Yoruba group threatens to shut down Computer Village if…

The Yoruba Council Worldwide (YCW), a prominent socio-cultural group, has issued a stern warning to shut down markets in Lagos State, particularly Computer Village, due to what it describes as the “flagrant disregard” of orders from the Iyaloja-General of the state, Mrs. Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, by certain Igbo traders.

The group has urged Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to establish a commission of inquiry into the “illegal activities” of these traders.

They warned that the situation could escalate into a crisis if not addressed.

At the Ooni’s palace on September 4, 2024, YCW President, Oladotun Hassan, stressed the group’s intolerance of actions undermining Yoruba traditions.

He accused the Igbo traders’ association of challenging the Iyaloja-General’s authority on market levies, attacking Yoruba tradition.

Hassan stated:

“If this sacrilegious and disgraceful act persists, we shall not hesitate to commence the immediate shutting down of any market…

“That attempts to undermine the authority of the appointees of Iyaloja-General, Chief Mrs. Folashade Tinubu-Ojo…

“Especially Ikeja Computer Village Market, in defense of our noble traditional heritage.”

He further expressed concern over what he described as a “premeditated evil agenda” by some Igbo elements.

This agenda is aimed at causing discord and undermining the ancestral roles of Iyaloja and Babaloja titles in Yorubaland.

The YCW announced plans to convene a summit in November, titled “Monarchs 2024,” under the leadership of the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi.

The summit will bring together Yoruba monarchs in Lagos State to address these issues.

Role of the Iyaloja-General in Lagos State

The Iyaloja-General is the top-ranking female leader in Lagos State’s market associations, wielding significant traditional influence.

The title “Iyaloja” translates to “Mother of the Market” in Yoruba.

The holder of this position traditionally oversees the activities of market women and traders, ensuring order and adherence to market rules.

The Iyaloja title has deep historical roots in Yorubaland, originating from ancient market systems where women held economic and social power.

Market activities in Yoruba culture have always been dominated by women, with the Iyaloja serving as the custodian of market traditions.

She ensures fair trade practices, organizes the market, regulates levies, mediates disputes, and maintains peace among traders.

In Lagos, the role of the Iyaloja-General extends beyond market governance to wielding considerable influence in local politics and community affairs.

The Iyaloja-General often has the ear of political leaders and plays a key role in mobilizing grassroots support during elections.

This position has been held by prominent figures, most notably Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji, the mother of former Lagos State Governor Bola Tinubu.

His daughter, Mrs. Folashade Tinubu-Ojo, currently holds it.

This connection to political power has only amplified the authority and reach of the Iyaloja-General in Lagos.

Relationship between Yoruba and Igbo communities in Lagos

Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial hub, is a melting pot of ethnicities, with Yoruba and Igbo communities driving its economy and society.

The relationship between these Lagos communities has seen cooperation and tension, especially in commercial hubs like Computer Village.

Cooperation and interdependence: Historically, the Yoruba and Igbo have worked together to foster economic growth in Lagos.

Many Igbo traders who migrated to Lagos in search of economic opportunities established themselves in various markets.

One of these is Computer Village, which is one of the largest technology marketplaces in West Africa.

The Yoruba, indigenous to Lagos, traditionally hold authority in markets, often providing the administrative framework for trade.

Over the decades, both communities have found ways to coexist and cooperate, driven by mutual economic interests.

Tensions and conflicts: However, this relationship has not been without its challenges.

Tensions have arisen from disputes over market leadership, levy payments, and control of market activities.

For instance, Igbo traders have sometimes challenged the authority of the Iyaloja-General or other market leaders, causing conflicts.

In some cases, these disputes have escalated into broader ethnic tensions, reflecting underlying socio-political issues in Lagos.

The YCW threatening to shut down markets like Computer Village reflects ongoing tensions in the current situation.

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