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Garri Day Festival Targets Unity, Diversity Through Food – Obani Boyede

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Garri Day Festival Targets Unity, Diversity Through Food – Obani Boyede

 

 

 

 

 

Sahara Weekly Reports That Chief Obani Oluwabiyi Anthony Boyede Greenlyte, founder of Theatre Centrik and organiser of the 2024 African Food and Drinks Festival, Garri Day, revealed that the event was intentionally crafted to use food as a means of fostering national unity, cohesion, and diversity in Nigeria while addressing issues of ethnicity, tribalism, and disunity.

 

 

 

Garri Day Festival Targets Unity, Diversity Through Food - Obani Boyede

 

 

Boyede, a cultural advocate who also leads the Alimosho Arts Community Initiatives (AACI) in the Alimosho area of Lagos State, noted that the celebration would also contribute to development, as cohesion and unity are vital for national growth and advancement.

 

In an interview with THECONSCIENCE NG, the multi-talented thespian, traditionalist, cultural ambassador, and performance theatre icon shared insights during the annual event in Lagos over the weekend.

 

He reiterated his commitment to celebrating African culture with a special emphasis on Garri, a staple of African cuisine.

 

He stated, “The event was centered around cultural promotion and capacity building. We are celebrating the African Food and Drinks Festival, tagged Garri Day 2024. We leveraged the importance of food as a source of unity, bringing people together regardless of age or race, without discrimination, using Garri as a common denominator. We are promoting diversity across the nation. This is the 19th edition; we organise it year-round and promote our culture through various initiatives. We also host other cultural festivals under the Alimosho Arts Community Initiatives.”

 

Looking ahead, Boyede expressed his vision for the next five years: “We aim to establish an empire where children can acquire general academic knowledge alongside African culture. We envision a school that incorporates Ifa and the total culture of Africa alongside essential subjects. That’s why we have established the University of Kulture as an academic institution to drive this mission.”

 

The event was held in partnership with the Lagos State Tourism Board, the University of Kulture, Alimosho Arts Community Initiatives (AACI), and other esteemed organisations.

 

Regarding community acceptance, he shared, “This is a community-based programme, and we have seen great turnout, as evidenced by the attendance at our summer programme. Although financial support is limited, we are persevering. Participants are enjoying it and they remain enthusiastic.”

 

On the support from the state government, he praised Hon. Toke Benson, the Lagos State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, for her endorsement of the forthcoming cultural fest, which he described as the mother of all festivals, and will take place at the same venue on November 16-17 this year to conclude the year’s activities.

 

“Frankly, a lack of funding has been a long-standing challenge from the Lagos State government, but this year we have received their support, for which we are very grateful. We are moving forward and not slowing down.”

 

Temitope Ojubanire, the Garri Queen 2024, remarked on the festival’s impact on the community, stating, “The food and culture festival, Garri Day, has been amazing, evident in the quality of people who turned out.”

 

She added, “Garri is a beloved staple that transcends food. It is recognided globally, from America to Africa, and symbolises love, unity, and cultural heritage. That’s why we celebrate culture through Garri, a cherished food staple among various tribes in Nigeria, enjoyed in different forms, including Koro and eba.”

 

Discussing the children’s participation, she reflected, “Events like this create lasting memories not only for adults but for kids as well. Growing up, I remember attending events with my mother, where I learned invaluable lessons that continue to inspire me to give back to society.”

 

Approximately 1,000 children participated in dance, competitions, songs, and cultural activities, showcasing exhibitions from Yoruba, Igbo, Efik, South African cultures, and others.

 

Speaking further, Ojubanire said she plans to engage further with the community, meeting children and stakeholders to promote cultural awareness through Garri, advocating for love and humanity as a volunteer and one of the visionaries at the Alimosho Arts Community Initiatives (AACI) and University of Kulture.

 

The event, which held on August 24th, provided attendees with a day filled with cultural activities, including various Garri drinking and eba eating competitions, dance and drama performances, and numerous exhibitions.

 

The festival showcased a variety of Garri from across Africa, including Ijebu Garri with its fine texture and sweet taste, Ghanaian Garri with its spiced blend, Cameroonian Garri known for its crunchy texture and rich aroma, and traditional Nigerian Garri.

 

In addition to the culinary delights, the event featured a lineup of notable guests, including veteran actors, traditional rulers, and key figures from the Lagos State Government and the Ministry of Tourism.

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Panic in Lagos as Beheaded Body, Second Corpse Found in Idimu

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Panic in Lagos as Beheaded Body, Second Corpse Found in Idimu

Panic in Lagos as Beheaded Body, Second Corpse Found in Idimu

Tension enveloped the Idimu area of Lagos State on Sunday following the gruesome discovery of two lifeless male bodies, one of which was found beheaded along Oladun Road.

The chilling discovery, made in the early hours of Sunday morning, drew a crowd of shocked residents and passersby, many of whom gathered at the scene in disbelief. The bodies, which were lying several meters apart, were believed to have been killed late Saturday night.

One of the victims was identified by residents as “Baba Oja,” a well-known figure in the community. “We woke up to see their lifeless bodies on the road this morning. We cannot immediately identify the one with a severed head but the other person is Baba Oja. He was popular and often seen directing traffic for flashy cars at the Council bus stop,” said Lanre Ajao, a resident.

Another local, Jamiu Raji, pointed to signs of a targeted killing, suggesting possible cult-related violence. “This wasn’t just a random fight. The nature of the killings points to a cult attack. Things like this don’t usually happen here, which is why everyone is shaken.”

The second victim was later identified as another community member, though his name remained unknown at the time of this report.

Residents also expressed concern over the delayed response from authorities. The corpses reportedly remained unattended for nearly ten hours before police operatives arrived at the scene.

Adding to the tension, a resident who requested anonymity alleged that families of the deceased were forced to pay money before being allowed to retrieve the bodies.

Efforts to reach the Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, were unsuccessful. Calls and messages went unanswered as of the time of filing this report.

The incident has reignited fears of renewed cult clashes in Lagos, reminiscent of similar recent killings in Mushin and the Lantoro area of Abeokuta, believed to be linked to long-standing rivalry between the Aiye and Eiye confraternities.

As investigations continue, the community is left grappling with fear and unanswered questions over the brutal killings.

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Barrister Olakunle Afolabi Joins NASRE As Legal Adviser

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Barrister Olakunle Afolabi Joins NASRE As Legal Adviser

 

The Nigerian Association of Social and Resourceful Editors (NASRE) has officially appointed Barrister Olakunle Afolabi, Esq. as its new Legal Adviser.

In a letter addressed to the Lagos-based lawyer, NASRE commended Afolabi’s legal brilliance and steadfast commitment, especially for his fearless defense of four journalists in their recent legal battle against Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO).

Barrister Olakunle Afolabi Joins NASRE As Legal Adviser

“Your performance reminded us that integrity still breathes within Nigeria’s legal system,” the association stated.

In response, Afolabi expressed gratitude and pledged to serve NASRE with a sense of duty that transcends financial compensation.

Barrister Olakunle Afolabi Joins NASRE As Legal Adviser

“I am truly honoured by this trust. My service to NASRE will be guided not by monetary gain, but by a deep commitment to press freedom, justice, and the rule of law,” he said.

The President, NASRE, Mr. Femi Oyewale applauded the legal luminary for his acceptance to be the Legal Adviser for the association, noting that, the group didn’t take this gesture for granted.

Stating that the group will leverage on his extensive knowledge of the law, to carry out its civic duties legally and professionally, he assured him NASRE support to ensure he excel in this role.

Afolabi, principal at Kunle Afolabi Legal Practitioners, is widely known for his constitutional expertise and advocacy for human rights. His portfolio includes work with Huawei, MTN, Dangote Agrosacks, and notable pro bono service with Avocats Sans Frontières.

NASRE described him as a “fearless defender of human rights” whose legal mind and moral compass align with the association’s mission to defend media freedom and protect journalists.

With Afolabi now on board one of the association’s legal adviser, NASRE says it is confident that its legal and ethical backbone are in the right hands.

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Opinion: It has become apparent that the forgotten Nollywood actress Doris Ogala is on a path to total destruction …

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Opinion: It has become apparent that the forgotten Nollywood actress Doris Ogala is on a path to total destruction
… her behavior is erratic

Doris Ogala, a fading actress in Nollywood, has lost credibility due to her recent claims that Dr. Chris Okafor is having an affair with her. Fortunately, the public no longer believes her false accusations and blackmail. Can Doris Ogala justify her actions, trying to destroy or blackmail Dr. Chris Okafor, her spiritual father, when she should be showing respect for her own father?

*A Brilliant Question Raises Eyebrows:*

Who is Doris Ogala’s father, and I assume the answer is that she has no father, because if she did, he would have provided guidance to help her avoid destructive paths and prevented her from making significant mistakes, as the scriptures clearly state, ‘Touch not my anointed and do my prophet no harm.’ Notwithstanding Doris Ogala’s criticisms, they do not impact us in Grace Nation International, also known as Liberation City. Nonetheless, her actions may inadvertently lead to her own downfall, resulting in her demise

*Do her recent allegations demonstrate her method of blackmail?*

An exclusive investigation has uncovered that Dr. Chris Okafor is not the first individual to be accused by this person. Apparently, numerous men of God have faced similar accusations. The question arises: what is her objective? The seemingly obvious answer is nothing. This raises the question: why would a rational person engage in a non-profitable pursuit? It implies she has failed in her original calling in the perceived world, resorting to blackmail as a result

Doris Ogala, are you cognizant of the fact that your blackmail is ineffective against Grace Nation? I am certain that you monitor our services every Thursday midweek service and Sunday service, and you can see that every day, Grace Nation grows in numbers, with people flocking to the church because God is with Grace Nation.

Doris Ogala, you are ill-equipped to hinder God’s Movement. You have undoubtedly taken on more than you can handle, and you will ultimately face the consequences of your actions. When you witness the repercussions of your endeavors, your community will sympathize with you

Doris Ogala, I find it rather intriguing that you assert having traveled to heaven and received detrimental instructions from spirits. To which heaven, exactly, did you ascend? Do you honestly think that those who engage in blackmail can come close to heaven’s gate? It is not feasible. I recommend that you undergo treatment, as your actions may be symptomatic of health issues like malaria. Regardless of whether you opt to seek medical help or not, you will inevitably face the repercussions of your actions

You previously stated that you were very close to our father. Are you married? If so, where is your husband in relation to your close relationship with our father? Honestly, I’m not surprised, Doris Ogala. Unless you change, it’s unlikely that you’ll get married. Can a man be expected to marry someone perceived as being indiscriminate in her relationships due to financial motivations? May I ask you something?. Are you under the impression that our father will pity you and fall for these allegations? No, you are being dishonest. Dr. Chris Okafor cannot be deceived by this. Furthermore, did Dr. Chris Okafor have a prior relationship with you? All evidence suggests that he did not know you, and if he did, you would not have made such allegations. Nevertheless, I am not surprised, given the various allegations we have encountered within our church community

Approximately 4-5 years ago, while I was still residing in Nigeria, a lady attended our church, claiming that God had directed her to Grace Nation, as her husband, Dr. Chris Okafor, was a member. She physically attended the service, but when she didn’t receive the expected reaction, she attempted to take drastic measures. Unbeknownst to the congregation, she had brought fuel with her and proceeded to douse herself with it, intending to set herself ablaze. Fortunately, swift intervention by church members prevented a tragic outcome. She alleged that God had instructed her to visit Liberation City to meet her prospective husband, who was our revered leader. We have encountered numerous similar incidents, but your accusations, Doris Ogala, have crossed a boundary, and there will be consequences

In a functioning society, how would a woman unapologetically make such grave allegations in a public space against a genuine man of God who is known to have a family?. Ha-a-h! Doris Ogala you are a shameless and disgrace to womanhood, you are not worth to be addressed a woman in our society, because your behaviors and character not far from you dogs, give your life to Christ so that you will not perish in hell fire

Via this medium, I am appealing to individuals worldwide to ignore the baseless and unsubstantiated allegations against my father, Dr. Chris Okafor. Doris Ogala is a serial blackmailer, and her allegations are unfounded. I advise you, Doris Ogala. Your only chance for spiritual rejuvenation is to commit your life to Christ and be born again. It is essential that you promptly seek forgiveness from Dr. Chris Okafor, or risk facing prolonged adversity

On a final note: My heart goes out to your generation, and a gentle suggestion is sufficient for the perceptive.

Chuke Emmanuel writes from
Gambia

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