DELE MOMODU- "I ONLY SAW MANDELA ON TELEVISION"

As expected encomiums and tributes have been poured on the legendary African leader, Nelson Mandela.Dele Momodu  in his recent article  has this to say about Nelson Mandela:


“Mandela had this incredible aura and effervescent rapport that drew him to people like sugar to ants. Like most mortals, I wished and tried to meet him but failed. It was a dream I could not achieve.  Twice, I missed the chance and opportunity. The first time was in London where he had come to make a speech. It was in the early days of Ovation and the invitation to us was for one. We gave priority to our photographer. The second time was in South Africa, nine years ago. We had a crew of four on ground to cover the 70th birthday of the Esama of Benin, Sir Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion. The influential Benin Chief was on a visit to Dr Mandela’s office and had the Ovation Editor and my photographer with him when they received clearance. That was it. I never saw Mandela except on television. I also bought books and read so much about his inspiring life. My dream finally evaporated on December 5, 2013.”