Lifestyle

Motorists stranded as flood overruns Lagos communities

Published

4 months ago

September 25, 2025

Vehicular and business activities were paralysed across parts of Lagos State on Wednesday after hours of heavy downpour triggered flash floods in several communities in the state.

It was observed that the downpour wreaked havoc in flood-prone areas across the state, which included Maryland, Lekki, Ogba, and Ikorodu.

This is as residents and business owners lamented how their homes and shops were overrun by the flood.

Similarly, multiple videos seen across social media platforms by our correspondents showed residents wading through their flooded neighbourhoods, while motorists were also seen moving at a slow pace on flooded roads.

On Olatunji Street in Maryland, the overflow of a canal cut off access to the adjoining Mende community.

A resident, Chinasa Nnadi, said the flood had been a recurring sight whenever it rained and as long as the residents in both neighbourhoods could remember.

She said, “This has been happening for years now, and it’s very hard for vehicles to go in or out of there. People even swim to their houses. It is not easy for people living around there to come out of their houses because the flood is too much. Some will even go as far as relocating to another place due to the flood.”

A business owner who identified himself simply as Kalu and had lived there for three years said he was amazed at how quickly the flood spread across the street.

He said, “I watched as people tried to scoop water out of their homes after it entered their houses. I also suffered the same fate as the water flowed into my shop.”

A member of a church in the area, identified simply as Christiana, also narrated how the worship centre was flooded, destroying some instruments in the process.

She said, “The flood has affected our church’s musical instruments. We will have to spend lots of money either to fix or replace them. When the canal is full, the water gets into the church, and it reaches half the building of the church, it causes extreme damage.”

The downpour, however, compounded the woes of motorists and pedestrians as they were trapped in the gridlock that built up on several flooded roads across the state.

In some areas, vehicles broke down on the waterlogged roads, worsening the situation for commuters who spent long hours waiting to board buses.

In its usual look during a downpour, the Ogba-Wempco junction was flooded, affecting vehicular movement in the area.

Sharing his experience, a commuter, Tunji Abass, lamented how he spent longer time hours in traffic due to the flood.

“The vehicles were moving very slowly due to the flooded portion of the road. It has always been like that during the rainy season. It becomes even worse times that water flows into people’s vehicles. The earlier the government attends to this, the better.”

A resident working in the Ikate area of the state, Victor Obinna, while also lamenting, explained that he resorted to sleeping in the office whenever it rained due to gridlock in the area.

He added that the road linking to his office used to be flooded, and he had to navigate through the water to get there.

He said, “I stay in the office all through the week, and whenever I don’t stay in the office, I walk through the flood before getting to the office. Sometimes, I even had to dress up in the office because by the time I got to the office, half of my body would have been soaked.”

Some weeks ago, PUNCH Metro reported that property worth millions of naira was destroyed in the Ikorodu area of the state.

A video sighted by a correspondent on Wednesday showed how some roads in the community were flooded.

The economic cost of flooding in Lagos is estimated at billions of naira annually, with residents losing homes, shops, vehicles, and man-hours to gridlock. Public health is also at risk, as stagnant floodwater often leaves behind outbreaks of waterborne diseases.

The Lagos State Government, however, sympathised with residents affected by the flash floods that swept through parts of the state, assuring that efforts were ongoing to tackle recurring incidents.

The Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, in a statement on Wednesday, said Lagos, being a coastal city, remained vulnerable to flooding, especially during heavy rainfall and tidal lock.

He, however, noted that the government had continued to invest in drainage infrastructure, desilting, and enforcement of environmental laws to minimise the impact on residents.

Giving clarity on some affected areas, Wahab explained that flooding around the Kusenla area of Lekki was caused by a technical challenge, adding that the downstream was higher than the existing drainage system.

He added that the government had already awarded a project that included the construction of a pumping station to address the problem.

He further revealed that flooding near the House on the Rock church was linked to illegal construction on floodplains and indiscriminate dumping of refuse in drains, stressing that such activities worsened the situation.

“Clear infractions were observed in some of the videos shared yesterday. The state government will ensure that illegal structures, obstructions, and reclamations carried out without proper approvals are promptly removed,” Wahab said.

“We appeal for understanding and continued cooperation from the public. Keeping our environment clean, refraining from dumping refuse into drains, and avoiding construction on floodplains are vital to achieving a flood-free Lagos. In several of the videos shared yesterday, clear infractions were observed, and @followlasg will ensure that such illegal structures and obstructions are promptly removed. Including those illegal reclamations carried out without the requisite Environmental Impact Assessment Report and the Drainage Clearance.

“We also wish to assure residents that the flooding was a flash flood in some parts of the state and has since receded this morning. The ministry remains committed to strengthening our flood management systems, but this effort requires the support and responsible actions of all Lagosians. Together, we can build a safer, cleaner, and more resilient Lagos,” the statement added.

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Lifestyle

Ìwòyè-Kétu: The Yoruba Town That Spans Two Nations and Lives by Ancient Taboos

Published

17 hours ago

January 31, 2026

Oluwagbenga Olaoye

Ìwòyè-Kétu is one of the most remarkable Yoruba communities in West Africa, not only for its deep-rooted traditions but also for its unique geopolitical identity. The ancient town straddles two modern nation-states—Nigeria and the Republic of Benin—yet remains culturally, spiritually, and traditionally unified as one Yoruba settlement.

A Town Without Borders in Spirit

Geographically, Ìwòyè-Kétu is primarily located in Imeko/Afon Local Government Area of Ogun State, Nigeria, while its western section lies across the international boundary in the Republic of Benin. This border, imposed during the colonial partition of Africa, cuts through the town but has failed to divide its people.

Families live on both sides of the boundary, speak the same Yoruba dialect, observe the same customs, and recognise one traditional authority. Daily life reflects this dual reality: residents freely transact using both the Nigerian naira and the West African CFA franc, depending on location and convenience.

Unified Kingship Across Nigeria and Benin

Despite existing in two countries, Ìwòyè-Kétu is governed traditionally by one paramount ruler. The recognised monarch is:

His Royal Majesty Oba (Sir) Isaac Adegbenro Oyero,
the Ooye of Ìwòyè-Kétu, also styled Adekilúrójú – Ada Páàkó II.

His authority is acknowledged by the community on both sides of the border, making Ìwòyè-Kétu a rare example of a binational Yoruba town under a single royal institution.

Origins in Ile-Ife

According to Yoruba oral tradition, Ìwòyè-Kétu was founded by Olúmu (or Olómù), a legendary migrant from Ilé-Ifẹ̀, the spiritual homeland of the Yoruba people. Like many Yoruba settlements, its founding narrative emphasises migration from Ife, reinforcing the town’s ancient roots within the broader Yoruba civilisational story.

Ìwòyè-Kétu forms part of the historic Kétu region, once a powerful Yoruba kingdom before European colonial boundaries fragmented it between British-ruled Nigeria and French-ruled Dahomey (now Benin).

Sacred Taboos That Still Govern Daily Life

Ìwòyè-Kétu is widely known for its strict traditional prohibitions, which continue to be enforced by custom and belief:

Use of umbrellas is strictly forbidden anywhere within the town.

Rearing pigs is prohibited, and pork is traditionally avoided.

In some oral accounts, digging wells is either forbidden or tightly regulated.

These taboos are believed to be tied to ancestral covenants, spiritual agreements, and the town’s founding myths. Violations are traditionally thought to invite misfortune, reinforcing collective adherence across generations.

Language, Culture, and Continuity

Despite the Nigeria–Benin divide, Ìwòyè-Kétu remains culturally seamless. Yoruba language, customs, festivals, and lineage systems are shared. The town stands at a linguistic crossroads where English and French meet administratively, but Yoruba remains dominant socially and spiritually.

A Living Example of Pre-Colonial African Unity

Ìwòyè-Kétu exemplifies how pre-colonial African societies continue to transcend modern borders. Long before Nigeria or Benin existed, the town functioned as a single cultural entity—and it still does.
In an era where borders often define identity, Ìwòyè-Kétu reminds us that history, tradition, and shared ancestry can be stronger than lines drawn on maps.

Sources

Yoruba oral traditions and local historical accounts of Ìwòyè-Kétu

Ogun State local government and cultural heritage records (Imeko/Afon LGA)

Nigerian media reports and cultural features on Ìwòyè-Kétu’s taboos and binational status

Community welcome signage and local testimonies

Cross-border Yoruba history of the Kétu Kingdom (Nigeria–Benin)

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Lifestyle

Emotan; The Benin Heroine (PHOTOS)

Published

17 hours ago

January 31, 2026

Oluwagbenga Olaoye

Throughout history, in every culture around the world, extraordinary women have pushed society to think bigger, move forward and create.

Emotan is a glowing example of boundless courage and world-changing ingenuity.

Emotan a market woman, single-handedly raised an army and overthrew the illegal regime of Oba Uwaifiokun who usurped his brother and conspired with his chief to kill King Ewuare.

She protected Oba Ewuare in her hut and showed him kindness when he was trying to reclaim his throne back.

Emotan helped install Oba Ewuare the Great, who was the most outstanding Oba in the ancient Benin Kingdom around 1440AD.

Eventually, when Oba Ewuare regained his throne, Emotan became the King’s favourite citizen.

Moreso, her kindness wasn’t restricted to the Oba alone, history tells us that Emotan converted her hut to a crèche to help nursing mothers who patronized her or came to the market for other things.

At that time, her daycare centre was popular in Benin and it can be said authoritatively that she started the first-day care centre in Benin.

After her death, her body was buried at the Oba market at the exact spot where she sold her goods. A tree was planted on her grave and she is being worshipped as the mother of love and kindness

Source: Benin achive

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Lifestyle

Michael Adekunle Ajasin (1908–1997): Scholar, Educationist, and Statesman of Principle

Published

17 hours ago

January 31, 2026

Oluwagbenga Olaoye

Michael Adekunle Ajasin remains one of the most respected figures in Nigeria’s political and educational history, remembered for his intellectual depth, personal integrity, and unwavering commitment to democratic ideals and public education.

Born on 28 November 1908 in Owo, present-day Ondo State, Ajasin’s early life was shaped by discipline, learning, and service. He attended St. Andrew’s College, Oyo between 1924 and 1927, one of the foremost teacher-training institutions in colonial Nigeria. After qualifying as a teacher, he worked in the profession for several years, laying the foundation for what would become a lifelong dedication to education.

In 1943, Ajasin gained admission to Fourah Bay College, Sierra Leone, then one of the most prestigious higher institutions for Africans in British West Africa. He graduated in June 1946 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English, Modern History, and Economics. Determined to deepen his professional competence, he proceeded to the Institute of Education, University of London, where he obtained a Postgraduate Diploma in Education in June 1947.

Family Life

Ajasin married Babafunke Tenabe, also a teacher, on 12 January 1939. Their marriage produced four children—two sons and two daughters. One of his daughters, Mrs Olajumoke Anifowoshe, distinguished herself in public service, becoming Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in Ondo State, further reflecting the family’s strong tradition of civic engagement.

Educational Leadership

On 12 September 1947, Michael Adekunle Ajasin was appointed Principal of Imade College, Owo. His tenure was marked by visionary leadership and an aggressive staff development programme. Notably, he facilitated opportunities for teachers to pursue further training at University College, Ibadan, at a time when such advancement was rare.

In December 1962, Ajasin left Imade College to establish Owo High School, where he served as founder, proprietor, and first principal from January 1963 to August 1975. Under his leadership, the school earned a reputation for academic excellence and discipline, reinforcing his belief that education was the most effective instrument for social transformation.

Political Thought and Early Activism

Ajasin was deeply involved in Nigeria’s nationalist and pre-independence politics. In 1951, he authored a policy paper that later became the education blueprint of the Action Group (AG), boldly advocating free education at all levels. This proposal would later be implemented in Western Nigeria under Chief Obafemi Awolowo and remains one of the most impactful social policies in Nigerian history.

He was among the founders of the Action Group, a party whose ideology centred on immediate independence from Britain, universal healthcare, and the eradication of poverty through sound economic planning. During the 1950s, Ajasin served as National Vice President of the Action Group.

Legislative and Local Government Service

Ajasin’s political career expanded steadily. He became an elected ward councillor, then Chairman of Owo District Council, which covered Owo and surrounding communities such as Idashen, Emure-Ile, Ipele, Arimogija, Ute, Elerenla, and Okeluse.

In 1954, he was elected to the Federal House of Representatives in Lagos, serving as a federal legislator until 1966, when military rule interrupted Nigeria’s First Republic. His years in parliament were characterised by advocacy for education, regional development, and constitutional governance.

Return to Politics and Governorship

In 1976, Ajasin became Chairman of Owo Local Government. With the return to civilian rule, he joined the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN), the ideological successor to the Action Group.

In 1979, he was elected Governor of Ondo State, with Akin Omoboriowo as his deputy. His administration prioritised education, rural development, and fiscal discipline. However, political tensions emerged when Omoboriowo defected to the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) and contested the 1983 gubernatorial election against him. Although Omoboriowo was initially declared winner, the results were later annulled, and Ajasin was sworn in for a second term.

His tenure was abruptly terminated by the military coup of 31 December 1983, which brought General Muhammadu Buhari to power.

Integrity and Personal Example

Michael Adekunle Ajasin was widely admired for his personal honesty. Reflecting on his years in office, he famously stated:

“I came into office in October 1979 with a set of my own rich native dresses and left office in December 1983 with the same set of dresses; no addition and no subtraction.”

He further noted that he owned no personal cars upon leaving office, having exhausted the two he had before assuming governorship. This statement has since become a benchmark for ethical leadership in Nigeria.

Pro-Democracy Struggle

In the 1990s, Ajasin emerged as a leading elder statesman within the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), which opposed military dictatorship and demanded the validation of Chief M.K.O. Abiola’s annulled June 12, 1993 presidential mandate.

In 1995, he was arrested by the Abacha military regime, alongside 39 other activists, for participating in what the government termed an illegal political meeting—an episode that underscored his lifelong commitment to democracy and civil liberties.

Educational Legacy

As governor, Ajasin signed into law the establishment of Ondo State University in 1982, located in Ado-Ekiti (now in Ekiti State). In 2000, during the administration of Chief Adebayo Adefarati, a new university in Akungba-Akoko was named Adekunle Ajasin University in his honour. He also played a key role in the establishment of The Polytechnic, Owo.

Michael Adekunle Ajasin stands as a rare example of a Nigerian leader whose intellectual rigour, moral discipline, and public service aligned seamlessly. His legacy lives on through the institutions he built, the policies he shaped, and the enduring example of integrity he set in public life.

Source:
Ondo State Government Historical Records; Nigerian Political Biographies; Action Group Party Archives; Adekunle Ajasin University Documentation

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