Southwest News

03/09/2025

Oba Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja: The Olubadan Setting a Royal Standard

By Aare Alawode Rahmon Akintunde

As Ibadanland prepares for the coronation of Oba Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland on September 26, 2025, history is about to record another remarkable milestone in our cherished traditional institution.

Oba Ladoja is not only a respected elder statesman and former Governor of Oyo State but also a monarch whose wealth of exposure, wisdom, and vigor promises to shape Ibadanland for the better. His ascension symbolizes the dawn of a new royal era—one defined by discipline, order, and due process.

As President of the Yoruba Youth Council Worldwide and an aspiring Mogaji of Ibadanland from the Looyin Family Compound, Atipe, Oke Offa, my encounter with Kabiyesi left a lasting impression on me.

On one occasion, I attempted a courtesy visit with my team without securing an appointment. While I saw some groups leave his Ondo Street residence disappointed, we were fortunate to gain access to his parlour. With fatherly calmness, Oba Ladoja reminded me that due process must be followed. He emphasized that leadership rests on discipline and order, directing us to Mogaji Gbadeyanka to book an appointment for another date.

That singular encounter taught me that Ibadan is not just witnessing a coronation; we are witnessing the institution of a new Royal Standard. Under Oba Ladoja, Ibadanland is blessed not only with a traditional ruler but also with a leader who embodies dignity, discipline, and responsibility.

May Almighty God bless Kabiyesi. May the reign of Oba Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja usher in peace, unity, and prosperity for Ibadanland, Oyo State, and Yorubaland at large.

Long live the Olubadan!
Long live Ibadanland!

Aare Alawode Rahmon Akintunde
President, Yoruba Youth Council Worldwide
Aspiring Mogaji, Looyin Family Compound, Atipe, Oke Offa, Ibadan
📞 07036078155 | ✉️ [email protected]

17/08/2025

2GEDA: Jubril Dotun Sanusi Officially Becomes Okanlomo Oodua as Ooni Unveils First Indigenous Social Media Platform

The Bada Olubadan Designate, Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi, has officially been confirmed as the Okanlomo of Yorubaland by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi (Ojaja II), during the historic unveiling of 2GEDA, Nigeria’s first indigenous social media and business networking platform, held at the Ilaji International Hotel, Ibadan.

Delivering the royal welcome address on behalf of the Olubadan Designate, Oba Rasheed Adewolu Ladoja, the Balogun of Ibadanland, Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, warmly welcomed the Ooni of Ife, traditional rulers, and dignitaries to Ibadan for the landmark event.

In his keynote speech, the Ooni of Ife lauded Chief Sanusi for his unwavering love for Yorubaland and Nigeria at large, describing him as a true son of Ibadan whose commitment to the cultural and economic growth of the Yoruba race is unparalleled. He formally confirmed him as Okanlomo of Yorubaland.

Speaking on the new digital innovation, Oba Ogunwusi stressed the significance of 2GEDA as a platform that transcends ordinary social networking.

“I am delighted to partner with co-owner Mr. Emeka Eze on this historic project. 2GEDA is not just a social media channel but also a business-listing platform that allows entrepreneurs and organizations to showcase their services across niche categories. It is the first indigenous digital platform that combines social interaction with business networking and promotion,” he said.

The Ooni emphasized that, unlike other platforms, 2GEDA offers both established and emerging businesses the opportunity to engage directly with clients, network, and explore fresh opportunities.

Goodwill messages were also delivered by prominent monarchs including the Aseyin of Iseyin, Oba Sefiu Olawale Oyebola and the Eleruwa of Eruwa, Oba Samuel Adebayo Adegbola alongside respected dignitaries such as Hon. Remi Oseni, Member of the House of Representatives; Barr. Sulaimon Ajeniyi Ajewole, President General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII); and service chiefs, all of whom applauded the initiative as a groundbreaking step toward technological advancement and economic empowerment.

Other dignitaries at the event included: His Eminence Sheikh AbdulGaniyu Agbotomokekere, Chief Imam of Ibadanland and Grand Imam of Oyo State; Dr. Temitope Kolapo Glorious, Executive Chairman, Ona Ara Local Government; Ibadanland Mogajis led by Oloye Asimiyu Ariori; Hon. Babs Oduyoye, former Member, House of Representatives; Alhaji YK Abbas, Babaloja-General of Oyo State; Iyaloja Saratu Aduke; Asiwaju Nurudeen Akinade; Mogaji Abass Oloko; Mogaji Oladosu Ademola, Executive Vice Chairman, PTS Oyo State; and Mr. Taiwo Adisa, former Chief Press Secretary to the Oyo State Governor, among others.

Also present were market leaders, the Yoruba Youth Council led by Aare Alawode Rahmon Akintunde, the JDS Support Group, and several socio-political movements.

Speaking on behalf of the 2GEDA team, co-owner Mr. Emeka Eze expressed confidence that both local and global users would find the platform highly beneficial for social and business networking.

“The security layers on 2GEDA are carefully and professionally designed to protect users’ personal data and information. We are proud to say that we have one of the strongest database security systems globally. Beyond that, the platform is fully equipped to give Nigerian businesses better global visibility and profitability through technology,” Eze assured.

He further revealed that the application is now live and available for download on both the App Store and Google Play Store.

The unveiling of 2GEDA marks a new dawn for Nigeria’s digital ecosystem, combining technology, tradition, and business empowerment while celebrating Yoruba heritage.

10/08/2025

Ariyo–Odeyale Road Project to Begin in Two Weeks — Dr. Temitope Glorious Assures, Commends Governor Seyi Makinde
..Empowers PDP Members Affected During Last Campaign

The long-anticipated dualization of the Ariyo–Odeyale Road in Ona Ara Local Government is officially set to commence within the next two weeks, following the approval and formal signing of the project by His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde, on Monday.

This announcement was made by the Executive Chairman of Ona Ara Local Government, Dr. Temitope Kolapo GLORIOUS, during the monthly meeting of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) held today at Elekuro High School, Ibadan.

In his address, Dr. GLORIOUS expressed profound gratitude to Governor Makinde for his steadfast commitment to infrastructure renewal and grassroots development across Oyo State. He described the Ariyo–Odeyale road project as a “bold move toward enhancing economic activities and easing transportation challenges within Ona Ara.” He attributed the progress to the responsive governance style of Governor Makinde and the administration’s people-centered approach.

Providing further updates, Dr. GLORIOUS announced that the Onisebe Bridge, which began reconstruction a few weeks ago, is almost completed and will soon be commissioned by the State PDP Secretary, Alhaji Wasiu Adeleke. He also revealed that the Kate and Ajia Bridges, currently at the final stages of construction, will be commissioned by Dr. Ezekiel Oladimeji Temitope OTOPE, Director-General of Lagos and Abuja Liaison Offices.

In a heartwarming gesture of support and party solidarity, Dr. GLORIOUS empowered two PDP members who suffered personal losses during the last local government campaign. A vulcanizer whose machine was stolen received a brand-new vulcanizing machine, while a female party member whose phone was stolen at a meeting was gifted a new smartphone.

The well-attended meeting was presided over by Hon. Mosobalaje Bakare, PDP Chairman in Ona Ara. Also in attendance were notable party figures including Alhaji Waidi Adurodekun, Hon. Akeem Taiwo Oke, Pa Jaye Bankole, Pa Oyadiran, Hon. Taiwo Ibrahim, and Alfa Kehinde Adeyemo.

The Legislative Council Leader, Hon. Abolade Femi (Yerima), ward councillors, supervisory councillors, special assistants to the Chairman, women and youth leaders, and all eleven ward chairmen also participated fully.

The meeting welcomed Alhaji Lukman Adesina, Chairman of all PDP Local Government Chairmen in Oyo State, as a special guest. In his remark, Alhaji Lukman commended the Executive Chairman for his unwavering efforts in building and strengthening the party structure, noting that the massive turnout at the meeting was so overwhelming that he initially thought a ceremony was taking place — only to discover it was a party meeting. His comment was met with loud applause from attendees, highlighting the Chairman’s growing popularity and grassroots connection.

These developments signal another stride in the ongoing transformation of Ona Ara under the leadership of Dr. Temitope GLORIOUS, in alignment with Governor Makinde’s Sustainable Development Agenda, focusing on infrastructure, education, social welfare, and grassroots empowerment.

10/08/2025

Jubril Dotun Sanusi to Host Ooni of Ife as '2GEDA' Social Media Platform Unveils August 16

The stage is set for the grand unveiling of Nigeria’s first indigenous social media platform, ‘2GEDA’, scheduled to hold on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at 3:00 PM, at the prestigious Ilaji Hotels and Sports Resort, Akanran, Ibadan.

The landmark event will be hosted by the Okanlomo of Yorubaland and Chairman of Ilaji Group, Chief Jubril Dotun Sanusi, as he welcomes a royal and star-studded gathering to witness the historic birth of a digital innovation that aims to redefine Africa's tech landscape.

According to a statement by Smith Emeka Eze, co-owner of the platform, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, the Ooni of Ife, will officially unveil 2GEDA, a platform proudly built by Nigerians for the world. Eze describes 2GEDA as a revolutionary, secure, and inclusive social media hub designed to foster communication, creativity, culture, and commerce among Nigerians, Africans, and global users.

The high-profile launch is expected to be graced by royal fathers, top government officials, technology stakeholders, and celebrated business moguls, including Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Mr. Femi Otedola, and Chief Obinna Iyiegbu (Obi Cubana). Celebrities, influencers, youth leaders, and members of the press are also expected to be in attendance.

In a pre-event statement, Oba Ogunwusi described 2GEDA as “a digital revolution tailored for Nigerians, by Nigerians, and for the benefit of Africa at large,” noting that the platform aligns with the strategic vision to make Nigeria a trailblazer in indigenous technological advancement and innovation.

Highlights of the unveiling will include live demonstrations of both the web and mobile applications of 2GEDA, keynote speeches, cultural exhibitions, and a roundtable discussion focused on building Africa’s digital future through homegrown solutions.

Smith Eze further stated that the initiative has already gained endorsement from traditional institutions and industry leaders, positioning 2GEDA to become a continental flagship platform that will drive digital transformation, economic inclusion, and youth empowerment across borders.

04/08/2025

29/07/2025

PRESS RELEASE

Yoruba Youth Leader, Asoju Odo Alawode, Warns Oluwo: Stop Attacking the Tradition That Made You King

The Yoruba Youth Leader and cultural advocate, Asoju Odo Alawode Rahmon Akintunde, has issued a strong warning to the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Akanbi, urging him to desist from making reckless comments against Yoruba traditions, particularly the revered Oloolu masquerade of Ibadanland.

Alawode, in a statement made available to the media, condemned the Oluwo’s recent outburst in a viral video where he described the sacred Oloolu as “criminal” and “unconstitutional,” stating that any masquerade that restricts women or instills fear should be “sent to the forest.”

The respected youth figure, who leads several grassroots mobilizations on Yoruba cultural rebirth and youth engagement, described the Oluwo’s remarks as “disgraceful, disrespectful, and dangerously provocative,” warning that such behavior from a traditional monarch is unacceptable.

“Kabiyesi Oluwo should be reminded that it was this same Yoruba tradition — the one he now insults with reckless abandon — that enthroned him as a king. Without tradition, there would be no stool, no crown, and certainly no recognition for him.”

Alawode Rahmon, popularly known as Asoju Odo, emphasized that the Oloolu masquerade is a deeply sacred and time-honored symbol of Ibadan’s spiritual and cultural identity — not a mere roadside display. He said the masquerade, like many other revered deities and cultural rites across Yorubaland, must be respected and preserved as a matter of ancestral obligation.

“Ibadan is not Iwo. We have our own heritage, and it is not Oluwo’s place to condemn it. His statement is not only insulting to the Oloolu and the Olubadan-in-Council, but it is also an affront to the Yoruba heritage as a whole,” Alawode warned.

Echoing the positions of the Association of Ibadan Mogajis, Baales, and the Ibadan Compound Peace Initiative (ICPI), the youth leader called on the Osun State Government and other Yoruba monarchs to urgently caution the Oluwo before his divisive utterances spark inter-community tensions in the region.

“Yoruba youths will not sit idle while any individual no matter how highly placed ridicules our sacred traditions. Our tolerance should not be mistaken for weakness. If Oluwo cannot uphold the values of Yoruba culture, he should stay away from issues he lacks the spiritual depth to understand.”

Alawode concluded by giving the Oluwo a seven-day ultimatum to publicly retract his statement and tender an unreserved apology to the people of Ibadan and the entire Yoruba nation.

“We are watching. If the apology does not come, we, the Yoruba youth, will mobilize in defense of our heritage. We will not allow anyone, king or commoner to desecrate what our forefathers protected with their lives.”

15/07/2025

2025 NECO: Oyo Gov't Warns Against Exam Malpractices
..monitors the Ongoing Exams

The Oyo government has urged all students to eschew any form of malpractices during the ongoing National Examination Council examination.

The new Chairman Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM), Mrs. Oladipo Olubukola made this known during the monitoring exercise to some secondary schools across different zones in the state on Wednesday and Thursday.

Mrs. Oladipo Olubukola highlighted that the Teaching Service Commission remains committed to upholding high quality academic standards through collaborative effort with relevant authorities, ensuring that appropriate disciplinary measures are taken on whoever is involved in examination malpractices.

Mrs. Oladipo advised teachers and students not to cut corners during examinations as this might hinder their academic progress.

She urged them to face their academics, as this will foster their academic development in their various universities of choice.

According to her, the Government of Engineer Seyi Makinde has zero tolerance for examination malpractices.

She explained that the exercise was conducted to assess the situation during the ongoing NECO examinations in public schools across the state.

In his remarks the Principal of Ibadan Grammar School, Mr. Ogunleye Biodun commended Engr. Seyi Makinde for giving education development a special priority in his administration.

He further commended the Governor for considering teachers for the post of permanent secretaries and timely approval for promotion for teachers in Oyo state.

The monitoring exercise conducted included visits to exam centers at Ibadan grammar school, St. Anne's school, Olubi memorial grammar school and Saint Luke's College, Ibadan.

E-signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade,
Commissioner for Information and Orientation,
Oyo State.
July 3, 2025.

15/07/2025

SEMA Issues Flood Alert for Three LGAs, Warns Residents

The Oyo State Emergency Management Agency (OYOSEMA) has issued a flash flood alert for residents of Ibadan, particularly those living in Akinyele, Egbeda, and Oluyole Local Government Areas (LGAs).

The agency is urging residents in these areas to take proactive measures to mitigate the impact of potential flooding.

In a statement released on Friday afternoon, SEMA’s Administrative Secretary, Mrs. Ojuolape Busari, said the Flood Early Warning System’s latest weather forecast indicates heavy rainfall is expected in the affected LGAs.

Mrs. Busari, who noted that the agency works hand-in-hand with the Ministry of Environment and Natural resources, advised that some areas could receive over 100mm (about 4 inches) of rain in the next 24 hours.

Mrs. Busari highlighted that the heaviest rainfall is expected North-East of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) and the airport.

Her words, “The advice has become imperative to activate the concerned Local Government Authorities and communities to take necessary actions to mitigate the risk of flooding and avoid loss of lives, displacement, and significant damage to property and infrastructure.”

She added that areas around IITA (Akinyele), the airport (Egbeda), and the Cocoa Research Institute of Nigeria (CRIN, Oluyole) will experience significant rainfall.

She warned residents that flash floods could affect streets, with low-lying areas flooding rapidly.

Mrs. Busari also added that roads may become difficult or impossible to use, stressing that heavy rain will make driving hazardous.

She advised residents to avoid driving or walking through floodwaters.

“Turn around, don’t drown”, she said.

Busari added, "If you live in a flood-prone area, be prepared to move to higher ground if instructed."

E-signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade,
Commissioner for Information and Orientation,
Oyo State.
July 4, 2025.

15/07/2025

BREAKING: President Tinubu puts up presidential jet bought in 2005 under Obasanjo for sale in Switzerland.

The Boeing 737-700 BBJ, originally purchased in 2005 during the Olusegun Obasanjo administration, is currently undergoing inspections at AMAC Aerospace, Basel, according to public listings on Controller, a global aircraft sales platform.

The aircraft had served as the principal presidential jet under successive Nigerian administrations until President Tinubu acquired a new Airbus A330 due to the former aircraft suffering a malfunction during one of Tinubu's trips to Saudi Arabia.

15/07/2025

Vice President Shettima Departs Abuja for London Following Buhari’s Death

In a swift response to the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, Vice President Kashim Shettima has departed Abuja for London on the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

His visit is aimed at conveying the nation's condolences and representing the Federal Government during this period of national mourning.

More details soon on FRESHVOICE NEWSMEDIA.

15/07/2025

CCII PG, Barr. Ajewole Visits Olubadan-in-Waiting, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, Ahead of Coronation

As preparations gather momentum for the formal coronation of Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, the President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Chief Sulaimon Ajeniyi Ajewole, has paid a historic courtesy visit to the Olubadan-in-waiting at his Lagos residence.

The high-level visit, which forms part of ongoing traditional consultations and strategic engagements, reaffirmed the collective support of Ibadan sons and daughters—both at home and in the diaspora—for a smooth, honorable, and dignified transition of royal authority.

Chief Ajewole expressed heartfelt appreciation for the warm reception and extended the goodwill of the entire Ibadan community to Oba Ladoja. In addressing recent misinformation, he firmly dispelled baseless rumors regarding the monarch-in-waiting’s health and readiness.

“Let it be clearly stated: Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja is hale, hearty, and fully prepared to assume the sacred responsibilities of the Olubadan stool. His mental clarity, strength, and visionary leadership remain intact and inspiring,” Chief Ajewole emphasized.

The CCII President-General lauded Oba Ladoja for his lifelong dedication to the development of Ibadanland—both as a former governor and as a revered traditional figure whose passion for his people has never waned.

He urged all sons and daughters of Ibadan to remain united and focused during this transitional period, calling for mutual respect, cultural pride, and unwavering support for the new era about to unfold under Oba Ladoja’s reign.

“This is a defining chapter in the rich history of Ibadanland. We must stand together, guided by our heritage, values, and shared dreams for a more prosperous and respected Ibadan,” he stated.

In closing, Chief Ajewole offered fervent prayers for peace, harmony, and sustained progress in Ibadanland. He called on all traditional leaders, political stakeholders, youth groups, and community associations to fully support the forthcoming coronation ceremony.

“May the reign of Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja bring Ibadanland into a new dawn of greatness, dignity, and global admiration,” he concluded.