By Ogungbayi Adeyemi S. | adeyemi@ddnewsonline.com
Editor, DDNews |
Abeokuta, Ogun State – September 8, 2026
DDNewsOnline
Traders and market leaders across Ogun State have raised the alarm over what they describe as “extortion and intimidation” by Iyaloja Generals demanding that all Babalojas and Iyalojas submit their certificates of office alongside a payment of ₦50,000.
The development is linked to the recent visit of the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, to the state.
According to multiple Babalojas and Iyalojas who spoke on condition of anonymity, the directive was recently issued by the Iyaloja General of Ogun State, with the requirement that certificates must be signed by the prescribed authority of each town (the traditional monarch).
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“We were told to bring our original certificate of appointment and pay ₦50,000 for ‘revalidation’ and ‘database update’. Some of us have been serving our markets for over 10 years. This money is too much for traders who are already struggling with the economy,” one Iyaloja from Yewa North lamented.
Another Babaloja in Abeokuta said:
“This is not a government policy. No circular was issued from the Ministry of Commerce. It looks like some individuals are using the name of the association to extort us.”
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The ₦50,000 demand has sparked anger among market men and women who say the timing is insensitive given rising costs of goods, rent and levies.
The affected leaders are calling on Governor Dapo Abiodun, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, and the Ogun State House of Assembly to urgently investigate the matter.
“We respect constituted authority. But no one should use our titles to collect money from us illegally. We are pleading for government intervention,” a spokesperson for the concerned Babalojas said.
Market stakeholders also urged security agencies to protect traders from harassment and to clarify whether any official policy backs the ₦50,000 payment.
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With the 2027 general elections approaching, several traders warned that continued pressure and alleged extortion could force market associations to withdraw their political support for candidates and parties they perceive as failing to protect their interests.
Traders form a significant voting bloc in Ogun State, and any organised withdrawal of support from the markets could affect electoral outcomes, particularly in key local government areas.
As at the time of filing this report, there has been no official statement from the Ogun State Government or the state council of Babalojas and Iyalojas confirming or denying the directive.
Traders are demanding transparency and a clear public statement to stop the collection.
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By Ogungbayi Adeyemi S. (Beedee)
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