[size=18pt]Island of sin[/size]
•Untold story of Tarkwa Bay
By HENRY UMAHI (umahi@sunnewsonline.com) and GILBERT EKEZIE
Saturday, February 07, 2009

A first time visitor to Tarkwa Bay, a Lagos island, cannot but marvel at the wonders of nature. Located at the Atlas cove, it is a place to love and to weep for. Indeed, it is an island of fun and shame.

Almost cut off from the glare of the prying eyes, getting to Tarkwa Bay is not a piece of cake. Being an island, it is not a place to go by the lily-livered, especially when the waves are angry as well as raging and the visitor knows nothing about swimming. A trip to the place, from Mekwe beach (jetty) near Bonny Camp on Lagos Island, could only be done by speed canoe. The trip takes only 15 minutes at break neck speed.

No man's land
Tarkwa Bay could pass for a no man’s land. It is unorganized or rather has no definite pattern. Tightly concentrated shacks dot the landscape. Only a few buildings are made of block, most of which were erected by European sailors and slave merchants, who used the place either for leisure or as transit camp. Such buildings are collapsing now and stand like structural sores, especially near the beach area. Narrow stretches of dirty foot parts snake around the place.

There is little or no sign of government presence there, although it falls under the Etiosa/Iru Local Council Development Area of Lagos State. Sitting like a forgotten old woman, Tarkwa Bay has no electricity, safe transportation, police station or industry etc. The community health centre exists only in name. Once in a while, health workers visit, sometimes to immunize the children. The health needs of residents are met by Dr. Paul’s Hospital, which is privately owned and has about five beds. There is no water to drink, even though the place is surrounded by water.

Tarkwa Bay boasts of three primary schools. The Catholic Church runs one of them, while individuals own the other two. The schools, if one could actually describe them as such, operate in deplorable environment that clearly pose danger to the pupils. The roofs are leaking and the floors are not cemented. A signboard of an old generation bank stands in the horizon but there is no other sign of the institution. There is also the empty community hall commissioned by Col. Olagunsoye Oyinlola in 1995.

Splendid beach
Despite the fact that Tarkwa Bay belongs to another age, the culture of enjoyment has evolved there. Fun seekers from the metropolis throng Tarkwa Bay beach, especially during the weekends, just as the residents catch their own fun in their own way. Indeed, Tarkwa Bay has a beautiful beach. Those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of Lagos consider it as an ideal place to chill out. People organize parties and other social activities at the beach, especially wild ones, where sex orgies are cherished. There, you behold the beauty and mystery of nature, as ocean waves billow into the sky, cascading to the shoreline and leaving foamy bubbles that soak into the fine sands.

Fun galore
Stepping into Tarkwa Bay, it is easy to see that the residents are fun loving people. In the evenings, residents and visitors of the Island take to the local gin stalls and beer parlous. Indeed, there is a high number of drinking joints. Some of the most popular ones include Ona’s Bar and Blue Dreams located at Ajegunle.

In the night, Ajegunle, in Tarkwa Bay, is busier than Abule and Okunayo, the other parts of the island. However, in the three locations, which are connected, competition among the beer parlous is keen, as they try to win customers through the quality of services rendered. The services include music, cold drinks and sex. The fun spots play current tunes from within the country and elsewhere. One particular artiste whose music is constantly played is Bayelsa State-born Tumaya.
Indeed, the youths of Tarkwa Bay are in touch with current trends. They dress mainly in jeans, T-shirts canvass and loafers. There are local boutiques that sell the stuff there. Otherwise, they buy from Lagos Island. Like their mates elsewhere, they are crazy about European football leagues. Any time there is a match, the youths congregate at the various viewing centres. Such teams as Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester United, Barcelona FC and Real Madrid have them as fans. There is also a local football field, where the youths display their skill.

Sex epidemic
At Tarkwa Bay, night is like daytime, especially during the weekends. Fun is without limit. To talk about “zipping up” or sexual restraint in Tarkwa Bay is to talk gibberish. Around every corner, sex crawls like a disease. Pubescent girls and not-so-young ladies dressed in skimpy attires barter their company to men who have money and willing to spend it. It is common to see couples kissing and smooching openly, irrespective of the number of eyes fixed in their direction. Some of the girls hand over sexual favours, just after some drinks. Indeed, sex is cheap at Tarkwa Bay.

To get a girl for sexual satisfaction is simple and easy. What any man in heat needs is to walk into one of the drinking joints and place an “order.” Indeed, the waiters and waitresses at the drinking joints are also pimps. They connect any willing man with girls who are ready for sex any time and anywhere.
When Saturday Sun visited Tarkwa Bay, the experience at Ona’s bar was a journey into iniquity. Our correspondent told the attendant, who gave her name as Esther, that he needed a female company. The waitress smiled and said it was no big deal. Pronto, she called her friend, Queen. Incidentally, there was nothing queenly about Queen, except that she was a hawker of flesh. After taking her seat, she quickly ordered a bottle of Guinness stout and two sticks of Benson & Hedges cigarette. She lit one cigarette and dropped the other inside the cleavage between her two breasts. Then she began guzzling beer, like fish and puffed away her cigarette recklessly.

While our correspondent was walking round the beach, to discover his environment, and wanted to urinate, Queen insisted on holding his manhood for him. When the reporter rejected her offer, she took offence. To prove that urinating in front of a woman or man was no big deal, she pulled down her trousers and began to urinate right in front of the correspondent and in broad daylight, oblivious of passersby. She had no panties under the jeans trousers.

Later, Queen offered our correspondent Indian hemp and said it makes sex “sweeter.” She eventually parted ways with our correspondent when he refused to buy her Indian hemp, as she requested. And to spite the reporter, she bought the stuff herself and puffed away merrily.

With Queen gone, Jane was willing to take her place. A 21-year-old hot head, she had no limit to what she could do. She wore a deep V-necked blouse, with her breasts almost jumping out. Her blouse was short and exposed her navel and the jeans trousers she wore had low flap, which ensured that a part of her buttocks was exposed.

Jane was ready to be kissed and caressed in the open. To prove that sex was a normal thing on the island, she offered to make love to the reporter if he wanted. She pointed out a couple, somewhere not far from where she sat with our reporter, who were engrossed in sex not minding that people were around.

Indeed, residents of Tarkwa Bay seem to be gripped by what could be described as a form of sexual madness. The scenario is like they are enacting a life-drama entitled, “Sodom and Gomorrah.” All over the place, particularly at the popular pubs, half-clad ladies strut their stuff, openly hustling for customers. Desperate for cash, they are ready to do virtually anything to exchange their womanhood for money. The girls entertain their customers in their tiny rooms, where they place flat foams on the floor. Two or three girls share a room and they pay N1,000 each to the shack owners daily. Some of the guests rent chalets at N3, 000 per night. At night, it is common to see couples having sex in dark corners. Sometimes, two couples engage themselves in the same room.

Quickie, otherwise known as “short time,” costs between N500 and N1,200 depending on the man’s pocket or bargaining power. A full nightstand, from 12 am to 5am, goes for between N2,000 and N3,000. It could be less, depending on the understanding between the parties involved. For instance, one of the girls from Warri, who simply identified herself as Mercy, pleaded with our reporter to pay N1,000 and spend the night with her. Of course, that was after she had had six bottles of small Guinness Stout at the reporter’s expense. The lady, who said she was 28 years old, a mother of one and a divorcee, revealed that she needed the money to pay her daily rent.

Mini Nigeria and Liberian connection
Tarkwa Bay is a mini Nigeria, so to say. Almost all the tribes that constitute the federation are fairly represented there. However, ladies from Delta, Edo, Benue, Enugu and Egun (Badagry) hold the flag. There are also foreigners there, especially Liberian girls. In fact, the groove assumes a frenzy dimension in the Liberian quarters. The girls there are more audacious, concealing little or nothing. One of the Liberian girls, who gave her name as Bianca, was an eyeful. With her micro-mini skirt pulled down to her bum, the heavily endowed lady danced erotically for a very long time without a care. Apparently, tipsy and high on drug, she dared the writer to give her a try, saying: “If I didn’t satisfy you, don’t pay.” To show that she was a good marketer, she added: “Come to my room and see for yourself. Seeing is believing.” Her selling point, according to her, is that she was damn good at “blow jobs.”
Bianca is not a lone ranger in the act of seduction. Her sisters from Liberia are top acts. Although many of them are not particularly young, they seem to be saying that age is a number or that experience is an added advantage in sex trade. They woo men, offering their flesh for lower price.

Drug haven
It is not only sex that is hawked like banana in Tarkwa Bay. It appears that clean living is virtually non-existent in the place. The whiff of Indian hemp hangs perpetually in the air as both men and women puff the stuff in the open, all day and night. A wrap of cannabis costs N20 only.
Cocaine is also freely sold and used in the place. A pinch is sold for N200. In fact, it is near impossible to see a youth who is not doing one type of drug or another there. Gambling is also a pastime. In the open, people place bets as they play card games or snooker. Some of the guys are also pimps, arranging customers for the girls.

Hideout for criminals
Tarkwa Bay is also a haven of criminals. Investigation revealed that the place serves as a hideout for criminals. After committing crimes in other places, some of the criminals retreat into Tarkwa Bay to cool off. Also, some of the men are neck deep into pipeline vandalism. In the place, a 50-litre of diesel sells for N2,000.

No police
Tarkwa Bay is in a world of its own. In the entire island, there is not even a single policeman. However, despite this, the residents live in relative peace. Whenever there is conflict among them, they settle it themselves or invite naval personnel from the nearby yard.
According to Bankole, a guard at the Pipeline and Products Marketing Co. Ltd. jetty near Tarkwa Bay, most of the disputes the Navy were invited to settle concerned mainly wife or girlfriend snatching. He said that in Tarkwa Bay, stealing is a taboo or rather very rare. According to him, everybody knows everybody. Moreover, nobody has anything that could be stolen because they are all in need.

Expensive community
Life in Tarkwa Bay is expensive. Perhaps, this has to do with the location of the place. On the island, a bottle of beer is sold at N250. Sachet of water (pure water) costs N10 each. Gold Circle condom goes for N50 a pack. Our tour guide (names withheld) described the situation, in impeccable English, thus: “Really, it is suffering and smiling. I don’t believe that there is anyone living here out of choice; it is a matter of lack of choice. The task of living in Tarkwa Bay presents a huge challenge. I think the situation here reflects the picture of the Nigerian society, where everyone is for himself. Tarkwa Bay is a manifestation of system failure, it is a manifestation of failure of government to live up to its responsibility; we are living in the worst condition, but we are managing to smile.”

The other oddities
There are neither public nor private toilets in Tarkwa Bay. When nature calls, the residents answer at the shoreline and when the waves come, they sweep away the human excreta. Tarkwa Bay also boasts of a handful of lunatics. Perhaps, the most popular among them is a lady simply known as Stella. Although she manifests the telltale signs of insanity, it is not difficult to see that she is beautiful. According to a source, Stella used to be the hottest girl around. She reigned so much that every man wanted to go to bed with her. She was in much demand that she used to pick and choose her men from the pack. In those days, it was gathered, men, who succeeded in sleeping with her boast about their luck.

Saturday Sun gathered that Stella suddenly became mad and has been in that state ever since. Residents revealed that she is a victim of what they called “African Science.” According to them, a spell was cast on her by a jealous competitor. Today, she spends her day perambulating around. At night, she positions herself at the drinking joints, drinking and smoking, courtesy of kind-hearted frolickers, especially those who had had a liaison with her.

When politicians visit
The fact that there are no social amenities does not suggest that government and politicians are ignorant of the existence of Tarkwa Bay. A resident, Mr. Pius Uvuru from Bayelsa State, told Saturday Sun that during elections, politicians come there to canvass for votes, promising to open up the place and provide such things, as water, schools and hospitals. He, however, said, regrettably, that nothing is ever done.

Cry for help
It would appear that the commercial sex workers in Tarkwa Bay are not really contented with their occupation. Some claim that given the opportunity, they would turn a new leaf. Twenty-one-year-old Peace told our reporter she had no peace of mind selling her flesh. She said: “I was tricked into prostitution by an aunt. She brought me to Lagos, promising to give me a good future. But things changed when I got to Lagos and she put me in a hostel at Apapa, where men come to sleep with us after paying to her. I had to run away from there and came to this place because I reasoned that if I must be a hustler, I have to be my own boss. I am afraid that if she catches me, she could take her pound of flesh, that’s why I’m hiding here. I hope to learn a vocation, like fashion designing, when I save enough money. This is no way to live. My parents will be ashamed if they find out.”
In the same vein, Mercy, a trained hairdresser, said she was ready to practise her vocation if she could raise enough money to set up shop. In fact, two days after the meeting, Mercy called the reporter, pleading: 'Please, come and take me out of here.”

Churches to the rescue
Whereas government is toying with the social needs of the people, as it were, churches are springing up to deal with their spiritual welfare. Among them are Bible Life Church, Our Lady of Tarkwa Bay Catholic Church, Cherubim and Seraphim, Assemblies of God Church, International Pentecostal Holiness Church and Evangel Pentecostal Church.

Indeed, the leaders of Evangel Pentecostal Church are hoping to bring much righteousness at Tarkwa Bay. It was gathered that the church decided to locate a branch on the island after one of its leaders, responding to dirty tales from the island, visited. He was said to have wept over the immortality in the place. He had promised that do something to help the resident forego their sinful ways.
At present, the church has erected a church and is planning massive evangelism on the island.  http://www.sunnewsonline.com/webpages/news/national/2009/feb/07/national-07-02-2009-01.htm

[size=18pt]How we were mercilessly raped by soldiers – Tarkwa Bay girls[/size]
By HENRY UMAHI (umahi@sunnewsonline.com)
Saturday, April 11, 2009

More Stories on This Section

Sunday, March 29 this year was a day inhabitants of Tarkwa Bay, a Lagos island, especially the women, would not forget in a hurry. That day, a detachment of soldiers, numbering over 300 and armed to the teeth invaded the area in the wee hours. Mission? To cleanse the notorious island crawling with iniquities.

However, the soldiers not only went beyond their mandate but also added their personal programme. They mercilessly raped young girls and women, at, an instance, in a sex orgy.
Narrating their ordeal in the hand of the rapist soldiers, some ladies, who were sexually abused, said that the rampaging soldiers had forceful carnal knowledge of them at gunpoint, in the open and in their rooms.

Saturday Sun gathered that the soldiers stormed the island in a commando style at 4.00a.m that day, firing sporadically. They broke down doors and windows. The soldiers also smashed heads and broke limbs.

After subduing the residents, the women were raped in turns by the soldiers.
It was gathered that after the rape spree, the soldiers took away over 40 people, to the nearby naval yard.

Saturday Sun gathered that to escape from the brutality of the soldiers, some of the frightened residents jumped into the sea and swamps in the area. There were fears that some may have drowned, as an unidentified body was seen floating in the sea some days after the operation.
One of the rape victims, who identified herself simply as Grace, narrated her ordeal thus: “A few minutes after I entered my room, after dancing with my friends at Blue Dreams Bar on the island, I started hearing the sound of gun being fired everywhere.

Fear gripped me and I didn’t know what to do. At that time I was alone in the room, as my roommate had gone out to answer the call of nature in the bush because there is no toilet at Tarkwa Bay. There was commotion outside, I heard people shouting. Then our door flew open and a soldier brandishing gun and horsewhip charged in. I was shaking and he tore of my sleeping gown and raped me at gun point.”

Sobbing, the lady from Warri, Delta State, added that after assaulting her, the soldier took her handset, money and trinkets.

Asked if the rapist used condom, Grace shook her head and said: “He didn’t use condom. When I asked him to use condom because I had some packs in the room, he slapped me across the face and I almost fainted. He was smelling alcohol. Although I am a hustler (prostitute), I have never seen anything like that in my life. The man was an animal. He was raping me and cursing me at the same time. His manhood is like that of a horse, it was almost coming out of my mouth. I vomitted later. He bruised me all over.”

She said that one week after the incident, she is yet to see or hear from her roommate, Doris.
Another victim, who gave her name as Sandra, said that she was raped by two soldiers that day.
“Two of them (soldiers) raped me that day,” Sandra said reluctantly. “Those men were evil. They took everything I have. They took my phones, my money, my jewellery. One of them even removed the ring on my finger. They are bastards.”

She disclosed that none of the men used condom while having sex with her.
However, the Benue State indigene said that the soldiers would regret their action thereafter, refusing to elaborate. She said that after the assault, she relocated to Apapa.
Another girl, who was raped said that the soldiers behaved as if they were sex-starved. She said that one of the soldiers ordered her to UnCloth and without even making effort to “put her in the mood” just pounced on her.

The girl, who gave her name as Ashanu, said: “The soldiers just grabbed me after I removed my dress at gun-point. His manhood was already erect and he forced himself into me. It was painful and I had tears in my private part. He went on pumping me and it took a long time before he released. He just got up, put on his trousers and ordered me to follow him. I cried because of the pains in my private part.”
On his part, Ted described his escape as a miracle. “They beat the daylight out of me,” he said, showing his broken skin.

“They were everywhere, beating and kicking us like animals. I can only describe my escape as a miracle because I was one of those they caught initially but when I saw the chance I ran into the swamp and waited till later in the day before finding my way out of the place. Over 40 others were arrested and taken to the navy base. They said we were criminals, that Tarkwa Bay is a hideout for criminals. But all of us cannot be criminals.”

Another escapee, who refused to identify himself, said that he actually bought his freedom.
His words: “I was one of the people the soldiers caught but I gave money to one of them and he allowed me to escape. You know, I have always known that there will be trouble someday at Tarkwa Bay, so I had always prepared for it. I always had all my money inside my shorts pockets. It was from there I gave one of them N2, 000 and he allowed me to run away.”

At present, Tarkwa Bay is almost a ghost town, as many of the residents have deserted the place. It was, however, gathered that those who have nowhere to go sneak into the place to pass the night and leave at dawn.

The invasion of Tarkwa Bay is coming a few weeks after Saturday Sun published a special investigative report on February 7, exposing the atrocities going on in the island. The report, which elicited effervescent reactions across the country, was entitled, EVIL ISLAND. Tarkwa Bay, Nigeria’s Sodom and Gomorrah, where sex, drugs are done in the open.

The report noted: “To talk about ‘zipping up’ or sexual restraint in Tarkwa Bay is to talk gibberish. Around every corner, sex crawls like a disease. Pubescent girls and not-so-young ladies dressed in skimpy attires barter their company to men who have money and willing to spend it. It is common to see couples kissing and smooching openly, irrespective of the number of eyes fixed in their direction. Some of the girls hand over sexual favours, just after some drinks. Indeed, sex is cheap at Tarkwa Bay.”

The report further maintained that “Tarkwa Bay is also a haven of criminals. Investigation revealed that the place serves as a hideout for criminals. After committing crimes in other places, some of the criminals retreat into Tarkwa Bay to cool off. Also, some of the men are neck deep into pipeline vandalism. In the place, a 50-litre of diesel sells for N2,000. Tarkwa Bay is in a world of its own. In the entire island, there is not even a single police man.”

Perhaps, on account of the report, the soldiers moved in to remove the bad eggs and cleanse the inland. But can evil be eradicated with evil?
http://www.sunnewsonline.com/webpages/news/national/2009/apr/11/national-11-04-2009-02.htm

um

tpia:

um

why only ummmmm?

.

tpia:



because I found the story interesting.

dont know what to say, really.

tpia lost for words, that is a first. long may it last

Island of soddom and gomarrh

Sup peoples?
So it's been a while since we took our party to Taqua Bay, but this July's Edition of Sundays At The Bay, we'll be storming Taqua totally!!!
Anyways, I really hope y'all are psyched out, but first, some reminders.

Meet up point is City Mall as usual, where everyone can stock up on snacks and drinks ( and our favorite adult beverages). Meet up time is 11AM. PLIX!!! Let's not do the whole Nigerian time thingy, last time was rather stressful.
Departure from City Mall is at 12PM. Yet again, PLIX!!! No Nigerian time.

We're gonna be taking boats to The Bay, & I know this brings a lot of worry cos of the mammy boats. But if you're not comfortable with them, we're sorting out another boat which is bigger & everything. These boats will cost N2500 per person, for the trip to & fro. But, if you don't wanna dish out that much, and you're comfortable with the mammy boats, those are cheaper. Just hold on to like N1000 for them.

Also, we have to carry our own DJ, and pay for tents & chairs at the beach like everyone knows. Usually, we'd just go around asking for the odd contribution, but this time, since we're looking at a bill of like 25000 for all that, we need everyone to just contribute N500 for that. Only N500!!! We're not charging gate fee o!!! We just can't pay outta our own pockets for it, k

So, with the money talk outta the way, y'all had better be ready to have MAD FUN!!!

Sundays At The Bay is back!!!

Panda.

when will naija get serious with rape

Is this 4 real?

most certainly sounds sick and fun somehow!

Na soo that poverty for you, what the fucking government have put our sistres and brother into , you see,

TARKWA-BAY – A HAVEN OF SOLEMN PEACE, NATURE’S FRIENDLY RENDITION, GROWING SPIRITUALITY AND HAPPY PEOPLE.

Tarkwa - Bay, a united community of peaceful Nigerians, dates back as memory can go. It is one of the most prominent and peaceful islands in Lagos metropolis that is naturally endowed with a diversity of peace - loving people of conduct, exhilarating nature’s atmosphere with serene and in fact, the first choice, safest beach resort / relaxation of all time.

The community is indeed under Eti-Osa / Iru Local Government Development Area, headed by a committee of responsible and astute elders of extreme quality under the leadership of the Baale (Chief Abiodun Owoeye) with a vibrant Councilor (Mr. Segun Ogunbiyi), an active CDA Chairman (Mr. Saliu King) with the community’s team of neighborhood watchers headed by (Mr. Raphael Orjiwuru) in line with the Council’s arrangement and also an internal rebranding team headed by Mr. Humphrey Adonu, N. James and Pastor Abraham Naikon (Lead Pastor of the Bible Life Church – Tarkwa-Bay).

Tarkwa-Bay is a Nigerian settlement comprising of almost every tribe of the Nigerian entity co-existing in a happy atmosphere alongside with other neighbouring African brothers in their significant numbers. The community is made up of five integrated communities comprising of Tarkwa-Bay, Store Village, Okun-Ayo, Abagbo and Ebute-Oko. The people generally are engaged in Fishing, Water transportation, Petty trading, Chalet Keepers (owned by blue chip companies), Gardeners, Civil Servants, Oil Workers (NNPC), Vessel Workers, Canopy Rentals, Mini Restaurant / Bar Operators, Security Guards, Fashion Designers, Baggage Handlers, Craftsmen and general artisans.

Most reputable organizations including private person’s / families of repute, maintain guest houses in the community for weekend / weekday relaxation / treat. Reputable Organizations such as: Shell Petroleum, Nigerian Breweries, Cappa & D’alberto, Costain West Africa Plc, Union Bank of Nigeria Plc, John Holt, Nigerian Ports Authority, Lagos Yatch Club (LYC), Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Police, Chinese Construction firm, etc, all have their guest houses in Tarkwa-Bay.

Religious Organizations: Order of Preachers (Province of St. Joseph (Nigeria and Ghana) - Dominican Fathers and Brothers (St. Dominic’s Parish, Yaba - Lagos), Young Men Christian Association (YMCA), etc

Private Organizations: Chief Atanda Fatai-Williams, Chief Ojora, Chief M. Johnson, H. O. Davies, Akerele family, Eruwariye (Briggs) family, Mr. David (Tarkwa - Texas), etc.

The Order of preachers arrived Tarkwa-Bay in 1976. The organization, through the tireless efforts of its zealous Dominican Brother (Rev. Bro. Stephen Lucas, OP), had built its house (Domus Dominici) – an elevated structured rooms with ground lavatory, kitchen as well as a central assembly room for dining / meetings. Thereafter, its commenced Catechism programmes to educate the Catholic faithfuls for spiritual / moral growth. Today, the Dominicans have established Our Lady of Tarkwa-Bay Catholic Church in the community with up to five hundred worshipping persons.

Presently, with the approval of Nigerian Army, the Catholics now congregate in the army mess as a temporary place of worship with Rev. Fr. Felix Onemheghie, OP of St. Dominic’s Parish as Pastor, while Rev. Bro. Stephen Lucas, OP is the Spiritual Director and Rev. Fr. Charles Ukwe, OP as the Dominican Provincial.

Other team members include David Hadjah (Catechist), Emmanuel Hyacinth-Ozoezi (Catechist), Mathias Biayebo, (Pastoral Council Chairman), Paul Nuche (Pastoral Council Vice Chairman), Everestus Ezeonye (Acting Secretary) and Pauline Anyiam (Treasurer), Dominic Ogbonnaya (Patron), Ichie Donatus Anyiam (Patron), Margaret Ozoezi (Patroness), Agnes Mensah (Patroness).

With support from the Spiritual Director, the Church is presently sourcing the possibility of a suitable land-space for the construction of a befitting and permanent place of worship for the people. On Feb 14th, 2010, the community witnessed a maiden voyage of His Eminence, Anthony Cardinal Olubunmi Okogie’s visit to the community as a landmark of hope and blessings to come.

This visitation reflected Tarkwa-bay as a community of God’s fearing and loving people. The Cardinal was received with great love and cheer by the community leaders, traditional rulers, religious communities and friends as he rode on a four-wheel power-bike round the community. In the end, he visited the Baale of the Community (Chief Abiodun Owoeye) who pledged his support to work with him to actualize a befitting site for Our Lady of Tarkwa-Bay.

The Dominicans through the efforts of Rev. Bro. Stephen Lucas, OP, also brought The Christian Foundation for Children and Aging program (CFCA) (www.cfcausa.org) into the community to assist the children and aging. CFCA is a Kansas based non–governmental organization that has its outreach in many parts of the world.

The CFCA was then managed by Mr. Dotun Labinjo (Lagos Project Co-ordinator) with Emmanuel Justin appointed as Sub-project head. The project enrolled up to six hundred beneficiaries with their school fees paid annually with relief materials (food / beverages) given. The program lasted nearly a decade and went a long way to improve the moral, spiritual and economic welfare of most beneficiaries.

Aside from this, one of its beneficiaries (Monday Akogun) was taken to United States for further Studies and some others sponsored to quality private boarding schools in Lagos. These include: Virginia-Mary Anyanwu (Reagan Memorial High School, Yaba) and Chiemeke Nnajiofor (Access International School, Lagos).

Even though CFCA was a Christian based program, the Dominicans extended the benefits to people of all faiths in the community. Also, through other private Sponsors, they distributed mosquito treated nets on many occasions to children and caring mothers.

The Dominicans have organized and held several fund raising luncheon to grow Our Lady of Tarkwa-Bay. This saw the invitation of eminent personalities of repute into the community. These included: Mr. Ogunsino Bernadino Doregos, Mr. John Ogwo, Barrister Chikwe Chigbue (Late), Mr. Bayo Fatusin (House J. Resorts and Suites), Dame Felicia Okoli (More Enterprises), Mrs. Rita Nwabueze (USA), Mr. Michael Murray-Bruce (Silverbird Entertainment) and Osigwe Anyiam Osigwe families. It is believed with God’s assistance and support from the Cardinal, Our Lady of Tarkwa-Bay will have its own befitting place of worship.

Also, several retreats with prominent preachers were held for the people in the past seven years: Invited preachers included: (2005): Rev. Fr. Jude Mbukanma, OP, (Ilorin), (2006): Rev. Fr. Sylvanus Osigwe of Ifo Diocese, (2007): Bishop Ayo-Maria Atoyebi, OP, of Ilorin Diocese, (2008): Rev. Fr. Benjamin Kwaghgba, OP, (2009): Rev. Fr. Michael Tukura, OP, (2010): Rev. Fr. Nicholas Okeke, OP and in 2011 Rev. Fr. Raphael Ogoke OP , all from Dominican Community, Ibadan.

Going by these prominent presence at Tarkwa-Bay with the undeterred religious supports from the Dominicans, the fallout of moral decadence as outlined in some print media reports may have been blown out of proportion. Tarkwa-Bay is made up of many Churches, comprising of Catholic, Anglican, Apostolic, Pentecostal and the Jehovah Witnesses.

Most parents are very conscious and disciplined. Besides, morals are taught at home, enhanced at school, and also preached in the Churches. Decadence of moral exists in every society, it exists in the mainland and even Worldwide. All society the world-over including parents are making efforts to stem the tide of moral decadence for a better society and healthy living. Most residents of Tarkwa-bay are free and filled with people of pleasant personalities and conscience who are aware of their integrity and maintain their families prestige.

It is worth noting that the community has produced a number of great Nigerians, including Mr. Gani Balogun of Tarzan Marine Nigeria Limited, Fiki Balogun - Fiki Nigeria Limited, Wasiu Olowu - Wasco Marine Services, Emmanuel Omitogun - Manager - MTN Nigeria, Samuel Ajose Zannu - Manager - Cappa & D’alberto, C. Woh - Manager - Agip Oil, Emmanuel Hyacinth-Ozoezi (Web Manager - Dominican Fathers and Brothers) / advancing the course of e-commerce in Nigeria, Barrister Ade Amure (Legal practitioner), Mr. Peter Eke (Well travelled and astute educationist), Mr. Adesina (One of the Best Teacher of all time), numerous students in higher learning across the federation including Pastoral leaders of excellence and a host of reputable elders of integrity alongside other veiled personalities of impeccable character and repute.

Hence, I am humble to say that Tarkwa-bay is a peace and loving community !

Rev. Bro. Stephen Lucas, OP.
Spiritual Director - Our Lady of Tarkwa-Bay Catholic Church

TARKWA-BAY – A HAVEN OF SOLEMN PEACE, NATURE’S FRIENDLY RENDITION, GROWING SPIRITUALITY AND HAPPY PEOPLE.

Tarkwa - Bay, a united community of peaceful Nigerians, dates back as memory can go. It is one of the most prominent and peaceful islands in Lagos metropolis that is naturally endowed with a diversity of peace - loving people of conduct, exhilarating nature’s atmosphere with serene and in fact, the first choice, safest beach resort / relaxation of all time.

The community is indeed under Eti-Osa / Iru Local Government Development Area, headed by a committee of responsible and astute elders of extreme quality under the leadership of the Baale (Chief Abiodun Owoeye) with a vibrant Councilor (Mr. Segun Ogunbiyi), an active CDA Chairman (Mr. Saliu King) with the community’s team of neighborhood watchers headed by (Mr. Raphael Orjiwuru) in line with the Council’s arrangement and also an internal rebranding team headed by Mr. Humphrey Adonu, N. James and Pastor Abraham Naikon (Lead Pastor of the Bible Life Church – Tarkwa-Bay).

Tarkwa-Bay is a Nigerian settlement comprising of almost every tribe of the Nigerian entity co-existing in a happy atmosphere alongside with other neighbouring African brothers in their significant numbers. The community is made up of five integrated communities comprising of Tarkwa-Bay, Store Village, Okun-Ayo, Abagbo and Ebute-Oko. The people generally are engaged in Fishing, Water transportation, Petty trading, Chalet Keepers (owned by blue chip companies), Gardeners, Civil Servants, Oil Workers (NNPC), Vessel Workers, Canopy Rentals, Mini Restaurant / Bar Operators, Security Guards, Fashion Designers, Baggage Handlers, Craftsmen and general artisans.

Most reputable organizations including private person’s / families of repute, maintain guest houses in the community for weekend / weekday relaxation / treat. Reputable Organizations such as: Shell Petroleum, Nigerian Breweries, Cappa & D’alberto, Costain West Africa Plc, Union Bank of Nigeria Plc, John Holt, Nigerian Ports Authority, Lagos Yatch Club (LYC), Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Police, Chinese Construction firm, etc, all have their guest houses in Tarkwa-Bay.

Religious Organizations: Order of Preachers (Province of St. Joseph (Nigeria and Ghana) - Dominican Fathers and Brothers (St. Dominic’s Parish, Yaba - Lagos), Young Men Christian Association (YMCA), etc

Private Organizations: Chief Atanda Fatai-Williams, Chief Ojora, Chief M. Johnson, H. O. Davies, Akerele family, Eruwariye (Briggs) family, Mr. David (Tarkwa - Texas), etc.

The Order of preachers arrived Tarkwa-Bay in 1976. The organization, through the tireless efforts of its zealous Dominican Brother (Rev. Bro. Stephen Lucas, OP), had built its house (Domus Dominici) – an elevated structured rooms with ground lavatory, kitchen as well as a central assembly room for dining / meetings. Thereafter, its commenced Catechism programmes to educate the Catholic faithfuls for spiritual / moral growth. Today, the Dominicans have established Our Lady of Tarkwa-Bay Catholic Church in the community with up to five hundred worshipping persons.

Presently, with the approval of Nigerian Army, the Catholics now congregate in the army mess as a temporary place of worship with Rev. Fr. Felix Onemheghie, OP of St. Dominic’s Parish as Pastor, while Rev. Bro. Stephen Lucas, OP is the Spiritual Director and Rev. Fr. Charles Ukwe, OP as the Dominican Provincial.

Other team members include David Hadjah (Catechist), Emmanuel Hyacinth-Ozoezi (Catechist), Mathias Biayebo, (Pastoral Council Chairman), Paul Nuche (Pastoral Council Vice Chairman), Everestus Ezeonye (Acting Secretary) and Pauline Anyiam (Treasurer), Dominic Ogbonnaya (Patron), Ichie Donatus Anyiam (Patron), Margaret Ozoezi (Patroness), Agnes Mensah (Patroness).

With support from the Spiritual Director, the Church is presently sourcing the possibility of a suitable land-space for the construction of a befitting and permanent place of worship for the people. On Feb 14th, 2010, the community witnessed a maiden voyage of His Eminence, Anthony Cardinal Olubunmi Okogie’s visit to the community as a landmark of hope and blessings to come.

This visitation reflected Tarkwa-bay as a community of God’s fearing and loving people. The Cardinal was received with great love and cheer by the community leaders, traditional rulers, religious communities and friends as he rode on a four-wheel power-bike round the community. In the end, he visited the Baale of the Community (Chief Abiodun Owoeye) who pledged his support to work with him to actualize a befitting site for Our Lady of Tarkwa-Bay.

The Dominicans through the efforts of Rev. Bro. Stephen Lucas, OP, also brought The Christian Foundation for Children and Aging program (CFCA) (www.cfcausa.org) into the community to assist the children and aging. CFCA is a Kansas based non–governmental organization that has its outreach in many parts of the world.

The CFCA was then managed by Mr. Dotun Labinjo (Lagos Project Co-ordinator) with Emmanuel Justin appointed as Sub-project head. The project enrolled up to six hundred beneficiaries with their school fees paid annually with relief materials (food / beverages) given. The program lasted nearly a decade and went a long way to improve the moral, spiritual and economic welfare of most beneficiaries.

Aside from this, one of its beneficiaries (Monday Akogun) was taken to United States for further Studies and some others sponsored to quality private boarding schools in Lagos. These include: Virginia-Mary Anyanwu (Reagan Memorial High School, Yaba) and Chiemeke Nnajiofor (Access International School, Lagos).

Even though CFCA was a Christian based program, the Dominicans extended the benefits to people of all faiths in the community. Also, through other private Sponsors, they distributed mosquito treated nets on many occasions to children and caring mothers.

The Dominicans have organized and held several fund raising luncheon to grow Our Lady of Tarkwa-Bay. This saw the invitation of eminent personalities of repute into the community. These included: Mr. Ogunsino Bernadino Doregos, Mr. John Ogwo, Barrister Chikwe Chigbue (Late), Mr. Bayo Fatusin (House J. Resorts and Suites), Dame Felicia Okoli (More Enterprises), Mrs. Rita Nwabueze (USA), Mr. Michael Murray-Bruce (Silverbird Entertainment) and Osigwe Anyiam Osigwe families. It is believed with God’s assistance and support from the Cardinal, Our Lady of Tarkwa-Bay will have its own befitting place of worship.

Also, several retreats with prominent preachers were held for the people in the past seven years: Invited preachers included: (2005): Rev. Fr. Jude Mbukanma, OP, (Ilorin), (2006): Rev. Fr. Sylvanus Osigwe of Ifo Diocese, (2007): Bishop Ayo-Maria Atoyebi, OP, of Ilorin Diocese, (2008): Rev. Fr. Benjamin Kwaghgba, OP, (2009): Rev. Fr. Michael Tukura, OP, (2010): Rev. Fr. Nicholas Okeke, OP and in 2011 Rev. Fr. Raphael Ogoke OP , all from Dominican Community, Ibadan.

Going by these prominent presence at Tarkwa-Bay with the undeterred religious supports from the Dominicans, the fallout of moral decadence as outlined in some print media reports may have been blown out of proportion. Tarkwa-Bay is made up of many Churches, comprising of Catholic, Anglican, Apostolic, Pentecostal and the Jehovah Witnesses.

Most parents are very conscious and disciplined. Besides, morals are taught at home, enhanced at school, and also preached in the Churches. Decadence of moral exists in every society, it exists in the mainland and even Worldwide. All society the world-over including parents are making efforts to stem the tide of moral decadence for a better society and healthy living. Most residents of Tarkwa-bay are free and filled with people of pleasant personalities and conscience who are aware of their integrity and maintain their families prestige.

It is worth noting that the community has produced a number of great Nigerians, including Mr. Gani Balogun of Tarzan Marine Nigeria Limited, Fiki Balogun - Fiki Nigeria Limited, Wasiu Olowu - Wasco Marine Services, Emmanuel Omitogun - Manager - MTN Nigeria, Samuel Ajose Zannu - Manager - Cappa & D’alberto, C. Woh - Manager - Agip Oil, Emmanuel Hyacinth-Ozoezi (Web Manager - Dominican Fathers and Brothers) / advancing the course of e-commerce in Nigeria, Barrister Ade Amure (Legal practitioner), Mr. Peter Eke (Well travelled and astute educationist), Mr. Adesina (One of the Best Teacher of all time), numerous students in higher learning across the federation including Pastoral leaders of excellence and a host of reputable elders of integrity alongside other veiled personalities of impeccable character and repute.

Hence, I am humble to say that Tarkwa-bay is a peace and loving community !

Rev. Bro. Stephen Lucas, OP.
Spiritual Director - Our Lady of Tarkwa-Bay Catholic Church

@ Sun newspapers

There're toilets in Tarkwa bay.Accepted,most houses and shacks dont have toilets but the well organised chalets/guest houses do.I'm sure you bunked with an ogbongidi

Well it appears the place don spoil finish though,I remember sometime in the early nineties,we used to go on weeklong hideaways to Tee Bay.Then the NPA chalet,Shell Chalet,Police chalet, YMCA and Union bank Chalet all owned by their parent organisation were all in good working conditions.That's where I learnt to fish a bit,tried my hand on surfing and would rent single outboard engine speed boats to venture deep towards the channel of Lagos anchorage.It was fun,taking in the naked sun and having the cool salty breeze of the sea carress your face as the speedy journey lasted.
Most mornings,we'd be woken up by the blaring horns of those monster merchant vessels loaded to the hilt with containers,sincde there's no electricity,the chalet was powered with gen(only at night),in the daytime,you'd have to pay an extra fee for them to run it,but it was all good,I have fond memories of going to the old and dilapidated lighthouse,it was always cool there,we'd just sleep on the floor and hear the noise of the surging waters of the ocean slamming against the breakwaters.
I remember some top celebrities then used to frequent the place from within and without the shores of Nigeria.Nollywood was still in its infancy and it was not uncommon to find them coming to shoot movies there.

OMG! Tarwka bay was once a place of cool fun with peace and quiet. the only girls trying to show skin were very posh girls from decent homes. i find it hard to believe the story but i think it is true. I have heard of prostitution at its peak sometime in 2005. i was there last in 2000. I think some dude Tazran boats gave rides for N1,000 bucks then. (Only bigger boys could afford N1,000 then)

R.ape is definitely a trait of Nigerian Soldiers (they gave birth to quite a number of Nigerian/Liberians when ECOMOG went there)

who do we believe now;the news reporter with his graphic yet no-good tale or the PR church man with his LIE!

sW2EEEEEEEEEEEEEET

@OP

thank you for this. I visited Tarkwa circa 1976 for a family weekend and I have pleasant memories from that trip. I was just 6 years old but I remember there was no electricity in the house we stayed in.

It was certainly not the kind of place you have so vividly described

Another case of drinking panadol for God's headache.

*yawns*

Police = Killers at Checkpoints, Rapist in the station, Armed Robbers at Night
Soldier = Rapist, Stewpid Zombies, Armed Robbers and Killers of innocent protesters (Kill-and-Go)
Navy = Good for nothing brutalizers of the innocent, Rapist, Worst Violators of Road Rules, Thieves
Air-force = Harassers-in-Chief, Useless to the Country, Waste of Money, ill-mannered

RAPE seems to be a common denominator among our "armed" personnel!

Shouldn't a Government do something about this or should we wait until the daughter of the President or Senate President is raped (unknowingly)?
What is it about rape that these animals enjoy?
Some of those animals will have been infected with HIV by now, and probably infected their wives as well!

Lastpage!

Has anyone been to this place recently.
What us the current state?

Kindly share any info

Freaknasty:
Has anyone been to this place recently.
What us the current state?

Kindly share any info

I was there on Friday 17th, Tarkwa bay still has it's blend of the Good, bad and ugly. But as a visitor, you will witness mostly the good.
The beach is still clean. Its my favorite beach in Lagos. The breakwater is fascinating. peaceful and serene atmosphere. Most of the houses and shops run "generators"
Tarkwa bay is just like any other town in Lagos except that the roads are not tarred.
When you visit, take time to walk around the village. If you appreciate history, you will love those old European houses left standing, very quality structures some of which are still in excellent condition. It has the ambience of a well planned European suburban settlement long abandoned. Black people don't know how to maintain facilities.
The op is wrong, there is a police station there, by the side of the old rail track that leads directly to the beach. the track intersects the path that leads to the light house. I have some pictures that I can send to you if you want or I can still post them here.
I may visit there again on Monday which is a public holiday as an Islander myself, I only have to trek (though it's an hour walk through bush path) to Tarkwa bay from my house. Passing through Tomaro, Iko-ata, pass the bush path that leads to Ajala, Abagbo, lighthouse then Tarkwa bay.
I love Tarkwa bay, not necessarily for the water, as I have nice waters all around me. There is even a small lake behind my house. I can see the taller of the two Eko Atlantic towers from my window. I spent my time on the rocks (breakwater).
The pictures I have were taken with my phone camera but the ones I intend taking on Monday will be with my e compass camera complete with location bearings and GPS coordinates so you can look up on google maps.

jaymichael:
I was there on Friday 17th, Tarkwa bay still has it's blend of the Good, bad and ugly. But as a visitor, you will witness mostly the good.
The beach is still clean. Its my favorite beach in Lagos. The breakwater is fascinating. peaceful and serene atmosphere. Most of the houses and shops run "generators"
Tarkwa bay is just like any other town in Lagos except that the roads are not tarred.
When you visit, take time to walk around the village. If you appreciate history, you will love those old European houses left standing, very quality structures some of which are still in excellent condition. It has the ambience of a well planned European suburban settlement long abandoned. Black people don't know how to maintain facilities.
The op is wrong, there is a police station there, by the side of the old rail track that leads directly to the beach. the track intersects the path that leads to the light house. I have some pictures that I can send to you if you want or I can still post them here.
I may visit there again on Monday which is a public holiday as an Islander myself, I only have to trek (though it's an hour walk through bush path) to Tarkwa bay from my house. Passing through Tomaro, Iko-ata, pass the bush path that leads to Ajala, Abagbo, lighthouse then Tarkwa bay.
I love Tarkwa bay, not necessarily for the water, as I have nice waters all around me. There is even a small lake behind my house. I can see the taller of the two Eko Atlantic towers from my window. I spent my time on the rocks (breakwater).
The pictures I have were taken with my phone camera but the ones I intend taking on Monday will be with my e compass camera complete with location bearings and GPS coordinates so you can look up on google maps.

I was there last year in May. Beautiful island and beautiful people. There are quite a few churches. I still don't understand why they had a rail road on the Island. I did visit the police station and drank coco nut water that was offered to me by the locals.

chris81964:


I was there last year in May. Beautiful island and beautiful people. There are quite a few churches. I still don't understand why they had a rail road on the Island. I did visit the police station and drank coco nut water that was offered to me by the locals.

Did you visit the lighthouse (built around 1848) The buildings inside are used as NPA quarters. the ruins of Lord Lugard's house is also within the compound. I ll post the pictures now.

chris81964:


I was there last year in May. Beautiful island and beautiful people. There are quite a few churches. I still don't understand why they had a rail road on the Island. I did visit the police station and drank coco nut water that was offered to me by the locals.

The pictures you posted are from the village. That is the Jetty with NNPC and Atlas cove in the background.

jaymichael:
The pictures you posted are from the village. That is the Jetty with NNPC and Atlas cove in the background.

Okun Ayo

Anyone recently visit Tarkwa bay should please post the pictures of the present infrastructure as am planning to visit the location with my family.

I need a serious update on this as have not visited before and am planning to with my g. f perhaps next Sat...
moreover I do I get there from Oshodi

I need a serious update on this as have not visited before and am planning to with my g. f perhaps next Sat...
moreover, How do I get there from Oshodi

Tarkwa what?

Harkynkunle:
I need a serious update on this as have not visited before and am planning to with my g. f perhaps next Sat...
moreover, How do I get there from Oshodi

From Oshodi, take a BRT Bus and alight at CMS, you'll see boats going to Tarkwa Bay from there. It is 300.