As Muslims across the world commence the sacred month of Ramadan, Chairman of the House Committee on the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA) and lawmaker representing Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency of Oyo State, Engr. Aderemi Oseni has urged Nigerians to embrace the values of unity, compassion, and self-discipline that define the holy period.

In a goodwill message to Muslim faithful, issued by his media aide, Idowu Ayodele, and made available to journalists in Ibadan, Oseni emphasised the importance of using the fasting period for deep reflection, devotion to Allah, and acts of kindness towards the less privileged.

He noted that Nigeria, at this critical time, requires prayers and collective efforts to overcome its economic and security challenges.

“Ramadan is a time of sacrifice, prayer, and charity. It is also an opportunity for us to renew our faith in God and strengthen the bonds of brotherhood across ethnic and religious divides. As we fast and seek divine blessings, let us also remember to support those in need and contribute to the peace and progress of our dear nation,” he said.

The lawmaker commended the resilience of Nigerians in the face of economic hardships and assured his constituents of his continued commitment to policies that will enhance their welfare.

He further expressed confidence in the policies of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, affirming that they are designed to reduce the cost of living, enhance security, and drive national development.

“As leaders, we must remain sensitive to the plight of the people. I am convinced that the Tinubu-led government is restoring Nigeria’s lost hope through various policies. Ramadan teaches us the essence of selflessness, and I call on my colleagues in government to support policies that will ease the burdens on Nigerians. We must ensure that governance translates into real benefits for the citizens,” he added.

Oseni also urged Muslim faithful to conduct themselves peacefully and use the Ramadan period to pray for the nation’s leadership, security agencies, and economic stability.

He wished all Muslims a spiritually fulfilling Ramadan, calling for continued unity among all Nigerians, regardless of religious background, to build a stronger and more prosperous country.

The economic crisis in Nigeria is hitting renters in Lagos hard, as landlords pass down the costs of spiraling inflation, pushing residents further from the city, disrupting children’s education, and worsening the already grueling commutes of workers.

With a population of over 20 million and an influx of 3,000 people daily, Lagos has long struggled with housing demand. However, recent government-led economic reforms—including the floating of the naira and the removal of fuel subsidies—have sent shockwaves through the economy, causing rents to skyrocket across both the affluent islands and the relatively affordable mainland.

“I might just have to find a way to plead with my landlord,” said Yemisi Odusanya, a 40-year-old cookbook author and food blogger. She welcomed twins last year and now faces a staggering 120 percent rent increase on her Lekki apartment, making it nearly impossible to find an alternative for her family of seven.

For Bartholomew Idowu, a transportation worker, the decision is more straightforward.

“I’m planning to pack out,” he said after his landlord hiked his rent by 28 percent—from ₦350,000 ($232) to ₦450,000. However, he remains uncertain about where to move next, as housing prices continue to surge.

Despite the government’s recent revision of inflation data—bringing the official year-on-year rate to 24.48 percent in January from December’s 34.80 percent—many Nigerians find little relief.

“The way out at the moment is to look for a way to pay,” lamented Dennis Erezi, a journalist who chose to stay put despite a 31 percent rent increase, fearing the costs of relocating.

For others, relocation has already had significant consequences. Jimoh Saheed, a personal trainer, was forced out of his one-room flat in Ikoyi when his landlord more than doubled his rent to ₦2.5 million. Moving to the mainland put him further from his clients, forced his children to change schools, and added transportation costs to their already stretched budget.

“This is affecting me emotionally, mentally, and physically,” said the 39-year-old, who now works longer hours but still struggles to keep up with inflation.

Legal Protection Weak, Structural Problems Persist

While Nigerian laws require that rent increases be negotiated between landlords and tenants, attorney Valerian Nwadike noted that enforcement is rare without legal action. He reported a surge in tenant-landlord disputes over the past year.

The government argues that its economic reforms will eventually yield positive results, but for now, the crisis is deepening. High interest rates have made homeownership nearly impossible for most Nigerians, and bureaucratic hurdles continue to stifle developers.

Even as construction cranes dot the Lagos skyline, new housing developments primarily cater to high-end buyers—foreign investors, Nigerians in the diaspora, and oil sector workers who earn in dollars. Economist Steve Onyeiwu explained that this creates a distorted market where luxury housing flourishes while middle- and lower-income residents struggle.

“Most Lagos landlords have dollar-based expenses—such as mortgage payments on overseas properties—so they’re increasing rents to cover losses from the naira’s collapse,” noted a director at Island Shoreline, a property management firm. He revealed that his own landlord recently attempted to double his rent.

A City in Housing Turmoil

While initiatives like the Lagos-Ibadan rail line may eventually ease transportation burdens, the rising cost of living has created a snowball effect that continues to push rents higher.

With lease payments typically required upfront for one to three years, both tenants and landlords scramble to hedge against inflation. However, the scale of rent hikes is unprecedented.

“The current spike is alarming,” said Ismail Oriyomi Akinola, a real estate agent, highlighting cases where Victoria Island rents have jumped by 200 percent.

“Good shelter is essential for everyone, not just the rich,” he added.

Orile-Igbon, a historic town in Surulere Local Government Area of Oyo State, came to a standstill on Thursday as dignitaries, traditional rulers, politicians, captains of industry, and well-wishers, among others gathered to bid farewell to Yeye Oba Margaret Oyeronke Alao, the mother of Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, Oba Francis Olushola Alao, and Vice Chairman of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs.

The late matriarch, who passed away on November 15, 2024, at the age of 81, was celebrated for her remarkable life, unwavering faith, and devotion to family and community.

A Fitting Tribute to a Life Well Lived

The funeral service, held at Majesty Natural Resort, Orile-Igbon, was an emotional yet grand occasion that saw an outpouring of love and respect from family, friends, and dignitaries from across Nigeria.

Delivering a powerful sermon, Pastor Ituah Ighodalo, Senior Pastor of Trinity House, Lagos, urged attendees to reflect on the brevity of life and the importance of spiritual fulfillment.

“What will it profit a man if he gains the whole world yet loses his soul? Everything we acquire on earth, we will leave behind. The most important thing is to make it to heaven.”

He described Mama Alao as a devout Christian, a dedicated mother, and a woman who instilled strong moral values in her children, adding that her legacy of faith and love will endure.

Dignitaries Pay Glowing Tributes

The funeral attracted an array of top personalities, each sharing heartfelt tributes to the departed matriarch.

Prince Dapo Abiodun (Governor, Ogun State):

“Mama was an entrepreneur with a humble beginning, trading between Nigeria and Ghana. She was a polyglot who spoke English, Hausa, Yoruba, and Ghanaian dialects fluently. Despite her limited formal education, she raised a successful family. Her legacy speaks for itself.”

Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Governor, Lagos State, represented by Chief of Staff, Tayo Ayinde):

“Mama Alao was a devoted Christian, a pillar of strength in her family, and a source of wisdom. Her impact will forever be cherished.”

Olugbon’s Emotional Eulogy

For Oba Francis Olushola Alao, his mother’s passing was a deeply personal loss. In his tribute, he described her as a disciplinarian, a hardworking woman, and a devoted wife who stood by her husband through thick and thin.

 

“She was a great mother who ensured that her children turned out well. She was never rigid but always courageous, strong-willed, and ready to face life’s challenges head-on.”

He also praised her unique fashion sense, recalling how she always coordinated her outfits with elegance and style.

Olori Alao’s Tribute: A Bond Beyond Words

In her emotional message, Olori Olushola Adedoyin Alao, wife of the Olugbon, reflected on the close relationship she shared with her mother-in-law.

“She loved her children unconditionally, especially Brother Femi and Kabiyesi. Whenever we spoke, she would reminisce about their childhood mischief, always defending them. She was a loving and caring mother, full of wisdom and patience.”

King Sunny Ade Serenades the Audience

The grand farewell was not just about solemn reflections; it was also a celebration of a life well lived. Music legend King Sunny Ade took to the stage, lifting the spirits of guests with his timeless juju tunes, turning the event into a blend of mourning and joyful remembrance.

A Gathering of Nigeria’s Elite

The funeral drew an impressive lineup of dignitaries, including:

Engr. Seyi Makinde, Governor, Oyo State, Dauda Lawal, Governor, Zamfara State, Kayode Alabi, Deputy Governor, Kwara State, Senator Yunus Akintunde (Oyo Central Senatorial District), Senator Ajagunla Olubiyi Fadeyi (Osun Central Senatorial District, Engr. Aderemi Oseni, the Chairman, House Committee on FERMA and member representing Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Chief Lere Paimo (Veteran Nollywood Actor), and a Business Mogul, Dr. Tunde Ayeni,

 

Others are former First Ladies: Mrs. Florence Ajimobi (Oyo), Dame Abimbola Fashola (Lagos), Mrs. Toyin Saraki (Kwara), Mrs. Funso Amosun (Ogun), Minister for Power,  Bayo Adelabu, Special Adviser on Public Communication and Orientation, Sunday Dare, Madam Esther Ajayi,  Iyalaje Oodua, Yeye Toyin Lolade,
Major Gen. Dayo Olupoki, General Dayo Owonibi, Eletu Odibo, and Chief Waheed Gbadamosi

Also in attendance were traditional rulers, state lawmakers, and top business leaders.

Final Resting Place

As Yeye Oba Margaret Alao was laid to rest, her family, friends, and well-wishers bade a tearful goodbye, cherishing her legacy of love, sacrifice, and faith.