Oduduwa News

Traders and residents in Lagos State have expressed concern over the sharp increase in foodstuff prices compared to last year’s Independence Day celebration.

Many lamented that the persistent rise in the cost of essential commodities such as rice, beans, yam, and garri has continued to worsen living conditions for ordinary Nigerians. Some traders attributed the price surge to high transportation costs, inflation, and unstable supply chains, while residents noted that their purchasing power has dropped significantly.

They urged the government to implement effective measures to stabilize prices and ease the burden on households, stressing that without urgent intervention, food insecurity may worsen across the state.

The Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, has declared that the title “Iyaloja” is alien to Benin culture and cannot be imposed on Edo markets.

The monarch made this known on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, while addressing Mrs. Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, daughter of President Bola Tinubu and Iyaloja General of Nigeria, during her visit to the palace.

Tinubu-Ojo had informed the Oba that she was in the state to inaugurate Pastor Josephine Ivbazebule as the Iyaloja of all markets in Edo State.

But Oba Ewuare II firmly corrected her, stressing that the traditional market leadership in Benin is called Iyeki and must be rooted in palace confirmation after being selected by market women.

“Iyaloja is alien to us here in Benin. You are in Benin, the home of culture; we have our culture here,” the Oba said. “Every Iyeki has a special relationship with the palace and performs cultural roles on my behalf in the market shrines. We are not going to say much, except to explain to you the concept of Iyeki in Benin.”

The monarch emphasized that the Iyeki does more than coordinate traders, pointing out that each leader has sacred roles tied to shrines located within every market.

Chief Osaro Idah, speaking with the Oba’s permission, further enlightened Tinubu-Ojo, explaining that every market in Benin such as Oba Market and Ogiso Market selects its own Iyeki independently.

“Iyeki is independent in every market. The traders select their leaders, then bring them to the palace for confirmation. No Iyeki controls another market. The novelty of a general Iyeki is alien to Benin custom and tradition,” Chief Idah stated.

He added that unlike the Iyaloja title, which is recognized in parts of Yorubaland, the Benin Kingdom maintains its own distinct system rooted in history and culture.

The Oba’s position has stirred conversations among traditionalists, traders, and political observers, particularly over the influence of the Iyaloja General across Nigeria.

Yoruba Nation activist, Chief Sunday Adeniyi Adeyemo, popularly known as Sunday Igboho, has appealed to the Federal Government to grant him official permission to combat Fulani bandits allegedly terrorizing communities in the South-West.

Igboho, who became prominent in 2021 for championing the cause of Yoruba self-determination, said the rising wave of insecurity demands urgent action. He stressed that with government backing, he and his loyalists are prepared to flush out bandits who, according to him, have been infiltrating forests and farmlands across the region.

While urging President Bola Tinubu’s administration to take decisive steps, Igboho insisted that his move is not targeted at any ethnic group but solely at criminal elements threatening peace and livelihoods in Yorubaland.

The activist further warned that continued silence on the matter could worsen food insecurity and displace more farmers, stressing that the South-West must not be left vulnerable to attacks.

The Osun State Security Network, codenamed Amotekun, has confirmed the death of three persons following a violent clash between its operatives and suspected hoodlums in Akinlalu, Ife North Local Government Area of the state.

The incident reportedly occurred when Amotekun operatives engaged the hoodlums in a confrontation that spiraled out of control, leading to fatalities.

In a statement on Wednesday, the Corps Commander, Brig. Gen. Bashir Adewinmbi (rtd.), described the development as unfortunate, noting that normalcy has since been restored in the community. He assured residents that thorough investigations would be carried out to ascertain the root cause of the crisis and to prevent a recurrence.

Security has been beefed up in the area as residents expressed fear over the rising tension. Authorities have also called for calm, urging community members to cooperate with security agencies in maintaining peace.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in his address to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, reassured citizens that the nation has turned a corner despite current economic hardships.

Tinubu defended his administration’s reforms—including the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of exchange rates—stressing that they were necessary to reset the economy and redirect resources to development. He highlighted improved economic indicators such as 4.23% GDP growth in the second quarter, declining inflation at 20.12%, and external reserves rising above $42 billion.

The President also announced the disbursement of ₦330 billion to eight million vulnerable households and promised sustained investment in roads, rail, airports, and seaports. He urged Nigerians to embrace local production, pay taxes faithfully, and support the national drive toward self-reliance.

While Tinubu’s speech struck an optimistic tone, critics questioned the transparency of social programmes and noted that widespread poverty and labour unrest remain pressing challenges.

The President concluded by calling for unity and resilience, insisting that “Nigeria is racing against time” but remains firmly on the path to recovery.

The Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Adewale Akanbi, has alleged that the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, conspired with his estranged wife to poison him.

Speaking boldly before his subjects, the monarch said he remains untouchable and that no traditional deity or spiritual attack can claim his life.

“That is why this fight will continue. No one can kill me, no matter their voodoo. Sango cannot kill me; he is my father, but a son must be more powerful than his father. I am a king. Only God determines when someone will die,” he declared.

The Oluwo further stressed that revered Yoruba deities such as Sango and Ogun are not criminals and would never kill their children or the innocent.

He insisted that despite conspiracies, his reign and life are preserved by divine will.

The Oyo State House of Assembly has called on the Executive Arm of Government to take deliberate and urgent steps to expand computer knowledge among students in public schools across the state.

This followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by the Minority Leader, Hon. W.A. Salami, during plenary.

The motion noted that computer literacy has become a fundamental requirement in modern education, enhancing interactive learning and better academic outcomes.

However, many public school students, especially in underserved areas like Oke-Ogun, Ibarapa, and parts of Oyo still lack access to digital education, putting them at a disadvantage in computer-based tests (CBT) such as the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) conducted by JAMB.

Despite being academically sound, a significant number of students have failed to secure university admission due to poor CBT performance, often caused by unfamiliarity with basic computer operations.

In response, the House urged the government to intensify efforts to improve digital education in public schools, including establishing computer rooms, equipping them with necessary accessories, and integrating computer training from the primary school level.

It also called for collaboration with JAMB to set up CBT centres in all 14 federal constituencies of the state and encouraged partnerships with education-focused philanthropists, NGOs, and foreign donors.

The Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin stressed the urgency of bridging the digital divide, noting that in today’s world, digital literacy is no longer optional.

He emphasized that students must be equipped with the skills required to compete and succeed in a technology-driven society.

The Speaker added that it was inclusive for the State Government to prioritise inclusive computer education as a tool for academic success and long-term development.

The Federal Government has reaffirmed that all forms of income generated within Nigeria are taxable, regardless of their source. Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, Taiwo Oyedele, stated that money earned by so-called ‘runs girls’ falls under taxable income in line with existing laws.

Oyedele explained that the tax system does not discriminate based on the legality or morality of income sources, stressing that the government is committed to broadening its tax base. He added that everyone earning in Nigeria, from professionals to informal operators, is expected to fulfill their tax obligations.

This position has sparked debates across social circles, with many questioning how such taxation would be enforced. Nonetheless, the government insists it is working toward fairness, efficiency, and inclusiveness in Nigeria’s revenue generation.

There was heightened tension at the Lagos High Court today as police discreetly escorted National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) official, Samsideen Oladiti, popularly known as Shamelon, out of the court premises amid chants for justice.

Oladiti, 55, is facing charges of murder and assault linked to violent clashes on Lagos Island. His appearance in court drew a large crowd, with residents and activists demanding accountability for the alleged crimes.

Security operatives formed a protective cordon around the embattled union leader to prevent a breakdown of order as emotions ran high. The case has rekindled public debate over violence associated with transport unions in Lagos.

The matter was adjourned to a later date as the court continues hearing on the charges.

The stage for the 2027 general elections is already heating up as former President Goodluck Jonathan and incumbent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu emerge as major contenders in what promises to be a high-stakes political battle.

On Monday, the Presidency said Jonathan remains free to test his popularity at the polls but stressed that his “woeful record in office” still lingers in the memory of Nigerians.

“Dr. Jonathan may choose to contest in 2027, but Nigerians cannot forget the failures of his administration — from insecurity to corruption and economic decline. His record will always be an issue,” the Presidency noted.

With both men likely to lock horns, political watchers say the contest will be historic, pitching an incumbent leader against a former president. Observers predict a fiery campaign season as both camps gear up for what could become Nigeria’s fiercest presidential face-off since 1999.