, sharing experiences just like the old days.

After a whole session in OAU, I was finally groomed from a boy into a man. I could finally confront her and express my feelings to her. Fortunately for me, or should I say unfortunately for me, the holiday that marked the end of us being freshers in our different schools was immediately succeeded by the nation-wide six-month strike embarked upon by the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU. She came back home to Ile-Ife, and I finally expressed my feelings, which I had been hoarding since, to her.

It all started without a thoughtful beginning. It was really a long night. Although her father’s house was not far from mine, that night, the distance became farer. What a pity for me!

On that fateful day, I was the one who visited her in the house. We shared our experiences as usual and cracked some jokes. When it was around eight in the evening, I finally told her I was leaving, and as usual, she saw me off. On our way, we talked a little and I finally told her, not screaming to an empty house this time, but right to her face.

“Elizabeth I have feelings for you. I want you to be mine. I love you.” I finally told her with OAU guys’ courage, though scared within.

“Are you serious?”She asked with that feminine voice, and I was startled. My blinded eyes were then wide open. I realised she was not the same girl I grew up with. She had become a lady just like I had become a man. A man? I cast doubts on that.

“What do you mean?”My courage was turning its back against me. “Elizabeth. I’m not joking. I love you and I want to have you in my life. I want you to be my lady.”

“No, it can’t be. I don’t feel the same way,” she calmly replied and I surely knew I was in deep trouble. “I only like you as a friend,” she continued.

“Try to understand me Elizabeth, no matter how hard I think about it, you’re the only one my heart beats for. Elizabeth I love you. You’re the only one my heart desires. Please, give me a chance to prove my love for you. Please, give me a chance to show you how much I love you.” So, I pleaded with her, oblivious of the fact that I was going to be repeating similar statements for the next four years.

“I really love you too. Just that it won’t work out. Try to understand and reason with me. I’m now studying in Abuja while you’re studying in Ife here. The relationship won’t work out. I love you, but as a friend.”

“Elizabeth please let’s give it a try.” I pleaded further, almost weeping without tears.

“No. And besides, I don’t feel the same way. The thought of dating you never even crossed my mind.”

That night was a nightmare for me. It was like we were cast in a tragic love movie. I pleaded with her, begged her, draining my whole energy just to convince her to love me, all to no avail. It was like she knew a day like that would come. Like an efficient defendant in a Court of Law, she was well prepared for her defenceagainst my proposal. And she was actually winning, tearing all my claims to pieces. She made me look like a fool, or perhaps a clown. She caught me unaware, my pants down.

Finally, I let go of her around 11:45 pm. That was indeed the longest night we ever had. That was the first time I could not sleep throughout the whole night without being in infirmity. Maybe I was actually sick, in my mind though. I spent the whole night thinking about what might have happened. Where had I gone wrong? On my bed I laid down turning left and right – restless. I thought it would be easy since we had been together for a long time, but I was wrong. She showed me I was wrong and the rest was just a story.

And there I was, four years later, on the 17th of July, 2016, chatting with her on Whatsapp, still pleading my claims. The frustrating part about those years was that as days passed by, my love for her kept growing stronger and deeper. I even wrote her a beautiful poem once. In the course of love, everyone is a poet. She saw it and she was even dazed by its exceptionality, yet she would not still unseal her heart. I just finished my 300 level studying medicine and surgery, and I could not believe that I could not find someone else to replace my love for her. Then, I was scared. I had to close that chapter of my life before it became something else. Before I would not let go anymore. Before it became an obsession.

We spent some time chatting and it was the same old story: she loved me, but she loved me just as a friend. To worsen the matter, she even told me she had a boyfriend already.

If I would finally go down, if I would finally let go of her, I did not want to do so easily. And that was the beginning of this story. All I wanted from her then was a reason, the reason she decided not to reciprocate my love for her. The reason she did not feel the same way. Her reason was nothing. She chose not to love me for nothing. Like seriously? Or was she actually being economical with the truth? Did she actually have a real reason for not loving me? I did not think so. Elizabeth could not have done that. We were closer than that. She would not have hidden the truth from me. Funnily, as the chat went on, she even said I was cool and nice. She just did not feel the same way.

That was how nothing ended my first love story and I finally moved on, searching for a better love story. My name is Olaoluwa, and I am single and searching.