UNICROSS mourns victims of fatal auto crash, pledges support for survivors

The University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) has expressed deep sorrow following a tragic road accident involving its students and a staff member, which claimed four lives and left several others injured.

In a statement issued by the institution’s Public Relations Officer, Mr Onen Ebri Onen, the university disclosed that the accident involved 24 students and one staff member, many of whom were members of the Students’ Union Government (SUG) executive. They were returning from an official assignment in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, when the incident occurred in Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State.

The university confirmed that three students and one staff member lost their lives in the crash.

Those who died were identified as Comrade Solomon Uya, Director of Sports of the SUG; Comrade Lucky Erim of the Department of Chemistry, who also served as President of the Faculty of Physical Sciences Students’ Association and President of Presidents; Comrade Favour Darlington of the Department of Educational Management; and Mr Anthony Arikpo, the vehicle driver and a staff member of the institution.

According to the statement, survivors are currently receiving treatment at various hospitals, with the university assuring that adequate medical care is being provided.

The Vice Chancellor, Prof Francisca Bassey, accompanied by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Prof Stella Maris-Okey, visited the injured students, expressing solidarity and personally monitoring their treatment.

The management noted that the Vice Chancellor remained with the victims until the early hours to ensure that all necessary medical attention was administered.

Prof Bassey conveyed her condolences to the families of the deceased and described the incident as a painful loss to the university community.

She also reassured the injured students and their families of the institution’s unwavering support, emphasising that their recovery and well-being remain a top priority.

The university further appealed for calm and assured parents and guardians that every effort is being made to provide the best possible care for the affected students.

Hamzat’s governorship bid gains momentum as Lagos NLC, TUC declare support

The governorship ambition of Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, received a major boost on Thursday as the Lagos State councils of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) endorsed his candidacy for the 2027 governorship election.

The endorsement came during the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration held at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos, where labour leaders expressed confidence in Hamzat’s capacity to lead the state and pledged massive support for his bid.

Hamzat’s aspiration has continued to gather momentum following earlier endorsements from key stakeholders, including President Bola Tinubu, the Governance Advisory Council (GAC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and other party leaders.

Former APC governorship aspirant, Dr Olajide Adediran, popularly known as Jandor, had earlier withdrawn from the race in support of Hamzat, while former Governor Akinwunmi Ambode also congratulated him on emerging as the party’s consensus candidate.

The Lagos APC Chairman, Cornelius Ojelabi, Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, and other party chieftains have also backed the deputy governor’s ambition.

In addition, the Association of Waste Managers of Nigeria (AWAMN) recently declared support for Hamzat.

Earlier, the GAC purchased Hamzat’s nomination form after endorsing him as its preferred candidate. The form was later signed by 120 APC leaders and members drawn from the state’s 20 local government areas and 37 local council development areas.

Speaking on behalf of the labour unions, Lagos NLC Chairperson, Comrade Funmi Sessi, described Hamzat as a loyal, competent, tested and trusted leader. According to her, his victory would ensure continuity of the developmental strides recorded by successive administrations in Lagos, particularly under Governor Sanwo-Olu.

Sessi, however, used the occasion to demand improved welfare for workers, calling for an upward review of the state’s minimum wage from ?85,000 to ?225,000.

She said rising inflation, worsening economic conditions and the high cost of living in Lagos had significantly eroded workers’ purchasing power.

‘Lagos remains Nigeria’s economic nerve centre, where the costs of transportation, housing and feeding are exceptionally high,’ she said.

Representing Governor Sanwo-Olu at the event, Hamzat thanked workers for the confidence reposed in him and pledged not to disappoint Lagosians.

‘We will not let you down. The developmental trajectory of Lagos will be improved upon,’ he said.

Governor Sanwo-Olu also commended the leadership of the NLC and TUC for maintaining constructive engagement with government, assuring that his administration would continue open dialogue and collaboration with labour unions.

Speaking earlier after receiving the endorsement of President Tinubu and the GAC, Hamzat described his governorship ambition as audacious but said his experience as deputy governor had prepared him for the task ahead.

‘Nobody is ever fully ready because the assignment is audacious. But what you have is experience. Having served as Deputy Governor of Lagos, I have learned a lot.

‘I know the room. I know where the kitchen is. If you want to cook for people and you do not know the kitchen, no matter how good a chef you are, you must know the kitchen.

‘With God’s blessings and the support of all my fathers here, I have no fear,’ he said.

Bauchi govt allocates N500m for maternal nutrition supplements

The Bauchi State Government has announced the sum of ?500 million as an intervention for the procurement of Multiple Micronutrient Supplements (MMS) to prevent anaemia in pregnancy and ensure skilled, safe delivery.

The announcement was made during the second quarter (Q2) 2026 meeting of the State Task Force on Primary Healthcare (STF-PHC), which brought together top government officials, traditional leaders, development partners and health sector stakeholders to review progress and reinforce commitments towards improving primary healthcare services across the state.

Delivering his keynote address, the State Deputy Governor and Chairman of the STF-PHC, Rt Hon. Mohammed Auwal Jatau, emphasised that the task force meeting provides an opportunity to review collective progress and renew strategic leadership for primary healthcare delivery.

He acknowledged the strong collaboration between the state government and development partners, noting that interventions in routine immunisation, maternal and child health, nutrition services and disease surveillance are yielding encouraging results.

The Deputy Governor appreciated the Governor’s approval and release of ?300 million as a UNICEF nutrition matching grant in 2025, which was matched by the agency for the procurement of critical commodities, including Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF), Small-Quantity Lipid-Based Nutrient Supplements (SQ-LNS) and Multiple Micronutrient Supplements (MMS).

He disclosed that while most of the commodities have been distributed across the state, the MMS procurement process is ongoing.

He further revealed that the Governor has approved the sum of ?500 million for the same intervention in 2026, with the state awaiting the release of the funds.

He also highlighted the ongoing ?19 billion renovation, upgrading and equipping of the Specialist Hospital Bauchi as a major investment in the health sector.

While acknowledging the gains recorded, the Deputy Governor noted persisting challenges such as human resource gaps, data quality issues, service delivery bottlenecks and the need for stronger community engagement.

He called on all local government chairpersons and stakeholders to intensify supervision and accountability at the grassroots, stressing that the success of primary healthcare depends largely on effective implementation at ward and facility levels.

In his closing remarks, the Co-Chair of the STF-PHC and the Emir of Dass urged members to translate deliberations into concrete actions that will directly impact communities.

He emphasised the vital role of traditional institutions in mobilising communities to utilise primary healthcare services and assured continued support in promoting health-seeking behaviour at the grassroots.

Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Commissioner for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Sani Mohammed Dambam, described the meeting as a critical platform for assessing ongoing interventions, identifying gaps and strengthening accountability mechanisms at all levels of care.

He reiterated that primary healthcare remains the backbone of the health system and is essential to achieving universal health coverage, reducing maternal and child mortality, and improving community wellbeing across Bauchi State.

Sokoto East: APC topshots battle one another for ticket

As political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the next electoral cycle, the race for the All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial ticket in Sokoto East is steadily emerging as one of the most closely watched contests in the state.

What initially appeared as a routine pre-primary positioning has evolved into a complex political chessboard defined by alliances, personal networks, party loyalty and strategic calculations among key stakeholders.

Although formal declarations are yet to begin, multiple aspirants-ranging from experienced lawmakers and party administrators to technocrats and political newcomers-are already making quiet moves to secure support across the senatorial district.

Political observers note that while the field remains fluid, early permutations suggest that the eventual outcome will depend less on public popularity alone and more on internal party dynamics, delegate mobilisation and the influence of established political power blocs.

Sokoto East Senatorial District, comprising eight local government areas, has historically produced influential political figures and remains a critical bloc in determining electoral outcomes in the state.

As such, the contest for the APC ticket is attracting heightened interest, with stakeholders keenly observing how the party navigates competing ambitions.

One of the prominent figures being mentioned in political circles is the serving member representing Wurno/Rabah Federal Constituency, Arc. Ibrahim Almustapha.

Arc. Ibrahim Almustapha

Having served in the House of Representatives since 2015, Almustapha is widely regarded as a grassroots politician with a strong record of constituency engagement.

His supporters point to his consistent presence in his constituency and his efforts in facilitating projects and interventions as evidence of his connection with the people.

However, despite his strengths, analysts argue that his political influence is currently concentrated within Wurno and Rabah local government areas, which form his immediate constituency.

To mount a successful senatorial bid, he would need to significantly expand his political footprint across the remaining six local government areas in the district. This presents both a challenge and an opportunity, as the timeframe for building such widespread support may be limited before party primaries commence.

Hon. Musa S. Adar

Another notable aspirant is Hon. Musa S. Adar, a seasoned politician who previously represented Gada/Goronyo Federal Constituency for four consecutive terms.

Adar’s long legislative experience and name recognition across Sokoto East are considered major assets in the unfolding contest. His tenure in the National Assembly helped him cultivate relationships across different segments of the district, giving him a potential advantage in mobilising support.

Nevertheless, his political trajectory has not been without setbacks. His loss in the 2023 general elections to a first-time entrant marked a significant turning point, raising questions among some party members about his current political standing.

Additionally, reports surrounding his resignation from a recent political appointment have generated debate within party circles. While some view the move as a strategic step to focus on the senatorial ambition, others believe it could complicate his chances depending on how party rules and internal expectations are interpreted.

Alhaji Isa Sadiq Achida

Perhaps one of the most strategically positioned contenders is Alhaji Isa Sadiq Achida, the immediate past state chairman of the APC and the current North-West Zonal Secretary of the party. Achida’s political relevance is closely linked to his longstanding association with Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, widely regarded as the leader of the APC in Sokoto State and a dominant force in the state’s political architecture.

Achida’s rise within the party structure has been steady and calculated. From his earlier role as commissioner during the administration of Attahiru Bafarawa to his later reappointment under Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, he has built a reputation as a seasoned administrator with cross-party experience.

His decision to resign from a commissioner position in 2018 to contest for the APC state chairmanship marked a defining moment in his political career, a gamble that ultimately paid off.

During his tenure as state chairman, Achida played a central role in repositioning the APC in Sokoto State, leading the party to a significant victory in the 2023 governorship election. Even during its period in opposition, the party under his leadership secured three senatorial seats, nine House of Representatives seats and a majority in the State House of Assembly during the 2019 general elections-an achievement that continues to strengthen his credibility within party ranks.

Beyond his administrative credentials, Achida is widely regarded as a grassroots politician with deep connections across Sokoto East. His decision to remain in his hometown of Achida despite ongoing security challenges in parts of the senatorial district has been interpreted by supporters as a demonstration of resilience and solidarity with his constituents. This perception, combined with his proximity to the party’s power structure, positions him as a formidable contender in a delegate-driven primary system.

Alhaji Umar Ajiya Isa

Also generating interest in the unfolding race is Alhaji Umar Ajiya Isa, a former staff of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), who is believed to have close ties to the political family of Bafarawa. His potential entry into the contest is widely seen as an attempt by certain political interests to reassert influence within the APC structure in Sokoto East.

Unlike other aspirants, Ajiya Isa has yet to test his popularity at the polls and is generally viewed as lacking an established grassroots political base. However, analysts caution against dismissing his chances outright, noting that Nigerian politics often accommodates late entrants who possess strong elite backing and the financial capacity to quickly mobilise support.

His success, therefore, may depend on his ability to build a viable political structure within a relatively short period.

Beyond the individual strengths and weaknesses of the aspirants, several broader factors are expected to shape the outcome of the APC senatorial ticket in Sokoto East.

Chief among these is the role of zoning arrangements and informal power-sharing agreements within the party. While no official zoning formula has been publicly declared, internal negotiations among party leaders could influence which areas or blocs are favoured in the final decision.

Intra-party cohesion is another critical variable. The APC in Sokoto State has, in recent years, navigated internal tensions and competing interests among its stakeholders.

The extent to which party leaders are able to manage these differences and present a united front ahead of the primaries will significantly impact the credibility and acceptability of the eventual candidate.

Equally important is the influence of key political power brokers whose endorsements often carry significant weight in delegate-based primaries. Alignments with such figures could prove decisive, particularly in a contest where no clear frontrunner has emerged.

Security concerns are also expected to feature prominently in the calculations of party delegates. Sokoto East has faced persistent challenges related to banditry and rural insecurity, issues that have directly affected livelihoods and community stability.

As a result, delegates may prioritise candidates who are perceived to possess the capacity, influence and legislative competence to effectively advocate for security interventions and development at the national level.

Political analysts suggest that in such a context, the ability of aspirants to articulate clear policy positions and demonstrate a track record of engagement on security-related issues could influence delegate preferences.

Despite the growing intensity of political activities, stakeholders within the senatorial district have expressed concern over the apparent lack of structured reconciliation efforts among aspirants. In contrast to other zones where party leaders have reportedly initiated consultations to manage ambitions and prevent divisions, Sokoto East appears to be lagging in this regard.

This absence of early consensus-building mechanisms has contributed to a sense of uncertainty among party members, with multiple camps emerging and competing for influence. There are also speculations that behind-the-scenes discussions are ongoing between state party leaders and select aspirants, including individuals perceived to have significant financial resources.

As the political calendar advances, observers believe that the coming months will be critical in determining the trajectory of the race. Formal declarations, alliance-building and intensified grassroots mobilisation are expected to reshape the current landscape, potentially narrowing the field and clarifying the balance of power among contenders.

For now, the contest remains open, defined by a delicate interplay of ambition, strategy and negotiation. While no aspirant has established a clear lead, the eventual outcome will likely be determined by a combination of early momentum, strategic alliances and the ability to navigate the intricate dynamics of party politics in Sokoto State.

In the end, the race for the APC senatorial ticket in Sokoto East is not merely a contest of individuals but a reflection of broader political currents within the state-where influence, loyalty and timing converge to shape the path to power.

Osun East: Ex-water board chair, Oyedotun, declares senate ambition

A former chairman of the Osun State Water Corporation Board, Hon. Samuel Oyedotun, on Thursday declared his intention to contest the Osun East Senatorial election on the platform of the Accord Party, stating that his emergence as the party’s candidate would boost the chances of Governor Ademola Adeleke in the forthcoming governorship poll.

He commended the administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke for improving road networks and executing major projects across cities in the state, stressing that such infrastructural development is critical to long-term economic growth.

Oyedotun affirmed his readiness for the senatorial seat, citing his experience, capacity, and commitment to effective representation.

Speaking with journalists in Osogbo, he urged the people of Ife and Ijesa to support a candidate from Ile-Ife, noting that the senatorial seat has historically rotated between the two regions.

He argued that since Ijesa has occupied the position for two consecutive terms, it is only fair and just for the seat to return to Ife in the next election cycle.

The Modakeke-born politician further stated that he enjoys the backing of the Ooni of Ife and the people of Ile-Ife, especially at a time when the long-standing Ife/Modakeke rivalry has been resolved.

He also highlighted his personal contributions to society through his foundation, particularly in the areas of education and healthcare, noting that his record of service predates his political ambition.

SWDC calls summit to launch N80bn rural transformation programme for Southwest

The Southwest Development Commission (SWDC) has announced a high-level summit in Ibadan, Oyo State capital, to launch a N80 billion Transformed Communities Programme – known as TransComs.

The SWDC is a Federal Government statutory body established to drive equitable and sustainable development across Oyo, Ogun, Osun, Ondo, Ekiti, and Lagos states.

The summit, scheduled for 5-6 May 2026 at at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) in Ibadan, will formally launch TransComs – a structured programme to lift the living standards of millions of rural Southwest Nigerians, drive massive employment, and build a network of 137 self-sustaining community economies across all six states of the zone.

The Commission, in a communication made available to Tribune Online on Saturday, said the summit will bring together senior representatives from across Nigeria’s federal and state governments, leading development finance institutions, and major private sector players to align on the design, funding structure, and implementation pathway for TransComs.

‘TransComs is the most serious attempt in a generation to organise the productive potential of Southwest Nigeria’s rural communities into a coherent economic programme. The partners in this room on 5 May will not be witnesses to a launch. They will be the architects of it,’ SWDC Chairman, Senator Olubunmi Adetunmbi, speaking ahead of the TransComs Launch Roundtable.

Dignitaries expected at Ibadan Roundtable

The statement said the roundtable is an invitation-only gathering of senior decision-makers, deliberately sized for working commitment rather than conference pageantry, including government officials, representatives from international development, private sector, and academic and research institutions.

Those attending represent government at all levels, starting from the SWDC Chairman, state commissioners for agriculture, health, energy, and local government from Oyo and the other five Southwest states, and representatives from key Federal Ministries.

The programme is also expecting senior and programme officers from international development institutions with active mandates in rural transformation, agricultural finance, and community development across Sub-Saharan Africa such as the African Development Bank.

‘Representatives from large institutional players who will serve as potential anchor buyers for agricultural produce from TransCom sites, as well as key players to build out rural agroprocessing and digital infrastructure.

‘In addition, there will be entities like The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) whose agronomic expertise will underpin the agricultural productivity pillar across all TransCom sites,’ the statement added.

Continuing, the statement described the two-day structure as deliberate, and detailing how Day 1 will move through plenary presentations, sector-specific breakout rooms, open forums and a round-the-table commitment session while Day 2, which closes at 13:00, is dedicated to formalising what was agreed with expressions of interest, and a joint workplan for the Ogbomoso pilot launch.

What Is TransComs?

Speaking on the programme, the SWDC described it as a structured answer to that infrastructure deficit.

According to the statement, the challenge for millions of Nigerians whose agricultural sector is both livelihood and identity, has always been the absence of organised infrastructure around them – the cold storage, the processing facility, the reliable electricity, the mobile money agent, the healthcare worker, the digital market connection – that would make that effort productive at scale.

‘The programme takes clusters of three to five neighbouring villages – between 2,000 and 8,000 people – and organises them into a single economic and governance unit: a TransCom. Each unit is built around seven integrated pillars – agricultural productivity, agro-industrial processing, energy access, digital infrastructure, healthcare, microfinance, and social protection – sequenced so that each reinforces the next.

‘The result is a community cluster capable of anchoring agro-processing investment, training its own farmers, powering its own facilities, connecting to digital markets, accessing credit, and governing its own development without dependence on the sporadic arrival of government projects or donor cycles,’ the statement explained.

The programme, the statement further disclosed. is led by the SWDC, in partnership with the Foundation for Technology Innovation (FTID) and Sustainable Development – under the leadership of Prof. Oyebanji Oyelaran-Oyeyinka, one of Africa’s foremost scholars of industrial and technological development.

Funding Architecture for TransComs

Explaining the importance of the Ibadan Roundtable to the funding architecture of TransComs, the Commission said the summit is the moment at which the funding architecture moves from design to commitment.

‘Partner organisations attending the event will be asked to state specific financial, in-kind, or institutional pledges before they leave on 6 May which will all be recorded and auditable,’ the statement said.

‘The programme operates on a split anchor and mobilised funding model, with SWDC serving as the capital mobiliser and co-funder alongside development finance institutions, state governments, and private sector partners.

‘The total programme investment is almost ?100 billion across the full 137-LGA rollout, with the Ogbomoso pilot cluster representing the first tranche of committed capital,’ it added.

Soya milk and my baby

Soya milk can be a good choice for babies above one year old who are intolerant to lactose or are allergic to whole cow’s milk. It is however not recommended for a 7-month-old baby.

Soy milk is high in protein, iron, and a variety of vitamins crucial for the healthy development of infants. Soy milk is low in fat, which may help in maintaining healthy body weight in infants. It can further lower the risk of heart issues and child’s obesity in infants.

Because of its high-fibre content, babies consuming soy milk may have a lesser incidence of bowel troubles and diarrhoea. If a baby is born with galactosemia, an inherited condition in which the body is unable to break down galactose (a simple sugar present in milk), soy milk can be offered.

Moreover, drinking fortified soy milk ensures sufficient calcium intake as fortified soy milk has Vitamin D which boosts calcium absorption. Babies who do not find the taste of plain soy milk appealing can opt for soy milk available in different flavours.

Rivers: NLC seeks termination of contributory pension scheme

Mr Alex Agwanwor, the Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Rivers State, has called for the immediate termination of the contributory pension scheme in the state.

Agwanwor made the call while speaking at the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration in Port Harcourt.

The NLC chairman raised concerns over the alleged lack of transparency in the scheme’s operational guidelines and the government’s failure to fulfil its counterpart funding obligations.

He further stated that the state government had failed to constitute a pensions board and ensure the enrolment of retirees into the scheme.

Agwanwor said the contributory pension scheme had failed to protect the interests of Rivers workers.

‘It is our humble appeal that the scheme should be terminated and reverted to the traditional defined benefit scheme.’

The NLC official urged Governor Siminalayi Fubara to address the exclusion of some local government workers from the verification portal, which has resulted in the stoppage of their monthly salaries.

‘We are also asking for the speedy domestication of the Federal Government’s reviewed peculiar service allowances.

‘This will help to cushion the effect of the economic challenges currently faced by workers,’ he said.

The chairman commended the Fubara-led government for its commitment to infrastructure upgrades and workers’ welfare.

He also pledged the continued commitment of Rivers workers to support the policies and programmes of the government.

My problem with dizziness

I have been feeling dizzy for about a month now. The dizziness, which usually comes on unexpectedly, occurs more when I stand up. Kindly help me. I am a 40-year-old woman

Chinwe (by SMS)

To manage dizziness in an adult female, consider the following steps: Dizziness can be caused by various factors, including dehydration, ear issues, or hormonal changes during menopause.

Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration, which can lead to dizziness. When standing up, take your time to avoid sudden drops in blood pressure that can cause dizziness. If dizziness persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, seek medical advice to rule out serious conditions.

Depending on the underlying cause, your healthcare provider may prescribe medications to help alleviate symptoms. Simple remedies include lying down, eating regular meals, and ensuring a balanced diet.

For persistent or severe dizziness, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

After divorce, she became a tenant in my house -Ex-husband

I contributed over N3m to build the house, it belongs to both of us -Woman

A man, Adewola, has instituted an action against his ex-wife, Odunayo, before Grade A Customary Court 2, sitting at Mapo, Ibadan, Oyo State.

He is seeking an order compelling her to vacate his three-bedroom flat, which he claims was his own.

He further urges the court to assist him in recovering possession of the property from Odunayo.

Adewola explained that he and Odunayo were formerly married, but that their marriage was dissolved by a Grade A Customary Court sitting at Mapo, Ibadan, Oyo State, on June 30, 2025.

He tendered the divorce certificate before the court, which was admitted in evidence and marked as Exhibit A.

The plaintiff told the court that following the dissolution of their marriage, he served the defendant with a seven-day notice to quit the apartment, which was dated August 20, 2025.

The notice was admitted in evidence as Exhibit B.

Odunayo pleaded not liable to the claim by the plaintiff.

Odunayo stated that the house is jointly owned by both parties.

She further explained that she contributed more than ?3 million towards the construction of the house.

The defendant asserted that she possessed receipts and other related documents to back her claim.

She further urged the court to order that the property be sold and that the proceeds be shared between both parties.

The case was adjourned to allow the defendant to present her further defence, particularly the receipts she claimed to possess.

However, Odunayo failed to appear on the adjourned date, which made the court discountenance her evidence and adjourn the suit for judgement.

Adewola, in his evidence, said: ‘I built a three-bedroom flat where I live with my family.

‘I brought my ex-wife to court because she is in possession of one of the three rooms in this building.

‘I want the court to help me recover possession of the room from my ex-wife.

‘My marriage to my former wife was dissolved by Grade A Customary Court, sitting at Mapo, Ibadan, Oyo State, on June 30, 2025. Here is the divorce certificate presented to me.

‘I served my ex-wife a seven-day notice dated August 20, 2025, to quit my house, but she refused to comply and remained adamant ( Adewola tendered a copy of the notice, and this was admitted as Exhibit B.

‘Our children can remain in my house, but I want to eject her because she is no longer my wife.’

Odunayo, in her response, told the court: ‘I do not agree with his claim. We both contributed to the construction of the house, so we jointly own it.

‘I contributed over N3,000,000 towards the construction of the house and I have receipts to support my claim, although I did not bring them to court.

‘I do not agree that my husband should take full possession of the house.

‘I want the house to be sold and the proceeds shared between my ex-husband and me.’

The Court President, Mrs. O. E. Owoseni, in delivering her judgement, referred to an earlier decision of the Grade A Customary Court sitting at Mapo, Ibadan, Oyo State, which held that Adewola and Odunayo did not contract a valid marriage and that no bride price was paid.

The court had found that they were merely cohabiting.

Owoseni further held that where the plaintiff sought to evict a woman he had cohabited with for years from the apartment she occupied, the applicable legal requirements for removing a tenant at will must first be satisfied before such a claim could be granted.

She explained that under Sections 7 and 8 of the Recovery of Premises Law of Oyo State, 2000, a tenant at will must be served with a seven-day notice to quit, followed by a seven-day notice of the owner’s intention to recover possession, before any action can be instituted in court.

According to her, failure to serve both notices would render the claim defective.

In this case, Owoseni noted that only the seven-day notice to quit was served on the defendant, who qualified as a tenant at will.

Consequently, she said only one of the two mandatory conditions to evict a tenant was fulfilled, while the other was not.

She held that the failure to satisfy both conditions deprived the court of the jurisdiction to order the defendant to vacate the premises.

Owoseni stated that the claim for recovery of possession failed.