His Royal Majesty Oba Rev. Ademola Olugbile Folakanmi, Makuleodoye II, Alado of Ado-Awaye Kingdom has announced 13th-16th of November as the date for the 2024 Iyake International Festival.
According to a press release jointly signed by His Royal Majesty and Chairman of the Festival planning Committee, Bola Olalere and sent to ODUDUWA NEWS.
The festival will kick-off on Wednesday 13th November, 2024 with a movie Premiere and youth carnival followed by Festival Discuss with focus on Agribusiness and Crown Festival on Thursday 14th November, 2024. where Alado will honour some notable individuals in the community. On Friday 15th November, 2024, there will be mountain climbing and festival experience shows. Saturday 16th November, 2024 will be the grand finale, where the Governor of Oyo State, His Excellency Engr. Oluseyi Abiodun Makinde will lead other dignitaries as a Special Guest of Honour.
Also expected at the Festival Celebration is the honorable Minister of Tourism, federal Republic of Nigeria, Mrs Lola Ade John, Oyo State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun , Oyo State commissioner for Local Government and Chiftancy Matters, Hon. Ademola Ojo. The Royal father of the is the Aseyin of Iseyin, Oba Sefiu Oyebola Adeyeri 111. Other top government functionaries as well as tourists from all over the world are also expected at the Festival.
The release assures every participant of maximum security of lives and properties during the festival and a fun filled experience.
In a latest development in Oyo State, the Governor of the State, Engr. Seyi Makinde has perfected plan to distribute 2023 latest Camry model worth over Forty Five Million Naira (N45m) each for members of the State House of Assembly.
According to the investigation, the first batch of the order has been received and the distribution ceremony has been scheduled for next week.
In a brief finding made by our reporter, the 2023 Camry model gulped between $27,000 and $35,000 which is between N45m to N60m with the prevailing exchange rate among other customs charges.
This development is coming at a moment when workers are requesting for a living minimum wage and at a time the new minimum wage is yet to be fully implemented.
The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes CCII at its General Assembly of Friday, 6th. October 2023 formally approved the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee, as presented before the house by the President General, Chief Sulaiman Ajeniyi Ajewole Esq.
The 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee, herein referred to as “the committee” was given the assignment to organize the Annual Ibadan Cultural Festival Programme. The committee was inaugurated by the Executive Council on Friday 3rd November, 2024 at the Ibadan House, Oke Aremo Ibadan.The committee, at the inaugural meeting, set up fourteen (14) sub-committees to assist the Central committee in achieving the given assignment.The Chairman of the Committee, Balogun Gaphar Babatunde Ojetola, expressed his appreciation to all the members especially the committee executive team namely, Dr. Mrs Monsurat Ayo Alaga (Vice Chairman), Engineer Busari Akere (Secretary) and Dr. Mrs Iyabo Fadiora (Assistant Secretary ). He extended appreciation also to the Sub-Committee Chairmen and Secretaries.
The committee is blessed with many other eggheads too numerous to be specially mentioned.For the first time in history, a Cultural Festival dedicated bank account was launched by the CCII Exco in response to the Cultural Festival Committee Chairman request. Thanks to the President General and the Treasurer for all the efforts in this regard.A Board Room platform which comprises of all Chairmen of Sub-Committees, Representatives of Market Leaders and the Warlords Association, Representatives of the Ibadan Prime Youths Forum including the representatives of selected media establishments, hold virtual meetings to brainstorm on the progress, developments and challenges encountered at various sub-committee levels.A total of twelve (12) Central Committee physical meetings and series of virtual interactive sessions were held before the commencement of the main events alongside a series of parallel sub-committee meetings.
Reports and feedback were made to the Executive council during Executive meetings and as may be requested.This year Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee introduced an Internally Generated Fund Initiative through voluntary donations from the committee members. The donations represented our take off grant and thanks to all our very patriotic members.Another novel initiative for fund generation was introduced through Special Decorations on identified individuals. A comprehensive list of our Grand Ambassadors of Ibadan Culture will appear under Decorations and Awards however, it is important to note that it was at such occasions where His Eminence, Aare Dr. Dawood Makanjuola De-Damak investiture as The Grand Commander of Ibadan Culture ( GCIC ) that a brand new 18 Seater Bus worth Thirty Eight Million Naira (N38M) and Ten million naira was donated. May his wealth and health continue to increase. AmenIt is thus worthy of note to mention that this committee does not make any recourse whatsoever to the CCII fund in executing this year’s cultural festival from commencement to the Grand Finale. To God belongs all glory.
The Official Flag Off for the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival was held on Monday 19th February, 2024 in a grand style following the initial approval of His Excellency, The Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Abiodun Oluwaseyi Makinde FNSE, DSC, GSSRS for the Cultural festival to be held between 14th and 20th April, 2024.The passing of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Sen. Dr. Mohood Ishola Olalekan Balogun, Alli Okunmade II on the 14th March, 2024 brought abrupt suspension to all the cultural activities. His Imperial Majesty was interned on the 15th March, 2024 according to the muslim rites.There was a period of Interregnum between the 15th March, 2024 till 12th July, 2024 due to an unusual delay in the installation and coronation of the new Olubadan, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Dr. Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin, Ige Olakulehin I.The New Aafin Olubadan was commissioned on Wednesday 10th July while the new Olubadan was installed and crowned on Friday 12th July, 2024 to pave the way for resumption of the cultural festival activities.During the period of the interregnum, some Staggered Programs were held between Friday 31st May and Thursday 4th July, 2024 such as the Finals of Ibadan Got Talent, Orekelewa Brain and Beauty Pageant, All Ibadan Youths Conference, Table Tennis and Ayo Olopon Finals, Stage Play on Balogun Ajayi Osungbekunmi, Education All categories Finals and Football competition finals.The committee visited fourteen (14) media houses, Speaker House of Assembly, Six State Commissioners, the Chief Judge, the Council of Iyalodes, the Olubadan-in-Council, Dr. Chief Omololu Olunloyo, the Deputy Governor, the Wife of the Governor and other very important personalities in and outside the state to solicit support and sponsorship of the program.Ten Grand Ambassadors of Ibadan Culture (GAIC ) and One Grand Commander of Ibadan Culture (GCIC ) were decorated with pop and pageantryNumerous deserving and worthy individuals received different awards in the categories of MPII, MDII, MOFI and MOWI before and during the Grand Finale.All proceeds were directly remitted to the dedicated FCMB Account of the CCII Cultural Festival and transparently managed by the CCII signatories.The CCII and the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee paid Royal Homage to the Olubadan of Ibadanland,
His Imperial Majesty, Oba Dr. Akinloye Owolabi Olakulehin and his Council on the 22nd July, 2024 to receive Royal blessing and approval to continue with the programs of the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival.The program resummed on the 24th July, 2024 with the newly introduced innovation into the cultural festival where Ibadan Local Couisines such as Aawon, Oojo, Ekuru, Akaakoko, Tuuwo, Egbo and Ewa, Oole ati eko, Ekomimun ati akara kengbe, dundu ati ewa were served as breakfast to two thousands members at the historical Mapo Hall Arena, Ibadan. This was followed by Road Show from Mapo Hall to Ibadan House.The annual Amala Festival and Fuji Fiesta was held on the same day at the Ibadan House Premises. Awards were presented to notable Ibadan Business Leaders and leading Fuji musicians. His Royal Majesty, Oba Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja , Chief Bayo Oyero, Chief Mrs Bode Amao, Hon. Justice Iyabo Yerima, Oyo State Chief Judge , Chief Mrs Mutiat Ladoja and a host of other Important dignitaries graced the ocassion. Hot Amala with assorted meat, fish and ogunfe were served to more than 2,000 members and special guests. Alhaji Tajudeen System, Alhaji Rashidi Ayinde and other Fuji Stars performed on stage at this epoc making event where all were dressed in this year’s Amala Day Festival.The Business Luncheon was held at the Ilaji Hotels and Resorts where series of awards were presented to various awardees in different categories.
A prominent Lagos based entertainer, Peter Akah who had shown tremendous love of Ibadanland by memorising all the Ibadan rulers since inception till date on a viral social media was brought in for due recognition and appreciation. He received material gifts, an award and cash gifts of more than Three million naira on the spot. His joy knows no bounds and was full of praises of Ibadanland.Friday 26th July, 2024 was the Special Jummah Service which was held at the Oja’Ba Central Mosque and all the Central Mosques in Ibadanland. The Chief Imaam of Ibadanland prayed for the Leadership of the CCII and Ibadanland especially on the successful completion of the Aafin Olubadan during this regime. The Jummah Service was well attended by members of the CCII affiliate clubs.The Fellowship Award was held immediately after the Jummah Service at the Civic Center where several awardees received their nominated awards. The Oyo State Speaker, House of Assembly, many Local Government Chairmen, Obas and Council of Mogajis and Baales graced this august ocassion.The Grand Finale was held at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium on Saturday, 27th July, 2024. This year’s Grand Finale was specially attended by the Executive Governor of Oyo State, His Excellency, Engineer Abiodun Oluwaseyi Makinde, FNSE, DSC, GSSRS, The First Lady, Chief Mrs Tamunominini Makinde who received the coveted Most Outstanding Wife of Ibadanland MOWI, the Deputy Governor, Barrister AbdRaheem Adebayo Lawal who received the coveted Most Outstanding Friend of Ibadanland MOFI , the Chairman of the Ocassion, Deacon Oladejo Owolabi , CEO IBR Impact Radio and Adelayo Academy and other very important dignitaries. The President General, Barr. Ajeniyi Ajewole played Host to these important dignitaries. Vey important dignitaries from home and abroad were called forward to receive several categories of awards. The event witnessed the traditional parade of the masquerades, Warlord Exhibitions and the colorful exhibition of variety affiliate clubs. Live streaming and broadcasting through all available social media networks showcased this year’s cultural festival to the full acceptance of the International audience. Glory be to God almighty.
The Special Thanksgiving Service was held at The Cathedral of St. Peters Aremo at a fully packed event. The Bishop prayed for the CCII, Ibadanland, Oyo State and Nigeria. May we continue to celebrate many more Ibadan Cultural Festival. Amen
MAJOR CHALLENGES
Despite a smooth take-off of this year’s activities, we recorded quite a number of major challenges which constituted an unimaginable set back to the program.
Passage of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Lekan Balogun at the middle of the programme .
Four months gap between the passage of one Oba to the installation of another Olubadan.
A longest period of interregnum in the history of Ibadanland.
Skyrocket increase in the prices of commodities.
High cost of fuel towering above one thousand naira per litre.
The need to recirculate hundreds of sponsorship letters in and outside the state . Effect of changes in dates on our potential sponsors.
Difficulty encountered for securing the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium for the Grand Finale on time which led to the delay in setting up the venue. We thank Senator Sharafadeen Abiodun Alli for his last minute intervention in this regard.
APOLOGIES
The delay in accessing the Grand Finale venue caused untold hardships for the vendors who brought canopies, chairs, tables and other rentals as they were denied access to the venue a day prior. This affected some affiliate clubs in making necessary arrangements for their members. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience.Some paid adverts and goodwill messages were not captured in our brochures for some technical reasons, please accept our apologies. Necessary arrangement is in place to either refund payment or repost the material in subsequent CCII Publications.
APPRAISALS/APPRECIATIONS
First and foremost, we return all praises and adoration to God almighty for making it possible for us to deliver an unprecedented 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival.
To God belongs all the glory.We thank the Chief Sulaiman Ajeniyi Ajewole led CCII Executive Council for giving us the opportunity to serve our fatherland in this capacity. We also thank the entire members of the CCII for their prayers and support without which we couldn’t have recorded this exemplary success. Appreciation is also due to the entire administrative and non-administrative staff of Ibadan House.
Thank you all. Importantly, immense appreciation goes to all the members of the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee by standing firmly with devotion, dedication and total commitment in ensuring that success is achieved, through thick and thin. Almighty God will never desert you at your point of needs.E se A dupe, I hold you all in very high esteem.We must not fail to specially appreciate all the affiliate clubs for making this year’s program the MOST COLORFUL, ATTRACTIVE AND ENTERTAINING EVENT in the history of Ibadan Cultural Festival. Thanks and God Bless you All.To our donors who are never tired of supporting all our activities generously, may the good Lord continue to increase you in all capacities.I pray that my successor will keep the flag higher and build on the established success story.Ile Ibadan yoo gbe gbogbo wa O. Aamin.E ba n gbomo Oke, Lanti Lantiiii.
In a major breakthrough for the Southwest Security Network, also known as Amotekun Corps, a family of robbers, including a father, mother, and their underage children, was arrested in Ondo State. The arrest came amid the Corps’ intensified efforts to combat crime and insecurity across the state.
The revelation was made by the Ondo State Commander of Amotekun, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, during a parade of 20 suspected criminals at the Corps’ Headquarters in Alagbaka, Akure. Adeleye explained that the family, whose children are between the ages of 12 and 15, was involved in a string of house burglaries. For legal reasons, the minors were not paraded alongside the other suspects.
In a statement that underscored the commitment of the Amotekun Corps to safeguarding lives and property, Commander Adeleye detailed the unit’s recent success in foiling five kidnapping attempts and rescuing nine victims within the past week. The efforts have been concentrated on identified flashpoints such as the Elegbeka area, notorious for criminal activities. According to Adeleye, the Corps has conducted successful raids in the area, making it safer for residents and commuters.
He assured the public that Amotekun’s patrols have penetrated surrounding forests where criminals often operate, and pledged to intensify operations in areas like Ala, Ago Oyinbo, Ogbese, Jugbere, and Ifon forests. This strategy, he noted, is aimed at bringing lasting relief to communities affected by insecurity.
In addition to the family of robbers, Adeleye highlighted the arrest of a 28-year-old kidnapping suspect, Usman Abubakar, in Igbo Oba-Owo. Abubakar confessed to extorting two million naira from a kidnapping victim, providing details of how the money was distributed among his accomplices and their “godfathers.” The suspect is currently in custody and undergoing interrogation.
While the arrest of the family of robbers drew significant attention, Adeleye used the occasion to highlight broader security achievements across the state. He reported that the state has seen relative peace in the past week, with no significant incidents related to land or chieftaincy disputes, labor union matters, or student affairs. Additionally, no new cases of human trafficking have been reported.
The Commander also addressed issues related to anti-grazing laws, confirming the arrest of one suspect, Muhammed Abubakar, in Ita-Ogbolu for violating the state’s anti-open grazing law. Furthermore, through a collaborative effort involving the police, local hunters, and Amotekun Corps, another suspect was apprehended in Akoko. The investigation into that case is ongoing.
In terms of cult-related activities, Adeleye revealed that three suspects were arrested with charms, arms, and ammunition, signaling the Corps’ unrelenting focus on curbing cultism and related violent activities in the state.
“We have remained on high alert to ensure peace across the state,” Adeleye said. “Ondo remains largely peaceful, but we are not resting. Our operations will continue to ensure that we bring to justice anyone who threatens the safety and security of our communities.”
The Amotekun Corps, established to provide grassroots security in the Southwest, has continued to strengthen its operations, often working in close collaboration with other security agencies such as the police and local vigilantes. Their ongoing presence in crime hotspots across Ondo State is part of a broader effort to curtail the activities of criminals, particularly those operating in hard-to-reach forest areas where kidnappings and robberies have previously thrived.
Adeleye’s remarks concluded on a positive note, as he assured the public that the Corps is working tirelessly to keep Ondo State safe and secure, urging residents to provide timely and actionable information that can aid in the fight against crime.
The Lagos State Government has said that the ban on Single-Use Plastics, such as pet bottles, and sachet water, among others, would take effect from January 2025 across the state.
Recall that the state government had banned the use of styrofoam in all government establishments and across the state following the increasing prevalence of plastic waste and its negative effect on the environment in recent years.
The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, announced this at an event in Ikeja on Tuesday, October 2.
“Plastic waste materials make up a significant proportion of solid wastes and litter the metropolis.
It has become a highly visible part of the waste stream, PET, Styrofoam and nylon for sachet water, popularly called ‘pure water’ commonly being used for water and beverages, take away plates and cups, carrier bags, among others.
This development is posing environmental challenges ranging from ecosystem degradation, Drainage clogging and flooding, Lagoon and Ocean debris with attendant harm to humans resulting in high socio-economic impacts on the state.
It will improve the situation of the State’s drainage channels and reduce plastic pollution in the marine environment.
While the implementation of the ban on Styrofoam commenced on February 12, 2024, upon the expiration of a three-month moratorium, the State announced a six-month moratorium period for SUPs which was later magnanimously extended till the end of the year 2024 upon Stakeholders appeal to give room for more consultation while the ban on SUPs be effective by January 2025,” he said.
The Oyo State Chairperson of the National Association of Nigeria Traders (NANTs) who doubles as the Acting Coordinator for the association south west zone, Princess Aderonke Rahmat Adedoja on Thursday 3rd of September hosted her counterparts across the south west to the regional meeting of the association which held at Oyo NANTs Secretariat.
The National Chairman of the board of trustee of NANTs, Prince Haruna Yusuf was the special guest of Honor, and was warmly received by Alhaja Saratu Aduke Konibaje, foremost market leader alongside Oyo NANTs executive.
Presents at the meeting were NANTs leaders from Ogun State, Osun State, Lagos State, Ekiti State, Ondo State, and the host,Oyo State.
In her welcome address, Princess Aderonke Rahmat Adedoja appreciated the state executive and stakeholders for their support since she was asked to take over, and stated emphatically that the success so far were product of their cooperation and support, as she’s not better than them, that it’s just an opportunity to serve them.
She thereafter recognised the presence of her colleagues from the region, and further seek for their support as they build a strong southwest NANTs. “Today’s gathering is a testament to our collective resolve to promote the interests of Nigerian traders and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s economic growth”
“I am honoured to have Prince Haruna Yusuf, BOT Chairman, NANTs with us today, to share valuable insights on NANTs history, vision, and the trader’s role in Nigeria’s economic development””I also acknowledged the tireless efforts of our State Executives, Chairpersons, and Coordinators, whose dedication has been instrumental in advancing NANTs Objectives” she said.
In his speech, Prince Haruna Yusuf established the fact that it was the late former Governor of Old Oyo State and former Minister of the Nigeria, Chief Bola Ige that made the registration of NANTs National to be possible, and today’s history about the association won’t be complete with his name, the role he played, and particularly the fact that he was a Yoruba man.”I must say that NANTs wouldn’t have been possible with the late Chief Bola Ige, he fought for the registration of NANTs, what we are enjoying today wouldn’t have been possible without him”Prince Haruna highlighted some of the efforts that is ongoing which is a proposal to the government on Bank of Trading & Investment just as the Bank of Agriculture and Bank of Industry, he also stated the loan available for small scale traders among others. The Southwest association requested for a smooth working relationship with the BOT for the benefit of their members.
The meeting discussed issues surrounding the tenure elongation at the National level, areas of possible collaboration among the States, and the progress that needs to be made among members across States and regions.
Victory Advocates of Nigeria (VAN), Oyo State Chapter,proudly celebrate His Excellency, Engr. Oluseyi Makinde,for his outstanding leadership and the landmark accomplishments recorded under his administration.
Yesterday’s commissioning of the newly constructed Local Government Service Commission & Staff Pension Building stands as yet another proof to his unwavering commitment to infrastructure development and improving governance in Oyo State.
This state-of-the-art facility not only enhances the operational capacity of the Local Government Service Commission but also provides a conducive environment for Staff training and pensioners to access services in dignity and comfort. The building is a symbol of Governor Makinde’s dedication to transparency, efficiency, and the welfare of the people, particularly local government staff and retirees.In addition to this remarkable milestone, Governor Makinde has consistently demonstrated visionary leadership, which has translated into significant infrastructural developments across Oyo State. Notable projects include:-The reconstruction of the Moniya-Iseyin Road a vital economic artery that connects Oke-Ogun to Ibadan, greatly facilitating the movement of goods and services and boosting agriculture in the region.
The expansion and rehabilitation of health facilities across the state, ensuring improved healthcare delivery for residents.
Ongoing projects like the Ibadan Circular Road which promises to reduce traffic congestion and enhance economic activities.
Governor Makinde’s leadership continues to pave the way for Oyo State to thrive as an economic hub and a model of good governance. His visionary infrastructure projects are transforming the state, creating opportunities for growth, and ensuring a brighter future for all citizens.
As a youth friendly governor, who we can say currently have the highest number of youths in his government which is unprecedented in the State among other youth based initiative programmes that has been implemented in the State is currently training over 3,000 youth in web design, digital marketing and other 21st century skills through the Oyo State Agency for Youth Development.Once again, we commend Governor Makinde for his outstanding contributions to the development of Oyo State and reaffirm our support for his administration as it continues to achieve unprecedented progress.
Signed:
Femi OladosuState Acting Coordinator,
Victory Advocates of Nigeria (VAN), Oyo State Chapter
The driving force behind any modern economy is electricity. It promotes growth, innovation, and production while providing energy to homes, small businesses, and industries. However, Nigeria’s problems with electricity delivery and tariff costs extend far beyond mere convenience; they financially burden the public and substantially limit the country’s capacity to develop economically. Consumers are separated into various rate-based categories under the present band system, which stifles economic growth and fosters inequality. Nigeria’s economy is heavily based on businesses such as telecommunications, agriculture, and manufacturing, all of which require a consistent, reliable electrical supply. The expensive and unpredictable electricity costs that businesses around the country must pay impede productivity. The most badly hit are Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), which account for more than 90% of all businesses in Nigeria and are critical to the country’s economic progress. Because of the high electricity expenses associated with the band system, many SMEs are obliged to allocate a greater portion of their operational budget to power, money that could be better spent growing their businesses and creating jobs. Large-scale businesses are disproportionately affected since they are typically put in higher tariff bands, which result in higher electricity bills. This leads to higher manufacturing costs, which consumers eventually pay for when purchasing goods and services. The significant knock-on effects on inflation and consumer purchasing power have harmed the economy. The country’s overall productivity suffers when businesses are unable to operate profitably due to high energy costs. Growth is hampered, Nigeria’s global competitiveness suffers, and as a result, both domestic and foreign investment are discouraged. In general, investors are hesitant to enter the market when operational costs are consistently high, especially when it comes to energy. It is impossible to exaggerate the electrical band system’s long-term economic impact on Nigeria. If a country lacks affordable, reliable electricity, it cannot expect to see significant industrial expansion. Reduced economic output, slower GDP growth, and fewer job prospects follow. Nigeria’s efforts to diversify its economy and transition away from an oil-based economy would continue to lag behind other countries in the lack of a modern, functional electricity distribution infrastructure. The high cost of power hinders foreign investors, who would prefer invest in areas with dependable infrastructure. Nigeria’s irregular power supply and discriminatory pricing structure have prompted many multinational enterprises to seek chances elsewhere. When seen independently, the ramifications of Nigeria’s electrical band plan are considerably more disturbing. Many Nigerians’ home budgets are beginning to suffer as a result of rising power bills. Families, already plagued by rising unemployment, inflation, and uncertain economies, must now pay significantly more for power without receiving better services. Take the example of a Nigerian who earns N70,000 each month. It is economically absurd if they are placed in Band A and forced to pay N10,000 (44.44 kilowatt at N225 unit as against the old tariff of 147 kilowatt at N68) per week for power. Their energy expenses would have depleted their entire wage, leaving little money for food, shelter, healthcare, or education. The current condition of affairs is extending the wealth gap and increasing the country’s poverty rates. People in the lower bands have an unpredictable power supply, which limits their work opportunities, whereas those in the higher bands live in an environment where electricity is considered a luxury for those who can afford it. The system for dividing power prices into bands is unfair. Even though everyone uses the same basic service (electricity) those in Band A pay significantly more per unit of power than those in Bands B and C. The main issue with the band system is that it penalizes some users while ignoring the egalitarian and open ideals of consumption-based billing. It is time to eliminate the unfair practice of taxing citizens to pay for infrastructure improvements and transition to a single tariff system that costs based on usage. To see why the current band system is unfair, consider this simple analogy in greater detail. Assume that two people buy N1,000 worth of mobile phone airtime each, which they can use anyway they choose. For the sake of argument, assume that a resident of an area with better network coverage pays a higher rate per minute for calls made, whereas a resident of a poorer service region pays a lower rate per minute. Does this make sense? Should the local state of network decide their rate per minute? Naturally, no. The concept should be simple, each person should pay the same amount every minute, and their total payment should be determined by the number of minute(s). Electricity should be subject to the same logic. If someone consumes 500 kWh of power, they should pay the same price per unit whether they live in a rural area or urban area. It makes no difference where they reside or how many hours a day they have access to energy; what matters is the amount consumed. People in Band A pay much more per unit (300%) under the current band arrangement because they expect greater service. It is unfair and impossible to charge someone extra for airtime simply because their phone has a better signal. In Nigeria’s power industry, the practice of holding residents financially liable for infrastructure maintenance and repair, notably cables and transformers, is a major cause of concern. Furthermore, this is a severe injustice. Power Distribution Companies (DisCos), are thriving enterprises. One of its primary responsibilities is to invest in and maintain the infrastructure that provides electricity to homes and businesses. So, why are the general public’s costs involved with these necessary replacements and repairs? What if phone companies requested their customers to fix their failing network towers? These are the properties of the power companies, and their operating budgets must cover the costs of maintaining them. They have a responsibility to ensure the proper operation of the electrical infrastructure and should not shift that burden onto customers who have already paid for the service. By charging consumers to rectify these problems, DisCos are effectively charging them twice for the same service. This exploitative behavior must end. The band system and unequal power supply allocation increase the public’s impression of injustice. Many people in Band A are obliged to find other methods to make ends meet because the power supply is more reliable but also more expensive. This encourages corrupt behaviour. In order to pay for basics, persons in desperate situations may resort to unscrupulous activities such as paying officials or taking shortcuts. Furthermore, the structure limits persons in B and C’s ability to improve their financial situation. When electricity is inconsistent, they are unable to run small enterprises, conduct entrepreneurial ventures, or even use basic household appliances. The poor are trapped in an endless circle of economic stagnation because they lack the authority to modify their financial status. Nigeria’s economic potential can only be achieved by breaking the cycle and enacting energy sector reforms immediately. The most egalitarian course of action is to establish a unified pricing system for all citizens, with tariffs based on actual electricity consumption rather than location or arbitrary bands. A system like this would help bridge the economic gap and ensure that consumers only pay for what they use. It would also encourage fairness. Furthermore, the government should prioritize improving the electrical industry’s poor infrastructure, which includes things like damaged transformers and faulty lines that typically require private investment to repair. Distribution businesses (DisCos), which benefit from the current system but do not invest in modernizing and maintaining its infrastructure, should shoulder the majority of the burden. In addition to being unpleasant, Nigeria’s current energy pricing system endangers both the stability of the national economy and the well-being of its people. The growing cost of electricity is exacerbating poverty, limiting corporate expansion, and fostering corruption. The Nigerian government must take action to build a more equitable and transparent energy delivery system that bases pricing on actual consumption rather than bogus classifications. Nigeria may be able to reduce household debt, support small and medium-sized businesses, and stimulate economic growth by reforming its electrical sector. Eventually, this would result in greater living standards and a more robust and resilient economy for all Nigerians. The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission should quickly amend its regulations to allow many DISCOs to operate in the same area. Those that can be reached within a geopolitical zone must at the very least cross it. For example, the six states of the Southwest should have access to EKEDC, IKEDC, and IBEDC. Customers would have more freedom and choice, much like in the GSM market. Models like retail choice model (as seen in Texas, the United States, and Australia), an open access approach, and a competitive franchise model similar to those seen in the United Kingdom, can be adopted. This will boost competition, reduce monopolies, and encourage innovation in electricity distribution.
Dr. Olaleke Alao Secretary, Center for Convention on Democratic Integrity (CCDI) Inc, Maryland, USA & CCDI Ltd/Gte, Nigeria
The foremost market leader in Oyo State, Alhaja Saratu Aduke Konibaje, has joined the multitude of well-wishers to celebrate the birthday of Chief Mrs. Mutiat Ladoja, the esteemed former First Lady of Oyo State.
According to a statement made available to news men in Ibadan, She described the former first day as a woman of substance whose contribution to the State as first lady remains undefeated.
“I congratulate our mother on her birthday anniversary, her impact even after leaving office as first lady of the State after many years remains obvious and felt by the people, as she’s ever energetic, i pray to God to grant her long life in prosperity”
