OKEMAGBA NEWS

By Sultan Teslim  Mojoda, Lagos.   Intense protests erupted on Saturday along the Epe–Ijebu Ode Expressway, as residents, traders, and commercial drivers rallied against newly imposed toll charges by the Ogun State Government, effectively paralyzing vehicular movement for several hours. The demonstration, which took place at Mojoda, saw protesters barricading a major stretch of the expressway with tires and makeshift obstacles, resulting in severe gridlock and bringing traffic to a halt. The tolling policy, implemented on March 24, 2025, followed the completion of the 14.7-kilometre Epe–Mojoda–Ijebu Ode Expressway’s reconstruction into a dual carriageway. Government officials have defended the move, citing the need for sustainable road maintenance and efficient infrastructure management. However, the new charges have sparked outrage among road users, who describe them as economically oppressive and unjust. Demonstrators say the toll was introduced without adequate public en...

By Sultan As the world marks Menstrual Hygiene Day 2025, Nigerian NGO Heal for Africa Initiative is urging government leaders to treat menstrual health as a national priority — not just a women’s issue. Founder Dr. Kelechi Okoro called for strong political will, including policies, budgets, and cross-ministry collaboration, to tackle the stigma, poor access, and lack of education around menstruation. “ It’s time to shift from token awareness to transformational action ,” she said. Millions of girls in Nigeria still can't afford sanitary pads, relying on unsafe alternatives like rags or leaves. Okoro stressed the need for tax-free, locally made products and investment in menstrual education for both girls and boys. She also highlighted the lack of clean toilets in many schools, which forces girls to miss class during their periods. To mark the day, the NGO distributed pads and hosted health sessions in Ebonyi and Abia States. Dr. Okoro concluded with a powerful reminder: “ Menstrual...

By Oluwafunke Ishola An NGO, Heal for Africa Initiative, says there must be sustained political will from governments at all levels to recognise menstrual health as a public health, education, and gender equity issue. Its Founder, Dr Kelechi Okoro, said this in a statement on Tuesday in Lagos in commemoration of Menstrual Hygiene Day. Okoro said this required concrete policies, dedicated budgets, and intersectoral collaboration, from Ministries of Health, Education, Gender Affairs and Water Resources. “Only then can we create systemic change for menstrual health. “In 2025, as we observe this crucial day, we must shift from token awareness to transformational action,” she said. She emphasised that menstruation was a normal biological process, yet in Nigeria and many parts of the world, it remained cloaked in shame, taboos, poor access to hygiene products, and a lack of comprehensive education. “These barriers perpetuate gender inequality, compromise health, and limit opportunities, espe...

By Sultan Teslim In a significant stride toward collaborative governance and grassroots transformation, the Executive Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, Hon. Abdullahi Sesan Olowa, hosted the Executive Members of Concerned NationBuilders Initiative (CNI) Nigeria during a high-level courtesy visit on Thursday, May 22, 2025. The strategic meeting, held at the Ibeju-Lekki Council Secretariat, provided a platform for both parties to exchange commendations and deliberate on innovative approaches to accelerate socio-economic growth and sustainable community development across the local government area. CNI Nigeria’s Director General, Chief Idris S. Tele-Olukoya, commended Hon. Olowa’s visionary leadership, noting the tangible developmental strides and inclusive governance that have characterized his administration. He affirmed CNI’s readiness to collaborate with the local government to “achieve greater impact and transform the LGA into a beacon of grassroots progress.” In his remarks,...

By Lawal Afeez Today marked a powerful moment in grassroots governance as the Executive Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, Hon. Abdullahi Sesan Olowa, played host to the Executive Members of Concerned NationBuilders Initiative (CNI) Nigeria during a meaningful courtesy visit at the Council Secretariat. The atmosphere was one of mutual respect and shared vision. CNI Nigeria, led by its Director General Chief Idris S. Tele-Olukoya, commended Hon. Olowa for his exemplary leadership and developmental strides across communities in Ibeju-Lekki. The Director General did not hold back praise, noting the positive impact of the Chairman's initiatives and expressing admiration for his commitment to the people. But the visit wasn't just about accolades — it was about action. Chief Idris used the occasion to propose a strategic partnership between CNI Nigeria and the local government, aiming to amplify progress and development across the region. He emphasized that by working together...

By Oluwaseunayofunmi Chief Oluwaseun Williams Afuye, proudly bearing the chieftaincy title Akeweje of Ilara Kingdom, is a distinguished educator, community leader, and academic deeply rooted in the cultural and historical heritage of Ilara Kingdom in Eredo LCDA, Epe, Lagos State, Nigeria. Hailing from the prestigious Bakare-Afuye Descendants Family of Aleke Quarters, he is a direct descendant of the first Eketa-Ilu and the first Jewo-Oba of Ilara Kingdom. Chief Afuye is the son of the late Pa Moses Muniru Afuye and Madam Adunni Sikiratu Afuye (née Apena-Busura), and remains one of the kingdom’s most illustrious sons. Academic and Professional Journey Chief Afuye’s educational journey began at Igbooye Community High School, followed by his studies at the Lagos State College of Primary Education (LACOPED), now Michael Otedola College of Primary Education (MOCPED), Noforija. There, he served with distinction as the Public Relations Officer (P.R.O.) of both the National Association of Busi...

By Idris Olukoya In a powerful display of unity and vision, the YETI Youth Empowerment Foundation convened a landmark virtual round talk on Saturday, bringing together influential voices from across the globe to discuss peace, healing, and community rebuilding in Mushin, Lagos. Themed “Creating a Peaceful Atmosphere Among the Youth and Residents of Mushin Community: Build the Youth, Build the Nation,” the event served as a beacon of hope and strategic direction for a community often portrayed through the lens of violence and unrest. The virtual forum drew an impressive lineup of stakeholders, including policy makers, diaspora leaders, community advocates, and youth representatives. Notable participants included Commissioner Nkechi Uzoegwu, Dr. Veronica Ufoegbune (California, USA), Hon. Emmanuel Bamigboye, Hon. Ajala Rasaq Olushola, Miss Sola Asekun-Amusu, Dr. Omobolanle Awero Adelakun, Alhaji Abubakar Abdullahi, and Segun Oshidairo. Each speaker brought a unique perspective, but all we...

  By Sultan Oluwaseunayofunmi The recently concluded All Progressives Congress (APC) council election primaries in Lagos State delivered a mix of suspense, drama, and political upheaval. Held across the 57 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs), the primaries saw no fewer than six incumbent council chairmen fail to secure a second term ticket—marking a significant shift in local party dynamics. In what many have described as a surprising outcome, four of the incumbents were unseated by a mix of former lawmakers and fresh faces within the party, some of whom were contesting for the first time. The results, collated at the party's state secretariat in ACME, Ikeja, showed these chairmen trailing behind their challengers—some finishing as low as third place. The biggest upsets occurred in: Ojo LGA, where Muibat Rufai ousted the sitting chairman Idowu Rasulu Onigbongbo LCDA, where Rakiat Hassan was defeated by Moyo Adebanjo Ayobo-Ipaja LCDA, where Ladi...

By Sultan Oluwaseunayofunmi The Executive Chairman of Eredo Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Hon. Monsuru Ismail, has emerged victorious in the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election. The primary, which took place at the APC Secretariat in ACME, saw Hon. Ismail secure the party’s ticket with a total of 26 votes. More details to follow.

By Sultan Oluwaseunayofunmi The incumbent Chairman of Eredo Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Hon. Monsuru Ismail, has emerged as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the forthcoming local government elections, following a decisive victory at the party's primary held on Friday at the APC Secretariat in ACME, Ikeja. Hon. Ismail garnered 26 delegate votes to clinch the ticket, outpacing other aspirants in a contest praised for its transparency, orderliness, and peaceful conduct. In his acceptance speech, Hon. Ismail thanked party leaders, delegates, and the people of Eredo LCDA for their continued faith in his leadership. He reaffirmed his commitment to deepening development across the council area. “This victory is not about me alone — it’s a collective triumph for all of us in Eredo. I remain committed to providing purposeful leadership and building on the solid foundation we've laid,” he stated. During his first term in office, Hon. Ismail initiated and...

By Sultan 10 Dollar Music is thrilled to unveil the highly anticipated Queen Stephire Concert, set to take center stage on May 31st, 2025, in the heart of Epe. This groundbreaking event is more than a musical celebration — it’s a movement dedicated to showcasing the rich talent, creativity, and cultural heritage of Epe and its surrounding communities. A Celebration of Talent and Culture The Queen Stephire Concert promises an unforgettable experience, uniting some of the most innovative and gifted performers across music, art, fashion, and food. This dynamic fusion of talent is designed not only to entertain but to empower — giving a platform to emerging stars and creative minds ready to shine. Epe Deserves More At 10 Dollar Music, we believe in the power of local culture to drive global recognition. Epe, with its deep roots in tradition and untapped creative energy, is poised to become a hub for tourism, art, and innovation. Through the Queen Stephire Concert, we aim to amplify the tow...