The Lagos State Government has demolished the Otumara community, rendering over 10,000 residents homeless despite months of protests and public outcry.
The Lagos State Building Control Agency had marked the area for demolition several months ago, a decision that sparked resistance from residents who staged protests at the Lagos State House of Assembly, pleading for reconsideration. However, the government proceeded with the demolition, leaving thousands without shelter and many others without a means of livelihood.
The move comes as part of the state’s broader urban renewal agenda and efforts to curb illegal constructions, aligning with the government’s regeneration plans for Lagos.
Many displaced residents have condemned the demolition, describing it as harsh and inconsiderate, especially in light of the economic hardship in the country. Some victims lamented that they had nowhere to go, while others expressed frustration over the loss of businesses and properties.
Government officials have yet to announce resettlement plans or compensation for the affected residents. Meanwhile, advocacy groups and human rights organizations have called on the government to provide urgent relief measures for those impacted by the demolition.
As the holy seasons of Ramadan and Lent continue, Engr. Seyi Oyebamiji has extended his warm wishes to all Muslim and Christian faithfuls, urging them to embrace the period as a time for deep reflection, prayer and showing acts of kindness.
In his message, Oyebamiji acknowledged the significance of both religious observances, noting that Ramadan, observed by Muslims worldwide, is a sacred month of fasting, devotion and giving, while Lent remains a solemn period for Christians to reflect on the sacrifices of Jesus Christ through fasting, prayer and charity. He encouraged adherents of both faiths to use the opportunity to seek spiritual growth, foster love and contribute positively to their communities.
“This is a time for all of us to reflect on our faith, strengthen our relationship with God and show compassion to those around us,” he said. “I pray that God grants all Muslims the strength to complete the Ramadan fast successfully and blesses Christians observing Lent with renewed faith and grace.” In addition to his goodwill message, Oyebamiji also joined the global community in celebrating International Women’s Day, recognizing the invaluable contributions of women to society. “Women are the backbone of families, communities and nations.
As we mark this special day, I celebrate all women for their resilience, strength and achievements. Let us continue to support and empower them in all spheres of life.” He called for unity, understanding and peace among Nigerians, emphasizing the need for religious harmony and mutual respect during this sacred period.
The Federal Government has adopted the Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED) in Ijagun, Ogun State as a Federal University.
Established by the Ogun State Government in 2005, TASUED holds the distinguished position as Nigeria’s first specialised university of education.
It was named after Dr. Tai Solarin, a revered activist and the founder of Mayflower School in Ikenne.
As a federal institution, TASUED will be the first federally owned tertiary school in Ogun East senatorial district.
With a well-developed infrastructure and academic programme, the transition requires minimal federal investment.
Bayo Onanuga Special Adviser to the President (Information & Strategy) in a statement said, President Tinubu approved the adoption on Friday and thanked the Ogun State Government for inviting the Federal Government to take over the school, one of the state’s best educational assets.
Awolowo and Solarin were celebrated figures from the Eastern Senatorial District of Ogun State, encompassing Ijebu and Remo.
President Tinubu emphasised that TASUED’s transition into a Federal University of Education is a strategic step in the Federal Government’s commitment to bolster teacher education and enhance the quality of instruction across all educational levels.
With TASUED’s new status, the Federal Government oversees three education universities.
Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education in Owerri and Adeyemi Federal University of Education in Ondo are the country’s other two universities of education.
Oduduwa News has gathered that a six-hour curfew has been declared in Ilesa as part of the coronation rites for the Owa Obokun of Ijesaland.
The curfew will take effect from 6:00 PM on Monday, March 10, 2025, to 6:00 AM on Tuesday, March 11, 2025.
Residents and visitors are advised to comply with the directive to ensure a smooth and peaceful coronation process.
Recall, Oba Adesuyi Hastrup who was approved by Governor Ademola Adeleke after demise of the late Owa Obokun had spent ninety days in seclusion at the court of Ogboni of Ilesa to learn about Ijesaland’s history and kingdom.
In a swift and decisive response to the recent call by the so-called Yoruba Muslims for Freedom (YMF) for the arrest of the Alaafin of Oyo, Chief Sunday Adeyemo, popularly known as Igboho Oṣa, has sounded a strong warning against this blatant act of disrespect towards Yoruba traditional institutions. Through his spokesman, Olayomi Koiki, Igboho strongly condemned the group’s reckless statements, emphasizing that such demands undermine the sacred cultural heritage of the Yoruba people and threaten the unity of the land.
Traditional Institutions and the Yoruba Identity
The Yoruba people have, for centuries, upheld a deep respect for their traditional rulers, who serve not only as cultural icons but also as custodians of the land’s values and traditions. The Alaafin of Oyo is one of the most revered monarchs in Yoruba history, and any attempt to discredit or disrespect his authority is an affront to the Yoruba identity itself.
Chief Sunday Igboho, reminded the public that traditional rulers have always played a crucial role in maintaining order, resolving conflicts, and ensuring the prosperity of their communities. He stated: “The call for the arrest of the Alaafin is a direct attack on Yoruba culture, history, and heritage. Our kings are the protectors of our land, and no outsider or group will be allowed to insult or diminish their role.”
Yoruba Unity vs. Religious Extremism
Sunday Igboho, through his spokesman, also condemned the divisive rhetoric used by the group, which portrayed Yoruba traditional rulers as “idol worshippers” unworthy of respect. He warned that such statements are dangerous and could fuel unnecessary religious conflict among the Yoruba people.
The Yoruba have always been known for religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence. Islam, Christianity, and indigenous beliefs have flourished side by side for centuries. However, extremists seeking to sow division by pitting one religion against another threaten this harmony.
Igboho stated: “It is unacceptable for any group to claim that our Obas are not their leaders because of religious differences. Yoruba land is built on respect and unity, not on religious supremacy. Any attempt to divide us along religious lines will be resisted.”
Alaafin’s Right to Protect His People
The YMF accused the Alaafin of Oyo of unlawfully imposing a curfew, claiming that only a civil government has the power to do so. However, this argument ignores the historical and cultural role of Yoruba monarchs as protectors of their people.
In times of crisis, Yoruba kings have the responsibility to make decisions that ensure the safety of their communities. The Alaafin’s decision to impose a curfew was likely driven by a need to maintain order and protect lives, rather than any unconstitutional power grab.
Sunday Igboho, speaking through Olayomi Koiki, emphasized this point, warning that undermining the authority of Yoruba kings would lead to lawlessness:
“If our kings lose their authority, who will defend our land? Who will protect our people? Those calling for the arrest of the Alaafin are enemies of Yoruba land, and they will not succeed in their mission to destroy our culture and leadership.”
Rejecting the Attempt to Destroy Yoruba Heritage
Sunday Igboho, made it clear that Yoruba people will not sit back and watch their traditional rulers be disrespected by groups with hidden agendas. He called on all Yoruba sons and daughters regardless of religious affiliation to reject such divisive attempts and stand in unity to protect their heritage.
SHe concluded with a strong warning: “Let it be known that no one will be allowed to insult or threaten our Obas without consequences. The Yoruba people have always defended their culture, and we will not allow any group to erode our values in the name of religious fanaticism.”
The Yoruba Nation must remain vigilant against those seeking to dismantle its cultural institutions under the guise of modernity or religious superiority. Any attack on the Alaafin is an attack on Yoruba land itself and it will be resisted.
Lagos State Police Command has successfully rescued three kidnapped victims who were abducted along the Lekki-Epe Expressway on Friday, March 7.
The victims, identified as Umezulike Joseph, Eze Theodorah, and Rosemary Ogwulu, were in the area to inspect a land property when five armed men suddenly attacked and whisked them away.
Upon receiving a distress call, the police launched a swift operation to track down the kidnappers. Officers traced the suspects to their hideout in a forested area near the expressway. Upon sighting law enforcement, the criminals fled the scene, abandoning their captives.
Fortunately, the victims were rescued unharmed and have since been reunited with their families.
The Lagos Police Command has reiterated its commitment to tackling crime and ensuring the safety of residents. Lagos Reporters will continue to monitor and provide updates on the security situation in the state.
The Federal Government has launched an initiative to provide free cesarean sections and emergency obstetric care for women facing pregnancy complications, according to the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Ali Pate.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Friday, Pate emphasized that President Bola Tinubu is deeply committed to improving Nigerians’ health and well-being, making maternal care a priority. To combat maternal mortality, the government has approved free emergency treatment for pregnancy-related complications in designated health facilities.
This includes cesarean sections, excessive bleeding, obstructed labor, and other critical conditions. The minister explained that certified facilities treating such cases will be reimbursed by the government. “The president is very clear that the health and well-being of Nigerians are central to his vision for the country,” Pate stated.
The initiative is part of broader healthcare sector reforms, with the government mobilizing resources alongside the Health Insurance Authority to ensure its sustainability.
Additionally, the Federal Government is offering free treatment for vesicovaginal fistula (VVF), a severe childbirth-related condition affecting at least 10,000 women annually.
“VVF is a complication of pregnancy and delivery, and at least 10,000 women suffer from it every year,” Pate noted. This initiative marks a significant step in improving maternal healthcare access across Nigeria.
A commercial driver, Tayo Arowolo, has been arrested in Akowonjo, Lagos, for allegedly assaulting his girlfriend’s six-year-old sister, Maria, while assisting her with homework.
The incident occurred while Arowolo was left alone with the child as his girlfriend briefly stepped out. Frustrated by Maria’s difficulty in understanding her schoolwork, he resorted to beating her with a belt and slippers, inflicting severe injuries.
Following his arrest, Arowolo admitted to the assault, claiming he did not realize the extent of the injuries at the time. He reportedly attempted to treat the wounds himself but has since expressed regret over his actions. However, he did not confirm whether he would have treated his own child in a similar manner.
Authorities in Lagos State have charged Arowolo under laws prohibiting child abuse, emphasizing the government’s stance against violence towards minors. The case is currently being prosecuted, and legal proceedings are underway.
Child rights advocates have condemned the incident, calling for stricter enforcement of laws protecting children from domestic violence.
The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, on Friday, commenced a 21-day traditional rites popularly known as “Oro Opebi.”
A statement by the Chief of Staff to the monarch, Rotimi Osuntola, in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, confirmed this on Friday.
Osuntola said the traditional rites would end on Saturday, March 29, 2025.
The statement read, “The Aláàfin of Oyo Kingdom hereby announces the commencement of ÒRÒ ÌPĘBÍ, the mandatory rites for His Imperial Majesty before his ascension to the revered throne of The Aláàfin.
“The rites commence from Friday, March 7, to Saturday, March 29, 2025. Throughout the period, a curfew shall be imposed as it is customary from 8 pm to 6 am daily throughout the Oyo township.
“This means movements are not allowed during the period of the curfew, and anyone who contravenes this order shall be arrested and detained till 7 am of the following day after his or her arrest.
‘It is pertinent to state that ORO IPĘBI which makes the incoming Aláàfin to go into absolute seclusion while it lasts is sacrosanct for the ascending Ikú-Bàbá-Yèyé and must be respected by all and sundry.”
The coronation ceremony will hold on Saturday, April 5, 2025, in Oyo town.
Ogun State Government has shut two industries, Quantum Steel Industry in Ogijo in Sagamu Local Government and Xinfeng Plastics Limited along the Lagos – Ibadan Expressway for Industrial accidents that resulted in fatalities.
Quantum Steels was shut down for Industrial explosion which resulted in fatalities with some victims still hospitalized while Xinfeng Plastics was equally closed down after a machine operator, Ishaku Monday lost his life due to electrocution .
In closing down the two companies ,the Special Adviser to the Governor on Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency, OGEPA who doubled as the Chairman of the State Taskforce on Environmental Compliance and Enforcement, Alhaji Farook Akintunde said the Government took decision to shut down the companies in order to investigate the remote and immediate causes of the unfortunate incidents and proffer solutions to avert future occurrence.
“As a Government, we are determined to conduct credible and diligent investigations including inviting external safety experts to get to the root cause of these incidents in the overriding public interest and safety”
“What is even painful is that despite State Government’s regular visits to these companies just like other statewide to educate them on the need to adhere strictly to safety procedures, such incidents still occurred within their production lines that resulted in fatalities, hence the need to close them down”
Akintunde added that the two companies will remain shut until investigations are concluded and new safety protocols entrenched.
