Death is not as terrible as the memories it evokes in mourners. As this writer recalls performers who died prematurely or lost their lives while working in the film industry, Sikiru Adesina, also known as Arakangudu, comes to mind. The ‘bad boy’ of the Yoruba movie industry business died at the age of 45 from a cardiac arrest.

Sikiru Adesina, also known as Arakangudu, was a master of his own profession. The Osogbo-born movie star was an actor, director, and producer. His narrative as a little boy from Osogbo who won many people’s hearts through film characters was inspiring. He began as a young lad on the streets of Osogbo, watching and witnessing stage performances then participated and transitioned to home films before becoming a proud member of the Osun Arts Council. Arakangudu’s story was about excellence, determination, and perseverance.

The barely literate actor dominated the Yoruba film business in the 1990s, playing characters such as armed robber, herbalist, occultist, cultist, and villain warrior. If you’ve seen Arakangudu in action as an armed robber, a herbalist, or cultist, you’ll see that he was a master of these roles and carried them with dexterity. He showed a strong devotion and dedication to the sector, contributing his quota to its growth.

His grasp of Yoruba idioms and proverbs, as well as his use of strong Yoruba intonation, were exceptional and excellent. His spoken words flow naturally with his movements. Sikiru Adesina, often known as Arakangudu, couldn’t turn down the opportunity to act. Sikiru’s portrayal of an armed robber in films was extraordinary. Sikiru was a talented herbalist. When he’s performing, he always gives it his all, and the flavors he adds at every opportunity make him a fan favorite among those who admire or enjoy action Yoruba movies in the early 20s.

He featured in over 100 Yoruba films. He also produced more than 10 Yoruba movies too. From Temi Ni Tie Ko (2004) to Agbede Ogun (2005) to Idunnu Mi (2007) to Ilu Gangan (2009) to Ogbologbo (2003) to Iya Oju Ogun (2007) to Ere Agbere (2005) to Agba Osugbo to Aje Olokun to Iya Oko Bournvita to Igba Owuro (2005) to Ayaba Oosa to Ajana oro to Fijabi to Oju Odaran Re to Basira Badia to Ogunmola bashorun Ibadan, every film production was a hit after another. However, his 2007 hit Idunnu Mi propelled him to popularity, and Sikiru Adesina, also known as Arakangudu, became a household name.

Arakangudu experienced his own share of life, fate, and destiny. Everything wasn’t perfect for him till he died at the age of 45. As loving as his early career was, he encountered a delay or impediment that kept him away from the screen for an extended period of time. He complained about being ignored by his colleagues. He also faced body shaming after gaining weight, and directors complained that he was no longer suitable for his well-known parts. Arakangudu, rather than seeking alms, relocated to Kaduna and launched a small-scale business to survive.

Although other reports said that he relocated to Kaduna because he was sick and needed treatment, a close relative told this writer that he had to come down to Kaduna to establish a business owing to the indifference he was receiving from coworkers at the time. After a few years, he returned to the Yoruba industry to stage a comeback. He had played a prominent role as a palace chief in a movie titled Ayaba Oosa before he died on Tuesday, February 9, 2016, at the age of 45.

Sikiru Adesina, often known as Arakangudu, the ‘bad boy’ of Yoruba films, was a fantastic actor who deserves to be remembered forever.

Sleep well, the ‘bad guy’ of Yoruba films who graced our screens for years.

The post Sikiru Adesina Arakangudu: Remembering the ‘bad boy’ of Yoruba movies in early 20s appeared first on WITHIN NIGERIA.

Those who avoided its fatal impact are ecstatic, while those who were struck by it are devastated. The Nigerian entertainment industry has lost fourteen (14) celebrities, including young performers in the peak of their careers.

Here are short profiles of Nigerian celebrities who died in 2024

Charles Olumo

Abdulsalam Sanyaolu popularly known as Charles Olumo was born in July, 1923. He was a native of Abeokuta, Ogun State. He was a prominent actor who featured mainly in Yoruba-language films. He reportedly began acting in 1953 at a church in Lagos. He died on 31st October, 2024 at the age of 101.

Chief Adedeji Aderemi

Chief Adedeji Aderemi popularly known as “Olofa Ina” was born on May 15, 1950. He was a native of Ede, Osun State. He was a versatile actor, rich in Yoruba idioms and expressly brilliant. He featured in a lot of Yoruba films and was a role model to many young actors who revere the Yoruba culture and tradition.

Until his death, Aderemi “Olofa Ina” was the Sobaloju of Edeland. He died at the age of 73 after a brief illness. He was a great actor whose contributions to the Yoruba movie industry can not be undermined.

Chief Jimi Solanke

Jimi Solanke was born on the 4th of July, 1942. He was a Nigerian film actor, dramatist, folk singer, poet and playwright. He was a great story teller who warmed the hearts of his audience with strong diction and rare ability to control minds of his audience with tales.

He died on the 5th of February, 2024 after a brief illness. The contributions of Jimi Solanke to the arts and film industry would forever be remembered.

Tolani Quadri Oyebamiji

Tolani Quadri popularly known as Sisi Quadri was born on 25th December, 1979. He was a native of Iwo, a town in Osun State.

He was a Nigerian actor, director and filmmaker. He was a great comedian and Yoruba actor who gained fame for his beautiful performance in the December 4, 2004 film Seniyan Seranko. He was a popular veteran comic actor who dominated online skit-making and the Yoruba movie industry.

He died at the age of 44 on the 1st of March, 2024.

John Okafor

John Ikechukwu Okafor was born on 17th October, 1961. He was a native of Amuri, a town in Enugu State. Okafor popularly known as Mr. Ibu was a legendary Nigerian actor and comedian who appeared in more than 200 Nollywood films. His contributions to the Nigerian movie industry forever remain milestones.

He passed away at the age of 62 on the 2nd of March, 2024.

Ethel Aderemi

Ethel Aderemi was born on 30th November, 1963. She was a Nigerian actress who acted with passion. She was a Yoruba but acted mainly Yoruba films. Ethel was an aunt to Damilola Adegbite. She was known for her iconic role as ‘Segi’ in the popular TV series “Basi and Company”.

She was diagnosed with cancer in late 2023. Aderemi died of this illness in Sacramento, California, where she resided, on 5 February 2024, at the age of 60.

Amaechi Muonagor

Amaechi Muonagor was born on 20th August, 1962. He was a veteran Nigerian actor, comedian, and movie producer. He joined the Nigerian movie industry Nollywood in 1998 and had starred in many movies including Taboo 1 (1989), Aki and Pawpaw, Karishika (1998), and Aki na Ukwa (2002), Igodo (1999). He died at 61 after battling kidney disease.

Onyeka Onwenu

Onyeka Onwenu was born on 31st January, 1952. She was a native of Imo State. She was  a Nigerian singer and songwriter, actress, human rights and social activist, journalist, politician, and X Factor series judge. She was a chairperson of the Imo State Council for Arts and Culture.

In 2013, she was appointed the Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of the National Centre for Women Development. She died at the age of 72, leaving behind a legacy of timeless music and advocacy.

Dayo Adewumi

Dayo Adewumi popularly known as Sule Suebebe was born in 1956. He was a native of Ekiti State. He was one of the most popular figures in the Yoruba film industry. He left a lasting legacy in Nollywood before his tragic death on June 12, 2024. He’s renowned for his outstanding performances and unique style. He died at 68 after a prolonged illness.

Stella Iwauegbu

Stella Ikwuegbu was born on 15 December 1959. She was a native of Enugu State. She started her acting career in the 1990s, appearing in numerous films such as ‘Spoiler,’ ‘Ukwa,’ ‘Sound of Love,’ ‘Holy Man,’ ‘Two Hearts,’ ‘Heart of Stone,’ and ‘Madam Koikoi,’ among others.

She passed away on Sunday, June 16 after battling with leg cancer.

Moses Korede Are

Evangelist Moses Korede Are was born on June 11th, 1959. He was the founder of Calvary Drama Ministries and revered figure in Nigeria’s gospel drama industry. Calvary Movies Drama Ministry International was founded on September 2, 1995. He featured in mainly gospel films and gained prominence with a character he played known as Baba Gbenro. He died following a prolonged struggle with liver disease.

Sharon Okpamen

Sharon Okpamen was born on February 16, 1989. She was a native of Abudu in Edo State. She began her acting career in 2010 with the film Touch Not My Crown, a role given to her by John Okafor, also known as Mr. Ibu. She produced her own film, Night Hustlers. According to reports, she fell into a coma and could not recover after giving birth.

Sharon Okpamen passed away on August 24, 2024.

Aderounmu Aderonke Adejumoke

Adejumoke was born on 26th of March, 1984. She was a native of Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State. She began acting in 2008 after featuring in Tunde Kelani’s movie, Arugba.

Her notable works are Alakada, a movie by Toyin Abraham; television series, Jenifa’s Diary and Industreet by Funke Akindele. She passed away at the age of 40 on 6th April, 2024.

Junior Pope Odonwodo

John Paul Obumneme Odonwodo was born on 7th of May, 1981. He was a Nigerian actor and film producer. He appeared in various Nollywood films, including Secret Adventures (2007), Bitter Generation (2010), and Nkoli Nwa Nsukka.

Pope died in a boat accident on the River Niger in Anambra State while traveling to Asaba, Nigeria, to shoot a movie.

The post Fame in graves: Sisi Quadri, John Pope, Sule Suebebe, and other celebrities who died in 2024 appeared first on WITHIN NIGERIA.

However, the year 2025 is jam-packed with exciting football events that you may not be aware of as a sports fan. Aside from the club tournaments and fixtures listed on their calendars, here are five football events to look out for in 2025.

MEN’S CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FINAL

This year’s UCL final will take place on May 31, 2025, at the Allianz Arena in Munich, Germany. This will be the first UEFA Champions League final in the Swiss-system format. It will mark the 70th season of Europe’s top club competition, and the 33rd since it was called the UEFA Champions League.

WOMEN’S CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FINAL

On May 25, 2025, the Estádio José Alvalade in Lisbon will host Europe’s premier women’s club football event. All eyes will be on FC Barcelona, the two-time UCL winners, to go all the way.

FIFA CLUB WORLD CUP

The FIFA Club World Cup 2025™ will be held in the USA in June and July 2025, bringing together 32 of the world’s top teams for the first time. This worldwide competition will bring together the most successful club teams from six international confederations: AFC, CAF, Concacaf, CONMEBOL, OFC, and UEFA. The event will take held from June 14 to July 13, 2025.

WOMEN’S EURO 2025

Switzerland will host the greatest women’s football tournament in 2025, with England tasked with defending the championship they won in the summer of 2022. The event will take held from July 2 to July 27, 2025.

AFRICA CUP OF NATIONS

The countdown to the 2025 TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) has officially begun, with Morocco preparing to host the continent’s top football championship for the second time.

The qualifiers are over, and the 24 nations participating in the event are known. The 2025 AFCON will begin on December 21, 2025, and end on January 18, 2026. This will be the first time the event is hosted during the Christmas and New Year’s holidays.

The post AFCON, Club World Cup, and other football events in 2025, you probably don’t know as a sports fan appeared first on WITHIN NIGERIA.

The single mother of three, who recalled how she killed two hens she had raised to celebrate the previous Christmas, informed the ponmo seller that it is the time of Ponmo sellers to shine and make good sales due to the high market price of chicken or turkey.

When questioned why she did not raise hens this year, she cited the high cost of chicken feeds, noting that raising chickens or fish is one of the 100 ways to become bankrupt or financially crippled due to rising chicken feed costs.

“I cannot afford to raise or buy a chicken this year. I’ve opted in for ponmo, which will be supported by Sharwa fish. I also have friends who will go to abattoirs to buy cow meat. I cannot disappoint my kids. We will celebrate Christmas either way”, she further disclosed.

As Morenikeji was engaging in friendly banter with the ponmo seller, other women who came to buy ponmo were seen persuading or negotiating with the seller to reduce the price of ponmo, claiming that they would still buy rice, pepper, and drinks in order to prepare good meals for their children amid the Christmas celebration.

They expressed their displeasure over inflated prices of basic commodities, especially food items, arguing that Christmas celebrations will be adversely affected by the current economic challenges occasioned by fuel subsidy removal and inflation. 

A check by WITHIN NIGERIA showed that the inflation rate in Nigeria increased to 34.60 percent in November from 33.88 percent in October of 2024, owing to higher prices of staple foods like yams, cocoyams, guinea corn, maize, rice, beer and vegetable oil. 

A further check revealed that people also lamented inflated prices of staple foods and essential commodities in states like Osun, Ekiti, Ondo, Lagos, Oyo, Ogun, Edo among others.  

When WITHIN NIGERIA visited some markets, he observed that prices of staple foods including basic commodities have gone high. A broiler is sold for between N20000 to N25,000 , a layer is sold for between N12,000 to N15,000 while a turkey is sold for between N100,000 to N130,000. Cooking oil is priced at N45,000 for a 10-litre container and N95,000 for a 25-litre keg. A big basket of tomatoes costs between N55,000.

WITHIN NIGERIA also gathered that many Nigerians were unable to travel to their respective hometowns due to the high cost of PMS per litre and transportation expense.

Romoke, an Ilesa resident, expressed her discontent with her capacity to travel to Saki, her hometown, with her children to celebrate with her parents and other family members.

According to Romoke, the cost of sending her children to Saki might fund a modest get-together celebration.

The mother of four, who said that she had not seen her parents in more than a year, lamented how the exorbitant cost of transportation had denied her the opportunity to see her elderly parents for the Christmas holiday.

Another resident, Tolani, told WITHIN NIGERIA that Christmas and New year celebrations are not a top concern for her because she is preparing for her children’s return to school. 

Tolani, a mother of three, revealed that 2024 will be the first Christmas she would experience without her husband, who is unable to return home due to exorbitant transportation costs.

“My concern is tuition payments and how to get my children to school. I am content with anything I eat throughout the Christmas and New Year holidays. My husband isn’t around. I am merely at home with my children. “We will eat whatever we see,” she said.

Segun Olawale, a social analyst, told WITHIN NIGERIA in a telephone conversation that Nigerians are going through a lot in this bad economy.

Olawale, who condemned the country’s rising rate of hunger and suffering, added that it is regrettable that Nigerians cannot afford to celebrate Christmas and New Year after working continuously for 365 days.

Olawale, while praising Nigerians for their patience and resilience in the face of adversity and poverty, urged President Bola Tinubu to remember the poor, mitigate the impacts of fuel subsidy reduction, and address inflation as a threat.

According to Olawale, it is time for the government at all levels to step up and fix the inflation problem so that Nigerians can live as they should.

The post Christmas without chickens: Nigerians decry inflation, beg Tinubu for mercy appeared first on WITHIN NIGERIA.

This comes just four months after the tragic death of Oba Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran II, the Owa-Obokun of Ijesaland from the Bilaro Ruling House.

Recall that WITHIN NIGERIA had earlier reported that the battle for the seat of Owa-Obokun of Ijesaland intensifies as families, particularly Ofukutu and Ajimoko, also known as Hastrup in the Bilaro Oluodo Ruling House, spar over the kingship.

WITHIN NIGERIA gathered that ten (10) candidates contested in the selection process held at the Ilesa West Local Government Secretariat along the Ilesa-Osogbo road.

Mrs. Felicia Olabimtan, the Head of Local Government Administration in Ilesa West Local Government, while announcing the result, said Looja Clement Adesuyi secured the highest votes and emerged as the Owa-Obokun elect.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE NEXT OWA?

WITHIN NIGERIA gathered that it is the duty of 13 high chiefs and kingmakers, fondly called Afobaje, to choose the new Owa-Obokun of Ijesaland.

The 13 kingmakers include six Agba Ijesas (Ọbaala of Ilesa, Ogboni of Ipole, Ogboni Ijebu Jesa, Ogboni of Ibokun, Ogboni of Ilesa, Obaodo of Ilesa), four AARE Council members (Ọdole of Ilesa, Risawe of Ilesa, Saloro of Ilesa, Arapate of Ilesa), and three Elegbe military commanders (Lejoka of Ilesa, Lejofi of Ilesa, Loro of Ilesa, Odole of Ulesa).

HOW CLEMENT ADESUYI HASTRUP WAS ELECTED

According to Ijesa traditions, fourteen (14) kingmakers are empowered to choose the Owa-Obokun of Ijesaland.

WITHIN NIGERIA gathered that the 14 kingmakers namely; High Chief Ibitoye, Obaala of Ilesa, Oba Omokehinde Oyeleye, Ogboni Ipole, Oba Olufemi Agunsoye, Ogboni (Elegboro) of Ijebu-Ijesa, Oba Festus Awogboro, Ogboni of Ibokun, High Chief Saka Fapohunda, Ogboni of Ilesa, the Oba Odo of Ilesa, Lekoja of Ilesa, High Chief Omoniyi Ojo, Lejofi of Ilesa, High Chief Adebusoye Onigbogi, Arapate of Ilesa, High Chief Oluwagbemiga Fadunsin Igbaroola, Loro of Ilesa, High Chief Lekan Folorunso, Odole of Ulesa, High Chief Bola Orolugbagbe, Mr Abimbola Aluko (warrant officer representing the Saloro of ilesa whose stool is vacant) gathered at the Ilesa West Local Government Secretariat except Risawe of Ilesa, High Chief Adefioye Adedeji who was absent.

According to the findings, only five of the thirteen (13) kingmakers who attended the selection procedure at the Ilesa West secretariat were qualified to participate.

Additional findings revealed that the other seven were unable to participate in the process since their names could not be found on the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Titles’ master list of kings and chiefs.

“The late Oba Aromolaran did not provide us certificates of appointment. When they called for screening, our names were not on the ministry’s master list. My predecessor’s name was on the list, not mine. “I did not vote,” a high-ranking official explained.

A source told WITHIN NIGERIA that late Oba Aromolaran did not present certificates of office or forward names of his chiefs to the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy titles for official documentation.

“It will be easy for the late King to remove any Chief who disobeys him without restrain from government or court in as much his or her name could not be found in the Master’s list, he added.

However, only the five eligible kingmakers whose names appeared on the master list with the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy titles were permitted to vote in the selection process, and Prince Clement Adesuyi Hastrup received the most votes as the Owa-Obokun elect of Ijesaland.

ISSUES?

Recall that WITHIN NIGERIA had earlier reported that an injunction order was issued against the Agba Ijesas, high chiefs, Ilesa West Local Government, Governor Adeleke Adeleke, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Titles, Attorney General, and Commissioner for Justice filed by 11 crown princes on behalf of the Ofukutu royal family of the Bilaro Ruling House.

The summons also included Prince Adeleke Hastrup, Prince Clement Adesuyi Hastrup, Bilaro Oluodo Ruling House’s Chairman, Vice Chairman, and Secretary, the Ijesa Central Traditional Council, and the Arapate of Ilesa.

Until the substantive suit is heard and decided, the plaintiffs requested an order of interim injunction prohibiting Ilesa West Local Government, the Governor of Osun State, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Titles, the Attorney General, and the Commissioner for Justice from taking any action pertaining to the presentation, nomination, selection, election, or appointment of Prince Clement Adesuyi Hastrup or any other individual as the Owa of Ijesaland or Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijesaland.

REACTIONS?

The selection of Looja Clement Adesuyi Haastrup as the new Owa-Obokun of Ijesaland has elicited a profound stillness – grave silence in Ilesa.

Tokunbo Ajayi, an Ijesa elder, described the selection as a violation of tradition, stating that whenever the Ogundosu drum is beaten, no Chief must attend any meeting, and no one may be assigned to any chieftaincy title.

The elder contended that the appointment of the new monarch should not have occurred after the Ogundosu drum had been beaten.

Some Ijesa elites have also spoken out against Ifa’s neglect in selecting the next king, while others accused the Owa-Obokun elect of failing to participate in any festive event or previous communal project pr fundraising for community projects in Ijesaland

An anonymous elite told WITHIN NIGERIA that Looja Clement Adesuyi Haastrup made no kobo contributions throughout the fund-raising campaign for the new palace.

“It is amusing that the same Adesuyi Haastrup would occupy the same palace he did not contribute a kobo to its construction”, according to him.

He further stated that the future monarch must be willing to work tirelessly to gain the trust and confidence of the Ijesa people.

Another elite informed WITHIN NIGERIA that Looja Clement Adesuyi Haastrup is a wealthy, well-connected individual who can use his influence to propel Ijesaland into prosperity.

According to the elite, all Ijesa, both at home and abroad, should band together to support the new king and the town’s progress.

The elite, while appealing for calm, urged the people of Ijesaland to cooperate and assist the new Owa elect for best performance.

The post EXPOSE: How Clement Adesuyi Hastrup was elected as Owa of Ijesaland appeared first on WITHIN NIGERIA.

The Nigerian media industry has suffered a significant blow. The industry has lost one of its most valuable contributors, who dedicated her passion and talent to furthering the course of journalism in Nigeria. Rafat Salami was a symbol of skill, love, and motherhood. Despite being seriously ill, she was intentionally seen when necessary. Her determination and strength were unparalleled. She led an impactful life.

Rafat Salami’s tale is incomplete without mentioning her autistic son, Ahmed. I feel she was more loved for her motherly role than her career. As skilled as she was, I recognized her more for her autism awareness and her ability to handle a large burden with a grin. I was perusing Facebook when I came across a story of a mother who abandoned her child because the infant had autism. It was a sad and unexpected story.

I read the story and then clicked the comment section to share my thoughts on the subject. Raising a child with autism is undoubtedly one of the 100 ways to die. I know several mothers who have autistic children and understand the additional stress and effort required to raise them. It is a time-consuming task that necessitates extreme attention and prudence. I urged mothers of autistic children to continue their humanitarian efforts.

After I had left my comment, I noticed a pattern in the section. People were tagging Rafat Salami to give her thoughts and advise for the mother in question. I read her statement regarding the mother’s difficulties and her autistic child. She begged Facebook users not to hate or disrespect the woman, but rather to pity her because she was going through a lot. Raising an autistic child is a difficult and emotionally charged task. A test of motherly love and resilience.

When I observed a group of individuals tagging someone on social media, I anticipated to see false activists or philanthropists taking advantage of people’s difficulties to raise funds through NGOs or foundations. These emergency activists practice camera altruism. They say what they do not do. I even indicated to a buddy that the commentator most likely runs a foundation and is looking for donors. I immediately clicked on her name, which took me to her official Facebook profile, “mother of a resilient young man with Autism, CP, and ADHD who’s overcoming his challenges and thriving”.

I took my time accessing Rafat Salami’s page and spent four hours on her timeline. I watched recordings of how she cared for her loving kid Ahmed. She was kind, caring, sensitive, patient, and homely. She took Ahmed as a huge duty that she couldn’t avoid. Each video showed a mother who never grew tired of parenting her exceptional child. She was concerned about the food he ate, the clothing he wore, and the manner he communicated.

The video of Rafat Salami lying in bed and asking her unhappy son, Ahmed, was the most touching. Ahmed stated that he would never abandon his mother because she was always there for him when no one else was. He later wept. When persons with autism cry, their entire body responds. I looked with regret and remembered Ahmed as Rafat Salami was lowered into the grave.

As much as I sympathize with Ahmed for losing her beloved mother, my main concern is how he will live in this unstable world where you don’t know who loves you. It is not a double difficult puzzle. Ahmed’s soulmate has passed away. For Ahmed, this is a double tragedy. He’s lost his mother and care.

As I grieve the passing of Rafat Salami, the radio host who used her voice to bless every listener, I recall her contributions to the media business and her efforts to support women in journalism. Her dedication to autism awareness was rare, uncommon, and remarkable. She loved not only her exceptional child, but all special children, whether at home or on the street. She was a symbol of courage and unflinching resiliency to mothers of autistic children.

President Bola Tinubu praised her as a courageous woman who made significant contributions to the development of Nigerian media. The NUJ Abuja council, the International Press Institute, the National Association of Women Journalists, and the Voice of Nigeria expressed their profound condolences, describing Salami as a core professional and activist who made significant contributions not just to the growth of journalism but also to autism awareness. Rafat Salami’s death is a personal loss for Ahmed, a loss for her family, and an even greater loss for society. Everyone misses Rafat Salami.

Rest in power, seasoned broadcaster and wonderful mother.

The post Rafat Salami: Remembering the veteran broadcaster who did not allow autism to steal her joy appeared first on WITHIN NIGERIA.

Recall that the late Oba Aromolaran died after a brief illness at the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital, Ile-Ife, on 11 September 2024, at the age of 86.

AFTER THE DEMISE OF OWA-OBOKUN, WHO IS IN CHARGE?

According to Ijesa customs, six Agba Ijesas, known as Eta Ile and Eta Oko, must take leadership of Ijesaland’s affairs immediately upon the death of Owa-Obokun.

The Eta Ile consists of Obaala, Ogboni Ilesa, and Oba Odo. The Eta Oko is made up of Ogboni Ipole, Ogboni Ijebu-Ijesa, and Ogboni Ibokun. Obaala leads the Eta Ile, while Ogboni leads Esa-Oko. However, Obaala is said to be the ultimate head of the Agba Ijesas.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE NEXT OWA?

WITHIN NIGERIA gathered that it is the duty of 13 high chiefs and kingmakers fondly called Afobajes to choose the new Owa-Obokun of Ijesaland.

The 13 high chiefs include six Agba Ijesas (Ọbaala of Ilesa, Ogboni of Ipole, Ogboni Ijebu Jesa, Ogboni of Ibokun, Ogboni of Ilesa, Obaodo of Ilesa), four AARE Council members (Ọdole of Ilesa, Risawe of Ilesa, Saloro of Ilesa, Arapate of Ilesa), and three Elegbe military commanders (Lejoka of Ilesa).

The high chiefs and Afobajes are empowered to collaborate with the next Ruling House to select the next Owa Obokun of Ijesaland under the guidance of Ifa, the divinity and all-knower.

ROYAL HOUSES?

WITHIN NIGERIA gathered that Ilesa had four ruling houses: Bilayi Arere, Bilaro Olu-Odo, Biladu, and Bilagbayo, respectively. The late Owa-Obokun of Ijesaland came from the Bilayi Arere Ruling House, which included the Aromolaran and Bepo lineages.

The ruling house that will produce the next Owa is the Bilaro Olu-Odo, which includes Arimoro, Ajimoko, Folowosele, and Ofukutu royal families. Bilagbayo Ruling House consists of Atayerọ, Agunlejika, and Lufadeju, whereas Biladu Ruling House includes Ogunmokun and others.

THE CROWN OR THRONE HUSTLE?

Following the death of late Aromolaran, who ruled for 42 years, interested crown princes from royal families, including Arimoro, Ofukutu, and Ajimoko (Hastrup), in the Bilaro Olu-Odo Ruling House quietly began jostling for the vacant throne, causing a sharp division among chiefs and prominent indigenes in the town.

When WITHIN NIGERIA visited the Ajimoko and Ofokutu families’ homes, the reporter saw that renovations such as painting, boreholes, new roofing sheets, and structural adjustments to the buildings had been completed and still ongoing in preparation for the kingship tussle.

It was also gathered that more than 30 crown princes from the Bilaro Olu-Odo Ruling House have entered the contest, with the Ajimoko (Hastrup family) royal line appearing to have the majority.

The contest is strictly between the Arimoro royal family, the Ofukutu royal family, and the Ajimoko (Hastrup) royal family. The mandatory 90-day mourning of the late Oba Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran had not been completed when an unconfirmed story surfaced on social media that the state government had chosen a former deputy governor, Prince Clement Adesuyi Hastrup, in collaboration with some high chiefs.

This incident, including the N10 million application form for Owa chieftaincy aspirants, sparked controversy, but it was quickly dispelled when the Agba Ijesas said that all royal jostling for the throne would be halted till the final burial of late Oba Aromolaran.

THE COURT?

WITHIN NIGERIA obtained a court summons against the Agba Ijesas, high chiefs, Ilesa West Local Government, Governor Adeleke Adeleke, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Titles, Attorney General, and Commissioner for Justice filed by 11 crown princes on behalf of the Ofukutu royal family of the Bilaro Ruling House.

The summons also included Prince Adeleke Hastrup, Prince Clement Adesuyi Hastrup, Bilaro Oluodo Ruling House’s Chairman, Vice Chairman, and Secretary, the Ijesa Central Traditional Council, and the Arapate of Ilesa.

Until the substantive suit is heard and decided, the plaintiffs requested an order of interim injunction prohibiting Ilesa West Local Government, the Governor of Osun State, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Titles, the Attorney General, and the Commissioner for Justice from taking any action pertaining to the presentation, nomination, selection, election, or appointment of Prince Clement Adesuyi Hastrup or any other individual as the Owa of Ijesaland or Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijesaland.

THE ISSUES?

According to a source, the Ofokutu family went to court to seek an injunction because they have reliable information that the Osun State Government, in collaboration with the Agba Ijesas, has decided to appoint Prince Clement Adesuyi Hastrup as the Owa of Ijesaland, also known as Owa-Obokun Adimula of Ijesaland.

The source further said that the Ajimoko (Hastrup) royal family of the Bilaro Oluodo Ruling House had presented more Owa of Ijesaland or Owa Obokun Adimula of Ijesaland than any other royal family in the house, making her a big benefit.

“It’s cheating. “Ajimoko (Hastrup) cannot continue to present more Owa of Ijesaland at the expense of other royal families in the Bilaro Oluodo Ruling House,” the source said.

OFUKUTU’S SUIT, A PREMATURE EJACULATION –

Edmund Z. Biriomoni, an Osun-based lawyer, told WITHIN NIGERIA in a phone interview that the claim filed by Ofokutu’s crown princes is premature and lacks a cause of action, which means that there is no dispute between the parties that the court can resolve.

Biriomoni argued that Prince Clement Adesuyi Hastrup had not been selected, elected, appointed, or announced as the Owa-Obokun elect through any recognized process or by any person or authority, therefore his concern over the aforementioned action.

Biriomoni who disclosed that court is a court of law and not of sentiment, morality or public opinion, further argued that the court of law acts on facts and not on presumption.

He added that the Ofukutu royal family have not established an actionable case because the court acts on facts not on rumors or roadside talks.

“Prince Clement Adesuyi Hastrup is a real royal born. He is descended from the Ajimoko royal dynasty, one of Bilaro Oluodo’s ruling lineages. He has not been denied by his relatives. No other ruling house is arguing that it is not Bilaro Oluodo’s turn to rule. There is no law that says the Ajimoko cannot contest or must step aside for other royal families in the Bilaro Oluodo Ruling House, he continued.

According to Biriomoni, the Ofokutu Royal family’s lawsuit lacks a cause of action, and the court would be stripped of the necessary jurisdiction to hear the case.

The post Anxiety as battle for Owa-Obokun of Ijesaland tears Ruling House apart appeared first on WITHIN NIGERIA.

Residents of Ilesa and surrounding areas experienced tension and palpable anxiety as a result of hostility and supremacy battles between members of the Eiye and Afe confraternities. For four years, members of these confraternities, including political thugs such as Olabode Owoeye, also known as Bode Itaapa, and Solomon Adefioye Adedimeji, also known as Solo Iwara, terrorized Ilesa and some parts of Ijesaland.

The police in March and July, 2022 respectively had declared Solomon Adedimeji (Solo Iwara) and Olabode Owoeye (Bode Itapa) wanted in connection with ritual killings, armed robbery, cultism, conspiracy to murder, rape and kidnapping. Despite the declaration of the police, Ilesa witnessed more deaths and property damage as a result of incessant cult attacks between 2022 to 2024.

These recurrent cult attacks hindered and nearly crippled the town’s commercial activity. Traders, shop owners, and bars, including Okada riders, close as early as 6 p.m. to avoid being caught up in crossfire. According to findings, some businesses nearly collapsed, and owners were unable to recover from losses caused by repeated cult attacks.

Several stakeholder meetings were held in the palace, however they all ended in failure. Some young individuals who appear dangerous or are considered to be bad boys were forced to drink the sacred water known as omi-owa, yet the killings and violent attacks continue. As residents mourned their losses, tales circulated that these criminals vanished into thin air, transforming into animals such as cats, making it hard for security forces to apprehend them.

Cultists and political thugs continue to thrive in violence, sometimes coordinating attacks throughout the day, in pubs, clubs, offices, and homes. They would strike a location and flee before the police arrived. They were so heinous that residents who knew them dared not speak about them in public or provide important information to the police, which would lead to their imprisonment.

A source told WITHIN NIGERIA that these thugs would beat up any perceived informant and his or her family in order to put fear in others and restrain them from discussing their affairs with security forces such as the police, DSS, or Army.

These cult attacks continued without remorse, reducing Ilesa into a haven of criminals, thugs, and cults. The February retribution cult attack, which murdered more than six people, brought an end to Ilesa’s repeated cult attacks. Residents of Ilesa metropolis have had peace and harmony for the previous 10 months, free of the worry of being caught in the crossfire. Businesses have restarted, and business owners, particularly traders, can now close whenever they want without worrying.

Kolawole, a crime expert and resident, expressed joy that peace and harmony have returned to Ilesa after years of attacks and losses.

He attributed the peace to the arrest of Bode Itapa and multiple raids on thugs and cultists’ dens.

Kolawole, remembering his experience during the dark days of cult attacks, stated that the arrest of Bode Itapa demonstrated to us that no one is larger or more powerful than the government.

“I applaud our security agencies, particularly the police, for working tirelessly to maintain the peace we are currently enjoying. I feel that strong intelligence, raids, and swift responses are keeping the peaceful cohabitation we now enjoy. The police-public trust has been established, and it is greatly benefiting us in Ilesa, he stated.

He further added that police in Ilesa and environs are now more responsive, accessible and available but they can still do better if provided with vehicles that would enhance their mobility.

He urged renowned Ijesa sons and daughters, business leaders, and the Osun State Government to provide hilux vehicles for the police, DSS, and other security services to improve mobility.

“We must reestablish the Osun State Security Trust Fund. We need to provide our security agencies with quality vehicles that will improve their mobility. Kolawole advised that when nice and quality cars are provided, police officers will be able to operate more productively.

How Bode Itapa was arrested

Findings by WITHIN NIGERIA revealed that Olabode Owoeye, also known as Bode Itaapa, a notorious political thug, was arrested around 2 a.m. in March 2024 while riding his motorcycle to his residential home.

According to a source, the notorious thug was eventually arrested by the anti-cultist unit of the Osun State Police Command after several escapes.

While explaining why it took so long for the police to apprehend Bode Itapa and others, the source revealed that some people were protecting them from arrest.

“Intels from Ilesa revealed that they purchased motorcycles for some youths to work in the area. These teenagers do not leave the border line at once, but rather station themselves and call their sponsors if they see police vehicles or any suspicious car entering these towns. “We had to rethink our strategy,” the source continued.

“On the day of the arrest, we came in town early, not as a group, after being well informed through intelligence, and stationed ourselves within the bush along his usual route, while one of our cops had to ride a motorbike to cover a few meters away from us”.

‘The police who had ridden earlier, upon receiving word from us that Bode Itapa was on his way home after passing us, ignite his motorbike, drove towards Bode Itapa Way, and collided with his motorcycle, resulting in an accident. After Bode Itapa got suspicious, the officer held him tightly and stopped him from entering the bush before he’s more familiar with the terrain. His teammates raced out to thoroughly restrain and handcuff him before transporting him to the police state headquarters in Osogbo”, he narrated.

The post 10 months without cult attacks in Ilesa: The police magic appeared first on WITHIN NIGERIA.

Sheikh Muideen, a paragon of piety, has left this corrupt world. His death was unexpected, startling, and distasteful. Some of his devoted fans seem not to have agreed to the passage of their role model to the great beyond. Such is life. We only live on the ground, yet we do not understand the language of the Grim Reaper, the land, or the ground. Everyone, no matter how wealthy, influential, pious, religious, or generous, must die. Baba Ajani Bello was also aware of how death serves God’s purpose for everyone. He witnessed the tragic death of his loving wife and one of his children.

On a Friday morning, the garment of his life tore in two. The soul and the body got separated. Muslims understand the grace, privilege, and mercy that come with dying on a Friday. Indeed, every Muslim wants to die on Friday. For Muslims, Friday is an important day. It is the day of Jummah, one of the most revered Islamic ceremonies and a certified required act.

According to Prophet Muhammad, Friday is the best day on which the sun rises, and taking advantage of this uncommon opportunity will result in a lot of goodness and obedience, and Muslims will receive the huge prize that Allah has provided for them. It is a day of congregational worship, forgiveness of sins, and the possibility of great reward. According to Prophet Muhammad, Friday is the ideal day for the sun to rise; Allah created Adam on that day.

Even though Baba Ajani Bello passed away, he left behind a legacy and a wealth of memories. The best remedy for death is legacy; if you live with a purpose, you won’t die and be forgotten. Fortunately, Sheikh Ajani Bello lived a life of service, beginning the spread of Islam at the age of 14, and he spent 70 years spreading Islam throughout Nigerian towns and states as well as some African nations. His journey from the streets of Ibadan to Kano to the global stage is worth mentioning and is highly inspirational.

Sheikh Muideen Ajani Bello was also am advocate of good governance and a social activist for growth and constructive development. He was a fierce critic who urged the wealthy and powerful to always pity the poor and make life more worthwhile for them. He was also an accommodating scholar who was available and approachable to young people who saw him as a role model. As Sheikh Muideen Ajani Bello concludes a chapter, his lifestyles remain invaluable.

EARLY LIFE

Sheikh Muhyideen Ajani Bello, was born in 1940. He was born into the family of Bello Ajani and Ubaidat Bello in Ibadan, Oyo State. His father was an Islamic cleric while his mother was a trader.

EDUCATION

He finished his primary and secondary education at D.C Primary School in Elekuro, Ibadan, before pursuing his Islamic studies at Mahdul Arabiy, where he spent four years learning Arabic and Islamic principles. He combined formal instruction with religious education, making him a favorite of many. According to unconfirmed sources, Sheikh Muideen Ajani Bello attended Bayero University and studied Arabic and religion.

MARITAL LIFE

Sheikh Muideen Ajani Bello had a spouse. His marriage was blessed with children. But while he was living, his wife and one of his children passed away.

CAREER

He taught Arabic for many years. He taught Arabic in both private and government-run schools. The findings revealed that Sheikh Muideen Ajani Bello had retired as principal of a government-owned secondary school. He taught at several secondary schools in Oyo, Ogun, and Kano states. He worked as a Missioner for the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria. He began Islamic propagation at the age of ten. Bello, noted for his bold preaching, preached in countries such as the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, and neighboring African countries.

DEATH

He died on a Friday morning, at the age of 84. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, governors, senators, and business leaders all expressed their condolences and sadness at the death of the cerebral Islamic preacher.

The post Sheikh Muideen Ajani Bello: Remembering Ibadan-born Islamic scholar and friend of the masses who made Kano his home appeared first on WITHIN NIGERIA.

Every year, these towns — Iloko-Ijesa included—celebrate these rituals and follow the rigorous guidelines set by ancient customs. While most ancient towns had given up on the customs and practices of their ancestors, it is comforting to observe that other towns continue to teach the next generation about the value of maintaining the traditions of the past. Iloko-Ijesa is not an exemption.

The Obalogun celebration is as important to Iloko-Ijesa as the Anlugbua festival is to the Owu kingdom. Every year, the Obalogun festival honors bravery, perseverance, and fortitude. Held annually at one of Yorubaland’s historic towns, this festival honors the strange and unexpected departure of the founder of Iloko-Ijesa, one of the greatest Yoruba warriors, who left behind irrevocable marks. 

WITHIN NIGERIA visited Iloko-Ijesa, an ancient community in Oriade Local Government, Osun State, on December 20, 2023, to participate in the historic Obalogun festival, which had begun eight days before.

This reporter arrived on the eighth day of the Obalogun festival in order to participate in all events scheduled for the ninth day – grand finale which would kick off by 2:00 a.m. The Obalogun festival is incomplete without the Egunmo drum.

What is the Egunmo drum?

It is a traditional drum with historical significance and a holy origin. It is stated that the drum serves as a conduit between the town’s youth and elders. The drum, which was passed down from over 500 years ago, has the ability to call up the spirit of Obalogun, the valiant warrior who founded Iloko-Ijesa, to fight against intruders. Agbonrin, Ekiri, or Edu leather may be used to make the drum.

Obalogun built and strengthened the drum to warn the locals when invaders approach the town, giving them time to hide, among other specialized tasks like making announcements. Nonetheless, there are spiritual purifications or fortifications that need to be carried out on a regular basis. When leather tears, a specific sacrifice needs to be made.

This reporter heard odd drum sounds at precisely 2:30 a.m., indicating the start of the festival. Subsequently, the drum was recognized as ‘Egunmo,’ a traditional and sacred drum with distinct purposes.

This reporter later discovered that, after the brief 35-second beats of the “Egunmo drum,” the Aworo, the chief priest, and his deputy, along with a few initiates, would hike to the hallowed groove of “Omi Afero,” the spiritual river of healing and deliverance, to make some prayers. 

No one, native or guest, was allowed to leave their own homes during their three-times trip from the Idi-Aragba Square to Omi Afero’s sacred groove. The “Egunmo drum” would be repeatedly struck with a large stick following the third journey, to alert locals and guests that it was time for them to participate. The third trip ended at 3:30 a.m.

In an attempt to not miss a moment of the celebration, this reporter ran to the Idi Aragba Square, which is next to His Royal Majesty, Oba Akeem Olusayo Ogungbangbe’s palace. In front of Ile-Ase, a white structure also known as a shrine, Aworo, his deputy, Logan (the head of the male indigenous population), and a few hunters could be seen eagerly waiting for the monarch to come out.

As the reporter approached the palace, he saw that the door leading to the monarch’s chamber was ajar. This reporter was informed by one of the king’s staff that the monarch was alone in the chamber and would soon come out.

A little while later, the king silently left his palace and made his way to the white Ile-Ase. The monarch, according to Aworo, is not allowed to speak until he arrives in Ile-Ase, where he will oversee the rite and lead the populace in prayer. A bundle of Apara sticks was handed to the monarch and his chiefs upon arriving at Ile-Ase (the white building), and sticks were also given to the indigenous people present.

For a few minutes, the Egunmo drum was vigorously beaten. Oba Ogungbangbe gave the Yeye Lodan (the town’s head of women) the order to start the prayer session, and Lodan (the town’s head of males) took over. Three times in unison, the name “Obalogun” was called following Logan’s invocation. Prayers were also offered by other chiefs, including Lodan, Yeyerisa, Oluode, Yeye Saba, and Aworo. Lastly, the king prayed for the town’s prosperity as well as the chiefs, men, women, old, and children.

Following the prayers, the monarch prayed for the entire community, shouted “Obalogun” three times, and performed some intricate Yoruba vocabulary. The villagers and the king joined together to chant Obalogun, and they placed bundles and sticks of Apara into the small, blazing fire infront of Ile-Ase. First the monarch, then the chiefs, and last the natives, lightened the Apara bundle or stick in their care. 

The monarch walked to Idi-Aragba Square and made seven laps around it with his chiefs and the locals. They then proceeded to Para Obalogun, which is where Obalogun entered the ground, where they used Apara sticks that were already ablaze to strike the ground. They then began to move around, dousing each other’s sticks in flames.

Following their descent to the Idi-Aragba Square, the king, his chiefs, and the natives stopped for a few minutes, allowing the women to sing traditional songs in the Ijesha dialect. Then, carrying Apara sticks that had been lit on fire, they walked to the Omi-Afero Sacred River, where the monarch dropped his Apara stick at the entrance, followed by his chiefs.

The monarch prayed a little while inside Omi-Afero’s fearsome groove and then cleansed his face, arms, and legs. His chiefs followed suit. As he waited for his subjects, the monarch exited the Omi-Afero groove and prayed once more. The Apara sticks were not set on fire when the monarch, chiefs, and tribesmen left the Omi-Afero groove. As the Egunmo drum was being pounded hard, they walked back to the Idi-Aragba and once again circled it.

VIDEO: Natives, chiefs and king striking themselves with burning sticks to celebrate Obalogun festival

They walked back to Ile-Ase from Idi-Aragba as women sang in the Ijesa dialect with sounds from Egunmo drum. The singing went on for several minutes at the Ile-Ase. They waved their hands to ward off sad and unpleasant events. The town and the locals were prayed for by the king. The king went back to the palace while the locals departed from the Ile-Ase for their different places. In order to pray, Aworo and Risa-Aworo, his deputy, went toward each of the town’s four directions. 

The king must remain within his palace and no one else may leave the palace during this time. For a duration exceeding five minutes, the Aworo and Risa-Aworo made their way into the Ile-Ase to carry out certain tasks. The Logan approached the Egunmo drum in front of the Ile-Ase and beat it three times before male indigenous who were also interested in beating it took turns. Females are not allowed to beat the drum. This signaled the end of first lap of the festival. The monarch came out of the palace and headed home at exactly 5:45 a.m.

Second Lap of Obalogun Festival

This reporter saw the Aworo, his deputy, and a few female community leaders enter the Ile-Ase at precisely 4:15 p.m. to carry out some tasks. At precisely 3:45 p.m., the monarch showed up at his palace and was observed interacting with visitors. The Aworo, his deputy, and the women leaders arrived in the palace after finishing their tasks at Ile-Ase. 

The monarch led chiefs and locals to Para-Obalogun where the valiant warrior entered the ground. There was a sitting configuration at the Para-Obalogun. Aworo and his deputy sat next to the location where Obalogun entered the ground, while the king and his chiefs sat side by side at one corner, the hunters and natives at another, and the women at a third. 

At the Para Obalogun, locals were given wooden sticks known as Esi. The king was presented with a bundle of Esi. This reporter observed four lads playing the Egunmo drum and other instruments. The Aworo and his deputy, according to what this reporter saw, prayed, sprinkled some alcoholic drink (Seman) over the door leading to Para-Obalogun, and poured salt in front of it before throwing kolanuts.

It seemed by the expression on the Aworo’s face that the kolanut flinging was successful. The king gave the chiefs instructions to deliver prayers in their own turns. It was a season of prayers, from Logan to Baba Aro to Yeye Solo to Amuludun to Yeye Lodan to Otun Legbewa to Yeye Saba to Oluode to Yeye Odofin to Aworo. The town was also in the monarch’s prayers.

Following the prayers, Obalogun was summoned three times by the monarch and high chief Odofin, who also held a bundle of Esi together. One by one, they each tossed the stick to the ground. The monarch brought his natives and chiefs to Igbo Orudi. No one could respond when this reporter asked what ‘Igbo Orudi’ meant. It’s possible that an outsider doesn’t deserve to know every detail about a place.

This reporter thinks it’s likely one of the universe’s secrets. Only male natives were permitted to enter the Igbo Orudi with the king, and this reporter and other guests were requested to pause at the Oke Adura, Police Road intersection while the entire town approached the Igbo Orudi. This writer was later informed by the Aworo that it is forbidden for visitors, minors, and women to enter Igbo Orudi. They said prayers at Igbo Orudi.

En route to Idi-Aragba, the king led his chiefs and inhabitants with drumming and music. Five times, they went around it. Singing together, they raised the Esi sticks. Stunning to watch, it was vibrant and lovely. After that, they prayed for one another and touched their backs with these Esi sticks. For the town and its residents as well as visitors, the king prayed. When the monarch had finished praying, they began striking the sticks against the ground until the sticks broke. They walked to the palace of His Royal Majesty, Oba Akeem Olusayo Ogungbangbe for the final lap of the festival.

Sitting placidly beneath the tent in front of the palace were both locals and visitors. By now, it was 6:56 p.m. In order to accommodate guests who traveled to Iloko-Ijesa for the festival, the master of ceremonies had to expedite the schedule. Chiefs, organizations, and representatives of the town’s men and women paid respects as the populace ate and drank to their hearts’ content. It was vibrant and lovely. 

Likewise, his Royal Majesty, Oba Akeem Olusayo Ogungbangbe Benjamin, established an action committee with the goal of improving the town’s basic and secondary educational standards. Education experts, the principal of the town-owned Iloko Model College, and the principals of the town’s public schools make up this body.

The committee will oversee and keep an eye on scholarship possibilities to make sure that only deserving candidates were awarded them. The committee will also be in charge of giving books and other writing supplies to Iloko public school pupils. The committee is also charged with the responsibility of collaborating with NGOs and foundations to improve the town’s educational standards. 

Oba Akeem Olusayo Ogungbangbe, the monarch, prayed for everyone—men, women, and children. He prayed for the town’s residents to continue living in peace and requested God to bless them. He moved to the amazing rhymes performed by nearby hunters. Before the monarch went into his inner room, the natives gave him a salute and they danced together for a few minutes.

Both locals and guests had already gobbled up a lot of wraps made of mashed yam and red pork. This reporter, thinking about how Yorubaland’s culture and customs would survive, strolled slowly to the palace gate. One should try to emulate Iloko-Ijesa.

The post OBALOGUN FESTIVAL: Inside Nigeria’s town where king, natives strike each other with burning sticks (PHOTOS) appeared first on WITHIN NIGERIA.

Sources disclosed that the Islamic scholar died early on Friday, December 6, 2024.

Sheikh Taofik Azeez, also known as Akeugbagold, confirmed the death of the renowned Islamic scholar on his Facebook page.

Here are thirteen (13) you probably don’t know about Sheikh Muideen Ajani Bello

Sheikh Muideen Bello was born in 1940.

His parents are Alhaji Bello Ajani and Alhaja Ubaidat Bello from Arolu Compound in Ita Olukoyi, Ibadan.

He died at the age of 84.

He began his elementary western education at I.D.C Primary School in Elekuro, Ibadan.

He also attended I.D.C Secondary School in Elekuro, Ibadan.

He studied Arabic and Islamic languages at the Mahdul Arabiy in Elekuro for four years, from 1963 to 1967.

Unconfirmed sources disclosed that Sheikh Muideen Ajani Bello went to Bayero University in Kano where he studied Arabic and Islamic Studies.

At the age of ten, he took an interest in Islamic propagation and began preaching across Ibadan’s neighborhoods.

He relocated to Kano, a city in northern Nigeria, where he spent many years spreading Islam, the religion of Allah.

He was a teacher who taught at secondary schools in Oyo, Ogun, and Kano states.

He was appointed Missioner of the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria.

He had been invited to disseminate the message of Islam on numerous times around the world, including the United Kingdom, the United States, and neighboring African countries.

He was an energetic Islamic preacher who delivered thought-provoking sermons and pushed for greater governance and representation for the Nigerian people.

The post 13 things you probably don’t know about late Islamic scholar, Sheikh Muideen Ajani Bello appeared first on WITHIN NIGERIA.

This report not only shows how some individuals dubiously lure desperate job seekers to a ‘drug networking business’ but it also shows how these job seekers are manipulated, exploited in cash, and emotionally and mentally harassed to submit for a specific purpose.

In the first of a two-part series, WITHIN NIGERIA JOURNALIST, SODIQ LAWAL who went undercover as a desperate job seeker narrated his experience in the hands of ‘new life agents’ who want to lure him into drug-networking business.

In this second of a two-part series, the reporter narrated how a group of people identified as ‘new life agents’ use deception, manipulation and mental coercion to capture and rework their victims – secondary school leavers, fresh college intakes, job seekers and struggling Nigerians.

When I entered the Owa Odundun Royal Hall, I spotted a number of individuals, including two elderly men, malnourished looking housewives, and naive young girls and boys who had already taken up the wooden benches within. The man who invited me to the hall for prosperity, Mr. Segun, was not there as I looked around the hall. A 7-foot man in business attire, who was most likely in his mid-thirties, told me to take up a vacant seat in the third row. Please pay close attention and don’t bother people who are here to improve their life, he advised.

I was unable to initiate an eye-searching quest for my sponsor, Mr. Segun, because of a young woman wearing a white hijab, fading silver shoes, and an Ankara gown. They had begun the process by the time I walked into the hall. With a little bit of arrogance and terrible English, the woman on the podium was observed speaking to the audience in Yoruba. She was annoying and too loud, but I had no choice. They say the head who will wear the crown will face difficulties.

“You’ve come here to learn from us. You cannot make my life better. I am the person who can make your life better. Drop your shoulder pad, relax your muscles, and pay close attention to what I’m saying. “If you don’t listen to me, you will die poor,” the young lady warned attendees as I stepped in.

While rebuking the audience, she asked that any polytechnic or university graduates should raise their hands. I had scarcely sat down when I became engaged. I suspected Segun had alerted them of my arrival ahead of time. I indicated to identify as a graduate, and I observed that there were two of us in the hall. She directed that I sit in the front seat while the other individual sat in the middle of the women.

The engagement

The young lady revealed that she is also a graduate, but she is not arrogant or pompous. I was able to learn from my mentors in this hall because I was humble. She went on to say that if we could use our degree to achieve something big in life, we wouldn’t be in the hall. She described how she gave up her hard-earned certificate in order to pursue success.

“I feel better now. I am OK now. I am financially stable and self-sufficient. I don’t rely on a wage or any employer. At my age, I am now the CEO. You can become like me if you don’t let ego or pride consume your life. If you are willing to learn, my mentors can assist you. Look at the way I dressed. “Look at my shoes. Don’t you want to be like me? She inquired. We all chorused that No, we want to be like you.

The attack on education, NYSC and job

She reminded listeners that no siblings or relatives would help them achieve success in life, and she also urged them not to hunt for work or start enterprises, but rather to come and join them in achieving economic prosperity.

“If your ambition as a lady is to wake up and look good, then you’re done. If you’re a guy who only wants to wear nice clothes, you’re finished. If you’re seeking a job or wondering how to work in a company put up by anyone, you’re done. You must be your own boss. Do not work for anyone. “Your job steals your time, happiness, freedom, and enjoyment,” the lady admonished.

She approached my seat and instructed me to stand up. I stood up without reluctance. She asked me to explain the full meaning of NYSC as an abbreviation. I did – (National Youth Service Corps). She laughed suspiciously and asked the audience to clap for me. She felt sorry for me and stated that I had been confined by the system. She added that I needed mental release from the system since it prevented me from thinking and growing constructively. I maintained complete composure and did not allow her words to anger me. I felt embarrassed but I must not lose focus

She moved from my row to the podium. She informed attendees that the meaning I provided was irrelevant and did not convey real-life events. “NYSC means Now Your Struggle Continues,” she explained. In an attempt to support her assertion, the lady stated that there are many areas where people are unemployed and continue to suffer after serving their country. She added that if NYSC does not imply that the struggle will continue, corps members should not suffer after their service.

She pointed at a man in his mid-fifties. She humbly instructed the man to stand up and face the audience. What type of a job do you have? She asked. Before being relieved of my duties, I worked in the paint industry as a factory worker. How much money do you earn per month? He responded with a sum of N35,000. Does it pay your bills and keep you comfortable? she inquired. “No,” he said.

Real-life meanings of job, salary as abbreviations

The lady told the participants that the man would never be able to live well since he worked for the benefit of a small group of people: the factory owners. Do you understand the definition of salary? She asked. “Owo osu,” some women said in unison. She explained that SALARY denotes “something that is always low and reduces you”. You were given a salary to live and work for another month, she explained.

Were you financially stable while you were working? She further asked. No, I borrow money from friends and family to pay my bills, he said. “You will always borrow as a worker since the system is designed in such a way. The definition of JOB is ‘Journey of Borrowers’. You will always borrow to exist in order to do your job,” she explained.

She told the man to sit down and was going to bring up another issue when a man in his mid-thirties Iater identified as Busuyi Oluwafemi interjected. He praised the lady and asked everyone to cheer for her. He also asked them to greet her in their traditional slogans. They saluted her as she departed the podium to join her colleagues at a corner in the hall. Busuyi and some attendees – regular customers, including his colleagues, engaged in fun banter by making statements and responding as a group. I saw that all of the statements were purposefully made to belittle schooling, job hunting and encourage people not to waste their time in becoming civil servants.

Meeting team members who ‘appear’ seemingly rich on ‘cheap’ clothes

Busuyi invited all team members to the podium and asked people to greet them. A squad of seven people, four men and three women. They dressed corporately. I noticed that they dressed differently on purpose to indicate their position in the team structure.

The first person to speak was a woman named Joy. Listening to the manner she spoke, it was clear that she was an illiterate who had only crammed normal slang or words during meetings. The Ondo native described how her old employment as a bartender made her unhappy. She also explained how she was unable to complete her secondary education due to a lack of funds and financial support. Joy claims that her life story altered once she met someone who introduced her to this business.

Joy described how she progressed from selling drugs for little money to becoming a manager and now a senior manager. She boasted that she is now financially independent and cannot be a slave or employee of anyone because she is now a CEO. She thanked the facilitator and sponsor. As Joy recounted her incident, I couldn’t take my gaze away from her appearance, particularly her damaged shoes. Is she truly a millionaire? If I had argued loudly, they would have dragged me out of the hall.

Another team member stepped out and boasted, much like Joy. Other members of the squad emerged and addressed the audience in turn. I watched and listened to each team member brag about their fortune while telling their sorrowful past, particularly how they were impoverished until being introduced to a new life – a networking business. They were attempting to sell themselves to the naïve and frustrated participants, presenting the business as a better alternative. The only thing they didn’t promise was heaven.

Do you recall Segun showing me a diary or jotter with images of a mansion and two luxury vehicles supposedly owned by one, King Alhaji Diamond Afeez Adekunle Amoo Tijani, in the first part of this two-part report? They also reminded participants that Tijani started off as a nobody in the business they are introducing us to and worked his way up to his current position via dedication and determination. Do you want to be like Alhaji Tijani or not? Another team member inquired, and everyone said ‘Yes’.

Busuyi walked the podium and began singing their team leader’s praises. He told the audience to keep clapping while he used strong adjectives to highlight the man’s wealth, generosity, and intelligence. Busuyi and other members greeted the team leader while the audience clapped. He entered the hall in grand style. He was dressed in a blue long-sleeved shirt and black trousers, with a black suede shoe. He wore two necklaces around his neck and wrapped wrist watches and bangles around his hands. As he walked his way to the podium, he waved to the audience to greet them. He danced for a few minutes with his team members before instructing them to sit.

The team leader, identified as Sheriff, told participants that he is from Ede. He said that he is illiterate, but he is the richest member of their family. He boasted of feeding educated individuals in his extended family. He claimed that his siblings would always wait for his advice or command before doing anything in the household. He also claimed that he provided funding for his siblings’ enterprises. He introduced his younger brother who is now a senior manager in the networking firm. He asserted that his younger brother is wealthy, but not richer than him. As he pointed to his brother, I looked at his appearance. Two buttons were missing from the shirt and trousers that had been stitched together with needle and thread. In his narration, he revealed that he was introduced to the networking business some years ago.

“I’ve accomplished a lot since then. My friend, who ignored the advice, now relies on me to support his family. I get my monthly salary in dollars. I don’t care whether the Naira improves or not. I am wealthy since I did not turn down the offer to join this business “I earn close to N1 million per month, and they will still raise my salary,” he boasted.

Do you remember the young lady who left her job as a private school teacher to join the company? Sheriff told guests that he was the one who suggested her retire and join the firm. Sheriff boasted, “She is now richer than the school owner, despite the fact that I earn more than her.”

He told one of the senior managers to bring a file containing some documents. He took out a notepad and summoned two people: an elderly guy and a young lady. He pointed to a portion and asked the elderly man to read it aloud. ‘Dear Sheriff, you have been paid the sum of N650,000 as June salary,’ the old man announced. He asked them to return to their seats.

The business

A young adult, presumably in his early thirties, raised his hand, and the team leader called on him. He asked the team leader, Sheriff, to go into depth about what they would do to earn money like him from the business because they had places to go. What have you accomplished thus far in your job? A rather enraged Sheriff enquired.

He rebuked the man and advised participants to submit and learn from successful people like him.

After rebuking the young adult, he revealed that it is a drug networking company called New Life.

According to Sheriff, drugs would be distributed to interested attendees for sale, but these drugs are expensive and scarce.

“They are supplements and may not be used by any distributor. You will go to public places to sell these drugs and there will be a commission for each drug sold,” he said.

Sheriff added that they will also try to attract people into the business.

“The more people you bring, the higher your earnings or commission. If you bring 20 individuals at once, you can become a senior manager and outperform those you met on the ground. “You will sell drugs and recruit people to join the business,” he explained.

How to become a member

According to Sheriff, forms are not free, but we have lowered the cost to a reasonable and significant amount.

“The form is worth one million naira, but we genuinely need to help people. I spoke with our mentors, and they agreed that we should distribute a form for N50,000,” he revealed.

He also mentioned that there is a rare opportunity to pay in installments if you are unable to pay in full.

“If you can afford N5000, pay it now and bring the balance to our next meeting on Saturday. You can roam with us if you pay a part of the cost, but we cannot give you medications to sell at this time. Do not let your siblings or friends influence your decision. They can abuse you for selling drugs, but don’t worry about it. “You, too, can achieve success,” he concluded.

The breach

I requested permission from the team leader to ease myself. He denied me. I insisted, and he eventually let me. I looked back and saw Mr Segun, my sponsor. He followed me outside to get my thoughts on the entire episode. I accused him of lying and deceiving me. Is this a company? I questioned him.

Segun told me that income would not address my situation as a deportee, so he decided to lure me into the networking company, promising that I would recover what I had lost in one month. I informed him that I wasn’t furious with him because I’d learned a lot.

How much do you plan to pay for the form now? A concerned Segun enquired. I didn’t have much cash here, but I’ll deposit N500 or N1000 till the next meeting or transmit the money to any account I can access, I replied. Segun was unhappy, but he had no choice. He told me to go and deposit any cash I had on hand to demonstrate my commitment.

The dispute

I proceeded to empty my bladder. I collected the sum of N2000 from the nearest POS operator and walked to a corner inside the hall. I met one of the senior managers who handed me a paper to fill in my details and the amount I intend to deposit. When I told him N1000, he was dumbfounded. Are you serious? He asked. I told him about bank issues I’ve been battling with and he allowed me to enter my details and collected the N1000 from me. I made moves to join others but the team leader did not allow me. He said I have gone out and I can only join them next Saturday.

But I just left the hall to urinate now, I explained. He looked away and resumed addressing those who had paid nicely. While I was trying to voice my concerns to one of the senior managers, I overheard him chastising and using me as an example to others, warning them that if they don’t follow simple instructions, they will end up like meAs I was trying to persuade another senior manager, I noticed a 3kg gas cylinder, buckets, used pots and plates in one of the hall’s corners. I also noticed three Hausa mats and three Ghana must-go bags, which were probably full of clothes. They didn’t properly cover them. The senior manager who caught my glimpse, requested me to follow him outside the hall, where he asked me to return next Saturday.

The call

I contacted Mr. Segun and informed him that I had exited the hallway. I conveyed my dissatisfaction with the way I was treated, and he begged me. He said that the team leader was most likely under pressure, which is why he was treating me so poorly. I informed him that I would reevaluate my position and look for a job where I would be treated with dignity. He persuaded me, but I persisted on going and looking for work. I had trekked for 10 minutes when an odd number contacted me. I answered the phone, and the person described himself as Segun’s mentor, who lives in Osogbo.

He told me that he is a successful man by all criteria, but he had to stop what he was doing when Segun informed him that I was insulted during the event, prompting my choice to depart the hall. He tried to persuade me for 15 minutes that the job would simply exacerbate my problem rather than solve it. I appreciated him and vowed to call him back when I got home. He thanked me sincerely and informed me that he would be on my case to ensure that I quickly reach prosperity under his supervision.

The mobile phone disturbance

Segun and his boss did not allow my phone to rest. They will call me in the morning, afternoon and at night. Segun became a serial caller. He would call me countless times until I picked his call. He would beg and assure me that things would get better. He told me on a particular day that the team leader who insulted me has been suspended by the council of mentors in the business.

Segun was capable of speaking for several minutes without interruption. Sometimes I’d attach him to my deck so that I could do other things. He was tireless, tenacious, and had a tremendous desire to capture me as his objective. The findings revealed that Segun would receive a certain sum if I completed the payment of the N50,000 form fee.

When Segun calls, he always asks about my current situation. Have you got a job? Is your employer treating you well? Is your new work not overly stressful? Do your bosses respect you? Can you eat and pay your rent with your salary? Segun would ask me a variety of questions, including these. I’d also offer him incriminating responses.

He informed me that if I hadn’t backed out, I’d start selling drugs. He went on to say that if I hadn’t left, I would have brought people into the business and begun making money from them. He asked me to return and ignore what happened between the team leader and me.

When I narrated my experience with Segun to a friend, he said if Segun could apply his determination and efforts in networking to genuine enterprises, he would undoubtedly become successful and better.

Not yet a bad bye?

I didn’t block Segun. I would put my phone on airplane mode anytime I wasn’t ready to talk to him. If Gbenga phones me today, he will be begging or advising me to join the drug networking company. Who begs or forces someone to run a profitable business? Is Gbenga truly a wonderful man who encourages me to pursue the same business that did not bring him success? Is I merely a target that he didn’t want to miss? Hopefully, I will receive answers one day.

The post ‘Appeal, dispute, N50000 form, deception, …’: Undercover as a job seeker (II) appeared first on WITHIN NIGERIA.

A funeral invitation obtained by WITHIN NIGERIA showed that the Bepo-Aromolaran royal family, in collaboration with the Ijesa Traditional Council, has planned a celebration of the late Oba Adekunle Aromolaran‘s life of service on November 23 and 24, 2024.

In a press statement issued by the Owa-in-Council and Agba Ijesas as seen on TheNation, it was revealed that the late Oba Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran II will be laid to rest on December 14 and 15, 2024.

Findings by WITHIN NIGERIA, Prince Adeola Aromolaran, the first son of the late Owa-Obokun of Ijesaland, supports the dates of December 14 and 15, 2024 picked by the Owa-in-Council and Agba Ijesa.

It was also gathered that the late Oba Aromolaran’s third wife, some sons and daughters of the late king, such as Prince Adebiyi Aromolaran, Prince Adegoke Aromolaran, Princess Adetayo Aluko nee Aromolaran, and others, as well as other prominent members of the Bepo-Aromolaran royal family, support November 23 and 24, 2024.

However, additional findings by WITHIN NIGERIA disclosed that the Agba Ijesas, who number 28, are badly divided into two caucuses: one caucus supports November 24 and 25, 2024, while the other supports December 14 and 15, 2024.

When contacted by WITHIN NIGERIA, a renowned Ijesa chief who prefers anonymity revealed that tradition requires the entire Ijesaland to observe a mandatory 90-day mourning period before determining the date of final burial.

A check by WITHIN NIGERIA also revealed that the late Oba Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran was declared dead on September 12, 2024.

As of November 23, a date chosen by the Bepo-Aromolaran royal family in collaboration with Owa-in-Council, the days of mourning totaled 72, 18 days less than the customary 90 days of mourning.

Some Ijesa chiefs tagged the family’s decision to choose November 23 and 24, 2024 for final burial as a gross violation of tradition and cultural procedure.

However, the actual 90 days of mourning would end on Wednesday, December 11, 2024.

“The decision of Prince Adeola and some Agba Ijesas to pick December 14 and 15, 2024 is accurate and in tandem with the traditions” , an Ilesa chief stated.

When asked if Ijesa chiefs and some kings from neighboring towns in Ijesaland who would attend the November 23 and 24, 2024 ceremony were unaware of the mandatory 90 days of mourning before final burial for any deceased Owa, the chief responded that all attendees who are traditional chiefs in Ilesa or kings from neighboring towns within Ijesaland are fully aware of the 90 mourning days.

“The situation is more of a family issue than a community concern. The family’s disagreements could not help the community achieve an accord. The first son not really known or publicly associated with late Owa and the rest of the family do not get along well, which is why the dates differ. However, the real date for the final burial of Late Oba Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran should be after December 11, 2024, when the 90-day period of mourning is over,” the chief noted.

The post One king, two dates, two funerals: How Ijesas will bid farewell to Oba Aromolaran appeared first on WITHIN NIGERIA.

When you revere your ori (head), you allow it to boost spiritual forces and protect you from dangers and external invasion. ‘Ori’ is worshipped to deliver one from peril and profound trouble. We also worship ‘ori’ to hasten our route to greatness. Ori serves as a go-between for a man or woman and the divinity they worship. Ori also represents the physical body in the spiritual realm. Your ‘ori’ is your own divinity who governs your life in accordance with the wants of the divinities who exist to serve the broad public benefit.

Ori serves as God’s primary means of communication with people. Ori depicts the fate selected by everyone of us at birth. We should not rush to give names to newborns. The name is the label of destiny or identity stapler. We must use our knowledge of Ifa to provide suitable names for possible intercession.

Ori is simply destiny. Oruko is a label for or to one’s destiny. Ori is more than just a chamber for the brain; it also houses one’s spiritual intuition. It is more than just a reflection of human consciousness; it also indicates one’s reward system. If you use all of the energy that your ori is against, you will suffer differently. If you perform anything with little or no energy that your ori supports, you will have a different experience.

Ori ni eja fi n labu, ori eku ni fi la igbo – I hold my head and pray that it would not work against me. Ori, I ask you to constantly bring me blessings. Ori, as a divinity notion, is essential to men’s activity. When I look at Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa and how he became Ondo governor, I see a guy whose success was echoed by his ori (head) and oruko (name). Since the creation of the state in 1976, 19 people have served as governor, 12 military governors and 7 civilian governors. Ayedatiwa has joined the list of privilege persons who served the Sunshine state.

Aiyedatiwa, a native boy from Obe Nla, an Ilaje community, is now Ondo State’s governor. Lucky denotes fortune. Orimisan translates to “my head is good.” Aiyedatiwa means “we inherited the world.” He did not only bear these names, but they also reflected in his life. When you read about his early life and how he began his profession as a shop officer and teacher, you will realize that there are truly exceptional people who have experienced and continue to enjoy privileges.

He attended Saint Peter’s UNA Primary School, Obe Nla/Obe Adun, in Ilaje, Ondo State. He traveled to Lagos and completed his secondary education at Ikosi High School in Ketu. From 1982 to 1983, he worked as an Inventory/Store Officer at Scoa Assembly Plant Plc in Apapa, Lagos. He later attended Lagos State College of Education (now Adeniran Ogunsanya College of Education) at Ijanikin, where he earned a Nigeria Certificate of Education (NCE) in Economics and Government. In 1987, he was Assistant Head Teacher at Reliance International Schools in Ijokodo, Ibadan.

He became Marketing Officer at Universal Pharmaceutical Supply Co. Ltd, Ikeja, Lagos in the year 1990. In 1992, he was an Assistant Investment Analyst. Global Trust Limited, Gbagada, Lagos, he was General Merchandise Manager, Biz Mart Nigeria Limited, Lagos Island, Lagos, 1994.

He became the MD/CEO of Blue Wall Group of Companies which he established in 1996 which includes; Blue Wall Nigeria Ltd, a Trading Company, Blue Wall BDC Nigeria Ltd, a Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) licensed foreign exchange trading company and Blue Wall Safety Travels and Tours, an IATA licensed Travel Agency and Logistic Company.

He later attended University of Ibadan for Advanced Diploma in Business Administration in the year 2001. He also obtained Post Graduate Certification in Chief Executive Education (CEP) in Business Management at Lagos Business School – Pan Atlantic University, Lekki, Lagos. In 2013, he obtained a Master’s Degree in Business Administration (MBA) from University of Liverpool, United Kingdom.

In 2011, Ayedatiwa entered active politics as a member of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), which later combined with other political organizations to become the All Progressive Congress (APC). He was one of Ondo State’s National Delegates at the 2014 All Progressive Congress (APC) National Convention in Abuja. He ran for the federal House of Representatives for the Ilaje / Ese-Odo Federal Constituency in the 2015 Presidential and National Assembly General Elections. From 2018 to 2019, Aiyedatiwa was the federal commissioner representing Ondo State on the Niger Delta Development Commission’s Board.

Late Akeredolu and his deputy, Agboola Ajayi, had a disagreement that turned into a power struggle. Ajayi confronted the late Akeredolu. He informed Akeredolu that he was elected in the same election as the late governor. He told late Akeredolu that as a lawyer, he must not violate the constitution. After a protracted battle, Agboola completed his time as deputy governor. He confronted the man he calls boss and eventually left the APC for the PDP. Ayedatiwa filled the vacuum created by his exit.

The late Akeredolu did not miss Agboola Ajayi. He swiftly chose Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa as his campaign mate for the 2020 Ondo State governorship election. The Independent National Electoral Commission confirmed on October 11, 2020, that Akeredolu and Aiyedatiwa were elected governor and deputy governor of Ondo State respectively. He was entirely devoted to him. He allowed the late Akeredolu to act like the boss he is. He didn’t question his decision. He warmed late Akeredolu’s heart by revealing that the latter was unaware that he had hoped for Ayedatiwa to succeed him as governor.

On February 25, 2021, they were sworn in as governor and deputy governor of Ondo State, respectively. They both enjoyed working together until illness undermined their skills and capacity. Akeredolu grew so ill that he had to manage Ondo State from his home in Ibadan. Unfortunately, Akeredolu passed away. The brave hunter did not return from his hunting trip. Following Akeredolu’s death, Aiyedatiwa became the acting governor of Ondo State.

He finished Akeredolu’s second term in office. He also tossed his hat into the ring. According to Ayedatiwa, he contested because he wants to fulfill the late Akeredolu’s aspirations and succeed him. He competed against major APC hopefuls before being elected flagbearer. Despite how difficult the APC primary was, all disgruntled parties, including Jimoh Ibrahim, Akeredolu’s close confidant, were able to reconcile difficulties. They banded together to form a cohesive entity.

Agboola Ajayi, a former deputy governor and late Akeredolu’s running mate in the 2016 Ondo governorship election, also entered the race. He ran for the Peoples Democratic Party’s ticket and defeated other aspirants in the party. Olusegun Mimiko, the state’s previous governor, among others, left the party, while others decided not to contribute. Ajayi was unable to mobilize enough resources to unseat Ayedatiwa, a sitting governor, and, more importantly, he was unable to overcome the internal conflict raging within the Peoples Democratic Party, or PDP.

On 17th of November, 2024, the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, declared the candidate of All Progressives Congress (APC), Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa as the winner of Saturday’s governorship election in the state. Aiyedatiwa polled 366,781 votes while his closest rival, Ajayi Agboola polled 117,845 votes. He defeated his closest rival, Ajayi with 248,936 votes. Ayedatiwa will be the first politician or gubernatorial candidate to defeat his closest rival with 248,936 votes since 1999.

If you comprehend the significance and spiritual interpretation of his names, you won’t be astonished by the political game that took place in Ondo state. There are some people with whom you cannot compete and win. It is divinely scripted in this manner. If you marry them, they will take the lead. If you give them work, they may take over. If you are ahead of them in terms of career or status, they will eventually replace or lead you. Like Aiyedatiwa, Like Good luck Jonathan.

May the people of Ondo enjoy themselves and Orimisan Aiyedatiwa succeed.

Sodiq Lawal Chocomilo writes from Osogbo, the capital of Osun State.

The post From teacher to shop officer to Ondo Governor: Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s long road to Alagbaka House appeared first on WITHIN NIGERIA.

As many tributes and condolence messages as there were, they could not match the spirit of the grieving people of Ilobu, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja’s hometown. They only desired their son. I saw a video where relatives of the late COAS were interviewed. If you don’t become emotional while watching the video, you can watch the killing of humans without being moved. It was a public outpouring of anguish.

I felt absolutely dejected after watching the video. I felt bitter and sad. His relatives did not help matters either. They cried scorching tears. They may have heard that tears bring relief, yet the more they cry, the deeper their anguish grows. They were utterly overcome by the heartbreaking and enormous loss.

When it was time for the Lagbajas’ family head to speak, he looked down as if he had lost everything and apologized profusely for collecting army recruits for Taoreed Lagbaja. A man who died while serving as Chief of Army Staff, the highest military position in the country. That is how death affects human thoughts. It occasionally denies humans the right to celebrate their lifetime achievements.

They didn’t let anything soothe them. The tributes, condolence notes, including Yoruba elders’ comments, and scriptures were ineffective in comforting them. Trees of value rarely stay in the forest for long, and the holy often pass away before their time. [Igi tó tọ́ kì í pẹ́ n’ígbó / a ti mú àwọn olódodo lọ láti yọ wọ́n kúrò nínú ibi]. Yorubas use powerful words to encourage bereaved people to come out of their corners. Unfortunately, none worked for the Lagbaja family.

Who would want a son of motor seller who ascended from captain to commander of Africa’s strongest army to die? I understand the anguish of Lagbaja’s relatives. Losing someone you admire or love is a pain that does not go away. We should allow them to mourn their loved one, but I’ve never read that tears mend damaged souls. Tears weakened the body, completing the soul’s destruction. The tragic death of Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja is a great loss for everyone.

As we grieve the loss of Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, one of the best soldiers to ever live, we must acknowledge his contributions to the Nigerian military. He valiantly served his beloved country until his death. He was an outstanding army chief who fought terrorism, insurgency, and banditry. During his term as Chief of Army Staff, the country experienced the lowest number of casualties in its war against insecurity. He was a gracious man who respected loyalty, commitment, and discipline. For Taoreed Lagbaja, service is a call he can not ignore. 

As the body of Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja is lowered into the earth where we will all die, I remove my cap and salute the great general who was a loving husband, a responsible father, a good son, a prominent Ilobu native, and the ever-valiant COAS of the greatest army in Africa. Rest in power, Lt. Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja. 

The post Taoreed Lagbaja: Remembering Ilobu-born son of a motor dealer who became the 23rd Chief of Army Staff in Nigeria appeared first on WITHIN NIGERIA.

 These road projects are namely; construction of Oke-Iyin-Bepo-Oke-Ese-Akata-Ayeso 1.1km road and construction of INEC-Osogbo/Ilesa road with spur to Alhaji Olasupo/Bonke-Coca-Cola road 1.5km.

Residents and stakeholders in these communities have also complained about the neglect of these roads, stating that contractors have abandoned them and that they haven’t seen workers on site for over two weeks.

A resident, simply identified as Afolabi, expressed his concern over the neglect of Oke-Iyin-Bepo-Oke-Ese-Akata-Ayeso 1.1km road.

He told WITHIN NIGERIA that the government should order the contractor to finish the job. 

According to Afolabi, the contractor’s abandonment of the road project has had a significant impact on local businesses.

People are unable to move freely. Traders and kiosk owners would not be patronized as expected by their customers because it would require more effort to travel the route, said a concerned Afolabi.

Findings by WITHIN NIGERIA revealed that the 1.5km and 1.1km roads were commissioned in June 2024. 

When this reporter visited one of the abandoned road projects in Ayeso, he noticed a signpost with information about the client, contractor, and supervising agency for the 1.1-kilometer road project.

According to the signpost, the 1.1km road was awarded to a construction firm, F. OTOT COY Limited, located at No.1 Motigbenajo Crescent, Oroki Housing Estate, Osogbo, with supervision provided by the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, Osogbo, and the Works Department of Ilesa West Local Government.

The reporter noticed that only the drainage for the 1.1km road had been completed, while the main road had not been graded or tarred. Some parts of the road appear ‘hilly’ due to the failure to level extra sand during gutter digging.

Bimbo, a petty trader grumbled vehemently to the reporter about the 1.1 km road construction delay.

She explained how her sales had plummeted dramatically as a result of the road work. 

Bimbo, who agreed that the completion of the road would undoubtedly increase her market sales, wondered why it is taking the construction firm so long to complete the project.

They have not graded the roadway. They haven’t tarred it. Some of the drainage needs to be repaired. They began working on the road five months ago and it has yet to be completed. Bimbo exclaimed fiercely, “A 1.1-kilometer road.” 

When this reporter visited an expansion of a 1.5-kilometer road project in Bonke Quarters, he discovered that it had also been abandoned too. He spotted a signpost indicating that the project had been granted to BENLAD MULTILINKS LTD, which is located at No. 33, Oduola Street, Ayetoro, Osogbo, and that the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, as well as the Works Department of Ilesa West Local Government, were supervisory agencies.

Some of the road had been graded when this reporter visited Bonke quarters. There were no site workers present, but a road grader could be seen parked in front of a building not far from Hylte Hotel.

The reporter discovered that the road grader had been sitting at the site for weeks. Culverts that had been demolished during drainage work were also completely abandoned.

Sanya, a medical practitioner, encouraged the lawmaker representing Ilesa East State Constituency, who lives in Bonke Quarters, to utilize his authority to compel the contractor to finish the road construction.

According to Sanya, any culverts leading to adjacent residential areas that were damaged during construction should be fixed once the road has been tarred.

“Harmattan is already around the corner. We are pleading with the Governor and contractor to assist us in completing this road for the sake of petty traders whose stores are located beside the abandoned road, as well as their children who would be playing in the dust,” Sanya stated.

The post Residents decry neglect of road projects in Ilesa appeared first on WITHIN NIGERIA.

The army chief’s death was officially revealed on Wednesday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, in a press statement titled ‘Announcement of the Passing of Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja.

According to Onanuga, Lagbaja died on Tuesday night in a hospital in Lagos.

Onanuga’s statement further revealed that Lagbaja displayed expected leadership and devotion during his service as a platoon commander in the 93 and 72 Special Forces Battalions.

He further stated that Lagbaja was instrumental in a number of internal security operations, including Operation ZAKI in Benue State, Lafiya Dole in Borno, Udoka in Southeast Nigeria, and Operation Forest Sanity in Kaduna and Niger States.

According to findings by WITHIN NIGERIA, Lt. Lagbaja’s untimely death would mark the third time in history that a Chief of Army Staff would die while in office.

Here are brief details of ex-Chiefs of Army Staff who died in office:

JOSEPH AKAHAN

Joseph Akahan, born on April 12, 1937, was a Nigerian military officer who served as the Chief of Army Staff from May 1967 until May 1968. Akahan was named Chief of Army Staff in May 1967, shortly before the Nigerian Civil War began. He was killed in a helicopter crash during Nigeria’s civil war. He was succeeded as COAS by General Hassan Katsina.

Akahan was an indigene of Gboko Local Government Area of Benue State. He attended Government College Keffi where he obtained his Cambridge School Certificate (1952–1956). He trained as an officer cadet at the RWAFF Training School Teshi, Ghana (1957–1958) and the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, United Kingdom (1958–1960). He was commissed on 23 July 1960.

He was said to be the brain behind the concept of the sea-borne operations led by Lt. Colonel Benjamin Adekunle that captured Bonny in July 1967. The popular Joe Akahan Barracks is named after him. The Barrack is located in Makurdi, capital of his home state, Benue. [Wikipedia].

ATTAHIRU IBRAHIM

Attahiru Ibrahim, a Nigerian military commander born on August 10, 1966, served as Chief of Army Staff from January 28, 2021 to May 21, 2021. He was killed along with ten others in the 2021 NAF Beechcraft B300 King Air 350, which crashed near Kaduna International Airport while attending the Passing out Parade of 80RRI in Depot Nigerian Army on May 22, 2021.

The Doka [Kaduna] native was a graduate of the Nigerian Defence Academy, Armed Forces Command and Staff College, and Nigerian Army School of Infantry. He commenced officer cadet training in January 1984 and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in December 1986 as an Infantry Officer.

He held a master’s degree in Strategic Management and Policy Studies from the Nigerian Defence Academy. He also attained a Masters of Science in Human Resources Management and Development from Salford University in the United Kingdom and a Graduate Diploma in International Studies from the University of Nairobi.

TAOREED LAGBAJA

Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, born February 28, 1968, was a Nigerian military commander who served as the Chief of Army Staff of Nigeria from June 2023 until November 2024. He assumed control from Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya.

Lagbaja was born in the town of Ilobu in Irepodun, present day Osun State on 28 February 1968. He spent his early life in Osogbo where he attended the St Charles Grammar School and Local Authority Teachers College.

He was admitted into the Nigerian Defence Academy in 1987 as a member of the 39th Regular Course. He was commissioned as a second lieutenant on 19 September 1992 into the Nigerian Infantry Corps. Between 1992 and 1995, Lagbaja was platoon commander of the 93 Battalion.

From 1995 to 2001, he was platoon commander of 72 Special Forces Battalion. In 2001, Lagbaja obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Geography from the Nigerian Defence Academy. He studied Strategic Studies at the US Army War College at the Master’s level.

Lagbaja participated in Operation HARMONY IV in Bakassi Peninsula; United Nations Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUC); Operation ZAKI Internal Security Operation in Benue State; Operation “Lafiya Dole”; Operation MESA/Operation UDO KA – March 2021 – August 2022 – Internal Security Operation in South-east Nigeria (Anambra/Abia/Ebonyi/Enugu and Imo States); and Operation “Forest Sanity” – Aug 2022 to 2023 – Internal Security Operation in Kaduna/Niger states.

The post From Akahan to Taoreed Lagbaja: Chiefs of Army Staff Who Died in Office Since 1960 appeared first on WITHIN NIGERIA.

The Yoruba cinema industry has suffered a great blow. Abdulsalam Sanyaolu, also known as ‘Charles Olumo’ or ‘Agbako, has taken his final bow. Agbako, a living icon in Nollywood who worked towards the survival and significance of the industry, died on October 31st, 2024, at the age of 101. The Nollywood celebrity, who had survived numerous missiles from the grim reaper, was lowered to the ground, signaling the end of an era.

As we grieve the loss of Charles Olumo, we must remember that he earned his reputation as one of Nollywood’s most enduring figures. His life and legacy are exceptional, and they serve as a source of inspiration and resonance for aspiring actors as they strive for excellence. The story of Charles Olumo, a young underprivileged boy from Owode village in Ogun State who rose to stardom was inspiring.

Charles Olumo paid the price for stardom. His path through adversity as a poor village boy who learnt repairing of cars in a city where he knew no one and refused to be discouraged was a fantastic example of tenacity. He regarded hurdles and adversity as fuels for success, which turned him into a wonderful actor that has graced our screens for years.

From stage plays to home videos, Olumo was a superb actor who worked hard to portray his character. He became well-known for his unusual portrayals of strong, often severe characters in Yoruba films, garnering him the nickname “Agbako”. Olumo’s dedication to his art and the genuineness with which he approached his roles earned him acclaim and served as an inspiration to young actors.

He earned the nickname ‘Agbako’ for his nasty parts in films. He was better renowned as an evil henchman in films, a role he played with style, grace, and grit. Oluomo was unquestionably the bad man of the Nigerian film business, rising to prominence as the most identifiable antagonist in Yoruba cinema and the most sought-after. If Charles Olumo weren’t portraying a witch doctor, he’d be a henchman known for mischievous and aggressive performances.

Charles Olumo emerged as the principal antagonist in almost every Yoruba film. He was at the height of his career in the 1990s and early 2000s, playing nasty roles with sinister characters and gaining acclaim for his performances. Olumo was a kind-hearted and friendly man in real life, while being demanding and severe, but the character he portrayed in movies prevented people from getting close to him. 

EARLY LIFE

Abdulsalam Sanyaolu better known as Charles Olumo was born in Egba-Owode, a village in Ogun State. 

EDUCATION LIFE

He attended a public school for his primary education in Egba-Owode, Ogun. He also attended Lisabi Grammar School in Abeokuta, Ogun State for his secondary education. 

MARITAL LIFE

Charles Olumo was married to several women. He also has a lots of children. He was also rumored to have dated mother of popular Fuji musician, Wasiu Alabi Pasuma. 

CAREER

He did not pursue his education at his dream university, the University of Ibadan. He learned mechanics and practiced at Lagos‘ Tinubu Square for a period. According to reports, he befriended a bunch of performers and quickly became a popular with them due to his lively and hilarious demeanor.

He was an unintentional actor who replaced a lead actor after falling out with the director. This unforeseen opportunity launched his acting career, and he never looked back. He later created the Charles Olumo Theatre, which was filled with Ogun State people. With this company, he participated in a variety of plays and performances, launching a career that would last nearly seven decades.

However, some accounts reported that Charles Olumo became interested in acting after visiting the Apostolic Church in Mushin. He saw a theatrical rehearsal and realized he has a strong urge to act. He began his acting career, and his inherent charisma and ability to entertain swiftly gained him a spot among the performers.

DEATH

Salam Sanyaolu better known as Charles Olumo died on the morning of Thursday, 31st October 2024, at the age of 101. 

According to reports, Olumo felt slightly tired, took a nap and never woke up.

The post Charles Olumo Agbako: Remembering ‘local mechanic’ turned ‘celebrated evil henchman’ in movies who died at 101 appeared first on WITHIN NIGERIA.

The lawmaker reportedly slapped the driver three times and insulted him for asking him to come to his car to collect what he (the driver) was there to deliver.

Alex, a member of the House of Representatives, reportedly threatened to make the driver disappear from Nigeria, claiming that nothing would happen if he did. The lawmaker also allegedly shattered the driver’s phone and tore his clothes for disrespecting him.

Rights groups, as well as other Nigerians, including human interest lawyers, criticized the incident and urged that Abia legislator Alex Ikwechegh be arrested and prosecuted.

Barely 12 hours after the video went viral, the Nigeria Police Force arrested the lawmaker and advised the people not to use the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun’s name or office to intimidate others. They also stated that the incident is under investigated.

In a press statement issued on Monday, the lawmaker publicly apologized for attacking Stephen Abuwatseya, an Abuja e-hailing driver who brought a gift to him at his apartment in Abuja on Sunday. He also described his actions as disgraceful.

On Tuesday, the House of Representatives announced an investigation into Alex Ikwechegh, a member representing Aba South/Aba North Federal Constituency, who was arrested and questioned for assaulting Uber driver Stephen Abuwatseya.

Alex Ikwechegh, a House of Representatives member representing Aba North and South, was granted bail of ₦500,000 by a Kuje Magistrates‘ Court on Wednesday.

WITHIN NIGERIA learnt that Ikwechegh was charged with three counts of abuse of office, assault, and threat to life after the Inspector General of Police alleged that he assaulted a Bolt driver, Stephen Abuwatseya, outside his Abuja home.

Here are 13 things you probably didn’t know about Alex Ikwechegh, the federal lawmaker who slapped a Bolt driver:

• Alex Ifeanyi Mascot Ikwechegh is Nigerian politician and businessman
• He is a native of Igbere, Bende Local Government Area, Abia State, Nigeria
• His father, Mascot Ukandu Ikwechegh was a businessman.
• His mother, Eunice Uzaru Ikwechegh was a trader.
• He attended Constitution Crescent School, Abia State for his primary education.
• He attended to Hope Waddell Training Institution for his secondary education
• He graduated with a degree in business management from the University of Calabar.
• He is a former Local Government Chairman in Aba North, Abia State, Nigeria.
• He established the Alex Ikwechegh Foundation, which provides educational support and relief items to Nigeria’s underprivileged and victims of social, artificial, and natural calamities.
• Ikwechegh received a chieftaincy title as Nkuma Dike Igbo Amaghi by Eze Igbo Ikeja, Lagos State, Nigeria
• In 2018, he received the Ndigbo Times Merit Award.
• In October 2024, Ikwechegh was arrested by the Nigerian police for allegedly assaulting a Bolt driver in Abuja while refusing to pay for a delivery service.
• He also threatened to make the Bolt driver disappear from the entire Nigeria and nothing would happen.

The post Meet Alex Ikwechegh, a federal lawmaker who slapped Bolt driver over ‘package delivery’ appeared first on WITHIN NIGERIA.

President Tinubu recently fired some ministers, causing controversy in some parts of the country. Each President, from Olusegun Obasanjo to Umaru Yar’Adua, Goodluck Jonathan, Muhammadu Buhari, and Bola Tinubu, has a history of dismissing ministers during their tenure.

A check by WITHIN NIGERIA reveals that 23 ministers have been ousted or sacked since the reinstatement of civil administration in 1999.

Here is a list of previous Ministers dismissed since 1999, along with the reasons for their dismissal:

FABIAN OSUJI

Fabian Ngozichukwu Chinedum Osuji was a Nigerian politician who served as an associate professor at the University of Ibadan’s Department of Zoology from 1973 until 1981. He served as Nigeria’s Federal Minister of Education from July 2003 until March 2005.

He was fired by President Olusegun Obasanjo in March 2005 after being indicted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for reportedly proposing N55 million ($400,000) in bribery to the National Assembly to adopt an inflated budget.

According to the article, Osuji allegedly bribed the head of the Senate and six other members of the National Assembly to ensure the smooth approval of his yearly budget.

PROF. ADENIKE GRANGE

Professor Adenike Grange is a Nigerian pediatrician. In 2007, she became the first female minister of health. She was dedicated to improving healthcare delivery in Nigeria, lowering maternity fatalities and disease rates among vulnerable populations.

She was arrested on the orders of President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua for handling 300 million naira in unspent monies. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) investigated her and brought her to trial.

She and Gabriel Aduku, the then-minister of state in the Ministry of Health, bowed to criticism and abruptly left President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua’s government over a N300 million scam.

Grange claims that her directors misled her. The President reportedly requested that all unspent funds in the budget be returned, but they were purportedly distributed as incentives to Health Ministry officials.

MICHEAL AONDOAKAA

Michael Kaase Aôndoakaa, SAN, is Nigeria’s former Justice Minister and Attorney General. In 2007, he was appointed by late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua.

However, he was deposed in a political power struggle by Goodluck Jonathan, who served as acting president in 2010.

BARTH NNAJI

Bartholomew Nnaji is a Nigerian engineer, innovator, and one of the originators of the E-Design concept. He was Minister of Power under President Goodluck Jonathan’s government.

According to sources, Nnaji was tactically pushed to retire after a barrage of charges linking him to attempts to undermine the bidding process for the sale of the Afam Power Plant.

However, sources claim that President Jonathan asked the minister to retire rather than be fired in order to rescue his administration from the massive embarrassment that such an action would cause.

BUKAR TIJANI – BUKAR

Bukar Tijani-Bukar is a former Minister of State for Agriculture during Jonathan’s tenure as President.

He was sacked from office by former President Goodluck Jonathan in September 2013. According to reports, he was a victim of cabinet overhaul.

OLUSOLA OBADA

Olusola Obada is a lawyer and former Minister of State for Defence from 2011 to 2012.

According to reports, she was sacked alongside eight other ministers in a major reshuffle in September 2013. Unconfirmed sources claimed that she was a victim of intensive powerplay and cabinet overhaul.

ZAINAB IBRAHIM KUCHI

Hajiya Zainab Ibrahim Kuchi is a former Minister of State for Power and Niger Delta Affairs from 2011 to 2013 respectively.

According to reports, she was inadvertently sacked as Minister during a FEC meeting alongside eight others in a major reshuffle during the Jonathan led administration.

AMAL IYINGIALA PEPPLE

Amal Iyingiala Pepple is a former Minister of Housing, Land, and Urban Development. President Jonathan dismissed her during a significant cabinet reshuffle. She was a casualty of a cabinet reform aimed at ensuring political stability.

RUQAYYATU AHMED RUFAI

Ruqayyatu Ahmed Rufai is a former Minister of Education. She was the first female education minister from the northern part of Nigeria.

According to reports, she was dismissed during a major cabinet reshuffle by President Goodluck Jonathan in 2013.

SHAMSUDEEN USMAN

Shamsudeen Usman is a former Minister of National Planning. He was appointed as Minister by late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua. He was the longest-serving cabinet member.

According to reports, he was dismissed during a major cabinet reshuffle by President Goodluck Jonathan.

YERIMA NGAMA

Yerima Ngama is a former Minister of State for finance. He was appointed as a Minister by President Goodluck Jonathan.

According to reports, he was sacked as the Minister for finance. However, Ngama had declared his ambition to rule Yobe State in 2015.

CALEB OLUBOLADE

Caleb Olubolade is a former Minister of Police Affairs. He was appointed as Minister by President Goodluck Jonathan.

He was dismissed by President Jonathan in a surprise major cabinet reshuffle.

Olubolade was reportedly dismissed as a Minister to enable him to pursue his gubernatorial interests in Ekiti State.

STELLA ODUAH

Stella Oduah is a former Minister of Aviation. She was appointed by former President Goodluck Jonathan.

She was dismissed in February 2014 by former President Goodluck Jonathan over corruption allegations.

GODSDAY ORUBEBE

Godsday Orubebe is a former Minister of Niger Delta Affairs. He was appointed by President Goodluck Jonathan.

He was dismissed alongside three other ministers in 2014. According to reports, Orubebe was removed to pursue his interest in the Delta State governorship election in 2015.

SABO NANONO

Sabo Nanono is the former Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development. President Muhammadu Buhari fired him on September 1, 2021.

A source revealed that he was fired after constructing a mosque for N30 million for herders.

Another source revealed that Sabo Nanono was fired due to failings in Nigeria’s agriculture industry.

SALEH MAMMAN

Saleh Mamman was a former Minister of Power. President Muhammadu Buhari terminated him due to failed power agreements. According to reports, the departure was the result of cabinet reshuffle following a ‘independent and critical self-review,’ which helped reveal ‘weak spots’ in this government.

BETTA EDU

Betta Edu is a medical doctor and the former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction. President Tinubu suspended her over allegations of money laundering.

Edu became a national story after a memo surfaced in which she directed the Accountant-General of the Federation, Oluwatoyin Madein, to transfer N585 million to a private account owned by one Oniyelu Bridget, who the ministry claims currently serves as the Project Accountant, Grants for Vulnerable Groups.

She was initially suspended to allow for an investigation, but as of the time of making this report, she had not yet returned to work.

UJU KENEDY OHANENYE

Uju Kenedy Ohanenye is a former Minister of Women Affairs. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recently terminated her appointment as a Minister.

According to sources, Uju disrupted two ongoing events with visitors and participants because they had not been permitted by her ministry.

She reportedly filed a lawsuit against Abdulmalik Sarkindaji, the speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly, after he announced plans to marry off 100 orphaned girls in his state. She filed a petition with the Inspector-General of Police, or IGP, about the situation.

She also spoke with the House of Representatives Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development about the suspected theft of N1.5 billion intended for contractor payments.

These are situations as opined by many that likely contributed to her dismissal as a Minister of Women Affairs.

TAHIR MAMMAN

Tahir Mamman is a former Minister of Education. He was sacked by President Bola Tinubu.

Findings revealed that many situations such as controversial 18-year limit for writing senior school certificate examinations, inaccurate claims about the accreditation of universities in Benin Republic, mishandling foreign students’ participation in the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC scheme, age limit policy for universities among others were likely factors responsible for his dismissal.

LOLA ADE-JOHN

Lola Ade-John is an ICT expert and a former Minister of Tourism. She was appointed as a Minister on 16 August 2023. She assumed office on 21st August, 2023.

She was dismissed by President Bola Tinubu in a major cabinet reshuffle. Sources disclosed that she was sacked due to low or little gains in the Tourism sector.

DR. JAMILA BIO IBRAHIM

Jamila Bio Ibrahim is a medical doctor former Minister of Youth and Sports Development. She was appointed as a Minister by President Bola Tinubu.

She was dismissed by President Tinubu in a major cabinet reshuffle. According to sources, low performance in office led to her dismissal.

ABDULLAHI MOHAMMED GWARZ

Abdullahi Mohammed Gwarzo is a former Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development. He was appointed as a Minister by President Bola Tinubu.

He was sacked in a major cabinet reshuffle. Sources claimed that low performance in office led to his dismissal.

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