society
Building collapse in Mosquito Republic By Tunde Odesola
Building collapse in Mosquito Republic By Tunde Odesola
The throttle of the stationary molue stuck out like the heel of a prostitute’s stiletto. Abere, the bus driver, pedalled hard on the throttle while exhaust fumes drifted through the slits in the floorboard, smarting passengers’ eyes and noses. Coughs and curses followed.
The driver gulped the herbal alcoholic content in a green bottle labelled Oshaprapra and let out a belch.
A policeman, OC, walked to the side of the driver and held out his left hand, a baton under his right armpit. Abere thrust the small bottle at the cop, who grabbed and downed the liquor, grimacing as he let out a belch that sounded like a distant ocean roar. OC uncrumpled the N100 Abere squeezed into his hand and walked to the next bus.
Though Abere’s bus was filled to capacity, the conductor, Ororo, still shouted on the top of his voice, “Oshodi straaaight! Enter wit your N350 change o! I no get change o. I dey talk my own before we comot Obalende now o! Your house no go collapse o!”
Ororo looked inside the bus and gestured to the standing passengers: “Ehsss, Young Man, move forward! Ehsss, Fine girl, move forward! Oga wey wear suit inside sun, abeg, move forward! Oga driver, compress dem with your brake! Let’s go dia! Ko si were!”
The rickety bus snaked out of the filthy garage and headed to Oshodi. Abere switched on the bus stereo, and the voice of Pasuma Wonder boomed, “Or-or-or! Bayi naa ni, bayi naa ni, Alabiiiiiii! Jibola Amama, bayi naa ni, ‘Dekunle Lagata Labaika, bayi naa ni…”
The Oga-wey-wear-suit-inside-sun and some other passengers appealed to Abere to tune the radio to Truth FM station for the 3pm news talk in order to get updates on the 21-storey building that collapsed on the island the day before.
The voice of the radio host came on air:
“It’s easier for the camel to pass through the eye of the needle than for a day to pass in Nigeria without the occurrence of teeth-gnashing woes like terrorism, killings, kidnapping, banditry and Boko Haram.
“The latest in the list of nightmares afflicting the country is the worrisome manner in which buildings have been falling like packs of cards.
“A report by BBC says between 2005 and 2020, 152 buildings fell down in Lagos, adding that a six-storey church building collapsed in 2014 during a service by Pastor TB Joshua, killing 116 people.
“According to the BBC report, unqualified builders were used with substandard building materials…”
“Switch off that stupid radio! I say switch off that radio immediately or I’ll get you arrested for abetting hate news!,” a voice boomed from the back of the bus.
“Why you wan make I off the radio, sir o,” the driver asked, peering into his rearview mirror to see an old man sporting an agbada and a green fez, adding: “Na una dey spoil dis country with una lie-lie, Oga Lie.”
Oga Lie: We should be supporting our government. Nigerians are never appreciative…
Passengers (in unison): Which yeye government? Dis one na government or gutterment? Dis government wey specialise in condolence message? Dis government wey Boko Haram, bandits, kidnappers dey yeye anyhow?
Oga Lie: If people die, shouldn’t the government condole the families of the deceased?
Conductor: Nigeria no need wailing government, oga; make government prevent how Nigerians dey die like cockroach everyday, biko!
Young Man: Government should provide adequate security, stop financial and ethical corruption.
Oga Lie: Nigerians should be grateful that people were not living in the whole building when it crashed. That would’ve been more disastrous.
Driver: Dis oga dey talk as if say life mata for dis country. Country wey bandits go burgle House-o-Rock, shey dat one na country? Country wey terrorists attack NDA, kill and kidnap soldiers? Which kain yeye country bi dat? And we say we get goofment? Abeg, oga talk anoda tin, jare.
Conductor: All di houses wey don dey fall since in dis country, who dem punish? Many innocent people just die like dat for dat Ikoyi building. Na family wey lose members go sabi wetin hit dem. Na so dem go shout, shout, shout, small time di tin go die down when anoda bigger calamity happen. Dis country, calamity dey swallow calamity every day ni o. Blood dey drink blood. You build 21-storey building, di tin just collapse like say na sugarcane. Which government agency supervise di building? Some people come talk say na bomb dem bomb am, bomb ko, rocket ni. Dem give you approval to build 15 storey, you mount am go 21. Wetin government dey look when dem add six storeys join am? Anti-corruption government.
Fine Girl: Di angel wey create me for Nigeria no do well at all. Una say una dey run government, but una no fit send una pikin go di public school wey una dey run, una no fit attend Nigerian hospital wey una dey run, una no fit use Made-in-Nigeria things, dat means na wicked and fake government una dey run bi day nah. If you no fit chop wetin you dey sell, dat mean say na poison you dey sell bi dat nah.
Oga Lie: You think it’s easy to govern 200 million people?
Young Man: China’s population is 1.40bn while that of India is 1.38bn. All we need is honest and visionary leadership, not ethnic bigots and rogues parading as messiahs.
Driver: Where you go get honest leadership when all di people wey dem accuse of stealing for yesterday government don CHANGE to di ruling government, no bi for dia wey case close? And dem say dem dey fight corruption. Abeg, dis country never ready to develop. If I see visa now now, I go japa, I no go even pack any bag. Abeg make we hear news, jare.
In the ensuing silence, the voice of the radio host became audible again:
“The representative of Kogi-West senatorial district in the National Assembly, Senator Smart Adeyemi, has lamented the injudicious budgeting of the retired Major General Muhammadu Buhari-led Federal Government.
Speaking after Ministries Departments and Agencies defended their respective budgets before the Senate Committee on Solid Minerals, Mine, Steel Development and Metallurgy, Adeyemi questioned the competence and patriotism of Buhari’s economic team.
He said, “How on earth would a minister propose N82bn for procurement of mosquito nets and a sector as important as solid minerals gets N10bn? A good budget must not be just for expenditures, a good budget must be targeted towards wealth creation so that you can provide jobs for people.
“The Ajaokuta Steel Complex can provide about 60,000 jobs, about 20,000 engineers and technicians. You (need to) ask a question; the Economic Team of Mr President, are they Nigerians? If they’re Nigerians, it means they’re not in tune with the realities of today. Today, we have a large army of unemployed people, and you’re bringing a budgeting system that is so annoying, so questionable, so dubious…N82bn is more than enough to kick-start or, at least, give appreciable improvement to the Iron and Steel Complex.
“You’re not looking at how you’re going to improve your foreign exchange earnings, you’re asking us to come and approve N82bn, those ministers should be sent to jail…Let the mosquito kill us, if we’re going to put N82bn to stop mosquitos…Nigeria is capable of paying off and kick-starting the (Ajaokuta) Iron and Steel Complex.
“The problem of Nigeria is that you have some people who don’t want this country to move forward. And these are the elite. They’re people who are wicked capitalists, bourgeoisie who don’t want to move this country forward. We know those who want to tie this country down. Why would the country continue to import steel from India when you have your own steel company? Is that not wickedness…?”
Radio Host: We’ve come to the end of today’s news talk. I’m Babatunde Ayekooto. Thanks for listening.
Driver (Looking into his rearview mirror): Wey Oga Lie?
Conductor: E don jump down teh-teh!
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: @tunde odesola
Twitter: @tunde_odesola
Tundeodesola.com
Ajadi, Peter Obi, Adeleke, Others Join Makinde at Oyo@50 Thanksgiving Service
The leading gubernatorial aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, on Sunday joined Governor Seyi Makinde, former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, the wife of the Osun State Governor, Chief (Mrs) Titilola Adeleke, and other eminent dignitaries at a Thanksgiving Service marking the seventh day of activities commemorating the 50th anniversary of Oyo State.
The service, held at the Cathedral of St. Peter’s, Aremo, Ibadan, drew a large congregation of worshippers, political leaders, traditional rulers, and stakeholders across the state and beyond, underscoring the significance of the golden jubilee celebration.
Speaking with journalists on the sidelines of the event, Ambassador Ajadi congratulated Governor Makinde, former Governor and Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, and other stakeholders for steering the state to its historic milestone, describing the anniversary as a moment for reflection, gratitude, and renewed commitment to progress.
Oyo State at 50 is not just a celebration of years; it is a celebration of the strength, resilience and enduring spirit of our people,” Ajadi said. “I congratulate His Excellency, Engineer Seyi Makinde, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja and all stakeholders for sustaining the legacy of excellence, unity and progress that the Pacesetter State represents.”
He praised the people of the state for their resilience over the decades. He acknowledged the collective efforts of past and present leaders who have contributed to Oyo State’s political stability, economic growth and rich cultural heritage since its creation in 1976.
Ajadi, an entrepreneur and philanthropist, noted that the golden jubilee provides an opportunity for both leaders and citizens to critically assess the journey so far and recommit themselves to building a more inclusive and prosperous future.
“As we celebrate this golden anniversary, we must reflect on where we are coming from, where we are today and where we want to be,” he said. “Oyo State has produced great leaders, intellectuals, professionals and cultural icons.
He also commended the state government for designing a commemorative programme that blends intellectual engagement with the celebration of excellence, stressing that such initiatives help preserve history while inspiring younger generations.
Earlier, Governor Makinde, while addressing the congregation, said that although his tenure would end in May 2027, the team with which he has delivered good governance remains intact and prepared to continue the state’s development trajectory in different capacities.
The governor, who read the second Bible lesson from Matthew 5:1–12, attributed his emergence as governor in 2019 after eight years of political contest to divine grace, describing his administration as a “new beginning” for Oyo State.
“I was the eighth civilian governor of Oyo State, and in the Bible, the number eight signifies a new beginning,” Makinde said. “God has been merciful to us, and we will continue to govern in accordance with His will and guidance for the people of Oyo State.”
He assured residents of continuity in governance, emphasising that while he would exit office at the end of his tenure, members of his team would remain committed to serving the state.
“We have a team that is still intact. It is only Seyi Makinde that will go out; the members of the team are there to continue the work for the people of Oyo State,” he stated.
In a goodwill message, former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Mr Peter Obi, lauded Makinde’s leadership style and the transformation witnessed in the state under his administration.
Oyo State is a city of knowledge and a city of hope,” Obi said. “I thank Governor Makinde for faithfully serving the people. Nigeria is not a poor country, but a poorly governed one, and what we are seeing in Oyo State is an example of using public resources for public good.”
Dignitaries at the event included the wife of the governor, Her Excellency Engr Tamunominini Olufunke Makinde; wife of the Osun State Governor, Chief (Mrs) Titilola Adeleke; former First Lady of Oyo State, Chief (Mrs) Mutiat Ladoja; Chief Judge of Oyo State, Hon. Justice Iyabo Yerima; Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Musibau Babatunde; and several other government officials, traditional rulers and political leaders.
society
UKA Announces Appointment of Hon AMB Asari St-Hill Bahamas/atlantian as Chief of Staff to Reigning Monarch Emperor Solomon Winning*
*UKA Announces Appointment of Hon AMB Asari St-Hill Bahamas/atlantian as Chief of Staff to Reigning Monarch Emperor Solomon Winning*
The United Kingdom of Atlantis (UKA) proudly announces the appointment of *Honorable Ambassador Asari St-Hill, A Bahamas/atlantian* as *Chief of Staff* to the Reigning Monarch, *Emperor Solomon Winning*. The official appointment ceremony was conducted on February 1st, 2026, and marked with the presentation of an Appointment Certificate (UKA 001 -1/2026).
Key Details of the Appointment 👇
– *Hon AMB Asari St-Hill, A Bahamas/Atlantian* has been entrusted with the prestigious role of Chief of Staff, serving directly under Emperor Solomon Winning, the sovereign of the United Kingdom of Atlantis.
– The appointment signifies a strategic enhancement of the monarch’s administrative and operational capabilities, aligning with the empire’s vision of efficient governance and global humanitarian leadership.
– The certificate of appointment bears the *Royal Seal of the Empire* and the endorsement of *EMP Noblis Solomon Winning*, affirming the legitimacy and authority of the designation.
Role of the Chief of Staff…👇
The Chief of Staff will be responsible for:
1. Managing the day-to-day operations of the monarch’s office.
2. Coordinating diplomatic and strategic initiatives aligned with the empire’s humanitarian and financial objectives.
3. Facilitating communication between the reigning monarch and governmental bodies within the United Kingdom of Atlantis.
Emperor Nobiliis Solomon Winning is the transformative leader of the United Kingdom of Atlantis, driving innovative projects in finance, humanitarian efforts, and global development. His reign focuses on merging traditional monarchical values with modern technological advancements, exemplified by initiatives like the ATC digital currency.
The United Kingdom of Atlantis (UKA) is a sovereign entity dedicated to fostering global unity, humanitarian progress, and financial innovation. It operates under a regal framework that blends imperial tradition with futuristic economic strategies, including asset-backed digital currencies and sustainable development programs.
_”The appointment of Hon AMB Asari St-Hill as Chief of Staff strengthens our administrative excellence and underscores our commitment to visionary leadership.”_
— *Emperor Solomon Winning*
The United Kingdom of Atlantis looks forward to achieving new milestones in governance and global impact under the stewardship of Emperor Solomon Winning and his esteemed Chief of Staff, Hon AMB Asari St-Hill.
Gen CG Musa Support Group Celebrates Grand Patron as 2025 Man of the Year
The Gen CG Musa Support Group has extended its warmest congratulations to its Grand Patron, His Excellency Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa OFR (Rtd), the Honourable Minister of Defence, following his prestigious designation as the 2025 Man of the Year by OurNigeria News Magazine.
In a statement released to the press and signed by the Director General of the Support Group, Ibrahim Dahiru Danfulani, the Sadaukin Garkuwan Keffi/Betara Biu, the group hailed the recognition as a fitting tribute to a leader of exceptional character and accomplishment.
The statement illuminated the distinction of the award, emphasizing that it transcends the formal titles of “General” and “Minister.” It celebrated the core of the man himself—a leader renowned for his profound humility, incredible kindness, and genuine respect for all individuals. “People see the legacy and the title,” the statement noted, “but some of us are lucky to know the man behind it.”
The Support Group underscored that this accolade is a direct acknowledgment of the Minister’s exemplary personal conduct. It is an award not merely for the office he holds, but for the consistent humility he carries into every room and every interaction, a quality that has defined his leadership both in and out of uniform.
The honour also serves as a powerful validation of General Musa’s distinguished and unblemished track record of service to the nation. His decades of dedicated service within the military, which culminated in his ascension to the pinnacle as the Chief of Defence Staff prior to his retirement, are cited as the foundational pillars of his esteemed reputation.
The Gen CG Musa Support Group expressed profound gratitude to OurNigeria News Magazine for its discerning choice, noting that the award serves as a significant source of encouragement for the Honourable Minister. It reaffirms the nation’s appreciation for leadership that blends strength with compassion, strategic vision with unwavering integrity, and lofty achievement with grounded humanity.
This recognition solidifies General Christopher Gwabin Musa’s status not only as a defender of the nation but as a paragon of virtuous leadership, whose influence and example continue to inspire confidence and respect across Nigeria.
About the Gen CG Musa Support Group:
The Gen CG Musa Support Group is a collective dedicated to promoting the ideals and supporting the leadership of His Excellency Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR and His Excellency Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa, celebrating their service and contributions to national peace, security, and unity.
-
celebrity radar - gossips6 months agoWhy Babangida’s Hilltop Home Became Nigeria’s Political “Mecca”
-
society6 months agoPower is a Loan, Not a Possession: The Sacred Duty of Planting People
-
Business6 months agoBatsumi Travel CEO Lisa Sebogodi Wins Prestigious Africa Travel 100 Women Award
-
news6 months agoTHE APPOINTMENT OF WASIU AYINDE BY THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT AS AN AMBASSADOR SOUNDS EMBARRASSING