Wizkid Pays Tribute to His Late Mother with Deeply Personal Album 'Morayo'

By: Olamilekan Sodiq

Wizkid released his sixth studio album Morayo on 22nd November 30, 2024 after months of anticipation from fans. Named after his mother, Morayo Balogun, who passed away in 2023 - and dedicated to her.

The project delivered value in an album that captures the essence of his journey. The journey of his early career sound, and also his new sounds into a musical narratives. From the young boy that sang Superstar to the global sensation of Made in Lagos and the experimental depths of More Love Less Ego, Wizkid’s Morayo is a celebration of his growth.The album reflects his maturity, Yoruba - ness and ability to transcend musical and cultural boundaries.

 

The album featured 16 tracks produced mainly by P2J and other producers like P.Priime and Damedame. Collaborators include international stars like Jazmine Sullivan, Brent Faiyaz, Tiakola and Nigerian act Asake.

The album opens with Trouble Minds addressing life’s challenges and his methods of maintaining balance amidst them. Chief Wasiu Ayinde yoruba introduction in the track also blends Fuji elements with Afrobeats.  With songs like Kese (Dance), Soji, and Bend, Wizkid brings back the dynamism that made Superstar in the country early in his career. Karamo is a mid-tempo track which features a catchy hook and a dynamic second verse. ‘Time’ is a clasic Wizkid’s R&B fusion track with sophiscated production and familiar themes of love. Break Me Down is an Afro-Bashment gem with impressive flow with vivid lyrics and strong rhythmic beat. On A Million Blessing, the artist takes stock of his blessing while also affirming of status as one of the genre’s superstars. On Don’t Care, Wizkid’s reflects on his life philosophy of living with minimal worries.  Lose captures the essence of hustle and mental resilience. Pray, the album’s final track reflects his mum ceaseless prayers.

The featured tracks in the album include the lead single Piece Of My Heart with Brent Faiyaz, which is a two-part duet that benefits largely on the R&B star’s inclusion and also P2J’s excellent production.  The collaboration with French act Tiakola Apres Minuit offers one of the best piece in the album. The track is followed by Bad For You featuring American act Jazmine Sullivan’s who bless the track with her powerful R&B vocals. Slow with Canada-based Gabonese singer Anais Cardot; who appeared on Asake’s Lungu Boy earlier in the year, is a smooth and perfect track for late nights and romantic experience. ‘Bad Girl’ is a blend of Wizkid sensual duel featuring Asake’s streetwise delivery.

The album shows a deeply personal journey for his Wizkid, a tribute to his mother, and a milestone in his evolution as an artist. The album solidifies his place at the forefront of contemporary African music.

Verdict

Sonic Cohesion & Cohesion: 1.6/2

Production: 1.4/2

Songwriting: 1.3/2

Delivery: 1.5/2

Track Sequencing:1.3/2

Total: 7.1/10

Satire: The Chicanery of a student politician (Part 1)

By: Yinka 

Saliu: How far boss? Good afternoon, how are you doing?

Philip: I am good

Saliu: how have classes been? How have you been holding up? What about your feeding and other basic necessities?

Philip: I have been holding up well and fine, I thank God. How can I help you? As you can see, I am rushing to a class and I am late already.

Well, I won't take too much of your time, as you are aware that we are getting close to the election period on campus. I am sure a lot of people would have been coming to you to tell you that they want to move student unionism forward in the university of Ibadan. But I am here to tell you that they are not going there to serve your interest, all of them are puppets when it comes to making decisions that will benefit you and all other students on campus. That is why I am here to tell you about the Abracadabra Agenda, which is tailored to fight for you and others that are weak like you. My leader, this agenda that I have made is to represent your interest in front of the management the school.

I am not saying this to cajole you to vote for me but i want you to know that this present set of people that have been designing your walkways with papers filled with sweet words and promises that will never come to fruition are not going to fight for you. But I will. I have a track record of building capacity to the extent that  some people code named me The Capacity Builder right from my department to my faculty. You can ask around, they know me. I am Saliu, the only one that can put an end to your campus plight.

You shouldn't be walking under this hot sun. If you support my agenda and come to my camp, there will be free bus that will convey you to class and to your hostel. Did you noticee that my opponents are not promising you realistic things? It is because they can't do anything for you than to give you sweet talks and collect your votes. But I will provide you with free bus, constant electricity and WiFi everywhere you go on campus. I have come bearing precious seeds for you, my dear brother. That guy might have promised you with auspicious time ahead while saying he will give you an altruistic agenda but none can ever be compared to mine - The Abracadabra Agenda.

Let me have your WhatsApp number so that I can add you to the movement which will move student unionism in the university of Ibadan forward. Don't worry, I won't disturb you with messages, just that I will be giving you constant reminder. Make sure you save my number as well. Thank you boss (Philip walks away)

Ha! Thank God! Another contact secured, unto the next...

How I Met A Mermaid!!

By: Asefon Abdulganeey Stephen

Beside my ribs, rest my seine

On my left hands, lay the hook,

Pattering along foggy pathways

As owls hoot, cricket chirps

While,forest retains highest reticency,

Hop into my wooden boat

As it sets to float,

Casting my nets to south

As my mouth drools for a big fish!

Abruptly, my net pulls me down,

Underneath my boat,I hear

The bubbling of water,

Ohhhh Big shark!

My heart hollers.

Surfacing from the rivers,

A white-skinned velvet hands

Slithering like a snake

A softened-body creature!

Indeed- this is not a shark

I whisper,

seeing her stunning visage,

My hands forgo the nest,

I drool not for fish again!

But, for a mermaid - whose

Skin unblemished like a rain!

Zik Hall 6th Assembly Ratifies Constitution Review Committee

By: Ajidara 

The 6th Assembly of Nnamdi Azikiwe Hall ratified seven hall residents as members of the Constitution Review Committee on Sunday, November 24, during an emergency sitting.

Speaking with ZikPress, Rt. Hon. Adetunji emphasized the archaic nature of the existing constitution and the urgent need for its review. “As we all know, the constitution is supreme. The last time the Zik Hall constitution was reviewed was in 2018, and much has changed since then. The current constitution lacks detailed provisions for certain situations in the hall, which has occasionally resulted in conflicting interpretations and interests,” he explained.

Rt. Hon. Adetunji further noted the absence of an Electoral Act in the current constitution, a significant shortcoming that the committee intends to address.

The ratified Constitution Review Committee, chaired by Onadele Joshua, a 400-level law student, comprises the following members:

• Onadele Joshua (Chair)
• Oyedeji Tomilayo
• Atanda Clinton
• Safiu Bamgboye Isaac
• Adebare Mubarak
• Hon. Ojile Moses
• Olasupo Akorede

Joshua Onadele assured the assembly that key issues, including the lack of an Electoral Act, would be addresed in the revised constitution. He also promised that the updated constitution would be finalized before the next Zik Hall election.

Jaw War: The Entertainment of a Corinthian Audience

Public speaking is a tradition in the University of Ibadan. No argument against this. Jaw war, the largest public speaking event on campus, in West Africa, is known across the campus to be a time of winning and losing. The victors go home after the judges judge their speeches with marks of approval. The approval of victory. The losers go home, claiming the judges are biased.

However, though beautiful is this event, several flaws floor its beauty. 

One, entering the hall used for the event and observing, one would realize it's mere hype. An hyperbole to be taken with a pinch of Salt. One can barely hear the speakers because their Corinthian audience is present to cheer them on with noise. The thrills of punchlines thrills, not the content and logic of the speech. The bants and subtle insults soothes because they live for pleasure. 

Two, entering the hall, one remembers the spectators who watched gladiatorial contests in the Colosseum of ancient Rome. They would cheer as a Gladiator lifted his fellow's head, dripping blood. Jaw war audience would cheer as a speaker threw subtle insults, made inappropriate remarks about his/her opponents. “It's entertainment,” they say.

Three, this year's Jaw war: Rise of the Legends, reached the height of folly. It was livestreamed; an improvement. But the this brought uncivil comments from viewers. Comments with inappropriate sexual undertones all in the name of entertainment?

Four, entering the hall, one is greeted with a terrible because of the crowd. The hall burns with heat and in the heat and smell of sweat is the noise, making the event repulsive to the intellect.

Now, a debate is meant to stimulate critical thinking. A debate is meant to promote ideas that matter. Jaw war is an example of how not to debate. Though touted and hyped as special event, it's lost its essence. What remains of it is entertainment for a Corinthian audience. No ideas are espoused. No civility from the audience and these flaws ought not to be.

For the largest public speaking event to return to its halcyon days, its executives will do well to properly plan the event well. The heat in the hall is choking. Planning the venue is pivotal.

Also, the use of senseless bants that contributes nothing to the speech. Statements offensive to logic and civility should be solved. The speakers' abuse of rhetoric should be taken care of to protect critical thinking and education - no entertainment alone. On shouldn't stab one's opponent in the name of making a case for a point of view or against it.

Additionally, crowd - controlling strategies should be devised. One can't keep listening to speeches amidst noise. How does one know who speaks better?

Then the event should redefined. It's public speaking, not entertainment alone.

 Speakers should engage their audience intellectually, not mere entertainment. 

Jaw war must transcend entertainment. It should be a platform for discourses on ideas that matter. It should be a platform for sound reasoning and speaking, not entertainment for a Corinthian audience.

Nnamdi Azikiwe Hall Vice Chairman Apologizes After Incident with Speaker Over Misconduct

By: Àkànní Olúwaségún 

The Vice Chairman of Nnamdi Azikiwe Hall, University of Ibadan, Mr. Okechukwu Victor O., has issued a formal apology and submitted a letter of undertaking following an incident involving the Speaker of the hall assembly and other honorable members during a routine inspection. 

According to a report, the Speaker and a group of honorable members were inspecting the hall when they noticed a bed and a cupboard placed outside on the veranda. Upon inquiring, they were informed that the Vice Chairman was responsible for the items being outside.  

The group proceeded to the Vice Chairman’s room for clarification. Upon arrival, they found Mr. Okechukwu sleeping. Despite apologizing for disturbing him, the Vice Chairman reportedly responded aggressively, addressing the Speaker and other honorable members in a manner deemed disrespectful.  

In response to the situation, Mr. Okechukwu issued a detailed letter of apology to the Speaker and the honorable members, acknowledging that his actions were inappropriate. “I deeply regret my actions, which did not reflect the respect and courtesy that your position and the honorable members of the Hall deserve,” he wrote, expressing his commitment to fostering unity and respect within the hall.  

Additionally, the Vice Chairman submitted a Letter of Undertaking, pledging to avoid any further aggression or disrespect in the future and to maintain the dignity of his office. He also expressed his commitment to creating a cooperative and harmonious environment within the hall.  

When contacted, the Speaker confirmed the details of the incident.

Manifesto Review: Broken Promises, Shattered Trust – Khalusta's Failure to Deliver as Zik Hall Finance Minister

By: Stoic & Virtuoso

During his campaign for the position of Finance Minister of Nnamdi Azikiwe Hall, Adejumobi Michael Toyosi, popularly and politically known as Khalusta, gained widespread attention with a manifesto that, while brief, promised innovative solutions to longstanding challenges. Among his key proposals were the digitalization of hall receipts and the revitalization of the bursary committee. These initiatives aimed to reduce inefficiencies, cut administrative costs, and ease financial burdens on students. As his tenure nears its end, these promises remain largely unfulfilled, raising questions about his commitment, priorities, and ability to deliver on his assurances.

EXAMINING THE PROMISES

One of Khalusta's most ambitious proposals was the digitalization of hall dues receipts. He identified a critical problem: the frequent loss of physical receipts and the avoidable costs associated with printing them. According to data in his manifesto, around 70% of Zikites reportedly misplaced their receipts. His proposed solution—to use tools like Google Forms and Google Mail for data collection and receipt distribution—appeared to be a simple and cost-effective alternative.

However, a closer examination of his manifesto revealed significant gaps in the plan. There was little detail about how the digital system would be managed or any contingencies for potential challenges, such as email errors, technical issues, or data security risks. These omissions suggested a lack of thorough planning.

Despite these shortcomings, many students were confident that Khalusta’s prior experience as the financial secretary of the Technology and Engineering Students Association (TESA) had equipped him to execute such initiatives effectively. Unfortunately, this confidence has been misplaced. Months into his tenure, the digital receipt system remains unrealized, and physical receipts are still being printed—contradicting his promise and commitment to reducing costs.

While Khalusta might argue that physical receipts were necessary for hostel registration at the start of the semester, this justification does not excuse his failure to implement a parallel digital system. His proposed solution could have coexisted with physical receipts, addressing the inefficiencies and costs he himself identified. By failing to introduce this system, Khalusta has missed an opportunity to modernize financial processes and demonstrate forward-thinking leadership built on adequate planning and execution.

THE BURSARY COMMITTEE: ANOTHER BUNCH OF LIES

Another significant promise in Khalusta’s manifesto was the sustenance and expansion of the bursary committee. This initiative, which had previously provided financial assistance to 14 students, offered much-needed relief to those in need. Khalusta pledged to build on this foundation by increasing the number of beneficiaries and ensuring the program’s continuity.

Unfortunately, the reality has been deeply disappointing. Months after assuming office, there has been no visible effort to sustain the bursary scheme, let alone expand it. No announcements or updates have been made regarding the committee’s activities, leaving many students disillusioned.

Even if financial or administrative constraints made expansion challenging, maintaining the program at its original scale would have been a reasonable expectation. The complete lack of action on this front raises serious concerns about Khalusta’s commitment to fulfilling his campaign promises.

A BROADER ISSUE OF ACCOUNTABILITY

Khalusta’s unfulfilled promises reflect a broader issue of accountability within student leadership. Campaign manifestos should not merely be aspirational documents; they are commitments that leaders must strive to honor. When leaders fail to deliver on their promises, it erodes trust in the system and discourages students from engaging in governance.

While Khalusta’s manifesto contained thoughtful and well-intentioned proposals, his failure to execute even the most practical ones undermines his credibility as a leader. This failure sets a poor precedent for future student leaders and defeats the purpose of his election.

Moving forward, it is imperative that candidates focus on proposing realistic, actionable plans that can be implemented within their resources and tenure. Until then, the residents of Nnamdi Azikiwe Hall may remain skeptical of campaign promises, patiently waiting for Khalusta to fulfill the commitments he made when he sought their votes.

TLDS' UI Responds to Withdrawal of Alexander Brown Hall from Jaw War

Àkànní Olúwaségún

The Literary and Debating Society of the University of Ibadan (TLDS' UI) has responded to the withdrawal of Alexander Brown Hall (ABH) Literary and Debating Society from the ongoing Jaw War: *Rise of Legends* competition. 

In a public statement issued on Friday, November 29, 2024, the society addressed concerns raised in an open letter by ABH constituencies, particularly from the Faculties of Clinical Sciences and Dentistry.  

Acknowledging the emotional stakes in a competition as intense as Jaw War, TLDS' UI stated, “... _while we understand that such losses are painful, we must emphasize that the determination of the winners, the grading, and evaluation of speakers are the sole responsibility of the judges._” The society maintained that the selection of judges was conducted transparently, with input from senators of all constituencies.  

In response to ABH's demand for the public disclosure of judges' score sheets, TLDS' UI raised concerns over the safety and integrity of the judging process. The society cited instances of verbal attacks on judges in the past, particularly from some constituencies now advocating for transparency.  

“Revealing the score sheets could expose judges to unnecessary pressure and threats, thereby compromising the integrity of the competition,” the statement read. However, TLDS' UI expressed willingness to explore frameworks for improved transparency in future editions of the competition.  

The TLDS also refuted allegations of errors attributed to the timekeeper during the debates, describing the claims as unsubstantiated. The society challenged ABH to provide evidence of any lapses, reiterating that the timekeeper adhered strictly to established guidelines.  

Additionally, the statement criticized the informal approach taken by ABH in lodging complaints. “Grievances should follow due process, not be directed casually to executive members,” TLDS noted, describing this as a breach of professional conduct.  

Despite the withdrawal of ABH, TLDS' UI expressed openness to dialogue and urged the constituency to reconsider its decision. The society warned, however, that the absence of ABH's constituencies—Clinical Sciences and Dentistry—would have consequences for their participation in future editions.  

The statement concluded with a call for all constituencies to uphold the spirit of sportsmanship and engage positively in the competition. “We remain committed to fairness and the continued success of Jaw War, which serves as a platform to foster intellectual excellence and camaraderie.” 

Faculty of Science L&D Society Sacks Vice President After JawWar Setback

Àkànní Olúwaségún

The Faculty of Science Literary and Debating Society (L&D), University of Ibadan, has announced the dismissal of its vice president, Oluwabukunmi Amoo, following a controversial loss at the preliminary stage of JawWar 2024: *Rise of Legends*.  

In a statement released by the society and signed by its president, Bayo Salaudeen, the Faculty of Science expressed frustration over Amoo’s last-minute decision to prioritize representing her hall, Queen Idia, rather than her faculty at the November 28 competition against the Faculty of Social Sciences.  

According to the statement, Amoo had previously assured the society of her participation. However, just a week before the debate, she disclosed her decision to compete for Queen Idia Hall instead. The abrupt change left the society scrambling to prepare a new lineup. With most potential replacements unavailable due to academic obligations, Salaudeen was forced to step in and represent the faculty himself.  

“It saddens us that after months of planning, preparation, and consultation, all these efforts were undermined by the vice president, Oluwabukunmi Amoo,” the statement read.  

The release further noted that the loss marked Salaudeen’s first as a public speaker and a significant blow to the society’s aspirations of reclaiming the JawWar trophy, which they last won in 2019. “We are a society that prides itself on excellence, and this was a betrayal of trust,” it added.  

In response to Amoo’s actions, the society revoked her membership and relieved her of her duties as vice president, effective November 29, 2024.

"We Will Not Tolerate False Allegations" – ABH L&D Society Fires Back at TLDS

By Akanni Oluwasegun

The Alexander Brown Hall Literary and Debating Society (ABH L&D Society) has firmly denied allegations of misconduct leveled against its members by the University of Ibadan Literary and Debating Society (TLDS' UI), declaring the claims "unconscionable, malicious, and categorically false."  

In a statement released on Saturday, November 30, 2024, ABH refuted accusations suggesting its members had harassed or assaulted judges during previous competitions. The society asserted that such allegations tarnish its reputation as a body comprising medical professionals and students.  

“It is a serious allegation that affects our reputation as medical professionals, as members of ABH society, and by extension, ABH itself, we ask that TLDS come forward with evidence or refrain from ever making such claims," the statement read

According to ABH LnD, the withdrawal was necessary to preserve the integrity of its society and protect the interests of its speakers amidst concerns over fairness and transparency in the competition. The society also criticized perceived threats from TLDS regarding its future participation in competitions.  

“The society reserves the right to opt out of any TLDS-organized competitions when the conditions are no longer right,” ABH declared.

The statement followed TLDS reply to ABH’s decision to withdraw its constituencies—Clinical Sciences and Dentistry—from the ongoing Jaw War: Rise of Legends competition.

Update: Faculty of Science L&D President Retracts Statement, Apologizes to Vice President Amoo

By: Àkànní Olúwaségún 

The Faculty of Science Literary and Debating Society (L&D), University of Ibadan, has made a dramatic reversal regarding the controversy surrounding its vice president, Oluwabukunmi Amoo, and the JawWar 2024 setback.  

In a newly issued statement dated November 30, 2024, and signed by the society's president, Bayo Salaudeen, the earlier allegations against Amoo have been retracted, alongside a formal apology. The president admitted that his initial reaction was "rash" and expressed regret for publicly blaming Amoo for the faculty's loss during the preliminary stage of the JawWar competition.  

Salaudeen acknowledged his failure to take full responsibility as the leader and emphasized that the matter should have been handled internally within the society. He also apologized to Amoo for tarnishing her image through the initial statement, expressing regret over the way the situation was managed.  

The updated release highlighted three key points:  

1. Salaudeen fully accepted responsibility for the faculty’s loss and confirmed that the issues had been resolved.  

2. A formal apology was extended to Amoo, the L&D alumni, the faculty’s leadership, and all stakeholders affected by the situation.  

3. Amoo retains her position as vice president of the society and remains a valued member.  

This development comes just a day after the initial public release accused Amoo of betraying the faculty by prioritizing her hall, Queen Idia, over the society in the JawWar competition.