The funeral of Madam Wulemot Aweni Babalola, mother of Oyo NUJ Chairman Comrade Ademola Babalola, may have taken place last Sunday, but the event continues to linger in the memories of those present, leaving a remarkable impression on both the invited guests and dignitaries. Among the memorable highlights was the incredible performance of the Oyo State Chapter of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), led by their Chairperson, Comrade Omolola Alamu.
A day after the event, a reporter from Inquisitiores News visited Alhaji Sunmaila Aderemi Jimoh, affectionately known as SAJ and the esteemed President of the Market Men and Women Association, in his Bodija International Market office. The reporter had intended to discuss the skyrocketing prices of essential goods, but Alhaji SAJ was quick to share his admiration for NAWOJ’s exceptional contribution to the funeral ceremonies, even before the interview began.
“I Was in Awe of Their Professionalism”
Expressing his admiration, Alhaji SAJ began, “My takeaway from last Sunday’s ceremony was the outstanding, excellent, and exceptional dedication of your female members, the NAWOJIANS, throughout the event.” He went on to confess his initial surprise, stating, “At first, I thought they were professional event planners hired by the Chairman. It wasn’t until I recognized familiar faces, like Dupe Fehintola from BCOS and a few others, that I realized these were journalists.”
For Alhaji SAJ, the NAWOJ members’ spirited involvement, heartfelt enthusiasm, and courteous manner spoke volumes about their camaraderie with Comrade Babalola and his family. “One didn’t need a soothsayer to see the close-knit relationship they share with their Chairman and his wife, Chief Mrs. Monsurat Babalola,” he noted. The NAWOJIANS not only participated actively but also went out of their way to ensure that every guest was well-attended, with Madam Babalola’s wife visibly supported by the women journalists, who monitored every aspect of the event with seamless grace and coordination.
A Testament to Good Leadership
Alhaji SAJ highlighted the leadership of Comrade Babalola, noting, “How I wish every organization could have a leader like him. Nigeria would be much better for it.” He added that the event’s success was a testament to Babalola’s character, as the journalists worked with the dedication of people anticipating a reward yet acting solely out of loyalty and respect. “Their efforts clearly show that only a good leader can inspire such genuine loyalty and support from his peers and colleagues,” he added.
He praised the male journalists’ support, noting that while they too showed dedication, the NAWOJ members left a more vivid impression. “Perhaps it’s because Ademola is a man, so my attention was more on the women,” he joked, before adding that Comrade Babalola’s leadership clearly brought out the best in everyone.
Alhaji SAJ also voiced a wish that future NUJ events—whether for press week or end-of-year gatherings—would extend invitations to more associations, including his own. “It would allow others to witness the hard work and excellence of our journalists, and more importantly, learn from a chairman who has clearly earned the respect and dedication of his team.”
Rising Costs of Foodstuffs: A Grim Reality
When the conversation finally turned to the soaring prices of food items, particularly staples like rice, Alhaji SAJ gave a frank assessment. “We traders are citizens too, grappling with the economic crises just as others are,” he lamented. He outlined the increased costs of goods, which reflect both the depreciation of the naira and the rising costs of fuel, which currently stands at N1200 per litre compared to just N197 in recent years. “The price of rice and other essentials is no longer affordable to buy, transport, or sell at previous rates,” he explained, adding that traders themselves were operating at losses.
According to Alhaji SAJ, the cost of production for even basic items, such as sachet water, has skyrocketed due to erratic electricity supply and increased production expenses. “Previously, a bag of sachet water containing 20 sachets sold for N60, but now, a bag with only 16 sachets goes for N400. If these trends continue unchecked, where do we go from here?” he asked.
Until there is a significant turnaround in the economy—with stable electricity, reduced transportation costs, and an improvement in the value of the naira—Alhaji SAJ warned that Nigerians would continue to struggle with high prices.
Alhaji SAJ’s reflections serve as a reminder of both the profound human connections that transcend the sorrows of funerals and the pressing economic challenges facing everyday Nigerians. As one community comes together to mourn, the nation continues to grapple with an economic landscape that impacts every citizen, trader, and journalist alike.
