By Amos OkiomaCome December 15, 2017, the oil rich Brass Island in the Creeks of Bayelsa state would witness the gathering of over 15 top Gospel Artists from all over the country including the Niger Delta region.The man behind it all is Isreal Sunny Goli, of the Bayelsa State Assembly Representing Brass Constituency 1. He spoke with TheNiche on the upcoming event which he said would gulp more than N100 million.Themed “Brass Ultimate Praise Night” he said the event would feature the sensational presence of renowned gospel artists like Buchi, Frank EdwardsSensational Dele,Bayelsa classic Choir, Elder Dempster Elijah Oyelade, Midnight Crew, Steve Crown, Jke Praise, Asu Ekiye, Glowreyah, Preye Odede, Monique, Ada Ehi, Amange, and Yenate.They are expected to render various gospel songs that would dazzle the inhabitants of the oil rich Island who are reportedly anxiously expecting the day to come.“We cannot wait for that day to come,” noted a cross section of them who spoke on the event which the organiser, Goli said it’s meant to give back to God what the Lord has done for him.In addition, he said looking back at his political travails, he’s been able to wade through them in the midst of odds, noting he promised to thank God in a special way.“The reason I am doing this event is because I have a personal covenant with God, ” recalled Goli in an exclusive chart.“You know it was very difficult for me. When I left government I was hunted by government, even my friend, the former Chief of Staff was imprisoned for about a year or so before the case was struck out. I was also being looked for for quite some time.”Considering the miraculous ways that culminated into his contesting the election and subsequent victory at the polls, the lawmaker said the best way to thank God was to organise an event like this with all members of his Constituency who made it possible.“I just felt I’m owing God, so I have to give back to God in this way .Since I am a Christian I have to do it in the Christian way,”added Goli who was very prominent in the administration of former Governor Timipre Silva.Giving more insight on reasons why the event which is first of its kind in the Creeks of Bayelsa state would take place, Goli recalled that “before the last Assembly elections, I had prayers with some Pastors, I promised that I will give back to God in my own little way after the elections”.Elated by the courage and moral support given him by the King of Twon Brass, HRM Alfred Diette Spiff, and wife, Goli said the duo promised to be present at the event.On how prepared he is to host the crowd expected at the event which lots of people are already in high spirit, the lawmaker who is also a renowned businessman disclosed that the event would gulp over N100 million as every thing including security, transport, food etc are already taken care of.He further disclowed that besides several gun boats that have been stationed along the routes to Brass Island which would include through the Nembe Jetty, and Ogbia Waterfront, comfortable arrangements for the artists to arrive Yenagoa from Port Harcourt and Lagos have been put in place.“It will be a hitch free event as all security measures have been put in place. several gun boats and security agents will be on ground to ensure a safe trip to and from Brass Island, and also a peaceful praise night, the first of its kind in this area”.However, to avoid over crowding the Nembe jetty, a major takeoff route, himself and the Artists would take Ogbia waterfront, others would go through the Nembe water front to Brass, he disclosed.
Popularly described as man of the people by his admirers, Goli advised all lovers of God to make their way to Brass Island to enjoy themselves through out the praise night as there would be surplus food and other side attractions.The artists, he added, would also have a relaxation time at the Brass beach before take off back to Yenagoa, and onward to their various destinations.