HARDSHIP: Kabiyesi Establishes 50% Discount Market for His People, Sells Bag of Rice at ₦42,000, Offers Loans, Scholarship

By Jumoke Owoola  In a bold move to combat the rising challenge of hunger and skyrocketing food prices, the Dagburewe of Idowa Ijebu in Odog...

By Jumoke Owoola 

In a bold move to combat the rising challenge of hunger and skyrocketing food prices, the Dagburewe of Idowa Ijebu in Odogbolu Local Government Area of Ogun State, Oba Sikiru Okuribido, has launched a N500 million bulk purchasing market for residents of the community. The initiative, which offers essential food items at a 50 per cent discount, is part of the monarch's efforts to alleviate the economic burden on his people.  

Speaking at a press briefing held at his Idowa Palace to commemorate his first coronation anniversary, Oba Okuribido explained that the initiative was driven by the need to address the surge in food prices that began last year.  

“For instance, a bag of rice is sold for ₦42,000 under this scheme. The only requirement is that you must be a resident of our community and possess the CDA (Community Development Association) card, which authenticates your membership in the Idowa community,” the royal father said.  

Beyond the discounted market, Oba Okuribido highlighted other achievements within his first year on the throne. These include the facilitation of N100 million in revolving medium-term loans for farmers, Christians, Muslims, and other interest groups in the community, as well as the payment of WAEC fees for over 60 students, scholarships for 23 students, and JAMB lesson sponsorships for 50 students.  

The monarch also revealed that he has spearheaded the reorganisation of Community Development Associations (CDAs) to strengthen the town’s security architecture. “Our CDAs have grown from three to over 60 since I ascended the throne. This has created a stronger sense of community, enabling us to know our neighbours better and significantly improve security within the area,” he noted.  

Oba Okuribido’s leadership, marked by innovative solutions and community-focused initiatives, continues to resonate with the people of Idowa Ijebu as they look forward to further progress under his reign.