On Tuesday, April 22, 2025, traders at Mowe Market in Ogun State took to the streets in protest against the recent appointment of Mrs. Nofisat Makinde as the new Iyaloja (market leader). The protest, which took place at the market, was attended by a large crowd of vendors, residents, and youths, all voicing their concerns over the manner in which the leadership selection was handled.
The traders expressed dissatisfaction with what they termed a lack of consultation with the market community in the selection process. They called on the Ogun State Government, led by Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun, to reconsider the decision and prioritize local input when choosing leaders who directly impact their livelihoods.
One of the key points raised during the protest was the need for greater community involvement in leadership decisions that affect the market. The protesters appealed to the government to honor the Yoruba principle of “Omoluabi,” which emphasizes integrity, dignity, and respect, and is seen as essential to community unity and growth.
Speaking on behalf of the traders, Mr. Wasiu Olatoye, a market vendor and one of the protest organizers, stated, “We are here today because we believe the leadership of Mowe Market should reflect the collective will of the people. We appeal to Governor Abiodun, a leader known for his compassion, to hear our concerns and support leadership that fosters unity and growth.”
Olatoye added that local consultation is not only crucial for effective leadership but also vital for maintaining peace and stability within the market. He further urged the government to ensure that the choice of leadership reflects the needs and aspirations of the people who make up the market community.
Another protest participant, Alhaji Amiru, highlighted the importance of grassroots support in choosing market leaders. He argued that while qualifications are important, community acceptance and trust are even more critical for ensuring the success and smooth operation of the market. He called on the Ogun State Government to reconsider the appointment in the interest of the traders and market stability.
“Leadership must come from the people, and the people must have confidence in their leader. We trust that the governor, who has always been responsive to the people’s needs, will listen to us and reconsider this appointment,” Amiru said.
Several other traders echoed similar sentiments, stressing that the role of Iyaloja is not just about qualifications but also about understanding the local environment and maintaining cultural traditions.
Mrs. Peace Omole, who represents the Igbo traders in Mowe Market, highlighted the significance of having a leader with intimate knowledge of the local dynamics. “A leader who understands the community is essential for the well-being of the market. We hope the government will consider our concerns and find a solution that works for everyone,” she said.
The traders made it clear that their protest was not personal but aimed at ensuring that the community’s voice is heard in decisions that directly affect their businesses. Mrs. Peace Anita, another trader, stated, “This is not about personal opposition to Mrs. Makinde; it’s about ensuring that the community’s voice is respected and heard in decisions that impact us.”
Comrade Tunde Ogundipe, another key speaker, underscored the call for a leadership choice that would foster unity and cooperation within the market. “We support leadership by consensus. We respectfully ask for engagement and dialogue to ensure decisions reflect the aspirations of the market community,” he said.
The protest concluded with the traders expressing optimism that the Ogun State Government would address their concerns and consider their appeal for a more inclusive leadership process. The traders’ call for a more consultative and transparent approach to leadership selection marks an important moment for community involvement and advocacy in Ogun State.
As the protests wrap up, the traders in Mowe Market are hopeful that their voices will be heard by the Ogun State Government. Their appeal for consultation and respect for tradition in leadership selection represents a growing push for more participatory governance in the region. Whether their concerns will lead to a reconsideration of Mrs. Nofisat Makinde’s appointment remains to be seen, but the traders are committed to ensuring that their voices are not overlooked in the decision-making process that impacts their daily lives and livelihoods.
