By Njoku Chijioke

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has been honoured with the prestigious chieftaincy title of Ugosimba 1 of Enugu, meaning “Jewel of Women Empowerment,” in recognition of her unwavering commitment to advancing the rights and welfare of women across the country.

The title was conferred on Senator Tinubu during her working visit to Enugu State, where she also distributed professional kits to midwives as part of her advocacy for improved maternal healthcare.

The event underscored her alignment with the current administration’s goal of enhancing the health and well-being of women nationwide.

The honour celebrates her impactful initiatives under the Renewed Hope Initiative, which supports women-owned businesses, promotes girls’ education, and extends healthcare and social support to vulnerable communities.

Dignitaries present at the event included Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah and a host of traditional rulers who commended her strides in women empowerment.

This latest honour comes shortly after her husband, President Bola Tinubu, received the title Dike Si N’Mba 1 of Anambra State, further cementing the First Family’s growing connection with the Southeast.

A seasoned politician and advocate, Senator Tinubu previously served as First Lady of Lagos State and as Senator representing Lagos Central.

Her decades-long commitment to nation-building and gender equality has earned her numerous local and international accolades.

By Adenike Lawal

The ancient town of Ijebu Ode in Ogun State was transformed into a vibrant hub of tradition and elegance as it hosted the 2025 edition of the Ojude Oba Festival, a celebration that continues to serve as a proud expression of Yoruba heritage and unity.

The festival, deeply rooted in history, has grown into a national cultural treasure admired within and beyond Nigeria.

Held annually on the third day after the Islamic Eid-el-Kabir, Ojude Oba meaning “The King’s Courtyard” began in the 19th century as a simple gesture of homage by early Muslim converts to the Awujale of Ijebuland. Over time, it has evolved into a grand display of Yoruba identity and communal pride.

Central to the event is the enduring leadership of the Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, under whose reign the festival has blossomed.

The Awujale Pavilion served as the focal point for processions featuring traditional fashion, music, dance, and horse-riding performances that reflect the beauty of Yoruba culture.

This year’s celebration was a dazzling showcase of color and craftsmanship. Attendees from across the country arrived in traditional attire including Adire, Aso Oke, Agbada, Iro, and Buba, each piece reflecting Yoruba artistry and heritage.

Horseback processions brought regal energy as riders representing noble Balogun families such as Adenuga, Alausa, Kuku, Alatise, and Adesoye paraded with elegance and pride.

Age-grade groups known as Regbe Regbe societies presented synchronized performances in dance, chants, and tributes to the king, creating a festive competition for prestige and prizes. Groups like Gbobaniyi, Gbobalaye, Bobagbimo, and Obafuwali drew loud cheers with their coordinated flair.

Farooq Oreagba, popularly called the “King of Steeze,” captured public attention with his stylish presence and confident bearing, reaffirming his place as a modern cultural figure.

Beyond its cultural essence, the festival also delivered economic benefits. Hotels and guesthouses were fully booked, underscoring the festival’s role as a driver of tourism.

Corporate sponsors took advantage of the visibility, with branded activations and banners adding to the festive atmosphere.

To ensure a safe experience, security personnel were fully deployed, providing a peaceful environment for all attendees.

After a pause during the 2020 and 2021 pandemic years, Ojude Oba has fully regained its momentum.

As the 2025 edition wraps up, participants look forward to future celebrations that will continue to uphold the rich traditions, pride, and identity of the Yoruba people.

By Patrick Idowu

A woman, Maimuna Umar Gora, has petitioned a Kano Shari’a Court in Danbare, Kumbotso Local Government Area, to dissolve her two-year-old marriage, claiming her parents forced her into it because of material gain.
Gora told the court that her husband, Sabo Shehu Kabara, was chosen by her parents due to his wealth and ownership of a farm in their hometown. She said she had no prior relationship with him and never gave her consent.
“I am in love with my boyfriend, but my parents consummated the marriage with the man I do not know, because he owns a farm in our town where he has been visiting and sought the consent of my parents to marry me,” she stated.
The marriage, which she said has brought her no peace, was previously challenged in other courts without success.
Presiding Judge, Khadi Munzali Idris Gwadabe, directed that Kabara be served a court summons and adjourned the matter until June 12 for further hearing.