Category: Art and Culture

  • Africans must write more biographies of leaders — PAWA Secretary-General Okediran

    Africans must write more biographies of leaders — PAWA Secretary-General Okediran

    Dr. Wale Okediran, a Nigerian author and Secretary-General of the Pan African Writers Association (PAWA), has called for greater efforts to document the lives of African leaders and achievers.

    Speaking at the Toyin Falola Interviews panel on the theme Biography Writing: Promises and Perils, Okediran noted the lack of comprehensive biographies on key African figures.

    He highlighted that while global figures like J.F. Kennedy and Winston Churchill have numerous biographies, many notable Africans remain underrepresented in literary works. “There are countless Africans who have made significant contributions that should be documented,” he said.

    Okediran urged writers to explore the lives of not only political leaders but also intellectuals, activists, and everyday individuals whose stories reflect Africa’s triumphs and struggles.

    He emphasized that biographies inspire younger generations, shape national identity, and promote pride in African heritage. “When young Africans read about the challenges and successes of these figures, they learn about resilience and determination,” he added.

    Discussing the commercial potential, Okediran highlighted that biography writing remains an untapped market in Africa, despite its profitability globally. However, he stressed the importance of presenting balanced, truthful narratives rather than mere praise.

    Historian Professor Toyin Falola echoed these views, sharing the complexities biographers face when private details create conflicts with their subjects. “If you hide all the secrets in a biography, what then is left?” Falola asked.

    Egyptian author Mansoura Ez-Eldin emphasized the need to write about everyday people, arguing that such stories offer a more democratic approach to history. “Biographies aren’t just about leaders—they’re about human experiences that illuminate entire eras,” she noted.

    The panel concluded with a shared call for African nations to take ownership of their narratives and ensure the continent’s history is told authentically.

  • Ogun suspends traditional ruler over assault video

    Ogun suspends traditional ruler over assault video

    Ogun State Government on Monday placed Oba Abdulsemiu Ogunjobi, the Olorile of Orile-Ifo in the Ifo Local Government Area on a six-month suspension over what it called an “uncivil conduct”.

    In a video clip, an elderly man Areola Abraham was seen prostrating and subjected to verbal abuse and assault by the traditional ruler.

    Ganiu Hazmat, the state’s Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, disclosed in a statement in Abeokuta that Ogunjobi’s conduct was not befitting the status of a king.

    Hamzat explained that the government’s decision was in a bid to ensure the dignity of persons and the protection of the traditional institution’s sanctity.

    The commissioner noted that the decision was reached after the traditional ruler and his victim were invited to the Ministry for interrogation.

    He said their invitation became imperative as a result of the reckless utterances and public misconduct of the traditional ruler as evident in a viral video on social media.

    “After the investigation conducted on the matter, Oba Ogunjobi has been suspended. He has been stripped of the paraphernalia of the stool of Olorile of Orile-Ifo pending the determination of his culpability or otherwise in the matter,” Hamzat said.

    The commissioner said the decision was reached by the Ministry in conjunction with the Egba Traditional Council.

    “This was in accordance with Section 52(1) of the Obas and Chiefs’ Law of Ogun State 2021,” he said.

    Hamzat added that the state government would not condone acts of indignity on any of its residents by anybody, no matter how highly placed.

    Meanwhile, Ogun police spokesperson, CSP Omolola Odutola, said in a statement that the Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunlowo, ordered a thorough and discreet investigation into the matter.

    “The command will ensure that justice is served and members of the public will be abreast of relevant updates in due course,” the spokesperson said.

  • The Holocaust Remembrance Day Versus the Slavery Heritage

    The Holocaust Remembrance Day Versus the Slavery Heritage

    The world set aside January 27 every year as International Holocaust Remembrance Day to remember one of the worst human tragedies of all times. The holocaust was a systematic genocide against European Jew population during the second world war, carried out by the Nazi party of Germany as led by Adolph Hitler, the then chancellor and Fuhrer of Germany.

    To those who had never grasped the extent of the evil that was Nazi Germany and its hatred for Jews, the holocaust led to the persecution of about nine million Jews, leading to the forceful expulsion and relocation of hundreds of thousands from their homes into ghettos and the mass extermination of six million others, most of whom were innocent German, Polish and Russian Jews either rounded up and sent to  forced labour camps  to die from starvation, exhaustion, or used as guinea pigs for nefarious scientific experiments.

    Others were murdered in poisonous gas chambers and through mass shootings in several concentration camps across the German-occupied territories. These atrocities were against the back drop of the war in which Hitler and the Nazis sought to rule all of Europe and Russia in the quest for “living spaces” for the so-called “Aryan” race.

    That was the tragedy. The world rejected antisemitism, Nazism and its leader Hitler then and has continued to reject and condemn any form of profiling or discrimination directed at the Jew population anywhere as antisemitism. World leaders reserve the sharpest of criticisms for advocates of or perpetrators or supporters of such acts anywhere in the world. This situation of complete and absolute abhorrence for all forms of antisemitism is the upshot of the tragedy we have come to identify as the holocaust.

    The world has done better than condemn and halt the wrongful and evil persecution of the world population of Jews. The 1947 UN Partition Plan (Resolution 181) established the state of Israel, offering European Jews

    the option of being settled, rehabilitated and integrated in a homeland of their own. Till this date, I believe, the world community is still grappling with the high moral cost of creating modern Israel; millions of native Palestinians were displaced and the settler-colonial enterprise of successive governments of Israel has caused such atrocious conditions of civil rights and non-existent liberties for Palestinians that political activists the world over have called to question the assumption that the international community has treated all parties —sides— equally and fairly.

    It is often suggested that from surviving the pogrom through concerted global action, Jews in Israel have become the most privileged group of people in the world. The United States of America and the European Union nations bend backwards to support Israel in most of its critical endeavours of politics, development and wars and they often pick substantial portion of the bill, to boot. These most-influential nations of the world routinely provide development aid, trade advantages, and scientific research funding to Israel. Apart from being EU’s largest trade partner, Israel continues to enjoy preferential trade access to European markets.

    The foreign aid and capital flowing into the Israeli military industrial complex and commercial economy dwarfed that of other countries of similar size and political importance by far. Currently, the U.S. provides approximately $3.8 billion annually to Israel, in a 10-year MOU signed in 2016, making her the largest cumulative recipient of U.S. foreign aid. It is estimated that since 1948 the US has provided over $158 billion in bilateral assistance to Israel in military aid, primarily. It suffices to say that Israel could take its friendship with European countries and America for granted, and it might have done exactly so on occasions without consequences.

    All in all, the world has done well and good to have focused so extensively on the need of Jews and Israel to be, first, understood, resettled, and then pampered. To state the obvious, Israel’s right to be paid reparations —after the holocaust— in so many guises in past and current world scenarios is fully recognised, respected and evidently deferred to. Germany has paid reparations to Israel, under the 1952 Luxembourg Agreement, to the tune of over €70 billion till date. The last may not have been heard of further transfers. Nation States and races all over the world agree with the West that their sentiment of compassion and fair play towards Israel and its population is warranted. The global South has not begrudged Israel or its Jew population this privileged position.

    What the global South and the rest of the world is dismayed over is, why has the conscience of the international community refused to bear on an equally monstrous case of evil and global injustice predating 1944? Before the holocaust, there was a horrendous culture of man’s inhumanity to man that was perpetrated on Africans. Millions of Africans were forcefully removed from their homes and transported to faraway lands acquired by the West for commercial plantations with which they grew the wealth of their empires. Slave masters owned slaves, use them for creating wealth to tend their future and the future of their generations, and killed them —the slaves—off according to their whims. Holocaust was done to man after man, Africans after Africans in tens, hundreds and thousands when the white slave ship owners threw black slaves overboard for being worn weak, unhealthy and nonviable or simply to evade external scrutiny.

    How has such a horrendous case of injustice towards a well-known and easily identified people, perpetrated by subsisting circles of world influence and powers, been left unaddressed? Why has slavery, the dehumanisation of Africans for three hundred years, remained a case of an African heritage? Why is the world not acknowledging the need to, first, have a day set aside to remember never to forget, like the daywas allocated to remembering the holocaust?

    Why are Africans left to their means without the same level of compassionate interventions and reparations to prop their progress as a civilisation, knowing how much they were singularly targeted and dehumanized, killed in their millions, and traumatised out of their cultural depth. Their human essence was stolen from them for centuries, and the strongest of their youth castrated and used like common beasts of burden to grow the famed prosperity of the West.

    Let no one be mistaken, it is well acknowledged by renowned scholars the world over that the transatlantic slave trade and the holocaust have human cruelty and mass subjugation of the victim peoples in common. The two evils were similar in their severity of “dehumanisation, scale of suffering and global impact”. Yet, when the suffering, dehumanisation and intermittent genocide of over 300 years against Africans came to its slow and laborious end, freed slaves were segregated and scattered unceremoniously around the globe —of indiscriminate towns, cities, countries and continents— wherever the locals would endure them, without concerted heed to their need for protection or rehabilitation whatsoever. Exhausted bodies and traumatised souls were cut loose and pushed to go and fend for themselves in a world that had stripped them of dignity, personal relationships and left them and their forebears behind, materially and spiritually, for centuries.

    On the other hand, the suffering, dehumanisation of the Jews in Europe, as we have noted but not begrudged them, has earned them the modern state of privileged Israel, which has among others received €70 billion so far in reparations, $158 billion so far in foreign aid and bilateral assistance, and been granted subsisting preferential trade access to the biggest market blocks in the world.

    Why has the conscience of the West, which seemed to have served to address Israel’s existential disadvantages so well, been so muted or outrightly deadened when it comes to Africa’s development dilemma? In other words, why is the holocaust consequential on the modern treatment of and consideration

    dilemma? In other words, why is the holocaust consequential on the modern treatment of and consideration for Israel, but 300 years of slavery is completely effaced in the modern treatment, consideration and discussion of the African question and circumstance? Would it be racist to suggest that the life of children of one people or race, say in Europe or of Jews, is more worthy of support, protection and economic security than their counterpart in Africa?

    There were attempts in the past to make reparations for Africans, for the suffering in slavery, a cogent international concern. To back up calls for action, international scholar, W.R. Brock (1970s), estimated the value of enslaved Africans exported during the transatlantic slave trade to be over $2.5 trillion in today’s dollars. “Africana Studies Scholars,” using the value of unpaid labour and the intergenerational wealth disparities, recommended reparations of between $10 and $15 trillion.

    During the World Conference Against Racism in Durban, South Africa, 2001, activists and scholars were of the view that the cumulative cost of the slave trade and its consequences is in hundreds of trillions of dollars, owed to Africans who bore the brunt of slavery. Caribbean Reparation Commission (2013) calculated reparations estimate of $777 billion for “slavery, genocide, and colonialism in the Caribbean”. Authur Ta-Nehisi Coates in his argument for reparations (2014) referenced economists who estimated that reparations for African Americans alone could amount to between 6 trillion and $14 trillion.

    Late Chief MKO Abiola, of blessed memory, was shouting from the top of every roof his immense business and diplomatic clout provided him, and he was not shy of sounding hoarse on the topic of reparation for Africans as long as the attitude of those who should be accountable, who owed Africa the responsibility for redress, remained lukewarm. If the West, Europe and America, shelves its selective possession of ethical scruples and endeavour to quantify the stolen and misused human development capital from Africa during

    the years of slavery, pay a fraction of it back in reparation, Africa would stop being the poster child of global victimhood.

    As the most populous black nation on Earth, Nigeria through the UN ought to lead the clarion call today. The world needs to establish a day to remember never to forget slavery. It is not an African legacy. It was a culture of evil and shame that blighted humankind while it lasted; now, it is a global community problem how we allow the memory of that curse to shape the world’s restitution conduct towards Africa and Africans. We can all stop wondering why Africa is poor. As Walter Rodney’s book title “How Europe Underdeveloped Africa” suggested, our focus ought to have avoided all the distractions and stayed on primary point: what in God’s name are they —Europe and the collective West— ready to do about commensurate reparations for Africans? It is never too late to do the right thing.

  • Olu of Warri‘s aide decries attempt to tarnish monarch’s image

    Olu of Warri‘s aide decries attempt to tarnish monarch’s image

    Sole representative of the Olu of Warri to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited and its Joint Venture partners, NNPCL/JV partners, Prince Collins Edema, has dismissed as tissues of lies, allegations that a company under the Chairmanship of the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III was behind pipeline vandalism and illegal oil bunkering activities in Niger Delta.

    Addressing newsmen, yesterday at the palace of the Olu of Warri in Warri South Local Government Area, Delta State, Prince Edema said it was unfortunate that some persons could come up with such cheap, malicious and callous allegation to tarnish the image of a reputable monarch, contributing substantially to the growth and development of his kingdom, the Niger Delta and the nation at large.

    Flanked by the Palace Administrator, Samuel Omaebeyinje and Mr. Ben Eyitemi Eburajolo, Edema called on security operatives to unearth those behind the allegation and ensure they were dealt with in accordance with the law.

    He said: “False claims have surfaced, suggesting that a company under His Majesty’s chairmanship is sponsoring the vandalization of oil and gas pipelines/illegal oil bunkering in the Niger Delta. This accusation is not only false but a deliberate act of blackmail aimed at tarnishing the image of a king who has dedicated his reign to fostering peace, economic prosperity, and social progress for the Itsekiri people and the entire Niger Delta.

    “This is not just an attack on our monarch but an attack on the integrity of the Itsekiri Nation.

    “The Itsekiri people have always played a crucial role in the stability and economic advancement of Nigeria. These allegations seek to undermine not only our king’s reputation but also the contributions of our people.

    Such falsehoods will not be tolerated, and we demand an immediate retraction.”

    Edema further spoke glowingly of the monarch and Itsekiri nation, saying: “Since ascending the throne, His Majesty has been a pillar of peace and progress.”

    His leadership has been defined by wisdom, diplomacy and a commitment to well-being of his people. With a strong academic background and vast experience, he has worked tirelessly to promote unity, economic growth, and social development within Warri Kingdom and beyond.

    “His reign has been marked by significant efforts to strengthen relationships between Warri Kingdom and key stakeholders in the oil and gas sector, governmental bodies, and international investors. His shuttle diplomacy has attracted investment, promoted infrastructural development,
    and ensured that Warri remains a beacon of stability in the Niger Delta.

    “His Majesty has consistently advocated the protection of national assets, sustainable economic growth, and peaceful resolutions to conflicts. These core values are in direct contrast to the baseless accusations being leveled against him. It is inconceivable that a leader who has fought for peace and progress would engage in actions that threaten the economic lifeline of his own people and the nation at large.”

  • Mysterious tourism site discovered in Ekiti

    Mysterious tourism site discovered in Ekiti

    The Director General of Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, Mr Wale Ojo-Lanre, has expressed excitement over a mysterious tourism site discovered in Ayegbaju-Ekiti, Ekiti State.

    Ojo-Lanre, in a statement on Sunday, said the site was found by an engineer, Michael Ale, within an agro-tourism farm enclave owned by a discreet investor.

    According to him, Ale is an environmental development expert and a former president of the World Water Council in Paris.

    He described the site as a breathtaking ecotourism wonder and added that the tree is now known as ‘The Mystery of Ayegbaju’s Tree of Love.’

    “At the heart of this discovery is a fascinating natural spectacle—a ‘marriage’ between a tree and a palm tree, locked in an eternal embrace.

    “Unlike parasitic or saprophytic relationships often seen in nature, this bond is symbiotic—a profound lesson in resilience, unity, and coexistence.

    “The tree wraps itself around the palm in a tender yet firm embrace, akin to a devoted partner standing guard. Their roots intertwine deep into the earth, sustaining each other.

    “In a remarkable testament to their bond, even when fire ravaged the site, the tree bore the brunt of the flames, shielding its palm companion.

    “In an extraordinary turn of nature’s benevolence, the untouched palm tree nourished its charred counterpart, reviving it with water and nutrients—a true act of survival and solidarity.

    “Today, the burnt portions of the tree are sprouting new life, symbolising resilience and the power of unity,” he said.

    According to Ojo-Lanre, the most remarkable aspect of this mystery is that the trees have a mask-like formation resembling a head with distinct facial features—mouth, ears, and lips.

    He noted that there were lessons to be learnt from the trees.

    He said the site, a natural phenomenon, stands as an allegory for humanity—a powerful message that diversity should not divide but strengthen collective survival.

    “The tree and the palm remind us that through harmony, support, and shared endurance, we thrive together.

    “This is not just a sight to behold; it is an experience, a revelation, and an inspiration.

    “The mysterious Tree of Love in Ayegbaju-Ekiti is an invitation to reconnect with nature, witness its wonders, and draw wisdom from its silent teachings.

    “Ekiti’s tourism landscape continues to expand, offering yet another must-visit destination that showcases the state’s rich natural heritage and boundless potential,” he said.

  • Exploring the historical nexus of Igbo origin

    Exploring the historical nexus of Igbo origin

    Buchi Diboh’s “A History of Umueri Town” offers a compelling exploration of the cultural and historical significance of Umueri, an ancient town in southeastern Nigeria. Subtitled “The Historical Nexus of Igbo Origin, the book delves into the roots of the Igbo people, situating Umueri as a focal point of historical, social and cultural connections.

    One of the attractive things about this book is its detailed narrative which seems rooted in thorough research and a passion for preserving local history. Diboh’s writing balances academic rigor with accessible language, making it an excellent resource for both scholars and casual readers interested in African history. The inclusion of oral histories, folklore, and genealogical accounts enriches the narrative, painting a vivid picture of the life and legacy of Umueri people.

    Another standout feature of the book is its weaving together of oral traditions, archaeological insights and historical narratives. Diboh examines the settlement and dispersal of the Igbo people, shedding light on the socio-political developments and landmark legacies left by Umueri’s forebears. The author’s attention to the misconceptions and controversies surrounding Umueri’s history ensures a balanced and thought-provoking perspective.

    Moreover, the book’s focus on the interconnectedness of various Igbo groups is commendable. Diboh provides an in-depth analysis of the relationships between the Umueri, U”unri, and Umuigueedo clans, as well as the influence of neighboring Igala and Benin Kingdoms. This makes the book a valuable resource for understanding the cultural exchanges that have shaped the Igbo identity.

    Diboh’s work also stands out for its emphasis on the broader significance of Umueri in Igbo history. By tracing the town’s origins and its role in the migration patterns of the Igbo, the author contributes to a broader understanding of Igbo identity and heritage. The book also touches on the themes of unity, resilience and cultural preservation, which resonate beyond the specific context of Umueri. Also the inclusion of visual aids such as photographs helped to contextualize the described locations and events.

    While the book is rich in historical insight, readers may find some sections overly descriptive or repetitive. Like many works focusing on local history, the book might assume some prior knowledge of Igbo culture and traditions, which could pose a challenge to other readers unfamiliar with the region.

    For non-Igbo readers, a glossary of terms would have been helpful in aiding comprehension. This addition could have enhanced their understanding and engagement with the material.

    Nevertheless, The History of Umueri Town is a remarkable contribution to the documentation of Igbo history. It captures the essence of a community whose story is deeply intertwined with the broader narrative of southeastern Nigeria. Buchi Diboh’s effort to preserve and share this history is both commendable and inspiring.

    This 288-page book is a must-read for those passionate about African history, anthropology and the power of storytelling in preserving cultural identity. While it may have its minor shortcomings, its value as a historical resource far outweighs them. Diboh’s work is a testament to the richness of Igbo heritage and a call to appreciate the depth of local history.

  • Kano govt earmarks N2.5b for mass weddings

    Kano govt earmarks N2.5b for mass weddings

    Kano State government has earmarked N2.5 billion for mass weddings across its 44 Local Government Areas .
    Commissioner for Planning and Budget, Musa Shanono, said this while breaking down the state’s N719.7 billion budget for 2025.

    Shanono also said the sum of N4 billion was set aside for free education programme and N2.2 billion for free school feeding scheme.

    He said the education sector received N205.9 billion, which would represent 29 percent of the total budget.

    His words: “The proposed budget had a total size of N549, 1 billion as presented to the state House of Assembly. The House, in line with the provision of the law has gone into the processes of scrutiny, consultations and public hearing. The budget was passed into Law on Thursday, December 20, 2024, and assented by the governor on December 31, 2024. The 2025 approved budget has a total size of N719,7 billion , representing an increase of N170,595,000,000 equivalents of 31 per cent over what was initially submitted by His Excellency to the State House of Assembly. The Total Recurrent expenditure is N262.6 billion and the total capital expenditure is N457 billion.

    “The ratio of recurrent to capital expenditure is 36:64. The Budget is higher than 2024 by N282,4 billion which represents a 65 percent increase.

    The approved budget is above the state projected available resources as contained in the 2025 – 2027 Medium Term Expenditure Frameworks, MTEF, due to improvement of new Sources of Revenue from FAAC as a result of subsidy removal and other capital receipts.

    “The total approved Recurrent Revenue for the fiscal year 2025 budget stands at N617 billion consisting of N85.8 billion Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) and N531billion expected revenues from Federation Account Allocation Committee, FAAC, as against the 2024 Total recurrent revenue of N 379.7 billion. By extension, the 2025 recurrent revenue is higher than that of the year 2024 by 237 Million representing an increase of 62.5 percent. It is equally important to note that the projected Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) is less than that of 2024 by N16 billion representing 15.8 percent decrease. Capital receipts for the year 2025 stands at N73.7 billion While the Treasury Opening Balance is to the tune of N29 billion.

  • Colours, cultural performances mark India Republic Day

    Colours, cultural performances mark India Republic Day

    India’s 76th Republic Day celebration which held on Sunday at the India Consulate in Lagos, witnessed thrilling cultural performances and display of diverse cultures of the Indians.

    The event was attended by friends, business associates, a large number of Indians resident in Nigeria,  heads of foreign missions in the country, the Executive Governor of Abia State, Alex Oti; representatives of the Osun State governor and Deputy governor of Lagos State, as well as other eminent individuals.

    The celebration which was marked by several scintilating Indian cultural dances performed by some beautifully adorned young Indian girls, began with a cocktail while guests networked.

    When guests thought they had seen the best of entertainment, young Aisha stormed the stage, belting a song originally sung by an Indian freedom fighter, as though the song was written in a Nigerian language. Her voice which sounded like that of an Indian, coupled with her body movements, immediately earned her the moniker, black Indian. Some Indians who were conversant with the freedom fighter’s song, joined her at some point. Commendations kept pouring even after the loud ovation she received at the end of her performance.

    The celebration was not limited to the official activities as guests also indulged in traditional Indian cuisine at the end.

    The event which was a testament to the strong bonds between India and Nigeria and the vibrant Indian community living in Nigeria was a resounding success, marked by patriotism, culture, and community spirit.

    It was indeed a proud moment for Indians living in Nigeria and a celebration that would be remembered for a long time.

    In his opening remarks, the India Consul General, Chandramouli Kumar Kern, who expressed delight over the large turn out of guests,  narrated the essence of the commemoration of the India’s Republic Day celebration which according to him, served as a poignant reminder of the nation’s commitment to their cherished principles and ongoing journey towards a brighter future.

    His words, “As we celebrate our Republic Day, we reaffirm India’s identity as Vishwa Bandhu, a friend of the world.

    Today, we celebrate the adoption of the Indian constitution on January 25, 1950 and as our constitution completes 76 glorious years, we honor the visionaries who skillfully blended India’s ancient democratic principles.”

    He further spoke about India’s relationship with Nigeria in addition to successes recorded.

    “Let me bring to your notice that this past year has been a landmark in the bilateral relations between India and Nigeria. The historic state visit of the India Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi to Nigeria in November, 2024 set the tone for renewed collaboration. Wide ranging discussions between the leaderships reaffirmed the strategic partnership between our nations, with India sharing its expertise in poverty alleviation, technology, agriculture, fintech, defense, space and more.

    “Our business ties with Nigeria are vibrant and dynamic. India investments in Nigeria exceeds $27 billion, with over 150 Indian companies operating across key sectors. The synergy between Nigeria;s Renewed Hope Agenda under President Tinubu and India’s Vision for Viksit Bharat (Developed India) by  2047,provides a roadmap for accelerated development. As the world’s third largest renewable energy producer, India has installed over 46 per cent of its energy capacity from renewables as at October 2024, with ambitious goals of achieving 500 GW by 2030.

    Our diaspora embodies this spirit, adding value to our host countries through hard work and innovation. Also, India’s advancement in futuristic technologies, including AI Robotics, semiconductor manufacturing and space exploration, positioned us as a global innovation Hub. India stands 6th in terms of intellectual property fillings in the world,” Chandramouli stated.

    Also speaking, the Secretary to the Lagos State Government (SSG), Barrister Bimbola Salu- Hundeyin,  reaffirmed the state’s commitment to strengthening ties with India, highlighting the cordial relationship between the two entities.

    She commended the host for organising the event, noting the long standing friendship between the Consulate, the State and Nigeria in general which has been fostered through various diplomatic visits and collaborations over the years.

  • Sacred stool of Olu of Warri must be protected

    Sacred stool of Olu of Warri must be protected

    History has shown that those who betray their own people for temporary gain often end up discarded and forgotten, their fleeting rewards rendered meaningless in the end. What, then, did this individual truly gain from his disgraceful mission? A short-term contract? A handful of foreign currency? Was it worth the dishonor, the shame, and the permanent stain on his family’s name?

    The Itsekiri people must not, and cannot, remain silent in the face of such betrayal.

    The sacred stool of the Olu of Warri is not a commodity to be bartered, nor is it for sale to the highest bidder. Those who choose to serve external interests at the expense of their heritage must face the consequences-both from their people and from history.

    The ear that refuses to hear will eventually be struck by thunder, and the consequences of forsaking one’s heritage are not easily erased.

    We must also impart to the younger generation the importance of cultural pride, loyalty, and responsibility. The future of Warri Kingdom will not be secured by those who trade their birthright for personal gain but by those who stand firm in defense of their heritage. Dignity cannot be bought, and those who fail to grasp this truth will eventually find that ill-gotten wealth is always fleeting. The true worth of a man is not measured by what he acquires, but by what he upholds. The legacy of the Olu of Warri transcends any individual ambition and will endure long after the betrayals of today are forgotten.

    In the end, the fate of Warri Kingdom lies in the hands of its people-those who understand the true value of their heritage and the responsibility to protect it. Betrayal for personal gain may seem tempting in the short term, but it is the unwavering commitment to honor, unity, and respect for tradition that ensures a lasting legacy

    In an age when cultural heritage should be fiercely protected, it is utterly disheartening to witness a Warri son embark on a reckless mission to Switzerland-of all places-to publicly disgrace the sacred stool of the Olu of Warri. This audacious betrayal not only exposes the desperation of certain individuals but also lays bare the lengths to which some will go, willing to sell their dignity and forsake their people for a fleeting reward. No amount of denial could obviate what has been done. When someone cried in the night and in the dawn someone died, we need not look further for the culprit.

    What could possibly justify such an affront? The answer is as shameful as it is predictable: greed and blind ambition

    n. The Niger Delta, long a battleground for control and power, has attracted opportunists eager to exploit internal rifts. In this case, the promise of an oil surveillance contract lured a son of Warri to betray his own heritage. Instead of upholding the dignity of his people, he chose to align himself with those who have always sought to undermine the Warri Kingdom, dragging the revered stool of the Olu into the mud of international scorn. A bird does not forget its nest, and neither should we forget the honor of our people and their sacred throne.The throne of the Olu of Warri is not a mere title to be bartered, but a symbol of the strength, dignity, and spirit of the Itsekiri people. Let us, therefore, stand together with pride and resolve to safeguard what is ours, ensuring that no amount of fleeting wealth can diminish the eternal glory of our heritage.

    •Tidi, a lawyer and former Chairman of Warri South Local Government Council Area, writes from Abuja

    This betrayal is far from an isolated incident. Over the years, we’ve seen countless individuals-particularly those blinded by ambition-abandon tradition for the illusion of quick financial gain. To them, the throne is no longer a symbol of honor but a bargaining chip to be traded for influence, wealth, or political favors. Such actions only empower external forces eager to see the Warri Kingdom fractured. By publicly attacking the integrity of the Olu’s stool, they provide ammunition to those who wish to see division and discord take root within our community.

    The consequences of such betrayal are dire. A throne that is publicly ridiculed loses its authority. A house built on sand cannot stand, and a divided kingdom becomes vulnerable, easily manipulated by outside forces.

  • Alaafin yet to begin traditional rites, He’ll go into seclusion on arrival, says Afonja

    Alaafin yet to begin traditional rites, He’ll go into seclusion on arrival, says Afonja

    FOLLOWING a report that the Alaafin-elect, Prince Akeem Owoade had put traditional rites that usually precede the crowning of a new Alaafin on hold, the Head of Oyo Princes, Chief Mukaila Afonja, yesterday said the new Alaafin has not even begun any seclusion rites.

    He assured that the normal rites that all Alaafin usually undergo will start immediately after the 46th Alaafin comes back from Canada.

    He said this while speaking with Vanguard in a telephone interview.

    Recall that Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State had presented a certificate and a staff of office to the new Alaafin at the Executive Chamber of the Governor’s office.

    The governor also said all those who were trying to disturb the selection process by allegedly collecting money would be prosecuted.

    Following the presentation, some kingmakers who had earlier nominated Prince Luqman Gbadegesin faulted the selection process through their counsel, Mr Adekunle Sobaloju(SAN) adding that the governor should approach the court instead of accusing the Oyo Mesi in the public.

    On arrival in Oyo after the presentation ceremony, the Alaafin-elect was warmly received by a large crowd of Oyo indigenes.

    Just when many people believed that the new monarch had started some royal rites preparatory to his installation, it was gathered that he had travelled to Canada to properly finalize his resignation from his place of work.

    Clarifying the issue, Chief Afonja, said the 46th Alaafin has collected only the certificate and the staff of the office noting that seclusion rites will be done anytime he is back in the country.

    When asked if the new Alaafin had not contravened the tradition by travelling abroad during seclusion, he said, “He has collected only the certificate, he is yet to undergo all the necessary rites. When he comes, he will go into seclusion.”

    “When he is back in the country, he will enter Ipebi(seclusion) and while in Ipebi, the new Alaafin will go through all necessary rites as preparation for the coronation which will come up in April”.

    “He will spend almost 30 days in Ipebi. He will undergo many lessons and tutelage. He will begin the rites soon”.
    When Vanguard contacted another source in the ancient city, he ruled out the insinuations that the Ifa Priests and other traditionalists were reluctant to perform the rites for the new monarch.

    He said, “Since modernity has usurped the role of the traditionalists in some areas, we have to make some adjustments. In the olden days, once a king had been picked, he would immediately go into mandatory seclusion which is 21 days and would not go out until he performed all the rites. After that, the coronation ceremony and presentation of staff and certificate can follow”.