Women

‘Sagging Is An Irresponsible Way Of Dressing’

Published

14 years ago

August 17, 2012

Tammy Clarizza, popularly called Tammy Abusi is a dynamic
multi talented lady; who amongst her many skills, loves to build lives and put
smiles on the faces of people especially the helpless.

She is the CEO of Rolling “b” Production Limited and Miss
Blossom Beauty Services.

A mother of two, Tammy Clarizza tells the story of her
childhood, her ministry, the Messy Ms Mysteries as well as her view on the
vogue.

What could you remember about your childhood?

Oh! my childhood, growing up as a child for me was very
blissful. I grew up in Ibadan; I had my mum and dad. I would say I had
everything going for me as a child. I didn’t really have an ugly childhood
because my parents were fairly rich. My dad could afford the basic things that
any child could desire in today’s society.

The only thing for me, about my childhood that is a bit
confusing was that I was in a catholic primary school but we were Anglicans. So
I was mixed up, from Monday through Friday I was a catholic and then Saturday
and Sunday I was an Anglican. So, I didn’t quite understand each time we came
to church on Sunday, the prayers offered and the songs they sang, conflicted
with the ones I recited at school Mondays through Fridays and at a time, I
didn’t really have that bond with my parents, we didn’t have that kind of
relationship most children have as in walking up to mum or dad to ask questions
on issues bugging one’s mind and so growing up as a child I had to stomach all
of those I had to just stay in that confusion and I grew with it.

The conflict in religious doctrines did it in any way affect
your development?

Well to an extent I would say yes. Though after I had
finished my primary school, I didn’t have anything to do with the Catholic
Church again of course that was the formation years of my life and I had
understood the basic things about the catholic religion.

My prayers were a bit muddled up but thank God for God
because he understands us. I prayed, I said the “Hail Mary” even though I was
an Anglican and I tried to read the rosary and it wasn’t making sense and then
I started learning the Anglican confession and all of that.

However, as a teenager when I got into the secondary school
I guess I found my footing and the S.U, (Scripture Union) thing was on and I
became an SU member, that was another dimension of Christianity and I just felt
I should stick to this one and try and make some good out of it and somehow I
was able to stablise.

What is this idea of Messy Ms Mysteries all about?

Messy Ms Mysteries is a ministry, a calling borne out of my
passion and personality. As a person I love the entertainment world and I began
to understand that God needed me to impact lives in that area. And because of
the peculiarity of my person, he needed me to do something very different.

Messy Ms Mysteries is simply the mystery of God in the mess
of a Ms.

Now I say this because at a time in my life I became lonely,
rejected and felt abandoned and just needed God to put things back in place for
me. Of course I got married ’94 and by ’98 my marriage crashed and I was all by
myself thinking I had lost everything.
Of course I had a son then and I just needed God to sought my life out
and in the midst of all of that, He began to speak to me, and showed me his
grace. Ofcourse I delved into all kinds of things within that period.

God reassured me and said “in this mess you have found
yourself, my mysteries can still be unveiled and that was what gave birth to my
ministry so basically it is a ministry that is not popular in the sense that we
don’t handled the regular things that you hear people talk about in churches
and other set-ups.

So, How Does This Ministry Function?

We encourage people that are lesbians not to continue
instead we let them know that God is against it and that they can actually come
out of it no matter how difficult it may pose to be. We talk to the
prostitutes, we talk to women; single mothers precisely, separated women,
victims of rape and those who are lonely, who need a shoulder to lean on and
cry to, alcoholics and different people that are not very popular in the
society. These are the kind of people God has called us to attend to and by his
grace, we are doing the much we can.

What is your experience in the ministry?

Of course you know that when you delve into things like
this, those are the areas that the devil would want to try you as a person. I
wouldn’t say it’s been very rosy, but the grace of God has been sufficient.

Over time, God proves to me again and again that it is what
he will have me do. The truth is that every single individual I encounter, in
the cause of my life, I run a multi level marketing consultancy, and I tell
you, most of the people that come around me may have the original intention of
doing business with me but they end up doing ministry with me. I just realize
that in every function I found myself, young girls gravitate towards me.

I also realize that people that are hopeless are the ones
that come around me.

My office is my church, my home is my church, I don’t have a
particular building for my ministry, but I house people I don’t know their
identities, strangers both male and female. So, everything I do in my life, God
uses it to confirm his calling in my life.

I’m optimistic that someday, sometimes, we are going to have
a building where we can house every person and minister to both their spiritual
and physical needs.

So far, what are the programmes executed by your ministry?

This is the 7th year of the ministry, it was inaugurated in
2005, I run programmes from time to time, I’ve had conferences, I have also had
offshoots of our ministry, eg: Miss Blossom Beauty Pageant, a pageant that
started in 2009. We call it “Mentoring the girl-child.”

You know the pageantry has been abused; people now use it as
a way of indecent exposure and all of that.

So in 2009, I began to look at that area of ministry because
if you look at pageantry it actually started from the Bible, it was the process
through which Esther emerged Queen in the bible and God began to speak to me
that these young girls need to be mentored. So, we run the pageantry we don’t
do the Bikini. We try to teach them how to dress decently.

We also bring fashion designers together, we make them
interprete their fabrics in a decent way. For those that don’t know Christ we
try to get them born again in camp, we bring in multivational speakers as well
as undertake career counseling and at the end of the day a queen emerges.

This queen works with us in the ministry, we go to secondary
schools to talk to girls about sex, relationship, how to choose their friends,
their expectations, emotions and things like that.

You’ve just mentioned your involvement?? with
fashion designers, what exactly is fashion?

Fashion is a general term that people.

You’ve just mentioned your involvement with fashion
designers, what exactly is fashion?

popularly used for a trend, it could be clothing, shoes,
make-up. It is seasonal. In short, it is a general term.

As for me, I think fashion is relative to the person
involved.

Is everything en vogue fashionable?

Of course everything en vogue must not be fashionable and
when you talk about people trying to key into the vogue, I think there is a bit
of challenge there. For me it has a
little question on the person involved.

Like the guys for instance, when you talk about the way they
were their trousers, “sagging” is a very irresponsible way of dressing if you
ask me, and they call is fashion so what are we talking about, they are trying
to emulate somebody of course somebody starts a fashion and they want to be
like that person. So for me, it is a question on your character, it means you
are not an individual of yourself.

You don’t have a personality of your own and you try to want
to use this fashion to become something so that people will take note of you
that’s the way I see it.

Does your fashion
define your person?

Of course there is a popular saying that you are addressed by the way you are dressed.
But for those who just want to identify with the vogue, for me that’s a bit
shallow. It is not because I don’t wear what others wear but I feel it is not
compulsory at the instance of the fashion.

Sometimes they might say short skirts are en vogue and
everybody is crazy about it. At that time for me it is not fashionable because
everybody is doing it. But I could have an event where I think oh1 I think I
need to wear something short, with a high shoe and I go ahead and wear it.

Do you think that what you wear has any impact on the
upcoming generation?

Ofcourse definitely, if you are a known person, it is only
natural that people look up to you and when you dress or carry on in a
particular way, people want to believe that, that is what is right because they
see you as a symbol and they believe that whatever you do is what ought to be
so definitely people will look up to you for that.

What’s your advice to known names in the society?

Well I would say that people who have made names in the
society should try to be moderate and know that there are a lot of young people
that are looking up to them ofcourse I know that there are different
professions which also determine fashions like those in the entertainment
industry, there is a particular way they believe they should dress depending on
what they are trying to portray and the kind of image that they stand for. In
all, I think moderation should still be applied.

Seven Years Down The Line, How Would You Assess The Impact
Of Messy Ms Mysteries?

The impact of my ministry I would say, is basically what has
kept me going, it has given me hope and fulfillment. As an individual, I have a
lot of challenges ofcourse I have my children that I tend for, the financial
challenges of my business and that of my extended family, but these young girls
and ladies that have come in contact with me within this period, I have seen
people that literally could not stand to talk before three persons, they have
become presenters. I have seen hopeless young girls, today they are standing
and they are able to say this is who I am. I have seen young girls who have
metamorphosed in my eyes and become some bodies because they came in contact
with me. I have indeed seen God in action in these seven years.

Women

How to Tackle Child Rape

Published

1 week ago

February 27, 2026

The Tide

Child rape is a profound human rights violation that inflicts lasting physical, emotional, and psychological scars on its victims.

Among the most vulnerable groups, girl children face a disproportionate amount of sexual abuse globally, reflecting deep-rooted societal, cultural, and systemic failures.

Despite international laws and local measures aimed at protecting children, rape and sexual violence against girl children remain a pervasive problem in many parts of the world. The rape of girl children is alarmingly prevalent worldwide.

According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), one in four girls experiences some form of sexual abuse before the age of 18. This abuse occurs across all socio-economic, cultural, and geographical divides. The underreporting of sexual violence against children, fueled by fear, stigma, and victim-blaming, makes it difficult to grasp the true scale of the problem.

Reports from organizations like UNICEF and Human Rights Watch highlight that in some regions, girl children are specifically targeted due to the belief that they are “pure” or “virgin,” making them more vulnerable to cultural myths that suggest intercourse with a virgin can cure diseases like HIV/AIDS. These deeply harmful beliefs exacerbate the risk for young girls, particularly in countries where educational and legal protections are weak.

A range of factors contributes to the high incidence of rape against girl children, many of which are embedded in patriarchal and misogynistic beliefs. In some cultures, girls are viewed as inferior or subservient to males, making them easy targets for exploitation. The normalization of gender-based violence in some communities means that abuse often goes unnoticed, unreported, or unpunished.

Child marriages, which remain prevalent in some parts of Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, are another contributing factor. When girls are married off as children, they are often exposed to sexual violence under the guise of marital relations. These young brides, who are typically powerless in these situations, often endure repeated sexual abuse from their significantly older husbands.

Additionally, in conflict zones, girl children are disproportionately affected by sexual violence, used as tools of war by armed groups to terrorize communities. Such exploitation results in severe trauma and long-lasting consequences for victims.

Rape and sexual abuse leave devastating effects on a girl child, both physically and mentally. Physically, young girls are not developed enough to handle sexual intercourse, leading to severe injuries, infections, and even death in extreme cases. Many victims also face long-term reproductive health issues, including infertility, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and complications in future pregnancies.

The psychological toll is equally profound. Victims often suffer from depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health conditions. The stigma associated with sexual violence further isolates them from their families and communities, leaving them vulnerable to further exploitation or abuse.

The educational consequences are also significant. Many victims drop out of school due to the trauma, fear of facing their abusers, or the stigma attached to rape. This creates a cycle of poverty and dependence, further reducing their life chances.

Access to justice for child rape victims is often fraught with challenges. In many countries, laws around sexual violence are outdated, under-enforced, or not well understood. Law enforcement agencies frequently lack the training or resources to handle cases of child sexual abuse appropriately, leading to further victimization during investigations.

In some cases, cultural practices such as “settling” rape cases between families, or forcing victims to marry their rapists, prevent victims from receiving the justice they deserve. This not only robs the victim of agency but perpetuates a culture of impunity where perpetrators feel empowered to commit further acts of violence.

Additionally, the social stigma surrounding rape prevents many girl children from coming forward. Fear of blame, retaliation, or being ostracized by their communities often keeps victims silent, allowing abusers to continue their crimes unchecked.

Internationally, the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) both call for an end to all forms of violence against children, including sexual abuse. Organizations such as UNICEF, Plan International, and Save the Children have been instrumental in raising awareness, supporting survivors, and lobbying for stronger laws and protections.

On a national level, many countries have taken steps to strengthen legal frameworks to protect children from sexual violence. Child protection laws, survivor-centered legal reforms, and harsher penalties for offenders have been introduced in several countries. However, effective implementation remains a challenge in many places due to corruption, weak legal systems, and deep-seated cultural barriers.

To truly address the epidemic of child rape, a multi-faceted approach is needed that tackles the root causes of the problem.

Education and Empowerment of girl-children can go a long way in preventing rape cases in the society. Educating girls about their rights, providing them with life skills, and empowering them to speak out against violence are crucial steps in preventing abuse. Equally important is educating boys and men about consent, respect, and gender equality to shift harmful patriarchal norms.

Girls and women need stronger legal protection to escape some the rape cases that occur regularly. Governments must prioritize the implementation of robust child protection laws, ensuring that law enforcement agents are well-trained and sensitized to handle cases of child rape. Special courts for handling cases involving children, victim support services, and protective measures should be readily available to survivors.

If we have to curb child rape menace, community engagement must be included in the process. Engaging communities to change attitudes toward girl-children and dismantling harmful gender norms is essential. Community leaders, religious figures, and educators can play a pivotal role in shifting mindsets and promoting zero tolerance for violence against children.

Furthermore, there is the need for support for survivours of rape. Comprehensive support systems for survivors are critical for the rest of their lives. These include access to psychological counselling, medical care, legal aid, and safe spaces where victims can heal and rebuild their lives. Schools should also provide supportive environments to help victims continue their education without fear of stigma or discrimination.

Global Advocacy and Accountability from World Health Organisation (WHO), UNICEF, and other relevant agencies should as a matter of fact continue to create more awareness and sensitization on the need to save the girl-child. International organizations and governments must continue to advocate for the protection of children’s rights, ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable. Monitoring mechanisms, transparency in legal proceedings, and collaboration between countries are key to fighting transnational issues like child trafficking for sexual exploitation.

It is worrisome to note in this 21st century, as the world is a global village, fully digitalized, when the girl-children should be allowed to showcase their potentials, instead they are trafficked to do jobs that will harm their lives.

Parents particularly, should have the number of children they can cater for. They should also pay attention to the ones they have.

Moreso, the boy-children and the men should be sensitized on the need to stop the menace.

Rape and sexual violence against girl-children is one of the gravest injustices of our time, robbing millions of their childhoods and futures. While progress has been made, there is still much work to be done to protect the most vulnerable among us. It is only through collective action, from governments, communities, families, and international organizations, that we can create a world where girl- children are safe, empowered, and free from violence.

Perpetual Oluchi Izuegbunam

Women

Who Is A Classic Woman?

Published

2 months ago

January 9, 2026

The Tide

A classic woman is one who has identified herself in terms of fashion, occupation or the kind of business she does.

A woman can be classical in the way she entertains her audience in terms of music and movies. You will discover that some female musicians are identified with the kind of music they sing.

A classical woman is one who always wants to appear trendy.

Generally, classical women are normally identified with the kind of things they are involved in.

There are ladies that want to be identified with wearing of shorts (short trousers) in the public. They use it to showcase their beauty. They want to be identified with such things as they see it as socialisation.

Some wear trousers that are so tight just to showcase all the curves they possess.

Consultant stylists and etiquette experts say some fashions won by some persons are inappropriate because of how and when they are won.

A classic woman is supposed to dress properly. She should be able to wear clothes that will not expose hidden parts of her body. When such occurs, then it is indecent dressing.

Ladies should be known for two things, classical and beauty. One can be classic with minimisation. The minimum woman should go is to look good, decent and presentable.

Some ladies like wearing short skirts but no matter how short the skirt is, it should look elegant. The skirt should not be too short like the mini-skirt.

Dressing or fashion depends on the environment the persons finds herself. The kind of clothes won to the office may be different from the one won at home. Likewise, a dress won to a party may be different from the one won too swimming pool.

For one to look classical or decent, body shape should be taken into consideration.

Colours of a particular fashion can make one look odd or nice. Looking model does not mean that one should go naked or dull.

Don’t wear clothes that you need to drag from time to time in order not to expose yourself.

Eunice Choko-Kayode

Women

Emohua Widows Receive Items From Ogbakor Ikwerre California

Published

2 months ago

January 8, 2026

The Tide

A Non-Governmental Organization, (NGO) Ogbakor Ikwerre,California, DBA, Ikwerre Community Association, California, through it’s outreach projects has donated food items to over 300 Widows in Rumuekpe and Rumuji in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State.

Speaking during the handover of the items to the women leaders of the communities in Emohua, yesterday, the team leader of the Ogbakor Ikwerre Community Association in California, Dr Christiana Chukumati, said that the donation is an annual event that has been on since 2014.

According to her, the NGO is donating the items among the four local government area of Ikwerre adding that this year is for widows in Rumuekpe and Rumuji communities.

“Today is Rumuekpe and Rumuji communities, next we are going to another Ikwerre local government area also.

” The NGO has been carrying on the activities since 2014 within the

Ikwerre communities”, Dr Chukumati said.

She thanked the Royal father of Rumuekpe, His Royal Highness, Golden Amb. Christian Amadi, Eze Chigu and the Royal Highness of Rumuji and Odegu Kingdom, Ohna Christian Okachineke Elechi Newe-Eli (the xv) for receiving them in their communities.

The team leader also promised the Royal Highness that whenever the NGO has any other items for the communities, she we do well to bring it to them.

Receiving the Ogbakor Ikwerre Community Association in California in Rumuekpe, His Royal Highness Golden Christian Amadi, praised the NGO for funding his clan among the communities.

According to the Highness, my community is the only oil producing community in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State, adding that his community is feeding the local government area, the state and the nation.

“I thank my children over there in California for remembering the widows in my Kingdom for the food items they brought.

” I pray to God to help them to do also to other Ikwerre communities.

” I want to tell them also that Rumuekpe Kingdom is till undeveloped.

” As you can see the community is nothing to show to the people, I want to beg the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and the Rivers State government to come to our aid to develop our community. We are underdeveloped”

“God will bless my children over there in California”, His Royal Highness Amadi prayed.

In her words, the women leader of Rumuekpe community, Comfort Njoku, said that she was happy for the gift items given to them adding that it is not easy to remember the widows.

She explained that in Rumuekpe, the widows have not seen such a gift before and prayed that is only God that will reward them.

“I want to thank the Ogbakor Ikweree Community Association in California for giving us this items in this festival. We thank God for them and the leader of the group, Mrs Chukumati.

” What we received today we have not seen it in our community before for widows”, Mrs Njoku stated.

Meanwhile, in Rumuji community, His Royal Highness, Ohna Christian Okachineke Elechi, said that he lacked words to thank the Ogbakor Ikwerre Community Association in California for the gift to the widows in his communities.

According to him, today is historic in the history of Rumuji community that our children in oversea can remember us, I am very excited and happy over the items.

“I feel very very happy, it is good that our children recognize the widows in my community today.

” I did not know them before but now I know them, I pray to God Almighty to pay them back for their effort and that they will not lack.

“I pray God to continue to bless them in whatever things they are doing” he stated.

Earlier, the oldest woman in Rumuji community, Nletem Josiah, who spoke in her local language interpreted by the woman leader, Agor Leah Onugbom, thanked the Ogbakor Ikwerre Community Association in California for the gift adding that her husband died many years ago that has caused her hardship.

” In my age and these people come and give me these food items, is only God that will bless them for me.

” This Xmas I will eat and be happy so I want to thank them and that my God, God will bless them for me”, Mama Josiah said.

By: Kiadum Edookor