The Nigeria Police Force has sealed the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) office in Lagos State to prevent the planned nationwide protest against hunger and hardship.
The protest, scheduled by the NLC for February 27 and 28, aimed to address the economic challenges faced by Nigerians.
Activist and national coordinator of the Education Rights Campaign (ERC), Hassan Taiwo, shared an image on Monday morning showing armed police personnel stationed in front of the NLC headquarters in the Yaba area of Lagos State.
According to Taiwo, a few comrades were sealed off in the building, uncertain about the developments awaiting them.
The NLC issued a 14-day ultimatum to the Nigerian government regarding widespread hardship, leading to organising the protest.
However, the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), urged the NLC to cancel the protest.
Despite warnings from the government and concerns from other quarters, the NLC insisted that the protest would proceed as planned.
It accused the government of preparing to attack peaceful rallies and alleged the involvement of certain groups in causing violence against protestors.
The NLC President, in a statement, emphasised the right to peaceful protest and warned against suppressing dissent or inflicting violence on peaceful protestors.
The statement also mentioned the potential deployment of state-sponsored terror and expressed the NLC’s determination to proceed with the protest.
The Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes under the leadership of Chief Barr. Ajeniyi Ajewole through the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planing Committee under the chairmanship of Balogun Gaphar Ojetola on Sunday, 25th of February 2024 decorated Chief Mrs Alhaja Basirat Alao Arisekola as the Grand Ambassador of Ibadan Culture.
The ceremony which held at the Oluwo kekere villa of late Alhaji Arisekola Alao had in attendance family, friends and well wishers of the awardee.
Before his welcome address, the Chairman 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Week, Balogun Gaphar Babatunde Ojetola offered prayers for the soul of the Late Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta States Alhaji AbdlAzeez Arisekola Alao citing numerous philanthropic and humanitarian initiatives of the Aare Arisekola Alao. He prayed that Allah would continue to increase His mercy on Arisekola Alao.
According to the Chairman, the decoration is part of the pre-activities of the Ibadan Week programs which is opened to sons and daughters of Ibadanland as well as Ibadan settlers who have contributed immensely to the development and progress of Ibadanland by any measure, hence the decision of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes CCII to confer the honour on Alhaja Bashirat Arisekola Alao.
Similarly, the President-General of CCII, Chief Barr. Adeniyi Ajewole also acknowledged the contributions of late Aare Arisekola in the development of Ibadan land and Nigeria at large.
In her response, Chief Mrs Basirat Alao Arisekola expressed her appreciation, and stated that the honor is for her late husband, Aare Abdulaziz Arisekola Alao, and appreciated the CCII for finding her worthy for such prestigious title. She also promised to mobilize her diaspora friends to support the cultural festival.
Presents at the ceremony were the son of the awardee; Hon. Umar-Faruk Arisekola; Mogaji Agbaje; Chief Babatunde Adebisi Oshingbade; Chief Mrs Kofo Aluko; Chief Mrs Fasoranti; Olori Tinuade Agbede( wife of Igbara oke King); Chief Kunle Abass; Mr Lakunle Lawal; Chief Mrs Adebayo; Alhaja Bola Ajunwon; Chief Mrs Ronke Alasaro and many others numerous to mention.
There are strong indications that the Birthday celebration of the founder of Joke babes soccer academy Mrs. Caroline Joke Matins Ojo will be celebrated glamorously with a special football competition among some selected schools in Ibadan.
Information made available to journalists indicated that the events which starts from February 27-29 2024 is aimed at celebrating the once in four years birthday of the renown phillantropist.
The knockout games according to the organisers will be played among Bishops Philips Academy, Iwo Road, Ibadan , Oyo State Comprehensive Model School and Liberty Academy, Ibadan.
Others includes Oluyoro Girls Grammar School, Oluyoro Oke Ofa Ibadan, TL Oyesina, Monatan, Ibadan, Urban Day Grammar School, Ibadan, St. Claire’s Girls High School, Ibadan and Good News International School, Ibadan.
Phillipian (Deaconess, Mrs) Caroline Joke Martins-Ojo aka IyawoJesu, believes in building a girl-child. This fuelled her energy in establishing and nurturing a female academy known as, Joke Babes Soccer Academy in July 15, 2021, and has since been waxing stronger.
Joke Babes Soccer Academy is an affiliate of Oyo State Football Association, an auspices of Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). The idea, which is to bring out the best in our secondary school girls, improve their psychomotor skills, will also discover and develop local talents and show them careers in football, making it part of the choices available to them at later stage of their lives.
“Aside from this Academy, IyawoJesu according to information made available gave priority to humanity, having so many other channels at which she makes life beautiful for others – to the glory of God, Mrs Caroline Joke Martins-Ojo is an angel sent by God to humanity”
In 2017, IyawoJesu Non-Interest Loan facility (INIL), was established, to cater for small scale business owners, who need to boost their businesses. They pay back in instalments, without interest.
Scholarship was also introduced at a later date to accommodate students from all levels (primary to tertiary).
IyawoJesu Food Bank (IFB), was launched on the 21st of March 2020, and fully funded by mummy IyawoJesu. IFB is a facility set up to provide food to the needy in the society to the glory of God.
Her kindness can not be overemphasized because it cuts across so many, without knowing most from Adam. There are people under “IyawoJesu Adopt A Granny Scheme” that we send money to every month for their upkeep. Her generosity is top notch.
Nigerian Fuji ace Wasiu Alabi, popularly known as Pasuma, has shared a turning point that led to his successful music career.
In an interview with Iyabo Ojo, Pasuma recounted how a setback in his football dreams cleared the way for his legendary journey in the music industry.
The popular musician reflected on his dashed hopes of competing for Nigeria in the 1985 FIFA U-16 World Championship in China.
Pasuma revealed that his hopes of wearing the Nigerian jersey were dashed when he was not selected for the national team, which finally caused him to turn his attention and enthusiasm to music.
“I was a footballer but I decided to go into music because I was not picked to go to Kodak for the World Cup,” he said.
“So I now said I want to be a musician straight. I was a footballer before.”
Pasuma was raised in the Lagos state neighborhood of Mushin.
Inspired by his role model, K1 de Ultimate, he began creating songs in 1984.
In 1993, he released “Recognition,” his debut album.
Since then, he’s put out more than 30 albums.
Among the several honors he has received are the City People Entertainment Award and Best Fuji Artiste.
Recall that Aiyedatiwa was on December 27, 2023 sworn in as governor of the state.
Akeredolu’s remains were interred in tears at his country home in Owo. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the governor of Ondo state has declared that he would be contesting for the governorship position in the forthcoming election.
The governor disclosed this while featuring on TVC news on Friday shortly after the remains of his immediate predecessor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu was interred.
Recall that Aiyedatiwa was on December 27, 2023 sworn in as governor of the state following the passing of Akeredolu who died after a prolonged illness.
The remains of the former governor was interred at his country home in Owo, in the Owo council area of the state on Friday amidst tears.
Speaking after the burial, Aiyedatiwa said he would be running for the November 16 governorship polls, saying nobody wants to be governor for one year.
“I will be running. I’m already a sitting governor and let me say this, nobody wants to be governor for one year. Give me what the constitution allows me to do,” he said.
“At least, let me also have the chance of running for one more time.”
Economic experts across all walks of life attended the Public Lecture recently organized by the Nigerian Economic Society NES on Thursday 22nd of February, 2024 which was held at the CBN Centre of Excellence Hall, Faculty of Economics, University of Ibadan.
The theme of the event titled: “Recent Development In The Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market: Issues, Options and Way Forward” was delivered by a foremost Professor of economics, Professor Sam Olofin.
Prof. Sam Olofin in his words, tasked Federal Government and all other major stakeholders across the country on the urgent need to save naira from imminent collapse.
He further stressed that if the Naira must be saved from imminent collapse, the time has come to rescue it from the hands of the powerful operators in the foreign exchange market and that it would be unreasonable at this crucial time to be allowing market forces alone to determine forex prices. He averred that Central Bank is created to be visible and not be invisible and as such, the time is now to strictly act as a regulator to save Naira from total collapse.
Quoting from the Don’s words, “the time has come like it is in other countries that believe in rule of law, to define what is legal and distinguish such from what is criminal.
“Have criminals apprehended and made them to face severe consequences for their actions.The weak and vulnerable need to be protected and prevented from severe hunger.”
“We have examined the evolution and operations of the Nigerian Foreign exchange market in relation to recent policy measure aimed at addressing observed anomalies in the market. As we speak the Naira value against major foreign currencies especially the dollar has continued its free fall and stands at over N1,500 to a dollar.”
“Without sounding too simplistic or offering a silver bullet that would solve the seemingly complex problems in the foreign exchange market, our attention should be focused on this powerful segment of the market, the so-called parallel or black market. We have succeeded either deliberately or unwittingly, in creating a monster that has been well protected.”
The depreciation of the Naira continues on daily basis and it appears that if appropriate steps are not taken, the Naira may be heading towards crash as the value races towards the 2,000 Naira to a dollar mark and possibly beyond, and the unimaginable consequences this would have on the rate of inflation and the entire economy.”
“The immediate issue of concern in the near and immediate future as to the way forward should be on how to put a halt to this free fall, stabilize the value of the Naira and ensure effective operation of the foreign exchange market.”
“The new policy measure put in place in June 2023, still regards as its center piece the “willing buyer and willing seller” model, in effect assuming a perfect competitive market in which forces of supply and demand would ensure the quality assurance is high emergence of market clearing exchange rate. Also that this would stabilize tue market.”
“Far from it, the Nigerian Foreign exchange market is never a perfectly competitive market, and no matter how we try this market structure and all its assumptions, which may be relevant in other economies particularly developed economies cannot be super-imposed on Nigerian Foreign exchange market.”
“In addition to other things that we value the Naira for like most other currencies it remains one of the important symbols of our sovereignty as an independent country as we pursue our dreams and aspirations as a country immensely blessed by God and with great potentials.” Olofin said.
Dr. Usman Opanachi, Department of Monetary Policy, CBN who represented the Central Bank Governor Dr. Olayemi Cardoso, urged Nigerians to be patient as their policies will yield result soon. He was quoted saying, “anytime Naira is on trial, the CBN is also on trial. We are working day and night to address the challenges and we hope things will work out. The exchange rate features nearly in every sector. The exchange rate and inflation are very high now. The exchange rate is a problem on its own.
“Excess demand for forex in Nigeria is a legendary problem. It has just been there and over the years, the bank has implemented various strategies to address this problem. Those strategies have only been able to provide some temporary relief.
“The Central Bank of Nigeria does not supply or produce dollars; It is naira that it produces. CBN management thinks when you hold the price of a commodity that is determined by Fx down artificially, a time comes when you will not be able to do that.
“The thinking of the new management of CBN is that the policies you have are intended to address the problem. The approach the management has adopted is the Market forces approach. The bank now allows the market forces to play a greater role in the determination of the price of naira.”
In his own speech, the Special Adviser on Economic Matters to President Tinubu, Dr. Tope Fasua affirmed that, concerted efforts have been made to ensure that Naira is rescued from total collapse. He therefore urged the citizens to exercise patience as the policies currently embarked on by the government will eventually yield results in the long run.
He also corroborated the stance of Prof. Sam Olofin that Nigerian Government cannot afford to leave the determination of forex market prices in the hands parallel market operators. Hence, the need to embark on managed floating and reeling out of interventionist policies to curb the excesses of some of these speculators.
Earlier in his welcome address, the President of the Nigerian Economic Society, Prof Adeola Adenikinju said “the choice of today’s theme is apt as it is perhaps the most important issue in Nigeria today. From Aso Rock to the CBN headquarter, and NNPC Towers, from Marina street in Lagos to Bodija Market in Ibadan, the fish seller in Yenagoa to suya seller in Sokoto to the farmer in Markurdi, the exchange rate is on the lips of everyone. Hence, the choice of the topic for the 2024 NES Public Lecture.”
“The subject of foreign exchange is within the ambit of economics. The exchange rate is a price. However, for an import dependent economy like ours, it is a price that influences other prices in the economy – products, money, and factor markets. The spike in inflation in the last few months in particular has been largely driven by the exchange rate. The pass through effect from the exchange rate to other prices is quite high.”
“The government, especially the CBN, has reacted to the sharp and persistent devaluation of the naira with a rash of circular and policies. At times, we worry that the effects of a particular policy have not been assessed before others are quickly thrown into the mix. This action has a tendency to add to uncertainty and the flight to safety postures of economic agents, who continue to hold dollars outside the banking system,” he said.
Newly appointed Magistrates and Judicial Research Officers (JROs) have been admonished to be aware of the social changes in the task of achieving justice for the people and thereby commit themselves to unwavering efforts towards integrity, compassion and service to humanity.
The Chief Judge of Ogun State, Hon. Justice Mosumola Dipeolu gave this admonition in His Lordship’s keynote address at the induction training organised by the Ogun State Judiciary for newly appointed Magistrates and Judicial Research Officers held at the Judiciary complex in Abeokuta.
Enjoining the newly appointed Magistrates on their responsibilities, Hon. Justice Dipeolu stated that “As Magistrates, you are entrusted with the duty of ensuring that justice is not a lofty idea but a tangible reality for every individual who seeks it before them, your responsibilities demands unwavering dedication, impartiality and adherences to the highest ethical standards.”
The Chief Judge also charged the newly appointed Judicial Research Officers (JROs) to support the administration of Justice through diligent research and analysis.
“Your commitment to thoroughness, accuracy and objectivity is essential in upholding the integrity of Judiciary and ensuring that justice is served based on the rule of law” Ogun Chief Judge added
Earlier in his welcome address, the Chairman of Ogun State Judiciary training committee, Hon. Justice Olarenwaju Mabekoje disclosed that the induction course was aimed at improving the participant’s knowledge, on the administration of justice in the most efficient manner that would make their judgements and legal opinions to radiate learning and wisdom.
The Oluwole Market in Ogba, Lagos, witnessed a disruption of commercial activities as clashes erupted between Yoruba and Hausa communities.
The clash, which began on Thursday night and escalated into Friday morning, resulted in the tragic death of a young man, further fueling tensions between the two groups.
Daily Trust reports that the clash reportedly started when a Yoruba man, identified as Abbey, intervened in a quarrel between two Hausa men.
In the course of the intervention, Abbey was allegedly stabbed by an unidentified assailant, leading to fatal injuries.
The aftermath of Abbey’s death triggered a reprisal attack between Yoruba and Hausa residents in the area.
The reprisal attack resulted in the destruction of property, particularly food items such as peppers, onions, and other commodities sold by Hausa traders in the Oluwole Market.
The clashes led to a standstill in commercial activities, causing significant disruption and concern among residents.
Eyewitnesses reported a heightened police presence in the market area, with patrol vans attempting to control the situation and restore normalcy.
Nigerian singer, rapper, and songwriter Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, has lashed out at Nollywood actress Laide Bakare, claiming he has enough money to buy and marry her after she called him a dirty boy from Sango.
During an interview, Laide Bakare referred to Portable as a dirty boy while discussing sensitive and personal topics, following some vulgar statements the singer made on her media page.
In the interview, Bakare was asked personal questions, including the controversy surrounding her child being claimed by two individuals alleging to be the child’s father.
In response, she stated, “That’s where Wahala started. When I finished my house in Lekki, I sent out invitations. I saw it to them, they saw it, no response at all.”
She continued, “I told them, ‘You’re not okay.’ I sent invitations to you, and you didn’t even say anything. So when I now got my (inaudible), a person commented under my post, saying, ‘Sorry rich woman.’”
The actress added that Portable, the Nigerian singer, was the one who made the comment. She went on to abuse and insult him, calling him “a dirty mad boy from Sango.”
In a subsequent video, Portable responded, emphasizing that Bakare had earlier stated that if her husband cheats, she’ll cheat as well.
Therefore, he warned her not to associate with his wife for fear of her influencing his wife negatively.
Portable stated, “No be you do interview say if your husband cheats, you go cheat. Due to this, I messaged and asked that you shouldn’t associate with my wife, who is an actress.”
“Because you’re unfortunate, you might advise her to cheat as well.”
Regarding Bakare’s comment about him being a dirty boy, Portable said, “You called me a dirty boy, but I can buy you. Who is your husband? Tell me your husband.”
As part of the activities of the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival week is the Primary School Quiz & Spelling Bee Competition which commenced on Tuesday, February 20, 2024 at the Asiwaju Bode Amao Hall.
The first round of the competition had in attendance representative of schools drawn from all 11 local government councils of Ibadanland.
The kick-off was witnessed by the President General, CCII (Barrister Ajeniyi Ajewole) and the Chairman of the Festival Week (Balogun Gaphar Ojetola).
The students were accompanied by their teachers and local government representatives.
Other officials present at the programme were Educations Secretaries of LGs the Chairman of the Association of Head Teachers of Primary Schools, and other executive members.
At the end of the keenly contested competitions, the panel of moderators came up with the final results: Representatives of 5 local governments failed to proceed to the next round. The 6 first round winners include Ist: OLUYOLE LG 2nd: LAGELU LG 3rd: IBADAN SOUTH EAST LG 4th: IBADAN NORTH EAST LG 5th: EGBEDA LG 6th: IBADAN NORTH WEST
In similar event, the President-General of CCII under 15 Male Football Tournament commenced yesterday, Thursday 22nd 2024 at the Wesley College Field Elekuro Ibadan.
The kick-off ceremony was performed by the Chairman of the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival, Balogun Gaphar Ojetola, and had in attendance members of the Sports Sub-Committee and other members of 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival.
The Chairman of the Cultural Festival, Balogun Gaphar Ojetola appreciates the Sports Committee for putting this together and equally charged the contestants to exhibit the true spirit of sportsmanship that’s in Football.
Following the matches that have been played, the following are the result: Ibadan North qualified due to unscreened player used by Ona Ara LG. (2) Ibadan North East defeated Oluyole LG by 2 Goals to One (3) Ibadan South East defeated Ido Local Govt by One Goal to Nil. (4) Walkover against Ibadan North West Local Govt , Lagelu Local Govt qualified to Semi final
