They were all together at School of Art and Design, Federal Polytechnic Auchi, from different backgrounds, families and cultures. Yet, they had a mission when they landed in the famous citadel of higher learning with just three words, success, success and success. They are the illustrious Auchi Klass of ’99! Words Ireho Aito for iBAND Magazine.

I grew up watching my parents being part of social, ethnic affiliations, reunion clubs and organisations while growing up in the ancient city of Ibadan where I was born and raised. Different committes of friends, Ekpoma Daughters, Esan Progressive Union, Oyeonoye Women’s Group, My father’s set of Ondo Boy’s High School Association in Ibadan, just to mention but a few. They are all reunion clubs or the ones we popularly called ‘parapo.’ Some are still functional as I write while others are defunct.

Some of the highlights of such reunions were to help those in financial assistance, coming together for career and business networking, supporting one and another at social and family functions and disputes resolution. Some even have their in – house bands like Oyenoye Women that my mother led. Esan Progressive Union was always invited at State’s functions in Oyo State so many times to be part of the groups welcoming dignitaries to the state at banquets.

Yours truly got a WhatsApp invitation on the 16th of January in the evening from John Anabui, a distinguished member of Auchi Klass of ’99 about a get along evening meeting at 9pm, slated for the 22nd of January, a Wednesday to be precise. Though, John didn’t give me the agenda to prepare, except for an update he gave a day to go which I obliged.

It wasn’t until I joined the group via another WhatsApp invitation, this time from Imhonigie Imoesi, that I made a fascinating discovery that every Wednesday was their designated weekly meeting day. I was thrilled to learn this, and my excitement soared as I felt honoured to be a part of this tradition.
WhatsApp groups and platforms have become the new and fastest means of networking among families, companies, business associates, reunion platforms and more are saturated on WhatsApp. This is the power of creativity using technological influenced ideas. The world is moving so fast.

And just like everyone, School of Art and Design, Federal Polytechnic Auchi, graduating set of 1999 have their WhatsApp platform that is very and full of creative gods and goddess in one unity. And for two Wednesday nights, I experienced a robust reunion full of expositions and laughter even when some of them were in their studios working all night. Beautiful nights to remember.

This special group made up of 14 members is superb in camaraderie. Very expressive group. For the first time as a writer, I was opportune to feel how a group of artists unwind after leaving their alma mater twenty five years ago! What a moment!

It was as if fate had brought them together, 14 individuals with unique stories of perseverance and determination. Each one had navigated the challenging journey of gaining admission into the Ordinary National Diploma program, overcoming obstacles that would have deterred lesser spirits.

As they embarked on this academic odyssey, they formed unbreakable bonds, forging friendships that would become the cornerstone of their future successes. These relationships, born in the crucible of late-night study sessions, early morning lectures, and shared struggles, would prove to be a powerful catalyst for their careers, businesses, and personal growth.

But their journey was not without its setbacks. Mistakes were made, and the shadows of past regrets lingered. Yet, in the spirit of true camaraderie, apologies were offered, and forgiveness was granted. The two nights, once a witness to their stumbles, became a proof to their resilience and capacity for growth.

Today, these 14 individuals stand as a true affirmation to the transformative power of friendship, hard work, and determination. Their stories, woven together like the threads of a rich tapestry, serve as a reminder that even the most ordinary beginnings can give rise to extraordinary achievements.

The role call of the distinguished members are Ashikodi Okwudili / Braimoh Kingsley / Dudu Emmanuel / Enebeli Franklyn
Henry Igba / Imhonigie Imoesi / Joe Nsek / John Anabui / Klaranze Okhide / Musa Asuku
Nosakhare Osadolor / Ola Balogun / Oisereme Pius / Titus Agbara

The Class of 1999 from Auchi Polytechnic, last year, reunited for a remarkable group exhibition at Lagos’ Iwalewa Gallery of Art, entitled ‘Constellation,’ marking 25 years of shared history and professional growth. This reunion showcased not only their artistic evolution but also the enduring bonds formed during their academic years. It was a showcase of a quarter century of artistic achievements. And over the past 25 years, these artists have navigated diverse career paths, overcoming challenges and adapting to changing times. Some have established themselves as prominent figures in Nigeria’s art scene, while others have gained international recognition. Their careers have been marked by significant milestones, including solo exhibitions, prestigious awards, and influential collaborations.

It was two fruitful nights of banter and for over three hours, at each session, discussions dovetail into so many angles of life with Imhonigie Imoesi who started a witty conversation how his introduction in the class was misunderstood and the class gave him a funny moniker. He said such action dampened his spirit as he was misunderstood by the class. His refreshing memory of the past brought a resounding laughter among the members that first Wednesday night.

Klaranze Okhide, the only female in the group and a force to be reckoned with, offered a differing perspective. She believed that Imhonigie had misinterpreted the reaction to his introduction in their class, led by the industrious Kent Onah. Rather than being embarrassed, Klaranze saw the incident as an affirmation to Imhonigie’s resilient spirit. She had always admired his determination and refusal to give up, qualities that made him a true champion. Klaranze, also celebrated the boys that are now men today with what they have been able to achieve for their careers and families. She reminded them how proud she is to have been a classmate with all of them.

She reminded them how proud she is to have been a classmate with all of them.

The naivety of another member Emmanuel Dudu as a first year student, sauntering into Ola Balogun’s room and got excited by a big artwork on canvas. Dudu screamed erroneously, thinking the work was on paper. Another student had to make mockery of Dudu that fateful day. This generated another laughter among the reunion members. And Dudu confessed that such naivety opened his eyes to be more inquisitive about issues or ideas before making his comments.

Musa Asuku’s unwavering commitment to his faith was a running joke among his classmates. His piety was so well-known that when Kent Onah showed up with some risqué videos, Musa quickly excused himself, not wanting to compromise his values. His abrupt departure sparked a wave of laughter, with his friends teasing him good-naturedly about his strict moral code.

Imhonigie Imoesi recalled a memorable night when Frankly Enebeli and Nosakhare Osadolor engaged in an intense brawl in the studio. With only Imhonigie and Joe Nsek present, the two fighters exchanged blows until exhaustion set in. Interestingly, Imhonigie refused to intervene, instead allowing the pair to tire themselves out.

Franklyn Enebeli later confessed that it was the reaction of Nosakhare that made him to go bunkers and both of them went to the extreme. Students were always allotted their studios to work at their senior levels. Probably, ten students at a time or period. Franklyn held one of the two keys to the studio to come back for their midnight sessions of studio work. This erred Nosakhare that couldn’t have access to the studio.

Nosakhare’s unannounced visit to Franklyn’s apartment, an off – campus apartment in the heart of town, was a provocative move. Franklyn, the undisputed ladies’ man of the building, took umbrage with the interruption. His pride and reputation were at stake.

After reluctantly handing over the studio key to Nosakhare, Franklyn pulled Joe aside and whispered, “Tonight’s going to be a showdown in the studio. Nobody is going to work or do any assignment o.” The air was electric with anticipation, and Joe knew that the studio was about to become a battleground. They eventually turned the students studio into a brawl.

On the WhatsApp platform of Auchi Klass of ’99, the members couldn’t hold back their laughter while Franklyn was recounting the experience.

As the brawl intensified, with neither Franklyn nor Nosakhare able to gain the upper hand, a group of concerned students from the adjacent studio were knocking to intervene. But Imhonigie, with a keen sense of drama, swiftly locked the door, trapping the two combatants inside. Crossing studio boundaries was strictly forbidden, a cardinal rule that governed student behaviour. Yet, the commotion sparked by Franklyn and Nosakhare’s brawl put this rule to the test, almost tempting curious students from neighbouring studios trying to come in and separate them.

“Let them settle this themselves,” Imhonigie seemed to say, as the sound of fists flying and furniture scraping continued to echo through the corridors.

Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, the fight subsided. Franklyn and Nosakhare stumbled apart, their faces flushed, their eyes blazing with exhaustion. They stood panting, their chests heaving, as the reality of their actions slowly sank in.

Franklyn Enebeli later confessed that Nosakhare Osadolor sought the intervention of Franklyn’s campus girlfriend to intervene and reconcile the two students who was also shocked to hear there was a fight in the studio and his heartthrob Franklyn didn’t tell her until Nosakhare revealed.

Years later, and on that fateful Wednesday, the memory of that epic battle would evoke laughter and nostalgic smiles from their fellow classmates. “Those were the days,” they all chuckle, reminiscing about the mischief and mayhem of their student years.

Everything as they say is connected to everything. The Auchi Klass of ’99 didn’t forget to talk about a contentious issue while artists die young and effect of mental health on their lives due to their scattered and busy careers in the studios. They pondered over the cause of sudden death of artists, especially in Nigeria. Is it because of the sedentary career and lifestyle built on studio practice or the effect of some of the materials they work with over the years that may be dangerous to their health or toxic? This discussion was thought – provoking and the Auchi Klass of ’99 didn’t hesitate to mention and discuss the role of health insurance, career and life of the Nigerian artists.

They pondered over the cause of sudden death of artists, especially in Nigeria

Two nights with Auchi Klass of ’99 reunion members were truly unforgettable experiences and may not be enough. Sharing stories and reliving memories proved to be a therapeutic balm for every participant’s soul.

As the each magical nights drew to a close, I reluctantly bid farewell twice, slipping away at 12:51am., the first night and 01. 50am the second night, carrying with me cherished memories of laughter, camaraderie, and the unbreakable bonds forged among 14 people in over 25 years ago. What a parapo!

Words/Ireho Aito/Don’t Keep Your Art in the Finger!/Phtographs/Auchi Klass of ’99/Klaranze Nze Okhide/ John Anabui/Franklyn Enebeli. Pictures from Constellation Exhibition at Iwalewa Gallery of Art Lagos