QUEEN ESTHER MAGAZINE

AFTER PITY, WHAT NEXT?
A WAKE UP CALL86
OUR TEAM
BEATRICE CHIZARAM MADU
INNOCENT ENEBELI
HOUSE OF HOPE
JOHN CROSS
MABEL MADU
STELLA EZEONYEKA PETER AUGUSTINE
BARR. MRS. BASSEY NTUK
Editor-In-Chief/publisher
Assistant Editor/creative Consultant
Contributor
Contributor / Social Analyst
Correspondent - Lagos
Correspondent - Port Harcourt Graphic Artist
Contributor
ANTHONY MADU
Marketer
HOPE OKPANACHI
Marketer
CHINYERE NWOGA
Marketer
ALEX NWANKWO
Manager
ADE ONI
Photographer
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Photographer
CHIZOBA UNACHUKWU
Marketer
1
CELEBRATING A WOMAN OF WORTH
CHIEF MRS. HERA OKIRO
FIDA NIGERIA-ABUJA
CELEBRATES TWO DECADES
“THE CHURCH HAS BECOME THE
GREATEST KILLERS OF TALENT”
- ASU EKIYE
69
81
QE CONTENT
36SUPERWOMAN
8

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ueen stherPROJECT
SECOND EDITION QUEEN ESTHER
BEAUTY PAGEANT 2012
BEATRICE CHIZARAM MADU
MD/CEO
QUEEN ESTHER AWARDS
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QUEENESTHER
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2

ocieties pay a huge price for ignoring the
proven abilities of women to forge
Sdevelopment; the recognition of the role
of women in stabilizing societies informs the
quest for more women in developmental
initiatives.
Women are said to be highly compassionate,
therefore naturally suited to the task of
building lives and bringing succour to the less
privileged.
The history of mankind is a history of repeated
injuries and usurpation on the part of men
toward women. The International Federation
of Women Lawyers (FIDA) has come to lay the
foundation of a new culture of respect for
women, the protection of women and child
rights, bringing their experiences, perceptions
and legal training to bear on the
transformational process, they have come to
advocate that the opportunities and life
chances of women are equal to that of the
men. Giving a voice to the voiceless, you
would say. It was a period of Joy for the
members of FIDA Nigeria Abuja branch as
they celebrated two decades.
and Iyabode Ogunseye the
Chairperson shares her vision and tells
us more about the group that is
determined to make a difference.
Still talking about making a difference,
what difference would have made when
you leave planet earth? This was a
question that presumably came to the minds
of many people who witnessed the Burial
Ceremony of late Chief Mrs. Hera Okiro,
the wife of former IGP Sir Mike Okiro. I could
not ignore this question myself as I listened
to many sympathizers testify to the
exemplary and worthy life she lived,
leaving her footprints on the sands of time.
influence society positively could also be
the motivating factor for Sir Mike Okiro to
author a book entitled “Overcoming
Security Challenges” a book that couldn't
have come at a better time when we as a
nation are faced with serious security
challenges.
A public presentation of this book was
recently made at the Sheraton Hotel
Abuja.
It was indeed a memorable day for both
Contestants and Awardees at the Queen
Esther Beauty Pageant and awards 2012 which
was recently held at the Ladi kwali Hall of
Sheraton Hotel Abuja. We bring you all the
details in this Edition.
Share in our interview with Asu Ekiye, the
darling of many Gospel music lovers, you
will find his success story very enriching.
Avail yourself with our regular columns and
you will be glad you did.
Queen Esther Magazine, in its uniqueness is
positioned to make a statement in the
media world.
God bless you as you contribute to make
this a reality.
Beatrice Chizaram Madu
Editor-in-Chief
Editorial
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AFTER PITY, WHAT NEXT?
A WAKE UP CALL
5
oday, our society is
awash with news pieces
Tof information about
child abuse of every kind
and many forms of violence
against women. Child
cruelty, child sexual abuse
and rape in particular are on
the increase in recent time.
Our heart as a society
bleeds when we hear about
inhuman treatment
unleashed on defenceless
children by adults.
Sometimes it would be
machete cuts, hot water
bath as well as acid bath to
mention but a few. What
about non-training of
children in the school and
marrying off children at a
very young age by some
parents, on the mere excuse
of lack of money. Even when
some are sent to school,
they are left to wonder
along the roads, at risk of
road accidents and other
hazards. Child neglect in our
society is assuming an
alarming rate, be it poor
health, lack of safety
precautions and muscling of
child rights. The negligence is
becoming unpardonable. It
affects everyone directly or
indirectly. We plan and
spend billions of money to
build super structures but fail
to protect those to inherit
the expected future.
Women are not left out in
this act of neglect and
cruelty. We have continued
to seek ways to escape the
inequalities of our laws which
places all womanhood at
the mercy of manhood. The
majority of women in African
still suffer violation of their
most basic human rights. For
instance they are not always
allowed to enter freely into
marriage. Women's right to
personal liberty and security
including the right to health
are also frequently violated
through domestic
institutional and community
violence such as battering,
sexual violence and other
cultural worms that disregard
the feelings, rights and
perceptions of women.
Other discriminating
burdens placed on women
including the burden of
fertility and the burden of
female circumcision. Others
include the burden to prove
rape both in the community
and in a court of law.
Polygamy continues to be
practiced widely among all
ethnic groups and among
Christians as well as Muslims
and practitioners of
traditional religions in most
parts of Africa. Women
have less educational and
employment opportunities
and are relegated to the
status of second class
citizens.
In addition, many
customary practices in
Africa do not recognize a
woman's right to inherit her
husband's property. And
many widows are rendered
destitute when their in-laws
take virtually all of the
The majority of women in
Africa still suffer violation of
their most basic human rights.
The women of this nation must be
awakened to a sense of awake, must
make an effort to awaken those who are
dead asleep, bring publicity to their
cause and to effect change. Take bold
dynamic actions to stop the injustice
that women are subjected to. Resistance
to tyranny is obedience to God.

6
deceased husband's property.
Apart from denying widows
inheritance, some African
customs subject them to
physical and emotional abuses.
Societal perceptions are usually
shaped by religion, tradition,
folklore and fables. Most
religious and traditions hold
tenaciously to the belief that
women must not occupy
leadership positions in the
society but should remain
compliments of male leaders.
There are also incredible reports
that several business operate
with a “get pregnant, get fired”
policy.
There are indeed a lot of
institutional constraints to
women empowerment these
include lack of structures to
advance women issues and
lack of commitment and
political will to effect changes
on issues of gender
mainstreaming. The Nigerian
law through the penal code
permits and condones the
widespread problem of
domestic violence by
encouraging beating of wives in
as much as it does not amount
to grievous harm. Another
example is the Sharian Penal
Code laws which ensures that
woman is convicted and
sentenced to death by stoning
for the offence of adultery,
even when she is legally
divorced while the man is set
free.
In the case of traditional laws
especially in the south east
Nigeria, the wife is often
regarded as one of the
properties to be inherited
after the death of her
husband and a female
child is generally not
expected to entertain
any expectation when
she loses her father in
death. Under the above
conditions, it is extremely
difficult for a woman to
be involved in
developmental
processes that are
basically male
dominated without
incurring the wrath of
their male dominated
communities and a child
reaching his or her full
potentials in life.
The call for an end to all
forms of violence and
discrimination against
women and child abuse
of any kind emphasizes
the need for a more
radical approach
through economics,
social and political
development. It is not
enough to call for
prosecution of child
abuse and violence
against women
perpetrators and
showing pity to the
victims. Blaming parents
and the society at large
does not bring the harsh
reality to a halt either.
Showing pity to victims of
child molestation and
discrimination and
violence against women
is good but it should go
beyond that. Paying
mere lip service to it is
not the answer. It should
be a thing of the past.
Rhetoric commitment in
this regards needs to be
translated into firm action in
that area of influencing
policies and legislative
changes that can curb
gender based violence
although there are
international laws
promulgated to protect the
rights of women, ratification
and implementation is
usually difficult for most
African governments. The
women of this nation must
be awakened to a sense of
awake, must make an effort
to awaken those who are
dead asleep bring publicity
to their cause and to effect
change. Take bold
dynamic actions, to stop
the injustice that women
are subjected to.
Resistance to tyranny is
obedience to God. They
should boldly advocate for
equality. Being on the
vanguard potential
development through
quality awareness should
be accorded the priority
that it deserves. Women are
advised not to expect men,
to freely and willingly hand
over power to them. They
must wrest it from men. They
need to take their destinies
in their own hands and use
their God-given talents and
endowments to build their
societies they should also
use their numerical strength
to achieve political ends.
It is often said that most
women lack confidence
and that when they are
included in decision making
processes, they usually
succumb to the pressure to
act like men they therefore

7
promote the agenda of men
who usually dominate such
setting. Women should be most
confident to actively
participate in decision making
process.
Women are their own worst
enemies as they do not support
their fellow women to vie for
elective posts. They need to be
united to accomplish this.
Women must support one
another to get to leadership
positions where they can
collectively contribute to
sustainable development of
their societies.
It is strongly recommended that
traditional stereotypes and
structures of domination should
be eliminated by encouraging
debate and dialogue re-
educating society on gender
balance and providing roles for
women over and above the
religious and cultural
interpretations of women as
being inferior. An organized
awareness campaign should
be created as an effective tool
for communication and
mobilization which will give
visibility to women's quest for
gender equality. Men should
also realize and accept
women as their partners in
progress in achieving
sustainable development.
Equality between men and
women is critical to
development and there can
be no effective development in
any area where women do not
play a central role alongside
men.
The government should
encourage the efforts of
organizations focused on
protecting the rights women
and children by providing
them with political,
financial and technical
support. The International
Federation of Women
Lawyers FIDA are noted
globally for their
committed efforts in
fighting the cause of
women and children, I
commend them and also
recommend that their
efforts be established and
enabled through
adequate assistance to
function properly.
Women should use their
God-given talents and
capacities to redress
encumbrances in the
system that is male
dominated. Women should
endavour to break free
from all structural and
societal factors militating
against their development
and progress by
advocating strongly and
unanimously for their rights
according to
internationally agreed
standards forming
deliberate alliances with
men to mediate and
acquire negotiation
towards enduring all forms
of discrimination and
violence against women.
They can also broaden the
understanding of political
decision-makers of the
importance of women's
contribution to nation
building and to initiate
discussions on how the
upbringing and roles of men
and women affect their
attitude towards violence.
Working and networking
together women can
increase awareness
amongst themselves of the
ways and means by which
their views, knowledge and
skills concerning their stake
in their communities can be
expressed, shared with
others and affirmed through
positive action.
They should realize that
women generally have
perceptions< potentials and
skills that can be brought to
bear on development
issues> time to promote child
welfare eliminate all forms of
violence and discrimination
against women is now!
By Beatrice Chizaram Madu
and John Cross.

rom the 19th to 21st june 2012, The members of FIDA Nig. Abuja branch and many of
their associates came together to celebrate the two decades of FIDA Abuja
Fbranch. The event which centred on the theme “Nigerian Woman & Child in a
troubled Nation, what future, What hope?” . started with a street rally, a two day seminar
and culminated with a gala night at Shehu Musa Yardua centre and a thanksgiving church
service at Dunamis International Gospel Centre, Abuja.
Celebrates Two Decades
T
he International
Federation of Women
Lawyers - FIDA- was
formed in 1944 by a group
of seven women lawyers
from Cuba, EI Salvador,
Mexico, Puerto Rico, and
the United States of
America. The Association is
generally known as FIDA
(which is an abbreviation
of the original Spanish
appellation Federation
International de
Abogadas). FIDA International
is strictly a non-political and
nonprofit making organization
and membership can either
be as a country or as
individuals in countries where
there are not enough
members to constitute a
group or where a country has
not formed an officially
recognized association. Its
primary role is to promote the
rights of women and children.
With the advent of the
Universal Declaration of
Human Rights, FIDA's
objectives were broadened to
include human rights for all. In
1952, the Association was
admitted into the family of
non-governmental
organizations at the United
Nations, while in 1954 it was
granted a Consultative Status
at the United Nations. It holds
a class 2b status and is also a
BRIEF PROFILE ABOUT FIDA
Funmi Awomolo
Chairperson, Planning Committee
INTERNATIONALFEDERATION
OFWOMENLAWYERS
FEDERACION INTERNACIONAL DE ABOGADAS
(FIDA) NIGERIA - ABUJA.
CELEBRATES TWO DECADES
member of CONGO
(Conference of Non
Governmental Organizations).
The Association now has
memberships in more than 80
countries in every region of the
world and over 1000 individual
members.
FIDA NIGERIA: FIDA Nigeria was
formed in 1963 and is a member
of FIDA International. It has over
30 state branches covering all
the regions of Nigeria.
MEMBERSHIP: Membership is
open to female lawyers called
to the Nigerian bar and resident
in Nigeria.
8
Chairperson FIDA Nigeria - AbujaChairperson FIDA Nigeria - Abuja

INTERNATIONALFEDERATION
OFWOMENLAWYERS
A
two day seminar organized by the International Federation of Women
Lawyers FIDA Abuja, as part of the events marking the celebrations of two
decades of FIDA Nigeria, Abuja and 2012 Law Week.
The seminar saw speakers and resource persons in the legal profession whom
amongst them were the keynote Speaker, Professor Dakas C J Dakas, Mrs. A O
Mbamali (SAN), Wunmi Asubiaro Dada, Hon. Justice Goodluck, Chief Awomolo
(SAN), Chief Mrs Stella Odife and Mrs. Biola Adimula delivering papers on the above
subject. A school debate between Junior Secondary School, Area 11 and Junior
Secondary School, Wuse FCT Abuja which centered on whether the Nigerian Child
can achieve his or her optimum potentials or not, was also one of the items presented
during the seminar session.
Increasing cases of domestic violence and rape,
Alternative dispute resolution or the multidoor, any effect on litigation?
Does the child rights Act/Law offer adequate protection for the Nigerian Child?
Enforcement of judgment garnishee proceedings,
Mentoring and ethics in the legal profession
The presentation of the British Council Gender report 2012.
Topics ranging from:-
The Nigerian Woman and Child in a troubled Nation:
what future, what hope?
“
“
PAPER REVIEW
9

eynote Address by Professor Dakas C. J. Dakas. Professor Dakas’
impressive address was obviously in sympathy to the plight of Nigerian
Kwomen and girl children and it drew attention to the serious problem of
discrimination against women and the violation of the rights of women which
are perpetuated through the discriminatory nature of Nigeria's socio-cultural
laws. His address x-rayed many of the injustices Nigerian women face in a male
dominated society and in the context of the turbulent times, Nigeria is faced
with. He opined that women suffer most in conflict situations. According to him,
issues of wanton discrimination against women is witnessed in many situations,
the burden of prove in cases of rape, unequal representation of women and
women having to operate by the standards set by men.
Other instances are in terms of access to opportunities, in terms of access to
resources and in terms of access to power. He also enumerated many of the
socio-cultural and religious practices that discriminate against women and
some of the discriminatory and obnoxious provisions that are found in our law
books citing a section of the penal code which permits husbands to use
physical means to chastise their wives as long as it does not result in “grievous
harm”. Another example is the Islamic faith that ensures a woman is convicted
and punished on the offence of adultery or rape, while the man is set free. The
Christian religion, He says, also strengthens discrimination against women as
some provisions in the Bible are often manipulated to undermine the rights of
women. On a final note he emphasized that the struggle for women's right is not
a struggle of the sexes but that women are asking for the opportunity to use
their potentials and become the best they can be. He therefore adopted
gender equality as a vital goal for development cooperation.
His recommendations.
1. To constructively engage the public interest litigation.
2. To constructively engage religion – because it is usually manipulated to
oppress women.
3. To constructively engage culture as no culture is immutable.
4. Women to continue to play the pivotal role of shaping the roles their
children play in the future knowing that gender is the construction of
social roles.
5. To engage the law reform commission.
6. To pursue a more active legislative advocacy. To seek an amendment of
some of the obnoxious laws and practices we find in Nigeria.
7. To establish the affirmative action which justifies that women have been
unduly treated and therefore aims to rectify the injustices and facilitate
some remedial measures to help put women back on their feet, provide
adequate representation of women.
10

8. To constructively engage theatre. The Theatre is a popular culture in Nigeria
that has a captive audience therefore can be used to set the agenda.
Engaging Nollywood theatre, which usually depicts reality and mirrors the ills
in the society, could be very beneficial in advancing the rights of women.
Their scripts can be shaped to drive the agenda that is consistent with the
rights of women.
9. Domesticate regional and international laws that advance the cause of
women. The non-discrimination provision in Section 42 of our constitution is
also identified as one of the documents that can be used to enhance the
rights of women in Nigeria.
10. Economic empowerment: Women should be economically empowered
because the struggle for equality is the struggle for power.
11. Education: Education grants you access to opportunities, therefore it is
essential for women to get adequate education. The need for its
consciousness should also be created.
12. Women in authority should use their position to leverage the conditions of
women instead of asking for favours from men.
rs. Biola Adimula, the presenter of the Paper tried to bring up issues that
militate against the child. She made mind bungling revelations of how
Msome socio-cultural practices in the north has contributed in denying
children their rights. She remarked that though the child rights act has been
documented to protect the child, it has never been adequately implemented,
thus, the rights of children especially in northern Nigeria have been consistently
violated. The issue and consequences of child marriage were brought to the fore.
Consequences of child marriage were seen to be issues of health problems like
Vesico Vaginal Fistula (VVF), Maternal health issues, premature pregnancy, HIV/AIDS,
increased maternal mortality, increased infant mortality, increased illiteracy and
increased level of poverty, Abuse and Violence, Isolation and abandonment.
She stipulated ways that can be employed.
To enforce the protection of child rights and to prevent child marriage which
include.
1. Adequate education
2. Increased advocacy
3. Public enlightenment and having the political will.
DOES THE CHILD RIGHTS ACT/LAW OFFER ADEQUATE PROTECTION
FOR THE NIGERIAN CHILD?
11

ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION OR THE MULTI-DOOR: ANY EFFECT ON
LITIGATION?
By Hon. Justice O. Goodluck (Hon. Judge, FCT Multi-Door Court)
Recommendations
Hon. Justice O. Goodluck defines alternative Dispute resolution ADR or the
Multi-door as a process of resolving dispute outside the courtroom litigation.
She explains that ADR is not a substitute for litigation but simply
complementary to litigation and particularly important in the protection and
enforcement of family, social and economic rights. She pointed out that
matters relating to psychological needs and values are better resolved by the
ADR.
She presented some forms of ADR which are negotiation, mediation,
conciliation and arbitration. The advantages of ADR were also highlighted to
be – creates substantial reduction in the financial cost of litigation and the
number of cases that clog the court system and the time cases drag in court.
Litigation builds a culture of amiable settlement of differences and peaceful
co-existence – promotes law and order, enhances police efficiency by
reducing the number of complaints. Aids the reduction of ethnic, religious,
social and political conflicts, strengthens the public security, peace and
development, rule of law and sound democratic culture. The constraints of
ADR were also presented to be –
- ADR may not be binding on parties to it except in the case of
Arbitration.
- There is difficulty in the enforcement of ADR and
- ADR cases do not and cannot constitute judicial precedents.
This report represents several statistics from civil societies, national bureau of
statistics, NGOs brought into one document as a gender inequality report
with the aim of using the information to take action. The report informs us that
we need to focus on our girls because girls are our future.
The report looks in the focus axis of six key areas that concern women and girls.
The report reveals that only 15% of our women own a bank account. It also
informs us that income inequality is established because of the taxation
regime in Nigeria that sees men as breadwinners. The report reveals that
Nigeria is on the 118 position against 134 that is on the gender equality index.
This appears to be worrisome. According to the report 3% of female Nigerians
complete secondary school in eight northern States. The report tells us that
there is high rate of female genital mutilation in southwest and high rate of
physical violation of unmarried women in the southern. Nigeria is also
recorded to be the lowest in terms of women entrepreneurship.
Prioritize agriculture and rural development
Keep our girls in schools
Give our girls a second chance at life
Increase the health budget
Reduce Health maternal mortality.
THE PRESENTATION OF THE BRITISH COUNCIL GENDER REPORT 2012
Highlight: by Wunmi Asubiaro Dada
12

13
Chairman of the occasion Speaker of the House of Representatives Hon. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal
and the Chairperson FIDA Nigeria - Abuja, Iyabode Ogunseye
Chairman of the occasion Speaker of the House of Representatives Hon. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal
and the Chairperson FIDA Nigeria - Abuja, Iyabode Ogunseye
L-R: House Leader Hon. Mulikat Adeola Akande,
speaker of the House of Reps and Iyabode Ogunseye
L-R: House Leader Hon. Mulikat Adeola Akande,
speaker of the House of Reps and Iyabode Ogunseye
House Leader Hon. Mulikat Adeola Akande and the
Chairperson FIDA Nigeria-Abuja Iyabode Ogunseye
House Leader Hon. Mulikat Adeola Akande and the
Chairperson FIDA Nigeria-Abuja Iyabode Ogunseye House Leader Hon. Mulikat Adeola AkandeHouse Leader Hon. Mulikat Adeola Akande

14
Chief A.S. Awomolo (SAN) and WifeChief A.S. Awomolo (SAN) and Wife Keynote Speaker Prof. Dakas C.J. DakasKeynote Speaker Prof. Dakas C.J. Dakas
Air Comandore Udo (middle) with the AwomolosAir Comandore Udo (middle) with the Awomolos Hon. Razaq and Hon. Mulikat Adeola AkandeHon. Razaq and Hon. Mulikat Adeola Akande
The Speaker flanked by FIDANSThe Speaker flanked by FIDANS
R-L: Barr. Halima Alfa, Bimbola Hundeyin, Hon. Mulikat Adeola AkandeR-L: Barr. Halima Alfa, Bimbola Hundeyin, Hon. Mulikat Adeola Akande

15
House Leader Hon. Mulikat Adeola Akande unveiling De Abogadas
(A Publication of FIDA Abuja)
House Leader Hon. Mulikat Adeola Akande unveiling De Abogadas
(A Publication of FIDA Abuja)
General Chris Garuba(Midle) with people of the legal professionGeneral Chris Garuba(Midle) with people of the legal profession
The Speaker Hon. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal(Middle) flanked by
Hon. Lynda Ikpeazu (left) and Hon. Olivia Agbajoh -former members House of Reps.
The Speaker Hon. Aminu Waziri Tambuwal(Middle) flanked by
Hon. Lynda Ikpeazu (left) and Hon. Olivia Agbajoh -former members House of Reps.
Chief A.S. Owomolo (SAN)Chief A.S. Owomolo (SAN)

16
Prof. C.J. Dakas and Mrs. Mercy AgbanucheProf. C.J. Dakas and Mrs. Mercy Agbanuche
L-R: Chief Mrs. Stella Odife, Funmi Awomolo Ozioma IzuoraL-R: Chief Mrs. Stella Odife, Funmi Awomolo Ozioma Izuora
Afam Osigwe NBA Chairman Abuja BranchAfam Osigwe NBA Chairman Abuja Branch
Ijeoma Alisi, the PRO FIDA Nig. Abuja BranchIjeoma Alisi, the PRO FIDA Nig. Abuja Branch
Hon. Lynda Ikpeazu (left) and The Hon. House LeaderHon. Lynda Ikpeazu (left) and The Hon. House Leader
Mrs Mercy Agbamuche, Air Comodore Udo and Gen. Chris GarubaMrs Mercy Agbamuche, Air Comodore Udo and Gen. Chris Garuba

17
Afam Osigwe, NBA Chairman
Abuja branch flanked by FIDANS
Afam Osigwe, NBA Chairman
Abuja branch flanked by FIDANS
Nachamada Shaltha and FriendNachamada Shaltha and Friend

18
Hon. Justice O. GoodluckHon. Justice O. Goodluck
Ozioma Uzuora and Funmi AwomoloOzioma Uzuora and Funmi Awomolo
Barr. Esther Omaka and FriendBarr. Esther Omaka and Friend
FIDAN’S Birthday CelebrationFIDAN’S Birthday Celebration
Mrs. Biola Adimula (Middle)Mrs. Biola Adimula (Middle)

19
Students of Junion sec. Sch. Area 11 receiving their trophy from
FIDA Nig. Abj. Chairperson Iyabode Ogunseye
Students of Junion sec. Sch. Area 11 receiving their trophy from
FIDA Nig. Abj. Chairperson Iyabode Ogunseye
The Winners of the School debate Junior sec. Sch. Wuse Zone 1
receiving their prize.
The Winners of the School debate Junior sec. Sch. Wuse Zone 1
receiving their prize.
Cross section of Women Lawyers at the eventCross section of Women Lawyers at the event
L-R: S.P Olabisi Olawole and Hon. Lynda IkpeazuL-R: S.P Olabisi Olawole and Hon. Lynda Ikpeazu

20
Ene EdeEne Ede
Chief Mrs. Stella Odife and a guestChief Mrs. Stella Odife and a guest

21
Funmi Awomolo and Chairperson FIDA Nig. AbujaFunmi Awomolo and Chairperson FIDA Nig. Abuja

22
Mrs. A. O. Mbamali (SAN)Mrs. A. O. Mbamali (SAN)
Mrs.Evelyn Hauwa ShekarauMrs.Evelyn Hauwa ShekarauHon. Olivia Agbajoh- Former Member House of Reps.Hon. Olivia Agbajoh- Former Member House of Reps.
Ijeoma Alisi, PRO FIDA Nigeria-Abuja.Ijeoma Alisi, PRO FIDA Nigeria-Abuja.
L-R:WunmiAsubiaroDada,FIDANig.-Abj.Chairperson&FunmiAwomoloL-R:WunmiAsubiaroDada,FIDANig.-Abj.Chairperson&FunmiAwomolo

24
The Chairperson FIDA Nig. Abj. branch receiving her AwardThe Chairperson FIDA Nig. Abj. branch receiving her AwardIyabode Ogunseye and the Chairman of the Gala Nite OccasionIyabode Ogunseye and the Chairman of the Gala Nite Occasion
Gala Nite

28
Benjamin UbiriBenjamin Ubiri
TV Personality

29
The Publisher Queen Esther Magazine
-Beatrice Chizaram Madu and Barr. Nachamada

FIDA Nig. Abuja Members during the thanksgiving church Service
at Dunamis International Gospel Centre Area 1, Abuja.
FIDA NIG. ABUJA CELEBRATES TWO DECADES
31

We congratulate you for
two decades of FIDA
Nigeria Abuja and a
successful one year in
office as the
Chairperson, FIDA Nigeria
Abuja. Now tell us a little
but more about yourself.
Who are your role
models?
I attended Catholic
Primary and secondary
Schools in Lagos, studied
French in Geneva
Switzerland, I later
proceeded to the
Buckingham University
England where I
obtained my First and
second Degree in Law.
God has always been
my role model. My
grandfather was the first
Puisne Justice of the
Supreme Court of Nigeria.
My grandparents played
an important role in
shaping my life, they also
remain my role models.
FIDA is focused on
protecting the rights of
women and children ,
providing free legal
services for indigent
women and children, we
also promote and
enhance their
advancement and
protection through
advocacy for legislations.
We realize that the
welfare of women and
children lie the happiness
of the home and the
what are the key focus of
FIDA?
strength of the society and
therefore focus in seeing that
women are empowered to
take care of themselves and
their children. We promote
principles and aims of the
United Nations in their Legal,
social and Political aspect.
Charity they say begins at
home in that sense we also
strive to cater for our
members who may require
our help.
Oh! Yes FIDA is doing its best
to accomplish most of its set
goals. we have been able to
touch the lives of many
indigent women and
children in FCT with our
meagre resources, we have
mediated and intervened in
Do you think that FIDA is living
up to its mandate?
“Life is not worth living unless it is lived for others”.
This is a belief playing out in the life of a woman who
says that she doesn't see obstacles even if they
exist when she sets her heart to achieve a mission,
she strikes a high note with the sterling qualities of
courage, conviction, passion and commitment, great
tools for becoming a true woman of influence.
Armed with a master degree in law, which she
obtained from the Buckingham University England
and a towering height of six foot plus. Iyabode
Ogunseye stands tall as the chairperson FIDA
Nigeria, Abuja.
In an exclusive interview with Queen Esther
Magazine, she shares her visions and aspirations
which are geared towards using her influence to
improve the lives of indigent women and children
and taking FIDA Nig. Abuja to a greater height.
Excerpts:-
IYABODE OGUNSEYE
Chairperson FIDA, Nigeria-Abuja.
SETTING THE PACESETTING THE PACE
LL.B, LL.M (Buckingham), B.L
32

33
many cases of domestic
violence, discrimination
andviolation of human
rights involving women
and children in FCT and
in most of the cases
secured justice for our
clients or influenced an
amicable settlement
between the warring
parties. Many a time we
have provided food
items for some indigent
women in FCT but the
sad story is that they turn
around to sell the stuffs
and of course we can
only attribute this action
to poverty, a lot of
families are impoverished
and we need to do more
to help them. We pay
medical bills and legal
fees for indigent women
who run to us for help
and often times pay their
transport fare back to
their homes. Our role in
seeing that the health bill
is passed at the National
Assembly was vital to its
success.
FIDA is a Non-Govern
mental and non-
profit making
organisation. Our
I know it is expensive to
run programmes like this.
How do you get your
funds?
objectives are met by
partnering with
government individuals,
corporate sponsors,
embassies and relevant
agencies. We rely on
support from most of these
organizations to finance
our projects.
Ans : We have received
support from some
quarters. We commend
the FCT minister Senator
Bala Mohammed and
some others for their efforts
in helping us carry out our
mandate but our
responsibilities are
enormous. We need some
more support and I
implore all who care to be
part of what we are doing
to come on board and
help. We also realize that
Are you getting adequate
support?
many people are still
unaware of our activities,
people can only identifywith
you when they are well
informed about you, and
therefore we plan to embark
on an awareness campaign.
Ans: We have established
outreaches in places like the
prisons, orphanages and
rural settlements and a lot of
people have benefited from
these efforts. Our plan is to
improve on what we are
already doing. Other
recommendations pertains
the need to launch radio
and TV programs, distribute
handbills that will contain
vital information about us.
Also of primary importance is
for FIDA to receive the
recognition it deserves and
its relevance felt .Our goal is
to establish the presence of
FIDA in all police stations
across the country, we have
written to the inspector
General of police in this
regard and he promises to
look into our request. FIDA is
positioned to become a
house hold name in FCT and
in the other parts of the
country. This is a feat that has
been achieved by other
member countries. Gambia
is a country that FIDA has
become a force to reckon
with.
In what specific ways are
you going to create this
awareness? It is quite obvious
that more women and
children would have to
benefit from your
humanitarian works.
How well do you relate with
other agencies that pursue
similar objectives? Are you in
Chairperson & Margrate Thatcher
at Backingham University

34
partnership with any?
Apart from the publicity plan
what other plans do you
have in place?
We are always open to
partnership as long as it is in
line with our mandate, we
have continued to maintain
an active position at the
United Nations Women
Consultative forum.We also
partner with NAPTIP, to
check the nefarious
activities of people who
traffic in persons.
To a large extent we are
care givers, in our work to
protect the rights of women
and children, we want to go
the extra mile in providing
what we term as a 'safe
house' for abused and
traumatized women and
children, during their stay in
the 'safe house' they will be
catered for, counselled and
helped to overcome the
frustrations of the past. As
soon as the funds and the
land space are available
we will embark on the
construction and building of
this particular house. The
child rights act is an
important document that
must be made available to
all children of school age;
you must know your rights
before you fight for its
protection. Children must be
made to know theirrights.
You know they are our
future leaders. Our plans to
print many copies of the
simplified version of the Child
Rights Act and distribute to
many schools is of
paramount importance. In
order to also help the school
children internalise the
provisions of the Child Rights
Act they will be made to
create a drama which they
will present to translate all
the issues contained in the
child rights act. We have
great potentials in our
children. It is important we
protect their rights so that
they can reach their full
potential. As part of the
events to mark the twenty
decades of FIDA Abuja we
invited students from two
schools in FCT for a debate
and we were overwhelmed
with their brilliant
performances.
We are very hopeful that as
we continue to push for
legislations that will protect
the rights of women ,people
in authority will see the need
to abolish some of the out-
dated laws which of course
were promulgated by our
colonial masters. Our laws
need to protect the rape
victim. Rape cannot be
done openly. We also know
that the Human Rights
Commission are helping to
solve some of these
complexities.
The legal system seems to be
tilted in favour of men such
that women's rights are not
given the same weight as
the rights of men; our laws
are unfairly biased such that
women have an unduly
heavy burden of proof to
bear in cases of violence
including rape. Is there any
hope in sight?
There is clearly inadequate
social and political support
for Nigerian women who
desire positions of power and
authority. Do you see the
Nigerian woman overcoming
this challenge?
Do you encounter
challenges in your course of
duty?
Let me tell you Nigerian men
know of our abilities, they are
always afraid to allow us
leadership opportunities
because they know we may
perform better than them.
Nigerian women in
leadership positions have
proved to be great
achievers. If the 35%
affirmative action (though I
advocate for more
percentage) is adequately
implemented through
committed and
conscientious appointment
and election of women in
positions of authority, I
believe it will go a long way
in narrowing the gap.
Therefore, our women should
not give up hope.
I am a result oriented person.
I do not see challenges when
I set my heart to achieve a
mission. When you embark
on a race to win a prize, do
Current Vice Chancellor of Buckingham University Dr. Terence Kealey
His Excellency Liyel Nwoke and Iyabode Ogunseye

35
you look back? you don't
because if you do, you lose
concentration and of course
lose out in the race without
getting to your destination. I set
my goals, I commit them into
the hands of God, pursue them
with passion and determination
and hope to achieve them, I
never envisage failure. Our
work is only hampered when
we don't get the full co-
operation of our clients we try
to protect or help. Our
traditions and believes have
not helped matters, victims of
domestic violence and rape
are usually reluctant to
continue a case after reporting
to us because of the stigma
associated with the matter. I
remember a woman in Pyakasa
here in FCT whose daughter
was raped by a relative, the
matter was reported to us, we
got in contact with the woman,
gave her some money for
transport to facilitate her
movement whenever she
wants to come to us but as we
made progress to bring the
culprit to book, the woman
stopped responding to us .We
could not go further at this
point. In law there is what we
term as ''audi alterem partem''
that is hear from the other side
.When cases involving two
parties or more are reported to
us, our first step is to hear the
report of the other side.
Unfortunately women who
are abused by their
husbands drop their
charges as soon we
demand to hear from their
men. Community leaders
have also posed a huge
problem in the course of
our duty, using their
authority and influence
they always interfere in our
duty to protect any of their
wards whose right has been
violated.
I may not be able to
comment on this I wasn't so
much in the picture before
now but you know different
people with different goals
and focus, my ultimate goal
is to take FIDA to greater
heights, In the words of
Mahatma Gandhi ''Be the
change you want to see''
as a change agent, want
to effect changes that will
live a lasting impression. I
felt the celebration was an
important thing to do
because if you do not
celebrate yourself nobody
will recognize your
relevance.
Ans: It is a great move in
the right direction, we must
protect female victims of
domestic violence and
You recently celebrated
two decades of FIDA
Abuja. Why did it take this
long for you to mark your
anniversary?
We were recently informed
by the media that female
lawmakers are advocating
for private court sessions for
female victims of domestic
violence and Rape so that
they will be protected from
stigma, what is your take on
this?
rape because we all know the
response of the society towards
these class of people, our
society is not matured enough
to accommodate people of this
nature without stigmatizing
them. With a private court
session in place for female
victims of domestic violence
and rape, more women will
able to open up and speak of
their experiences. How do you
punish an offender if his offence
is not reported?
I am very delighted about her
appointment, she is a woman I
have much confidence in .She
is a humble person whose
impeccable records to always
score first in whatever she does
show that she can transform
the judicial system to what it is
supposed to be. I am proud to
tell you that she is a life member
of FIDA and I know she is there
to make us proud. I think what
her primary concern should be
is to curb the corruption that is
evident in our judicial system
and to put in measures where
the time cases spend in our
courts is reduced.
Ans: It is as simple as it sounds
''She came and repositioned
FIDA in its right perspective''
setting an example for others to
follow.
Can you share your feelings
with us on the recent
appointment of Justice Aloma
Mariam Muhtar as the first
female chief justice of Nigeria.
Do you think the judicial system
will receive a face lift under her
leadership? What do you
suggest should be her primary
concern?
QEM: What would you like to be
remembered for after the end
of your tenure as the
chairperson of FIDA Abuja?
Hon. Mulikat Adeola Akande &
Iyabode Ogunseye
Hon. Mulikat Adeola Akande &
Iyabode Ogunseye

ost African
societies not
Monly condemn
women who cannot have
children, they castigate
and stigmatize unmarried
and divorced women as
well irrespective of the
factors responsible for their
situations and statuses,
and in modern society
where women play
multiple roles, they often
face the problem of
balancing between their
personal and professional
lives, successful women
are often times
stigmatized as prostitutes,
once a woman achieves
a measure of economic
independence, she
becomes burdened by
the negative effects of
social stigma.
Listen sister, if you are in
any of these situations and
expect to get the support
you understandably
deserve from the world
(when I say world) I mean
your friends, enemies,
parents, spouse, relatives
and close associates, you
may as well wait forever
before you make any
significant impart in your
life. You need to take
your destiny into your
own hands and fulfill
God's ordained purpose
for your life.
The story of the
Samaritan woman in the
Bible (John 4:5) paints a
vivid picture of an
unmarried woman who
struggled to avoid the
stigma associated with
her status and in that bid
had five “husbands”.
Many would want to
conclude that she was
promiscuous but as far as
I am concerned, that
was as far from it. Now
this is not a justification for
promiscuity, no excuse is
acceptable but the
Samaritan Woman I
suppose lived in a society
where unmarried women
were regarded as worthless
and so felt devalued. In her
search for validation, the
disgrace she hoped to
avoid by having a man
brought her even deeper
embarrassment. She failed
to recognize the true
source of her value and
power which lied in the
eternal purpose of God for
her. Well the good news is
that through the divine
orchestration of God she
eventually met with her
purpose and was used by
God to propagate his
gospel and resolve an age
long racial conflict.
Now this story is a good
example of a situation
where women would spend
all their time, energy and
emotion seeking affirmation
and fulfillment from men
but never getting it
because it was not men's to
give, small wonder women
still crave for fulfillment
SUPERWOMAN
36

even after marriage. The
truth remains that men
and women were never
designed to be each
other's source of
fulfillment.
Ladies, it is time to get it
right. In a world that
grasps for constant
validation, it is easy you
become a victim of
societal pressure and
demands with its
attendant frustrations. To
not achieve success or
fulfillment in family or
career does not mean
you were disregarded or
forsaken by God – you
don't have to wait for a
man, a child or the
opinion of others to
define who you are. God
has already given you a
name, realize the spiritual
perspective of your
identity and don't be
ruled by your desire for
fulfillment from another
source, you will be
disappointed because
man is incapable of
being the source that
God is.
Develop a sense of
purpose and decide to
live everyday on
purpose, don't put your
life on hold until God
delivers you from your
circumstance because
you want to avoid the
shame of being labeled
an old maid, a barren
woman or a prostitute,
don't neglect the call God
placed on you, you must
get busy performing your
God-ordained
assignment. Feeling sorry
for yourself will only create
more despondency and
please don't ever
welcome dirty pity-parties
they will surely worsen your
case, we must take our
pain to God, but don't
blame him for your
circumstance, decide to
excel where you are, no
matter how much you
hate your circumstances,
always stick to your guns.
Don't buy the lie of the
world that you are inferior,
a voice to be ignored, an
empty vessel without
honour, strip off all
preconceived notions
and worldly labels, redress
yourself with God's
salvation and validation
and surrender absolutely
to him. You must not allow
life to labour you, discard
every thought and
opinion that contradicts
what God says about you,
what is man's judgment
and opinion against God's
judgment and opinion. It's
time to know your worth
and make no apologies
for it, get a healthy
perspective of your worth
as a woman through
Christ.
Now, it takes strength to
do this and that is the
“super” in the woman. The
super is not about arm
wrestling or developing
muscles you were not
designed to have; it is about
developing character
muscles, it is about the internal
energy you exert to overcome
every militating force that
divinely in-built determination
you exhibit to conquer
adverse situations and the
tenacity you show in times of
trials. You don't have to be
tough to gain respect and
influence, you can be your
soft, warm, wise and feminine
self and get everything
accomplished. Your father
who sees in secret will reward
you openly. As we tap into the
source of true fulfillment and
validation of all we were
created to be, a miraculous
thing happens, we find
contentment in whatever
state we are in. Restoration,
healing and wholeness are in
the hands of God alone, so I
say to you, love yourself by
discovering yourself, be happy
and live life to the fullest,
believe me the rest of your life
will become the best of your
life.
By
Beatrice Chizaram Madu
For Speaking engagements
and Comments
Call or text 08160313484
Email:
touchgodonline@yahoo.com
37

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38

he Queen Esther Beauty Pageant is an
initiative of the Queen Esther Project and
Tit is birthed out of a beauty pageant that
has its records in the book of Esther in the
Bible, where Hadassah who changed her name
to Esther meaning “star” finds favour before
the King and was chosen as the Queen. The
book of Esther tells a story of Palace intrigues
and genocide thwarted by a Jewish Queen of
Persia named Esther. The competition aims to
provide a platform for young Christian women to
contest in a beauty pageant that upholds Godly
Values, it is a celebration and an ultimate
expression of true beauty; intelligence and
integrity. it is a search for the most inwardly and
outwardly beautiful and talented young woman who displays a Christian
character and is a role model for this generation. It is specially designed to
promote and extol the true virtues of womanhood, a platform created for young,
beautiful and bold women to achieve their ambition, a ladder to ascend the
throne of greatness and an opportunity to become a celebrity. It is a pageant
like no other with Christian orientation and biblical values aimed at building
confidence in young women who also seek to make a career in modeling.
The selected Queen will be expected to act as youth ambassador for peace and
change. The focus of the pageant and the responsibility of the queen are to draw
attention to the realities of poverty, the plight of orphans, widows and abused
women and to support the advocacy for the
elimination of all forms of violence against women.
The Queen also serves to promote the girl-child
education and mentorship. It is also aimed at
finding a young voice that will appeal to youths to
shun negative social vices and ungodly habits such
as prostitution, youth violence and drug abuse.
Based on the Christian principles, guiding the
competition appropriate attire will be required for
all segments, there will be no swimsuit round and
the contestants will be expected to behave in a
manner befitting the title of Queen Esther. The
initiator of the pageant, Beatrice Chizaram Madu
believes that a platform of this nature will go a long
way in building confidence in young women
who will become world changers.
THE
ueen stherBEAUTY PAGEANT
...supporting the advocacy for the elimination of all forms of violence against women....supporting the advocacy for the elimination of all forms of violence against women.
QUEEN ESTHER BEAUTY PAGEANT,
A PAGEANT LIKE NO OTHER
QUEEN ESTHER BEAUTY PAGEANT,
A PAGEANT LIKE NO OTHER
For enquiries, participation, sponsorship/partnership call:08160313484, 08023712007, 08037780342
Email: queeenesther540@yahoo.com
The initiator Beatrice Chizaram Madu
addressing the contestants
We need sponsors and partners to help us meet with our
objectives and drive the agenda forward.
QUEENESTHER2010/2011QUEENESTHER2010/2011
DAPHNE OKORODUDUDAPHNE OKORODUDU
QUEENESTHER2010/2011QUEENESTHER2010/2011
DAPHNE OKORODUDUDAPHNE OKORODUDU
Daphne Okorodudu Queen Esther 2010/2011
speaking to young women
Pageant Contestants and the initiator
Beatrice Chizaram Madu (Middle)
Pageant Contestants

SERENA FRANCISSERENA FRANCISSERENA FRANCISSERENA FRANCIS
QUEEN ESTHER 2012/2013
SERENA FRANCIS
THE
ueen sther
I
t was a show of pomp and glamour
at the second edition of the Queen
Esther beauty pageant held
recently at the Sheraton Hotel Abuja.
The event that witnessed high status
guests from various walks of life and
an all glamorous affair on the red
carpet left memories of young,
beautiful women numbering
seventeen who took up the stage to
slog it out for the coveted crown of
the title. The contested position was
eventually won by a university of Port
Harcourt undergraduate Serena
Francis, Victoria Emodi who is also an
st
undergraduate emerged the 1
runner up and Jasmine Mbonu a
Lagos based model was chosen as
the second runner up.
The event also played host to the first
edition of the Queen Esther awards
where some notable women who
have excelled in their respective
calling were honoured.
F-signature, an Abuja based fashion
outfit participated in showcasing their
designs on the runway. It was also a
time to introduce the queen Esther
magazine to the public. The audience
were unmistakeably entertained by
thrilling performances from
comedians and singers present
including the new kid on the block,
the gospel music sensation Jay-R.
ABE UTY PAGEANT AND AWARDS 2012

41
The Initiator, Queen Esther Beauty Pageant and Awards
Beatrice Chizaram Madu giving her welcome address
The Initiator, Queen Esther Beauty Pageant and Awards
Beatrice Chizaram Madu giving her welcome address
Daphne Okorodudu Queen Esther 2010/ 2011 crowning her successor Serena FrancisDaphne Okorodudu Queen Esther 2010/ 2011 crowning her successor Serena Francis
L-R: Victoria Emordi- 1st Runner Up, The newly crowned queen
Serena Francis and the 2nd runner up Jasmine Mbonu
L-R: Victoria Emordi- 1st Runner Up, The newly crowned queen
Serena Francis and the 2nd runner up Jasmine Mbonu

42
Comedian Mr.Odey thrilling the audienceComedian Mr.Odey thrilling the audience
The organizer MBGA Ejiro and FriendThe organizer MBGA Ejiro and Friend
The Gospel Music revolunmist Jay-R performing at the eventThe Gospel Music revolunmist Jay-R performing at the event
Event Anchors Chucks De general and partner on stageEvent Anchors Chucks De general and partner on stage
Miss Heritage and her companionsMiss Heritage and her companions
GuestsGuests

43
EntertainerEntertainer
The Contestants entertaining the audienceThe Contestants entertaining the audience
Stellarita Asogwa and MotherStellarita Asogwa and Mother
R-L: Pst. Mrs. Opi Agha, Husband and a FriendR-L: Pst. Mrs. Opi Agha, Husband and a Friend
Panel of JudgesPanel of Judges
Prof. Princess Vivian Mottohmigan
at the event
Prof. Princess Vivian Mottohmigan
at the event
GuestsGuests

44
L-R: Catherine Ok ere, Emmanuella, Bose Sally and SisterpL-R: Catherine Ok ere, Emmanuella, Bose Sally and Sisterp GuestsGuests
GuestsGuests
Designs by F-SignatureDesigns by F-Signature

47
Recipients of Queen Esther Awards
Stellarita Asogwa-
Award for great entrepreneurial skills
Stellarita Asogwa-
Award for great entrepreneurial skills
Catherine Okpere Representing
Mrs. Yelwa Fatima Baba Ari
(The Director FCT Sec. Educ. Board)
For the Award of Excellence in Service
Catherine Okpere Representing
Mrs. Yelwa Fatima Baba Ari
(The Director FCT Sec. Educ. Board)
For the Award of Excellence in Service
Pst. Opi Agha - Award for Excellent Service
to God and Humanity
Pst. Opi Agha - Award for Excellent Service
to God and Humanity
F-SignatureF-Signature

48
Adaeze Aniekwena -Marketing Officer
Febson Hotels representing Febson Hotels
For appreciation and hospitality award
Adaeze Aniekwena -Marketing Officer
Febson Hotels representing Febson Hotels
For appreciation and hospitality award
Mrs. Justina Egahi’s representative receiving
the award for excellent service to God and
humanity on her behalf
Mrs. Justina Egahi’s representative receiving
the award for excellent service to God and
humanity on her behalf
Uloma Chukwu receiving the award for her
contributions to Youth Development
Uloma Chukwu receiving the award for her
contributions to Youth Development
The organizer MBGA Ejiro receiving the Award for Youth Ambassador
on behalf of christian - The winner of Glo Naija sings 2011
The organizer MBGA Ejiro receiving the Award for Youth Ambassador
on behalf of christian - The winner of Glo Naija sings 2011

49
Competing for the conveted titleCompeting for the conveted title

54
Stellarita Asogwa recieving her AwardStellarita Asogwa recieving her Award
A GuestA Guest
Money Show T.V Presenter
Nancy Illoh introducing the
Queen Esther Magazine.
Money Show T.V Presenter
Nancy Illoh introducing the
Queen Esther Magazine.
Daphne Okorodudu -Queen Esther 2010 /2011
being ushered in
Daphne Okorodudu -Queen Esther 2010 /2011
being ushered in

56
Celebrating Queen Esther 2012Celebrating Queen Esther 2012

57
Money Show T.V Presenter Nancy Illoh and
MC Amana on the red Carpet
Money Show T.V Presenter Nancy Illoh and
MC Amana on the red Carpet

60
Nollywood actor King Joe (middle) during his visit at the campNollywood actor King Joe (middle) during his visit at the camp

61
L-R: Alex Nwankwo (Manager), Queen Esther Project -Daphne Okorodudu
Queen Esther 2010/2011, Nollywood actor king Joe, the Queen Esther Project
Initiator Beatrice Chizaram Madu
L-R: Alex Nwankwo (Manager), Queen Esther Project -Daphne Okorodudu
Queen Esther 2010/2011, Nollywood actor king Joe, the Queen Esther Project
Initiator Beatrice Chizaram Madu
Daphne Okorodudu -Queen Esther 2010/2011
and Friends at the pre-event Party
Daphne Okorodudu -Queen Esther 2010/2011
and Friends at the pre-event Party
The initiator of the Queen Esther Beauty Pageant Beatrice Chizaram Madu
is surrounded by her girls as she marks her birthday during the pre-event birthday.
The initiator of the Queen Esther Beauty Pageant Beatrice Chizaram Madu
is surrounded by her girls as she marks her birthday during the pre-event birthday.
L-R: Evido, Queen Esther 2010/2012 and
Alex Nwankwo-Manager Queen Esther Project
L-R: Evido, Queen Esther 2010/2012 and
Alex Nwankwo-Manager Queen Esther Project
Daphne Okorodudu - Queen Esther 2010/2011 flanked by Queen Esther girlsDaphne Okorodudu - Queen Esther 2010/2011 flanked by Queen Esther girls
PRE-EVENT PARTY

62
Pre-event PartyPre-event Party
Beatrice Chizaram Madu receiving birthday gifts from her girlsBeatrice Chizaram Madu receiving birthday gifts from her girls

Coming soon!!!
AFTER PITY WHAT NEXT ?
A WAKE UP CALL
Highlights:-
1. Paper Presentations that is centered on the theme of the event
2. Fashion Exhibitions on the runway and exhibition stands
3. The 2nd edition of Queen Esther awards
4. Little Queen Esther Beauty Pageant
5. Musical Concert
Interested fashion exhibitors, participants, enquiries and
sponsorship / partnership pls. call Chizaram :08160313484,
Alex : 08037780342
THE
ueen stherPROJECT
SUPPORTING THE ADVOCACY FOR THE ELIMINATION
OF ALL FORMS OF VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN AND
PROMOTING THE GIRL-CHILD EDUCATION AND
MENTORSHIP FOR NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT.
SPECIAL FOCUS:
THE ROLE OF WOMEN IN NATION BUILDING.
A ONE DAY EVENT PLANNED TO HOLD
ON THE 1ST OF DECEMBER 2012
A ONE DAY EVENT PLANNED TO HOLD
ON THE 8TH OF DECEMBER 2012
63

THE
...Celebrating women of honour and distinction
ueen stherAWARDS
he prestigious Queen Esther
Awards is an initiative of the
TQueen Esther Project and it is
designed to honour women who
fought through tough times to
affect positive changes in their
communities.
It celebrates the contributions and
achievements of women in our
society and promotes African
women of substance and youths
who have contributed immensely
to the overall development of the
society and therefore paves the
way for the younger generation.
God's desire as demonstrated in
the biblical character of Queen
Esther whom he used as an
instrument for national salvation
and preservation is to see women,
despite their challenges and
backgrounds, excel in their varied
capacities as soul winners,
business executives preachers
authors, wives, mothers, grand
mothers, community leaders,
kingdom financiers, world
ambassadors for God as truly
God's special women of today
who will imprint their footsteps on
the sands of time.
THE
ueen stherAWARDS
STELLARITA ASOGWASTELLARITA ASOGWA
Award RecipientAward Recipient
64

1.Women who have exhibited great entrepreneurial skills.
2.Women who have strived in the ministry of God's work
3.Women who have achieved success in political leadership
and governance
4.Women who have made huge contributions to child, youth
and women development in Nigeria.
5.Women who have made great difference in the lives of the
less privileged ones.
6. Organizations focused in advancing the cause of women and
youths in our society.
7. Women who have distinguished themselves in the academic
world, imparting humanity through their initiatives.
8. Men who are committed to the welfare of indigent women
and children .
NOMINATIONS FOR THE SECOND EDITION OF THE
QUEEN ESTHER AWARDS 2012 WILL BE RECEIVED
UNDER THE FOLLOWING CATEGORIES:
FOR NOMINATIONS
CALL
08160313484, 08037780342 or send an
email to queenesther540@yahoo.com
THE
ueen sther
AWARDS
Award Ceremony holds 8th December, 2012
65

66
Application ends 30th November, 2012

M
arriage is a
cherishable union
between a
husband and his wife or
wives. It is indeed
honorable and desirable.
Because of these
attributes about marriage,
most women believe that
getting married is the
highest achievement in a
woman's life. Some have
an idealized picture of a
happy-go- lucky life they
are going to live in their
Frankly, it is impossible to
live without hitches here
and there at one time or
the other. You'll never
truly know yourself or
strength of your
relationship, until both
have been tested by
adversity. Such
knowledge is a true gift
for it is painfully won.
Sometimes hitches or
adversity may come in
form of home
foreclosure,
ADDING VALUE TO YOUR
MARITAL STATUS
BARR.(MRS) BASSEY E.J.NTUK
67

65
are going to live in their
unemployment or
evaporation of hard-
earned savings suddenly.
A family can overcome all
these and bounce back
with the understanding
and team effort by
spouses. If you doubt this,
read the story of
J.K.Rowling, an
unemployed mother who
said during her rock
bottom times, she realized
she still had a daughter
and an old typewriter. She
braved up and put the old
typewriter to use. That
became the foundation
for rebuilding her life;
perhaps you've heard of
her series 'Harry Potter'. The
idea to write novels started
with her old typewriter.
Grace also had a similar
story, Her husband was a
happy working-class staff of
Ajaokuta Steel Industry.
While his job was still
running, she humbly
approached her husband
to assist her with fund to
start a small-scale business,
her husband being so
persuaded gave her some
money with which she
started her ice cream
business. She was able to
generate money to finance
her part-time training on
catering. Having
completed her catering
training, she opened a big
eatery in town. Soon after,
Ajaokuta Steel Industry was
liquidated. Her husband
became jobless, but thank
God for her business, the
proceed from her business
was more than sufficient
to take care of all her
family needs that her
husband's lack of
employment was not felt.
Who says it is not good
for a wife to work and
generate money?
It could save both
husband and wife from
mental trauma during
trying times, promote
good health and love
between couples.
Wives should look
beyond relaxing at
home. Leave your
comfort zone and try to
add value to your
personalities. Equip
yourself with education
or learn a trade. Who
knows, it could help in
'rocky times'.
68
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“You have come, made an impact and
gone” These phrase caught my attention
as I perused through the very many
enviable tributes written to the Late Chief
Mrs. Hera Okiro by those who
understandably feel the pain of her
death and of course my desire to find
out why she attracted a huge volume of
these great tributes was triggered. I went
on a fact finding mission. My interaction
with the First Lady of Rivers-State, Her
Excellency Mrs. Judith Amaechi during
the Burial Ceremony of the deceased
gave me the chance to hear from a woman
who believes that Chief Mrs. Hera Okiro lived
a worthy and fulfilled life. With more
discoveries I was challenged to live a life of
legacy. As I x-ray many attributes and
achievements of Mummy Okiro as was fondly
called, I pray you will learn from the lesson
she presents.
Lesson No. I:
She brought succor to the needy people who
encountered her: Many testified to this. Mr.
Money Bag, Mrs. Money Bag, What are you
doing to put smiles on the faces of indigent
people around you? Are you a politician? The
promises you made to your people before your
election, are you fulfilling them? You may not
be as affluent as you want however, you can
contribute to the welfare of a less privileged
one. Remember you have been blessed by
God to become a blessing to others.
Lesson No. II:
She committed her life to the service of God
CELEBRATING A WOMAN OF WORTH
CHIEF MRS. HERA OKIRO
CHIEF MRS. HERA OKIROCHIEF MRS. HERA OKIRO
31st July, 1961 -26th April, 2012
During my interaction with the First Lady of Rivers-State,
Her Excellency Dame Judith Amaechi (left)
69

and lived according to his dictates: Your
primary purpose on this earth is to serve and
worship your creator. Don't allow issues that
are of no eternal value to rob you of your
relationship with God. After your sojourn here
on earth, you will be required to give account
of your stewardship to God.
Lesson No. III:
She mentored many: Somebody who needs
improvement and advancement in life has
been put under your care. Are you adding
value to the life of that individual through
impacting knowledge and wisdom? Are you
making deliberate efforts to place the person
on the right path to achieving success in life?
Think about it if you had not been mentored
perhaps you wouldn't have assumed your
present enviable position.
Lesson No. IV:
As a mother she catered for her children, as a
wife she contributed to the success of her
marriage and the upliftment of her husband:
Realize your unique qualities woman and
remember that you have been positioned in
your matrimonial home to play the vital role
of overseeing domestic affairs and holding
forth the home front. Don't ever neglect this
aspect of your marriage in pursuit of personal
achievement.
Lesson NO. V:
She gave back to the society: God expects
you to give back to society what he has given
to you. He has placed you in that capacity as
a leader to effect change. Late Chief Mrs.
Hera Okiro, during her tenure as the
president of POWA is reputed today to be
the brain behind the erection and
completion of a dignifying edifice that
now replaces the ramshackled makeshift
accommodation that housed the POWA
Secretariat. If we are opportuned, we must
do things that ensure that we go on living
even after our death, in other words we
must try to leave a lasting legacy behind
us.
Lesson NO. VI:
She never gave up on life until her demise:
Life may present very many unpleasant
experiences to you, be it ill-health, lack,
loss of a loved one, feeling of rejection and
abandonment, failure and hopelessness
but remember, it can never be over until it
is over. We always hear of desperate
situations turning around to become a
story of triumph and victory. Never give up.
Now the final note brings us to the big
question “What would you be
remembered for when you leave planet
earth? Perhaps you will find the answers as
you apply these invaluable lessons drawn
from the very life of Chief Mrs. Hera Okiro.
On behalf of the management of
Queen Esther Magazine we commiserate
with the Okiro family, most
especially Sir Mike Okiro and we
pray that God should grant
them the fortitude to bear the
irreparable loss. QE
70

C
hief Mrs. Hera Okiro, the late wife of Former IGP Sir. Mike Okiro was laid to rest
amid pomp and ceremony at the Egbema Rivers-State country home of Sir.
Mike Okiro. Dignitaries from all walks of life thronged the venue of the
ceremony which kick started at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church Maitama Abuja.
The First Lady, Rivers-State Her Excellency Dame Judith Amaechi, Imo-State Governor
Owelle Rochas Okorocha, the Inspector General of Police Muhammed Abubakar,
Rivers-State Governor Rt. Hon. Rotimi Amaechi were among prominent personalities
that graced the occasion.
LATE CHIEF MRS. HERA OKIRO
Wife of Former IGP Sir. Mike Okiro
71

73
Rt. Hon. Chibuike Amaechi -Governor of Rivers- StateRt. Hon. Chibuike Amaechi -Governor of Rivers- State
Sir Mike Okiro and GuestsSir Mike Okiro and Guests
Sir Mike Okiro and Sir Peter Odili
former Governor, Rivers -State
Sir Mike Okiro and Sir Peter Odili
former Governor, Rivers -State
The Inspector-General of Police Muhammed Abubakar
and the Minister of Police Affairs Caleb Olubolade
The Inspector-General of Police Muhammed Abubakar
and the Minister of Police Affairs Caleb Olubolade
Chief Theodore Orji-Governor of Abia state and
Mr. Peter Obi Gov. of Anambra state
Chief Theodore Orji-Governor of Abia state and
Mr. Peter Obi Gov. of Anambra state
Man of the people Owelle Rochas Okorocha
Governor of Imo State
Man of the people Owelle Rochas Okorocha
Governor of Imo State
Sen. Osita Izunaso and a guestSen. Osita Izunaso and a guest

74
Sir Mike Okiro being consoledSir Mike Okiro being consoled
Her Excellency Dame Judith Amaechi
The First Lady, Rivers- State
The First Lady, Rivers- State
Her Excellency Dame Judith Amaechi signing the condolence registerHer Excellency Dame Judith Amaechi signing the condolence register
Sen. Ike Nwachukwu signing the condolence registerSen. Ike Nwachukwu signing the condolence register
Sir Peter Odili and His wife Justice Mary OdiliSir Peter Odili and His wife Justice Mary Odili
Royal Personalities at the eventRoyal Personalities at the event
The First Lady, Rivers- State commiserating with Sir Mike Okiro
The First Lady, Rivers- State commiserating with Sir Mike Okiro

75
Dr. Adamu Babangida
(Emir of Abaji and Chairman Council
of traditional rulers
Dr. Adamu Babangida
(Emir of Abaji and Chairman Council
of traditional rulers
Prince Henry Okafor
MD ISOPADEC at the event
Prince Henry Okafor
MD ISOPADEC at the event
Achike Udenwa - Former Gov.
Imo State and Wife
Achike Udenwa - Former Gov.
Imo State and Wife
Senator Ifeanyi ArarumeSenator Ifeanyi Ararume
Sir Mike Okiro and the IGP Muhammed AbubakarSir Mike Okiro and the IGP Muhammed Abubakar

76
Catholic knightsCatholic knights
Father LawrenceFather Lawrence

77
Police Officers wives’Police Officers wives’
Sir Mike Okiro and SonSir Mike Okiro and Son
Royal PresenceRoyal Presence
Cross Section of GuestsCross Section of Guests
Police Officers Wives’Police Officers Wives’
Glory and FriendGlory and Friend

78
Media CommitteeMedia Committee
Yvonne leading the burial trainYvonne leading the burial train
L-R: The PublisherQueen Esther Magazine - Beatrice Chizaram Madu,
Sen. Osita Izunasor, Anayo and Chibuzor
L-R: The PublisherQueen Esther Magazine - Beatrice Chizaram Madu,
Sen. Osita Izunasor, Anayo and Chibuzor

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e all are born with an
inbuilt ability to DO
Wanything in life if only
we choose to and are willing, for
nothing can stop the human will,
like it is said “when there is a will
there is a way. The will of human
soul is the strongest force on
earth, whenever a man becomes
wiling, there is no limit to what
he can do or achieve. In Genesis
11:16 The Bible clearly confirmed
this 'and the Lord said, Behold,
the people is one, and they have
all one language, and this they
begin to DO: and now nothing
will be restrained from them,
which they have imagined to DO.
Friend, can you imagine men
attempting to build a tower
which will reach the heavens, in
those days when there were not
(HOPE BOOSTER)
“YOU CAN DO IT”
much sophisticated building
equipments like we have today,
'Mission Impossible! You would
say, But God Himself who made
man knows what man can DO
said it was possible if they were
not stopped. Friend, you can DO
it, whatever dream you have in
your heart can be realized, you
just have to discover what it takes
and give it what it takes. When in
1900 the Wright Brothers, Orville
Wright and Wilbur Wright the two
Americans Who invented and flew
the World's first successful
airplane told their father Milton
Wright who was a Bishop about
their intention to invent the
airplane, he told them it was not
possible because if God wanted
humans to fly He would have
created them wings, but today
men are not only flying in the air
they are literally living in the air.
Friend, the impossible is possible,
it does not matter how many
times you might have tried and
failed, you can still succeed. All
great and successful people have
experienced failure at one point
in time, in fact, past failures can
fuel your drive for future success.
So give it a trial again knowing
deeply inside you that YOU CAN
DO IT…
Powered By House Of Hope
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Email:
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80

“THE CHURCH HAS BECOME THE
GREATEST KILLERS OF TALENT”
- ASU EKIYE
he name Asu Ekiye
rings a bell in the
Tminds of many
gospel music lovers
both within our borders
and beyond. He is a
prince of the Niger
Delta whose songs in
his native language
shot to stardom and
since then he has
continued to wow his
fans with his spectacular
tunes. Asu Ekiye is a
trained accountant who
left his profession as an
accountant to pursue his
calling and passion as a
gospel artiste. This
immeasurably gifted singer
who has received many
local and international
recognitions for his
outstanding works takes us
back to where his journey
started.
81

We know that Asku
Ekiye is a popular gospel
act but there are still
more for us to know. Can
you give us some more
details about your
background.
As you already
know, my name is Asu
Ekiye and I am from
Alegbiri Ekuromi Local
Government Area of
Bayelsa State. I also share
a biological link with my
people in Trumo Brutu
Local Government Area
in Delta State, so I speak
Ijaw. I had my early
education in Warri, my
secondary education
was at Huston College
Warri. I later
proceeded to
University of
Port Harcourt
to study
Accountanc
y. I never saw
myself
going
to
school because I wanted
to be a musician, I have
always wanted to be an
accountant, but in the
course of pursuing my
career, I realized I was
called to be a gospel
musician. Accountancy to
me was a profession while
music to me was a calling,
a spiritual calling and then,
the desire to fulfill the
mandate of my spiritual
calling took a higher
precedence over my
professional calling, from
this perspective I am doing
what I am doing today as a
gospel musician.
When I was in the
University we used
to have a club
called gospel
singers club
where
gospel
singers
meet
and
fellowship
. That was
where I
actually
develope
d the
main
desire to
express my talent
in music. You know, I
didn't really see it as
At what point did you
take your first step to
answer to your spiritual
calling and what was
your road to success
like?
something I was actually
going to do.
I had an experience that
finally influenced me into
embracing my calling as a
gospel musician. I was
working in a firm of
Chartered Accountants
based in Port Harcourt and
one fateful day my boss
came into the office and
stumbled on me playing a
keyboard and singing my
song, he got so infuriated
on the grounds that I
neglected my duty to do
other things and then
made a strong suggestion
that I resign from my job
and concentrate on my
music. The drive for music
was so strong and I looked
for every opportunity to
express it. When I joined the
Royal House of Grace led
by Rev. Prince Zilly Aggrey,
my longing was to give
expression to that yearning,
that musical expression. My
music career started but on
what I will term as a wrong
footing because before
now I received a revelation
that I would be an
internationally acclaimed
musician but I misconstrued
it to mean that I would
have to sing like an
American Artiste to receive
an international
recognition. So I spent
several years singing like
Kirk Franklin, Don Moen,
Donnie McLurkin, just like
the Stereotypical American
musician, basically I
thought that my singing like
an American will eventually
82

take me to America but I
didn't know that God had a
different plan. I continued in
this manner but never got
the recognition I so desired
at this point I went to God
and He told me to be
original. I changed my mode
of expressing my music, and
started singing in my native
language, I came up with E-
eehewowo ehewowo……..
and it turned out to be a
bombshell, an instant hit, I
called it the Niger Delta
Style. Coincidentally, it was
when the agitation for
resource control was just
beginning to gain
momentum in our country.
The Niger Delta People
hijacked it. It also became
the favorite of many people
from other parts of the
country. The result was
massive, the song was
marketed by Ebenezer
Obey, a popular Yoruba
musician, he also nominated
it for an international award,
from here, barrage of
awards started pouring in. I
was the first Nigerian to win
an award in a major music
competitive award. The
Channel O, Gospel Music
Award where I was awarded
the best African Gospel
Artiste Award, I received this
award a second time.
Subsequently, I received an
invitation to Europe from
there, I proceeded to
London where I staged a lot
of performances, people
from other countries also
showed great interest in me. I
can only explain my
success and
transformation in simple
terms - commitment, faith
and the divine hand of
God having a place in
my life.
It is wonderful to be
where I am today but I
have the desire to go
beyond this level, in the
Bible Paul said “Brethren, I
count not myself to have
apprehended but this
one thing I do forgetting
those things which are
before. I press toward the
mark for the prize of the
high calling of God in
Christ Jesus” (Phil. 3:13),
so this is my working
philosophy right now.
Do you think you
have reached the peak
of your musical career?
Do you think the
church is doing enough
to help upcoming gospel
artistes so that they can
blossom like you?
Ans: This will sound very
controversial and many
pastors will not like the
statement I am going to
make but the truth must
always become the truth,
no matter how you try to
suppress it, it will eventually
come to the fore. The
church has become the
greatest killer of talents, God
has blessed the Nigerian
church so much but right
inside the church the talents
are frustrated, so the young
ones look for different
outlets to develop and
express themselves and
when the outlets come in
form of secular talent hunt
tools like glonaija sings,
American Idol, West Africa
Idol and Project Fame, they
run into these programmes
because of the pent-up
frustration in being a
Christian, working days and
nights, singing in the choir
and hoping that one day
the church will help you to
excel in your calling as a
singer.
I am sorry to say this but I
never received any form of
support from my church at
the time. I worked in the
church as a music director
for ten years, yet the pastors
could not contribute money
Does this mean, you
were not supported by your
church at your budding
stage?
83

84
for me to invest in my
talent. I struggled and
when the support was not
forthcoming, the fire of
music in me drove me to
say to myself, if the church
cannot give me support
then I would have to look
for it elsewhere. I realized
that the church had no
agenda for my gift, they
were only interested in
exploiting my gift to
populate the church, I
worked year in and year
out, yet no
encouragement from
people I perceived to be
my mentors. They had the
capacity to provide the
sixty thousand naira I
needed to produce my
first album but they did not
give it to me. I turned to an
elder in church who was so
rich, this is one pathetic
story I have always told, I
kept going to his house
everyday of the week for
nine months, all to no avail
I couldn't receive a dime
form him. I sought for a job
and got one, I worked,
saved up some money
and was able to finance
my album production the
album became a success.
The turn of events, will
make any one aspiring to
succeed to remain
steadfast. The very elder
who did not support me
with the sixty thousand
naira I requested from him
was at one time a
governorship aspirant for
Bayelsa State and
because of my popularity
with the youths, he
envisaged that he would
get the votes and support
of the teeming youths in
the State if he gets me
involved in this election
campaign. I was
approached in this regard
but I told my pastor who
was his emissary about my
resolve to withdraw any
kind of support I had for
him and rather vote for his
opponent. People like this
do not deserve to be in
leadership. Their only
mission will only be to
frustrate their subjects and
prevent them from
reaching their full
potentials. Some leaders
don't realize that the
young man you support
today can be a blessing
tomorrow. The Nigerian
church can be counted as
one of the richest in the
world, if they can devote
0.01% of their money to
imparting young people
and helping them to
realize their dreams things
will become better,
obviously when they
succeed they will
remember the church and
come to give back to the
people that supported
them. Young Christians
have continue to suffer
because the church has
refused to rise up to its
responsibilities. What I am
doing now is to find ways
of encouraging the young
people and see how they
can also get empowered
and be able to find
expression for their gifts.
My advice for any young
person who is gifted and
needs to express his or her gifts
but lacks the financial
resources and sponsorship to
do so, is to look for a job that
will attract some income,
when you are able to save up
some money you can now
invest it in making your first
start. With a tangible and an
impressive product to show,
recognition will surely come. It
is important to also seek for
any opportunity to express
your gifts. You may not know
who is watching. I used to go
from church to church
begging people to allow me
perform, many of the
occasions I was driven away
but after I produced my
video, top personalities from
every part of the country
began to look for me. I
became a sought after. Be
wise, don't beg forever. Start
to do something for yourself
and God will start to bless you.
I just released a new album
and it is receiving a lot of
attention from different parts
of the country. There is a TV
Channel called Kingdom
Africa, they recently held
their first music award show
in Lagos and my song in my
latest album was rated the
best traditional gospel in
What advice do you have for
young people who want to
follow your footsteps.
What is your latest work?

85
Nigeria.
I make a lot of input,
cosmetic work, location,
costumes and
choreographic are all my
concept, the director now
interprets them.
We met in the university, we
studied the same course,
Accounting. Coincidentally,
she also joined the same
church I was attending at
the time, (Royal House of
Grace in Port Harcourt),
both of us were in the church
choir but the revelation that
she was going to be my wife
didn't come until I left the
church some years later, I
went back to the church I
left to go and locate my
missing rib. She has become
a very strong supporter of my
work. We didn't own
anything when we married
but today, the story has
changed. After our marriage,
we had a major challenge,
for seven years we were
faced with the challenge of
having children. On the
seventh year, God opened
the door and now we have
four children - three boys and
one girl. My boys are
warming up to become my
back-up singers, they are
always trying to dress and
sing like me.
Your videos are usually
spectacular.
Now let's talk about your
family how did you meet
your wife?
This is definitely an inspiring
story.
How did you react during
the trying period?
Let me tell you this,
sometimes when I share this
part of my life with people,
they think I am trying to be
over spiritual, at times they
say it can never be real. I
was led by the spirit of God
to ask for my wife's hand in
marriage, when I went to
her, she told me that she
had waited for me for three
years because God also
ministered to her
concerning me, but as the
social tradition is a woman
does not initiate the first
move when it comes to
marriage. She actually got
engaged to another man
but one month into that
relationship she confirmed
that God instructed her to
break the engagement, she
did and one week later I
appeared on the scene.
I have a unique destiny, my
history confirms it. When I
was sixteen years old, one
pastor friend of mine told
me to pray concerning the
wife I will marry, irrespective
of how long it will take me to
marry. I became born again
at sixteen and started
praying for the wife I will
marry. I asked God to
prepare my wife. The early
period of our marriage was
turbulent but God kept us
together.
For me when my frustration
gets to a level I release
myself and praise God, my
wife was worried but I was
always jumping on the altar.
You know when you are a
person who is always in the
habit of praising God,
situations may come that
may test you but people who
are always in the habit of
praising God are always
happy people. I remember
when I was performing in a
church in London called
KICC, I told them while
performing that I did not
have any child but was
dedicating my songs to the
children that God was to
bring my way.
It is also a wonderful privilege
for me, I believe in relating
with everybody who comes
to me; that is why I always
have a relaxed protocol
around me, once I have this
kind of opportunity, I make
use of it.
We thank you for sparing this
time, out of your busy
schedule to grant this
interview.
QE

N
igeria's Former Inspector General of
Police Sir Mike Okiro recently at Sheraton
Hotel Abuja made t h e p u b l i c
presentation of a book he authored entitled
“Overcoming Security Challenges” which
we recommend for every well meaning
Nigerian at this point in time, our Country
Nigeria is faced with the challenge of
internal security.
This book is from his many years of experience
as a police Chief of repute who is versed in
security matters. The launch saw a huge turn
out of top dignitaries and well meaning
Nigerians who came to support the
distinguished and seasoned statesman
Book Launch
Citation
th
orn on 24 July, 1949, Sir
(Dr.) Mike Mbama Okiro,
th
BCFR, NPM, mni the 13
indigenous Inspector-General of
Police of the Federal Republic of
Nigeria attended the University
of Ibadan, Oyo State where he
bagged a Bachelor of Arts
Degree with honours in English in
1976. He proceeded thereafter
to the University of Lagos and
obtained a Masters Degree in
Public Administration. He also
holds a Bachelor of Law and
Master of Law Degree from the
University of Jos, Plateau State.
He, also holds Honourary
Doctorate Degrees from the
Federal University of
Technology, Owerri, Imo State
and Novena University, Delta
State. He is a graduate of the
highbrow National Institute for
Policy and Strategic Studies
(NIPSS), Kuru, Plateau
State.
Okiro joined the
Nigeria Police Force as
a Cadet Assistant
Superintendent of
Police (ASP) on the 1"
of August, 1977, shortly
after completing his
mandatory one-year
National Youth Service
SIR (DR.) MIKE MBAMA OKIRO, CFR, NPM, mni
INSPECTOR-GENERAL OF POLICE (Rtd)
86

programme. Prior to his
appointment as the
Inspector-General of
Police in June, 2007,
Okiro held several
positions in the Nigeria
Police Force, such as
Divisional Crime Officer
(DCO), Central Police
Station, Port Harcourt,
Rivers State, Divisional
Police Officer (DPO)
Oyibo, Rivers State,
Divisional Police Officer
(DPO), Uwani, Enugu,
Enugu State, Chief
Superintendent of
Police (Administration)
CSPA Police College,
Ikeja, Lagos State,
Divisional Police Officer
(DPO), Bode Thomas,
Surulere, Lagos, 21/C
and later Area
Commander, Area H,
Shomolu, Lagos.
He was a member of
the defunct Armed
Robbery and Fire Arms
Tribunal, Lagos, Assistant
Commissioner of Police
(ACP, and later Deputy
Commissioner of Police
(DCP) (Operations),
Lagos State Police
Command, Deputy
Commissioner of Police,
Ogun State Police
Command, Deputy
Commandant, Police
Staff College, Jos,
Plateau State,
Commissioner of Police,
Lagos State Police
Command, from where
he was elevated to the
rank of Deputy
Inspector-General of
Police (DIG) '8'
Department (Operations)
in 2002. He likewise served
in many in-house Police
panels in the course of his
career.
Apart from running an all-
inclusive leadership style
imbued with the
propensities of
transparency and
accountability, this kind-
hearted
personality/gentleman, an
ardent listener, an action
man, a man with an
uncommon attribute of
gentleness and firmness
endeared himself to the
hearts of Nigerians, thus
earning him accolades,
encomiums and honours
such as
- Commander of the
Order of the
Federal Republic of
Nigeria (CFR)
- Knight of the Order
of St. John of
Jerusalem
- Nigeria Police
Medal
- Commendation
letter from the
President Umaru
Musa Yar'Adua;
and numerous
chieftaincy titles
from various
communities and
traditional rulers
across the country.
In his political career, he
ran for the keenly
contested FCT Senatorial
seat under the platform
of the Peoples
Democratic Party (PDP)
in 2011.
Sir (Dr) Mike Mbama
Okiro is a man with vast
literary prowess who
authored four (4) books
in spite of the herculean
tasks associated with his
chosen carrier:
· Peace and the
Nation;
· Surviving the
Cities;
· The Legal
implications of the
Mismanagement
of Public Funds in
Nigeria
· Policing Nigeria in
a Democracy
The entire Nigeria Police
Force will continue to
justify and appreciate
reasons to remember
him for all that he stood
for and his inherent
principle of a
benevolently tough
Policeman.
Sir (Dr.) Mike Mbama
Okiro is happily married
with children and enjoys
playing chess and writing
at his spare time.
87

Chief Chike Udenze
Representing Chief Launcher Chief Authur Eze
Chief Chike Udenze
Representing Chief Launcher Chief Authur Eze
88
L-R: A Guest, Sir Mike Okiro and The Inspector General of Police
Muhammed Abubakar
L-R: A Guest, Sir Mike Okiro and The Inspector General of Police
Muhammed Abubakar
GuestsGuests
Book Reviewer - Mr. Frank OditaBook Reviewer - Mr. Frank Odita
The IGP Muhammed Abubakar and Other GuestsThe IGP Muhammed Abubakar and Other Guests
Sir Mike OkiroSir Mike Okiro

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