Top Epe Division stories this week feature Hon Wale Raji, Epe Grammar School, FRSC, Hon. Ogunkelu, Epe Local Government, Aiyetoro Market and more.
Eko Hot Blog reports all the details below:
Ekohotblog reports that Epe Grammar School Alumni Organize Debate, Quiz, and Spelling Competitions for Epe Schools
The Epe Grammar School Old Students Association, led by its president, Alhaja Olushola Alade Raji, recently hosted a series of academic competitions for secondary schools in Epe.
Held at Epe Grammar School, the event featured debates, quizzes, speeches, and a spelling bee, all aimed at promoting academic excellence and fostering healthy competition among students.
Several schools in Epe participated, including Government College Ketu, Igbonla Modern College, Alaro High School, Army High School, Odomola Secondary School, Epe Girls High School, Odo-Obara High School, Ogunmodede High School, Nazareth, and the host school, Epe Grammar School.
The debate, centered on the topic “Is the Current System of Education Preparing Students for the Workforce?” saw Epe Grammar School emerge victorious with their well-structured arguments and confident delivery.
In other categories, Temu Community High School claimed first place in the speech competition, Epe Junior Grammar School won the spelling bee, and Epe Senior Grammar School triumphed in the quiz competition.
Speaking at the event, Alhaja Olushola Alade Raji emphasized the importance of such initiatives in shaping the future of students.
“These competitions are designed to challenge students and help them develop the skills they need to excel in life. We are proud of their performances,” she said.
Mrs. Ayodele, the principal of Epe Senior Grammar School, expressed her appreciation for the event, saying, “This is a wonderful initiative. It motivates students to work harder and prepares them for greater challenges ahead.”
To reward the students’ hard work, cheque prizes were awarded to the winning schools, while each participant received certificates of participation as recognition for their efforts.
A participant from Odomola Secondary School described the event as inspiring, saying, “This experience has encouraged me to improve and strive for excellence.”
Ekohotblog reports that Miss Obo Daniella, a student of Temu Community Junior Secondary School, has passionately described Rep. Wale Raji, Member of the House of Representatives for Epe Federal Constituency, as her hero.
She made this statement during a speech competition at Epe Grammar School, which was part of the school’s 70th anniversary celebration.
In her speech, Daniella commended Rep. Wale Raji for his dedication to education and his numerous projects aimed at improving schools and communities in Epe.
She noted that he founded her school, Temu Community Junior Secondary School, as well as other institutions like Oko Abe Community School.
Daniella explained how the establishment of her school has helped her family save money.
“Before Temu Community School was built, students had to spend as much as ₦800 daily on transportation to the nearest school. It was very hard for my parents, but now they don’t have to worry anymore,” she said.
She also referred to him as “Mr. Projects” and emphasized that Rep. Wale Raji does not build schools for personal gain.
“After constructing and equipping the schools, he hands them over to the government to manage,” she added, highlighting his selfless commitment to improving education in Epe.
Daniella went on to acknowledge his other contributions, such as renovating classrooms, hostels, a dining hall, roads, and even the school stadium at Epe Grammar School.
She emphasized that these projects have significantly enhanced education and community life in the region.
“The transformation of Epe Grammar School stands as a testament to his vision,” Daniella stated.
“Rep. Wale Raji has not only improved our schools but also made our communities better through road construction and the development of modern markets. He is truly a lover of education and a hero to many of us.”
The event, organized by the Epe Grammar School Old Students Association, featured debates, quizzes, speech presentations, and a spelling bee as part of the school’s 70th anniversary celebrations.
Ekohotblog reports that the Epe Old Students Association, led by its National President, Alhaja Shola Alade Raji, visited the Thani Oladunjoye Older People’s Center in Epe to mark their 70th anniversary.
The group donated medical supplies such as drugs, diapers, and other essential items during the visit, which was part of their efforts to give back to the community.
Speaking at the event, Alhaja Raji said, “We wanted to celebrate our 70th anniversary in a way that would touch lives.
“We believe that our 70th celebration would not be complete without reaching out to the elderly, who represent our past and future.
Someday, we will all grow old, and it is our responsibility to support those who paved the way for us.”
The chairman of the association added that, “Giving back is a core value of our association.This visit is an opportunity to show appreciation to our elders and demonstrate that they are not forgotten.”
Dr. Tunde Oladunjoye, CEO of the Thani Oladunjoye Older People’s Center, thanked the association for their kindness.
“We truly appreciate this visit and the donations. Over the years, other groups and individuals like former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, Eko Club, EPWA, Hon Tobun and the Otedola family have also supported us, and it has helped us achieve great things,” he said.
Dr. Oladunjoye also shared some of the center’s successes, saying, “We have helped over 200 elderly people get free eye surgeries and organized excursions for them to relax and enjoy themselves.
These are just some of the ways we try to make their lives better.”One of the elderly residents, expressed his gratitude.
“It feels good to know that people still care about us. This visit has brought us joy,” he said.
The event ended with a promise from the Epe Old Students Association to continue helping the community.
“This is just the beginning, we would continue to try our best in giving back to the community” Alhaja Raji said.
Ekohotblog reports that the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Epe Unit Command, is collaborating with Augustine University, Ilara-Epe, to enhance road safety and reduce accidents in the community through awareness and educational initiatives.
The Acting Unit Commander, Chief Route Commander (CRC) Esther Adewoye, led the FRSC team on a visit to the university, where they were warmly welcomed by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Christopher Odetunde, and the school’s management team at the Senate Chamber.
CRC Adewoye emphasized the importance of partnering with educational institutions to promote road safety awareness.
“Road safety is everyone’s responsibility. Partnering with schools like Augustine University helps us reach more people and teach them how to stay safe on the roads,” she said.
Professor Odetunde expressed gratitude for the visit and assured the FRSC of the university’s support.
“We are happy to work with the FRSC. Augustine University believes in contributing to society, and road safety is very important to us,” he said.
The FRSC and the university discussed plans for joint activities, including road safety awareness campaigns, training sessions for students and staff, and workshops on safe road practices.
“These programs will help students and staff learn more about road safety and encourage them to share the message with others,” CRC Adewoye added.
Professor Odetunde also underscored the role of young people in promoting safety.
“By teaching our students about road safety, we are helping them become responsible citizens who care about the safety of others,” he said.
Ekohotblog reports that the Epe Local Government has proposed new rules to stop roadside trading at Ayetoro Market.
The rules, introduced by Hon. Oluwo Rasheed, the Majority Leader, are aimed at protecting lives and making the market safer and more organized for traders and buyers.
Speaking at the meeting, Hon. Rasheed said, “The new rules are to prevent accidents and make the market better for everyone. We want traders, residents, and visitors to feel safe.”
The rules will require traders to move their stalls to designated areas within the market. Selling along the main roads will no longer be allowed. Anyone who breaks the rules will receive a first warning for the offense.
If repeated, they will be fined, and their goods may be confiscated. Serious or repeated offenders might also lose their trading permits temporarily.
The Epe Local Government plans to educate traders and residents about the dangers of selling on the roads.
“We will hold awareness campaigns to explain why these rules are important and how they will benefit everyone,” a local government official explained.
Some traders in Ayetoro Market are concerned about the changes. Mrs. Funmi, a trader, said, “I understand it’s for safety, but the new market spaces need to be easy for customers to access. Otherwise, it will affect our sales.”
In response, the government assured traders that the new zones would be well-prepared to accommodate their businesses.
“This is for everyone’s good,” Hon. Rasheed added. “We want a safe and organized market where traders and customers can carry out their activities without fear of accidents.”
Hon. Wale Raji Praised For Redeveloping Pobo Market with Modern Facilities
Ekohotblog reports that the Iyaloja and Babaloja of Pobo Market, Poka, in Eredo LCDA, Epe Division, Chief (Mrs.) Roseline Oluremi Ogunkoya (JP) and Chief Bello Razak, along with other traders, including representatives of Igbo and Hausa communities, have expressed heartfelt appreciation to Hon. Wale Raji, Member of the House of Representatives for Epe Federal Constituency, for his transformative projects at the Pobo market.
Hon. Raji’s intervention includes the ongoing construction of lock-up shops, open stalls, and flood control measures.
These projects have not only improved the market’s functionality but have also addressed long-standing issues of flooding that plagued traders and customers during the rainy season.
In an interview with the market men and women, Chief (Mrs) Roseline highlighted the relief brought by the project.
“Before now, this market was heavily affected by flooding during the rainy season, causing untold hardship to both traders and buyers.
Hon. Wale Raji’s intervention is highly commendable. The ongoing construction of lock-up shops is progressing rapidly, and the flood no longer troubles the market.
We are optimistic that he will also complete the open stalls and improve the market grounds,” she stated.
“Hon. Wale Raji’s contributions are unparalleled in the history of Epe Federal Constituency.
We deeply appreciate his commitment and love him as our representative.
We hope he continues to serve us for many years to come!”
Chief Bello Razak, the Babaloja of the market, also lauded Hon. Raji’s projects and called for additional improvements.
“Hon. Wale Raji is the best representative Epe Division has ever had.
His projects are everywhere across the constituency, including Ayetoro, Mojoda, Itoikin, Agbowa.
Here at Pobo Market, we are grateful for his work. However, we would like him to address the flooding still affecting some parts of the market, lower the perimeter fence, and replace the current gates with open gates.
This will make the market more visible and accessible to the public,” he appealed.
Several traders also praised for the lawmaker. A trader described Hon. Raji’s efforts as life-changing.
“Before now, we struggled to keep our goods safe during the rains, but his flood-control measures have made a significant difference.
He has proven to be a leader who listens to the people and takes action,” the trader noted.
Another trader emphasized the positive impact on their business:
“The ongoing construction of shops and stalls will attract more customers, and we are excited about the market’s future.
We are proud to have Hon. Wale Raji as our representative,” she said.
Ekohotblog reports that traders at Pobo Market in Poka, Eredo LCDA, have expressed heartfelt gratitude to Hon. Sylvester Oluwadahunsi Ogunkelu, popularly known as “Sketel,” for his impactful contributions to the market’s development.
Hon. Ogunkelu, who represents Epe Constituency II in the Lagos State House of Assembly, has undertaken several projects to improve the market, including the provision of a borehole for clean water, a standby generator, public toilets, and streetlights.
These initiatives have significantly enhanced the quality of life for traders and their customers.
Chief (Mrs.) Roseline Oluremi Ogunkoya (JP), the Iyaloja of Pobo Market, lauded the lawmaker’s efforts:
“We are very happy with Hon. Ogunkelu. Before now, we had no water or lights, but he gave us a borehole, generator, and streetlights.
These things have made our market better. We are fully behind him and pray that God will bless him and his family.”
Similarly, the Babaloja, Chief Bello Razak, acknowledged the positive impact of the projects:
“Hon. Ogunkelu has helped us a lot. His projects have made this market cleaner and more comfortable for everyone. We thank him and will continue to support him so he can do even more for us.”
Other traders commended the streetlights for improving safety at night and the borehole for providing easy access to clean water. One trader shared:
“The streetlights allow us to sell at night without fear, unlike before when we were always scared of the unknown. It shows that Hon. Sketel cares about us.”
Another trader added:
“The borehole and generator have solved big problems for us. We are very grateful to him.”
The market leaders, Chief Ogunkoya and Chief Razak, encouraged the public to visit the market and support the traders.
“We invite everyone to come and see the changes in Pobo Market. It is now a better place for trading, thanks to Hon. Ogunkelu,” Chief Ogunkoya remarked.
Ekohotblog reports that Councillors representing Epe Central, Ibeju-Lekki, Lekki, Eredo, and Ikosi-Ejinrin LCDAs have extended their support to victims of the tragic accident at Ayetoro Market on Monday, November 11, 2024.
The incident, involving a Dangote truck loaded with cement that lost control on Paramount Hill, resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries, leaving the Epe community and Lagos State in mourning.
A prayer session for the victims was held on Thursday, November 14, 2024, attended by notable leaders including Lagos State Deputy Governor Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, Rep. Wale Raji (Epe Federal Constituency), Hon. Tobun Abiodun (Lagos State House of Assembly), and Dr. Hakeem Shittu of LASUBEB.
On Sunday, November 17, the Councillors’ Forum of Epe Division, led by its Chairman, Hon. Hassan Mustapha Owolabi, visited the homes of victims after gathering at the Epe Local Government Secretariat. Accompanied by the forum’s executive officers, they offered prayers, condolences, and financial support to the affected families, aiming to provide relief and hope during their difficult time.
Hon. Owolabi, also the House Leader of Ikosi-Ejinrin LCDA, shared that the forum chose to prioritize the victims’ welfare over previously planned events.
“We Councillors were planning a get-together, but due to this unfortunate incident, we postponed it. Instead, we chose today to visit the victims and support them financially, morally, and spiritually,” he said.
He also called for improved safety in public spaces and urged market users to avoid displaying goods on roads and walkways to prevent similar tragedies.
“This issue is not entirely the fault of the government. In our daily activities, we need to be cautious. The market is available for trading. If people had not been on the roadside, the damage could have been minimized,” Owolabi noted.
Victims expressed their gratitude for the Councillors’ support. Mrs. Alore Abiodun, a survivor, commended the prompt response of the police and emergency agencies while appreciating the financial assistance and care extended by the Councillors.
The Councillors’ Forum team included Hon. Ajiwole Afeez (Secretary), Hon. Lawal Adedeji (Treasurer), Hon. Sulaimon Adebola (Public Relations Officer), and Hon. Bakare Olawale (Welfare Secretary).
The councillors reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the community in times of need and working towards safer environments for all.
Ekohotblog reports that the Olu of Kayetoro, Oba Babatunde Saka Bakare, celebrated his second year on the throne on Saturday, November 16, 2024.
The event was held in Kayetoro, Ibeju-Lekki, and brought together many important guests from Lagos and Ogun States to honor the king.
Hon. Oladehinde Aliasau, Special Adviser on Chieftaincy and Inter-Boundary Affairs, represented the Executive Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government, Hon. Abdullahi Sesan Olowa.
In his address,he praised the king and prayed for his long life and success.
“On behalf of our Chairman, I congratulate Kabiyesi for his great leadership and efforts in developing Kayetoro.
The government will continue to support the throne,” he said.
Traditional rulers, including the Onibeju of Ibeju Land, Oba Waliu Olasunkanmi Rasaq Oguntolu, and the Ojomu of Lakowe, HRM Oba Akeem Olusesi Ojomu, were also present.
Oba Oguntolu said, “Kabiyesi has done a lot for this community in just two years.
We are proud of his good work and wish him many more years of success.”
Other royal guests included the Ologunfayo of Ogunfayo, Oba Adewunmi Larry Idogun; the Gbadewolu of Araromi, Oba Lukman Adebambo Arowolo,and the Onirokun of Irokun Kingdom, Oba Nurain.
Chief Sikiru Dada, the Agbon of Epe Kingdom, and other dignitaries also attended the event.
Oba Babatunde Saka Bakare appreciated everyone for their love and support.
“This celebration is not just for me but for all of Kayetoro. I thank you all for standing by me and helping us build a peaceful and united community,” he said.
Ekohotblog reports that the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Governor on Wealth Creation and Employment has started inspecting job and labour exchange centers across Lagos State.
The inspection began with the center at Epe, located in the Epe Local Government Secretariat, Itamarun, Epe.
The SSA was joined by Mrs. Daley-Oladele Senami, an auditor from the Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment, and Mr. Ali A.A from the Employment Unit.
They met with the Head of the Job and Labour Exchange Centre, Mrs. Ogunbekun Kudirat; the Coordinator of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Epe Branch, Comrade Muyibi Ibrahim; and the Progressives Youth Leader of Epe Local Government, Hon. Saheed Balogun.
Mrs. Ogunbekun explained some of the challenges the center is facing, include a lack of motivation and resources for counseling, limited office space, a shortage of staff, and the fact that many young people prefer government jobs over learning skills or vocational training.
“We need better support and facilities to help job seekers.
Many youths also need encouragement to look beyond white-collar jobs and explore other opportunities,” Mrs. Ogunbekun said.
During the visit, the SSA also met with the Executive Chairman of Epe Local Government, Hon. (Princess) Surah Olayemi Animashaun.
They discussed how to bridge the gap between government programs and the grassroots.
“We must focus on more than just white-collar jobs. Vocational training and skills development are essential.
Collaboration between the local government and our ministry will help us achieve this goal,” the SSA said.
Hon. Animashaun expressed her readiness to support the initiative.
“Our administration is always ready and dedicated to empower youths and create more opportunities for our people.
We are ready to work with the ministry to make this happen,” she said.
This inspection is part of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s directive to improve and expand job centers across Lagos.
The goal is to make these centers more accessible and effective in helping Lagosians find jobs and create wealth.
“This effort shows the Governor’s commitment to improving the lives of our people and ensuring a brighter future for everyone in Lagos,” the SSA added.
Ekohotblog reports that the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Epe Branch, has raised concerns over the increasing problem of electricity vandalism in the community.
This comes after a recent incident where a power cable in Araga-Poka was damaged, causing further power outages in the area.
The council commended local leaders for their efforts to restore electricity in Epe despite the challenges.
“Our leaders have been doing their best to improve our situation, and we appreciate their commitment,” said Comrade Moibi Ibrahim, the NYCN coordinator.
While progress has been slow, the NYCN remains optimistic that the combined efforts of leaders and residents will eventually restore stable power supply.
However, the council warned that acts of vandalism are hindering these efforts and called for an end to such activities.
“These acts are not done by ordinary people. It takes skill to climb electric poles and damage cables. This is a big problem, and it’s delaying progress,” Moibi stated.
The NYCN urged residents to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activities around power lines.
“Everyone in Epe needs to help protect our infrastructure. If you see something strange, don’t hesitate to report it,” Moibi added.
The council also cautioned that those caught damaging electricity cables would face severe consequences.
“The police in Epe, Eredo, and Ketu-Ejinrin are aware of what is happening. Vandals will be arrested and punished according to the law,” Moibi emphasized.
Efforts are underway to replace the damaged cables, with plans for a meeting involving key stakeholders to develop lasting solutions to the problem.
Mrs. Abike, a concerned resident, shared her frustrations, saying:
“We have been waiting so long for electricity, and now these vandals are making it worse. It’s unfair to everyone.”
The NYCN reassured the community of their dedication to resolving the power challenges.
“We have been at the forefront of this struggle, working with leaders and authorities. We won’t stop until power is fully restored,” Moibi assured.
The council called for unity and collective effort to address the issue.
“We can only move forward if we work as one. Together, we can bring light back to Epe and secure a better future for everyone,” the NYCN concluded.
Ekohotblog reports that the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Epe Branch, has successfully concluded a three-month skills training program, equipping local youth with valuable skills in crafts and fashion design.
The program culminated in an exhibition at the Epe Local Government Secretariat, where trainees showcased their creations, earning praise for their dedication and creativity.
Led by Comrade Moibi Ibrahim, the initiative aimed to empower young people, foster job creation, and support small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
“This is a strategic effort to promote job creation, support small and medium enterprises, and contribute to nation-building,” Comrade Moibi said, emphasizing the importance of such programs in empowering the nation’s youth.
He expressed gratitude to the trainers and participants for their commitment, which contributed to the program’s success.
During the exhibition, trainees demonstrated their newly acquired skills under the guidance of facilitators, who provided constructive feedback.
One standout participant was Kuye Ifeoluwa, an SS1 student, celebrated as the most punctual trainee. Her dedication and enthusiasm earned her widespread commendation.
Another trainee, Mrs. Masun Sidikat, shared her appreciation for the program, saying:
“The trainers hid nothing from us. They ensured everyone was carried along and treated equally with love and respect.”
Facilitator Mrs. Babalola Lateefat encouraged the trainees to value their certificates, emphasizing their significance for future opportunities.
“This certificate is more than a piece of paper; it will open doors to greater opportunities,” she said.
The NYCN reaffirmed its commitment to youth empowerment, pledging to continue initiatives that promote skill acquisition and economic growth in the community.