Nollywood Legend Jide Kosoko Declared Oloja-Elect of Lagos Amid Royal Family Dispute
Veteran Nollywood actor Jide Kosoko has been formally declared the Oloja-elect of Lagos by the King Kosoko Royal Family, reigniting discussions around succession in one of Nigeria’s most historic royal lineages. The declaration was made during a traditional presentation at the Kosoko family palace in Ereko, Lagos Island, where Kosoko was presented as the family’s chosen candidate for the prestigious chieftaincy title, which has been vacant since 2017.
The announcement, however, has intensified a longstanding royal succession dispute, as a rival branch of the dynasty, the Akinsanya Olojo Family, has petitioned Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to install Abiola Olojo-Kosoko, who they assert was selected as Oloja-elect back in December 2020. The Akinsanya faction has cited delays in state approval as the reason for the prolonged vacancy, while the Kosoko royal line has proceeded with Kosoko’s nomination, emphasizing their adherence to family tradition.
The dispute highlights the complex interplay of culture, law, and politics within Lagos chieftaincy matters. While the Kosoko family has moved forward with its nomination, the final installation of the Oloja of Lagos requires the endorsement of the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwanu Akiolu, in accordance with customary law. The Oba’s approval is traditionally seen as essential to uphold the legitimacy and dignity of the title.
Jide Kosoko’s selection merges his cultural lineage with his public persona as a film icon, reflecting a growing trend where prominent figures in arts and entertainment are intertwined with traditional leadership roles. However, the conflicting claims between the Kosoko and Akinsanya families suggest that tensions may continue until a mediated resolution is reached involving both the royal authorities and the state government.
Experts in Nigerian tradition note that such disputes are common in royal succession cases, often requiring careful negotiation to balance the interests of family branches, respect for customary laws, and the public significance of the chieftaincy title. The Oloja of Lagos plays an important ceremonial and cultural role on Lagos Island, making the resolution of this matter critical not only for the royal families but also for the community at large.
A transparent and culturally respectful solution is needed to safeguard the integrity of the title, promote unity within the Kosoko dynasty, and ensure that the Oloja’s office continues to serve as a symbol of Lagos’s rich history and tradition. Until the Oba of Lagos and the state government take formal action, the succession saga is expected to remain in the public eye, reflecting the ongoing relevance of royal titles in contemporary Nigerian society.
