Ifá: A Sacred Divination System

 

By Ifadola Ifadayo

Ifá is a sacred divination system practiced by the Yoruba people of Nigeria and other parts of West Africa, the Americas, and the Caribbean. It is deeply connected to Òrúnmìlà, the deity of wisdom and divination, who is believed to have revealed Ifá to humanity.

Key Aspects of Ifá Divination

1. The Ifá Oracle System

Ifá divination is performed by a Babaláwo (male priest) or an Ìyáláwo (female priestess), meaning "father/mother of secrets." These priests use Odu Ifá, a vast collection of wisdom, to interpret divine messages.

2. Tools of Ifá Divination

• Ọ̀pẹ̀lẹ̀ (Divination Chain) – A chain with four shells or seeds on each side, used for quick divination.
• Ìkìn (Palm Nuts) – Sixteen sacred palm nuts cast on a divination tray (Ọ̀pón Ifá) to reveal Odu Ifá.
• Ẹrìndínlógún (Sixteen Cowrie Shells) – Used mainly in related traditions for divination.

3. The Odu Ifá – Sacred Texts of Ifá

Ifá consists of 256 Odu (sacred verses), which hold the entire wisdom of the system. Each Odu contains poems, proverbs, and historical stories used to guide people in life.

4. How Ifá Divination Works

1. A person consults a Babaláwo for guidance.
2. The priest casts the divination chain or palm nuts.
3. The resulting Odu is interpreted based on the situation.
4. The person may be advised to perform a Ẹbọ (sacrifice/ritual) or take other spiritual actions.

5. Ifá and Destiny (Ori)

Ifá teaches that each person has an Ori (spiritual head/destiny) chosen before birth. Through Ifá divination, one can understand their destiny and take steps to align with it.

Ifá in Modern Times

Ifá is still widely practiced in Nigeria, Benin, Togo, Brazil (Candomblé), Cuba (Santería), and the U.S. It was recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2005 due to its deep cultural and spiritual significance.

Lagos State Government Approves N500 Million Subsidy to Reduce Food Prices

By Yekini Agbojulogun 

Lagos, Nigeria – January 30, 2025 – In a bid to alleviate the burden of rising food prices on residents, the Lagos State Government has announced the approval of a N500 million subsidy aimed at reducing the cost of essential food items. The initiative, which seeks to stabilize food prices across the state, is expected to benefit millions of Lagosians grappling with inflationary pressures in the country.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, in a statement issued on Tuesday, revealed that the subsidy would be directed towards key food items such as rice, beans, maize, and vegetable oil, among others. According to the Governor, the government’s decision was motivated by the urgent need to ensure food security and improve the standard of living for Lagos residents, particularly those in low-income communities.

"Over the past few months, many families have struggled with escalating food prices, which has created hardship for a large segment of our population. The N500 million subsidy is part of our broader strategy to cushion the impact of inflation and ensure that food remains affordable and accessible to all," Governor Sanwo-Olu stated.

The subsidy will be disbursed through various state-run outlets and markets, including designated food distribution centers and local vendors, who will sell subsidized goods at reduced rates. Authorities have emphasized that the initiative will focus on creating a direct link between the government’s efforts and Lagosians in need, making sure that the subsidy reaches its target beneficiaries.

Food inflation has been one of the most pressing issues in Nigeria, as the cost of basic commodities has surged due to factors such as increased fuel prices, supply chain disruptions, and adverse weather conditions affecting agricultural production. The impact has been particularly severe in Lagos, a major urban hub where many residents depend on affordable food for their daily sustenance.

This move by the Lagos State Government follows similar initiatives by other states and the federal government, aimed at addressing Nigeria’s ongoing economic challenges. Experts have welcomed the subsidy but urged that it should be part of a broader, long-term strategy to address the root causes of food inflation.

Economist and policy analyst, Dr. Ngozi Adebayo, commended the Lagos government for the initiative, noting that “while this subsidy will provide temporary relief, there is also a need for greater investment in agricultural infrastructure and policies that support local food production to reduce Nigeria's reliance on imports.”

As the subsidy rolls out, residents of Lagos are hopeful that it will ease some of the pressure they face in the markets. However, they are also calling for sustained efforts from both state and federal governments to tackle the broader economic issues that continue to affect the cost of living in the country.

In the coming weeks, the state government is expected to release additional details on the operational framework for the subsidy distribution, including how vendors will be vetted and monitored to ensure transparency in the program.

"I Was Carried Upstairs to Attend Class": Change Leader’s Viral Video Exposes Nigeria’s Failing Disability Infrastructure

 

Adaobi Chuma-Okeke, an Nguvu Change Leader, has a video which is gaining attention online.

 In the video, she recounts her struggles as a wheelchair user in inaccessible schools and calls for urgent action to implement Nigeria’s Disability Rights Act.

Shared on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Adaobi’s story highlights the need for accessible infrastructure, equal opportunities, and dignity for all Nigerians living with disabilities. Her advocacy resonates with the ongoing global push for inclusivity and representation. Adaobi's video is on X, Instagram and LinkedIn.

On International Day of Persons with Disabilities, Adaobi Chuma-Okeke is advocating for accessibility, equal opportunities, safe mobility, and dignity for all Nigerians living with disabilities.

Adaobi, an Nguvu Change Leader, shared a poignant video on social media the day before the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, recounting her experiences as a person with a disability and calling for urgent action. Confined to a wheelchair, Adaobi reflects on the many struggles she faced in completing her education. "I finished my studies largely thanks to the help of supportive friends and classmates. I recall being physically carried upstairs to attend classes, and that experience, among many others, has inspired me to campaign for better accessibility in Nigerian schools."

In her video and accompanying petition, Adaobi urges the Ministry of Education and the National Commission for Persons with Disabilities to take meaningful, concrete steps. She stresses that while there are laws and policies in place, such as the Disability Rights Act, these have yet to be effectively implemented, leaving many institutions inaccessible. “Promises, policies, and laws must result in real, tangible changes. If every school – from primary to tertiary – had proper ramps and/or elevators, it would open up opportunities for countless children with disabilities to access their education. I’ve risked injury, endured great pain, and sacrificed comfort in my pursuit of learning, and I want to remove the barriers that prevent others from fully participating in their education.”

According to a press statement, Adaobi’s message resonates with the theme of this year’s International Day of Persons with Disabilities: “Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future.” This theme aligns with the global disability rights movement’s slogan “Nothing About Us Without Us”, advocating for greater representation, agency, and inclusivity in all spheres of life. It calls for accessible public buildings, transportation systems, and services, but also for meaningful changes to the daily lives of disabled people.

The issue of accessibility is pressing, but it is not the only challenge the disability community in Nigeria faces. Beyond the physical barriers to education and public spaces, people with disabilities often encounter widespread societal discrimination and stigma. Many Nigerians with disabilities struggle to find employment, as employers are either unaware of their legal obligations or are unwilling to make the necessary adjustments. The Disability Rights Act may exist on paper, but in practice, it is not consistently enforced, and disabled people continue to face exclusion in both the workplace and public life. Moreover, there is a lack of awareness and training on disability rights among the general public and government officials, which exacerbates the difficulties faced by people with disabilities.

Adaobi’s call to action includes not only a demand for wheelchair-accessible infrastructure in educational institutions but also a broader push for inclusion in all public spaces, transport systems, and services. She highlights the need for more comprehensive policies that promote equal employment opportunities, social inclusion, and improved healthcare for people with disabilities. The need for dignity and respect for all Nigerians, regardless of their physical condition, is urgent.

Her viral video and the ongoing online discussion reflect a growing recognition of the systemic barriers faced by millions of Nigerians living with disabilities. As a result, there is increasing pressure on the government and private sector to take immediate and meaningful action to remove these obstacles and build a truly inclusive society.

About Ojude Oba festival

 The Ojude Oba festival is an annual celebration by the Yoruba people of Ijebu-Ode, a major town in Ogun State, Southwestern Nigeria. This vibrant festival takes place on the third day after Eid al-Kabir (Ileya), which is a Muslim holiday celebrating Abraham's sacrifice.

The Ojude Oba translates to "King's Court" and it serves as a time to pay homage and show respect to the Awujale of Ijebuland, the paramount ruler of the Ijebu people. It's a beautiful display of culture, fashion, and tradition, and it has grown into one of the most prestigious festivals in Nigeria.

Here are some of the highlights of the Ojude Oba festival:

• Parade: The Regberegbe parade is the heart of the Ojude Oba festival. Different age groups within Ijebu-Ode, known as Regbe regbe, dress in colorful uniform attires and parade before the Awujale. They sing, dance, and chant praises to their king.
  
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  Ojude Oba festival parade
• Fashion: The Ojude Oba festival is known for its extravagant displays of fashion. People wear their finest attire, often made from expensive fabrics.
  
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  Ojude Oba festival fashion
• Horsemen: Horsemen are a big part of the Ojude Oba festival. They ride their horses in a procession before the Awujale, showcasing their riding skills and horsemanship.
  
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  Ojude Oba festival horsemen
• Food: As with any good festival, there is plenty of food to be enjoyed at the Ojude Oba. Traditional Yoruba dishes such as pounded yam, efo riro, and amala are all popular choices.

The Ojude Oba festival is a unique and colorful celebration of Yoruba culture. It's a great opportunity to learn about the history and traditions of the Ijebu people

Why Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu won the Lagos Governorship elections

 

Yemi Olakitan

 

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) was named the victor of Saturday's governorship election in Lagos State by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). 

 He was proclaimed the winner of the election by INEC's returning officer, Prof. Adenike Temidayo Oladiji, after meeting the requirements of the electoral act and the constitution.

Many were surprised as Sanwo-Olu easily defeated Labour Party candidate Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour to win the election.

Rhodes-Vivour received 312,329 votes, but Lagos State sitting Governor, Sanwo-Olu won with 762,134 votes.

As a result, it is pertinent to note the achievements of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the reasons behind Lagosians drive to retain him as Governor.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu was first elected as governor of Lagos State on March 9, 2019, giving the most important position in Lagos state to a man who had pledged to serve and advance Lagos.

In his inaugural speech, "Awakening Greater Lagos," Mr. Sanwo-Olu pledged to concentrate on six development pillars known as "THEMES," to make Lagos a 21st-century economy, health and environment, education and technology, traffic management and transportation, entertainment and tourism, security, and government. 

"Our ultimate goal would be to ensure that Lagos State remains one of the best destinations on the African continent to live, work, and invest in," the governor, who is running for reelection in the 18 March elections, told Lagosians at the inaugural ceremony. He claimed that the six development pillars "reflect our response to the people's longing.’’

Before Mr. Sanwo-Olu took office in 2018, the commercial center of Nigeria produced a total of N382.1 billion.

It was one of two states whose IGR surpassed their federal allotment because the primary source of revenue was taxes.

As Mr. Sanwo-Olu was inaugurated in 2019, the IGR increased to N398 billion. Notwithstanding the COVID-19 pandemic and the Endsars demonstrations, Lagos outperformed all other states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in terms of revenue at the end of 2020, coming in at N418.99 billion.

IGR increased from the previous year by N20.26 billion (5.08%).

Sam Egube, the state's commissioner for economic planning and the budget, stated in February that they are aiming for N77.067 billion in IGR every month, or more than N900 billion annually, when he broke down the state's 2023 appropriation bill of N1.768 trillion.

The lowest of the five states with the highest unemployment rate in 2018 was Lagos, which had an unemployment rate of 14.6% prior to his election as the state governor.

With 1,088,352 unemployed residents, Lagos was one of the four states that topped the unemployment rankings in 2019.

The additional states were Kano, Akwa Ibom, and Rivers.

According to figures from BudgIT, the combined rate of unemployment and underemployment in Lagos reached 41.66 percent in 2021.

Lagos presently has a 29.4% poverty rate, however, according to a report titled Nigeria Poverty Assessment 2022: A Better Future for All Nigerians by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). Lagos was at the top of the State's Fiscal Sustainability Index before Mr. Sanwo-Olu took office.

According to the States by States Fiscal Performance Ranking report by BudgIT, Lagos rose to the fourth spot by 2021, exhibiting its resiliency with a total income of N658.56 billion for the fiscal year 2020.

In addition, in the last three and half years, Governor Sanwo-Olu has constructed and rehabilitated over 1,000 roads while others are at various stages of completion. He completed the Blue line rail while the Red line rail is under construction.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu also built the Imota rice Mill at Ikorodu towards food sufficiency in Lagos State and completed the Lekki deep sea port to decongest the Apapa port in Lagos. He also obtained FG permission to build the Badagry deep sea port and the Lekki International Airport.

Sanwo-Olu commissions 150-classroom blocks, hostels in 15 Lagos Schools. Education in Lagos State witnessed another remarkable moment of infrastructure expansion, with the addition of newly built 150 blocks of classrooms and 1,386-bed hostels to 15 existing schools across the six education districts in the State.

Lagos gubernatorial elections, peaceful, taint by voter apathy

 

…Sanwo-Olu commends peaceful poll

Yemi Olakitan

The Lagos State Gubernatorial elections have been described as peaceful, calm but marred by voters’ apathy. This was the submission of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and other Lagosians as they cast their votes in Lagos

While INEC officials came out on time and set their tables, the voters took their time to come out to vote in many areas of the state, although there are varying reports in various polling units.

At Ikorodu, Igbogbo axis, there was low turnout of voters as voters were slow to come out although there was security presence to forestall any trouble but no issues were recorded.

However, at Ogba axis, Lagosians turn out to vote massively, although there was no long queue, according to reports, they people came out one after the other exercise their franchise one after the other. The crowd was not particularly large but the people were out to vote, one after the other.

Dr. D.J Johnson of Nigerian Union of Journalists, advocates that every journalist should vote, security agencies should also vote. ‘‘I voted this morning and I can tell you what happens when we talk about voters’ apathy. People need to come and vote. Nigerians have attached too much ethnicity and religious bigotry into the campaigns. These things are enough to discourage people.’’

Mr. Fatai Adekunle who voted in Dopemu axis said that voting has been very peaceful in his area. He said he was not harassed and the process has been peaceful. Adekunle said, ‘‘the voters’ turn out is not impressive at all. He called on the Government to do something about it. The way things are going, the Lagos State Government and the Federal Government need to put in some reward system in place for voters in upcoming elections. They need to think outside the box because unlike the Presidential elections that people came out to vote in large numbers, the numbers have dropped in the governorship elections.’’ He said.

Mr Sesan Babatunde at oguntade ogba, ifako ijaye axis said, voting exercise in his area was peaceful and calm. The voters show up very early to vote at Ogba. He said, the people here arrive as early as 7.30. am.

The voting commenced by 8.30 exactly. However, Mr. Babatunde said, he was alarmed at the level by which the youths are on the streets of Lagos playing football. ‘‘At Coker Street, from beginning to the end of that street, the youth are busy playing football.  You will see women watching them playing football on the roads while voting was going on.’’

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu voted at his polling unit at Lagos Island, Eiyekole rd/street, ‘ward 1’ Sanwo-Olu and his wife, Ibijoke  Sanwo-Olu cast their votes in the elections amidst state media representatives and security operatives.

Governor Sanwo-Olu said, we have just witnessed my wife and I casting our votes and exercising our civic duties. We are happy at the turn out at this polling unit. You can see that, the INEC officials came right on time and voting is on as we speak. I think it’s time for us as a people to see and understand that this process is not supposed to be a process of violence. Elections that lead to the emergence of credible leaders is the best validation of what true democracy should be. I want to emphasize again that elections are for the peace, progress and prosperity of our state and our nation. I want you all, gentlemen of the press to continue to preach and encourage everyone to continue to participate in our electoral process. I am happy, driving here this morning that everywhere is peaceful and calm.’’

There are a few disturbing videos that we have seen of some party people doing one or two things but these videos are not veritable. I am not going to talk about it much. I want to say that I am very happy at the turnout here at this polling unit and I want to ask that all our voters should remain vigilant. If you see anything or see something please alight the security operatives. We don’t want any form of intimidation or violence in Lagos state. That is not acceptable.’’

Governor Sanwo-Olu also spoke in Yoruba language, saying that it was important that Lagos state democracy be peaceful and orderly. He expressed his thanks to Lagosians and the people of Lagos for taking the time to come out and vote.

The governor is seeking re-election for another four year term. He is being challenged by Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour of the Labour Party and Mr. Abdul-Azeez Adediran of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

The New Telegraph observed security operatives on the streets of Lagos but there was generally peace on the streets as most people remained calm.

Ooni inaugurates Brazil's National Orisa Day

WITH KING CHARLES

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has officially presented a Certificate of Yoruba Territory to Quilombola territory in Brazil, making the city, the first outside Africa to receive the title.

Quilombola territory in Brazil is the first place outside of Africa to earn the title after the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, officially presented it.


The highly regarded Yoruba king also gave a speech to Brazil's Federal House of Assembly on Tuesday to formally launch the nation's first-ever Orisa Day.


According to a statement from Ooni's media assistant, Moses Olafare, Ogunwusi spoke before the Brazilian Parliament at a special session for Isese practitioners commemorating the country's Orisa Day.


The Ooni claimed that by integrating cultures and promoting Yoruba culture throughout the diaspora, the royal visit aimed to close the gap between the Yoruba people and the rest of the world.


He claims that the Nigerian Royal Father and his entourage arrived in Bahia, Brazil, on Sunday and met with President Lula da Silva in Brasilia, Brazil, on Monday.


At the Quingoma neighbourhood of Lauro de Freitas, in the Salvador Metropolitan Area, the Ooni presented the title.


The delivery of the title of Yoruba territory, which would promote and protect the Yoruba history, culture, and language in the community, was hailed by the people of Quilombola.


"At the height of the slave trade in Africa, the Yoruba people were captured and forcibly taken from their home base in Nigeria. The Quilombola was credited with receiving and embracing them.


"Because the Quilombola have a long history dating back to the 17th century, the acknowledgment of Quilombola as Yoruba territory is another step in the quest for respect for African history.


"Right now, 1,200 hectares of land are inhabited by about 580 families.
The Palmares Foundation has designated Quingoma as a Quilombola region since 2013," the statement read.


Ni revealed that the Yoruba and Brazilian populations share a long and rich history that dates back to antiquity.


The efforts adopted, according to the royal father, would not only preserve history through cultural preservation, but they would also increase Brazilians' sense of kinship, which would encourage improvement in preserving Yoruba legacy across the globe.


The event, according to Ponies' statement, was highly personal for him because he is enthusiastic about preserving Yoruba culture and its ingrained values.


The Yoruba language and its culture will become more widely accepted as a result of this event.
Their faces show eagerness, as you can see.


According to Ooni, "Their Babalawos are well-versed in the Ifa doctrines and can perform the Odu-Ifa and its panegyrics like our Ifa priest do in Nigeria.


He claims that Brazilians highly value their gods like Sango, Ogun, Yemoja, and Obatala, and they have set aside days to honour them with vibrant celebrations that are full of aesthetic appeal.


"One thing I like about them is that they speak Yoruba, and it's important to unite them and demonstrate our sympathy with them by speaking Yoruba.


He continued, "This will promote positive bilateral trade between Brazil and Nigeria and it would also benefit Yoruba culture."