Lagos, Nigeria’s largest city and economic hub, has long served as a centre where traditional authority, commerce, and politics intersect. The Obaship of Lagos, which has existed for centuries, has been a central institution in the city, maintaining cultural authority even as political power shifted to elected and appointed officials. During the late twentieth century, Lagos experienced rapid urbanisation, population growth, and social change, and traditional institutions adapted to remain relevant in a modernising society.
Within this context, the conferment of chieftaincy titles by the Oba of Lagos served as an enduring method of recognising individuals who contributed to the city’s social, cultural, and political life. One of the most notable instances occurred during the reign of His Royal Majesty Oba Adeyinka Oyekan II, when Bola Ahmed Tinubu was honoured with the title Asiwaju of Lagos.
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Oba Adeyinka Oyekan II and the Lagos Monarchy
Oba Adeyinka Oyekan II ascended the throne in 1965 and reigned until 2003, making him one of the longest-serving monarchs in Lagos history. His reign spanned a period of military rule, political transitions, and Nigeria’s return to democratic governance. Although the Oba did not wield formal political authority under the constitution, he retained significant cultural and symbolic influence, especially in matters relating to tradition, lineage, and social recognition.
The Lagos monarchy has historically functioned as a custodian of Yoruba culture and heritage, and the Oba’s role included presiding over ceremonies, advising on social matters, and conferring chieftaincy titles. These titles remained highly regarded in Lagos society and often reflected the individual’s standing, contributions, or influence within the community.
The Asiwaju Title and Its Significance
The title Asiwaju, which translates as “one who leads the way”, is a Yoruba chieftaincy designation traditionally reserved for leaders who have demonstrated influence, leadership, or public service. In Lagos, the conferment of this title signifies recognition by the Oba and the royal household, and it carries social prestige rather than administrative authority.
During Oba Adeyinka Oyekan II’s reign, Bola Ahmed Tinubu received the Asiwaju of Lagos title in acknowledgment of his growing presence and activity in Lagos public life. At the time, Tinubu was emerging as a political actor in the city and would later go on to hold national political office. The title positioned him among respected individuals recognised by the Obaship, and it reflected the continued role of traditional institutions in recognising leadership within Lagos society.
Recognition of the Aremo of Lagos
The same ceremony also included the formal recognition of Prince Kolawole Oyekan as Aremo of Lagos, a title traditionally given to the crown prince and heir apparent within the Lagos monarchy. This designation affirmed succession arrangements within the royal household and underscored the continuity of the monarchy during a period of significant social and political change.
The Aremo title is an important aspect of Yoruba monarchical tradition, ensuring clarity in royal succession and reinforcing the authority of the Obaship. It highlights how the Lagos monarchy has maintained stability and relevance through centuries of political and societal transformation.
Presence of MKO Abiola
Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, one of Nigeria’s foremost businessmen and political figures during the late twentieth century, was also present at the occasion. Abiola was later conferred with the title Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, historically recognised as the highest military title within Yoruba tradition, which by the late twentieth century was largely ceremonial.
Abiola’s involvement reflects the close intersection of commerce, politics, and traditional recognition in Lagos society, illustrating how chieftaincy titles functioned as markers of status and societal contribution rather than direct political power.
Social and Economic Context
During the 1980s and 1990s, Lagos experienced rapid economic growth and urbanisation, with new commercial opportunities emerging alongside informal economies. The city became a hub for migration and trade, drawing people from across Nigeria and West Africa. In this context, traditional institutions continued to adapt, emphasising their cultural authority while acknowledging influential figures who contributed to the city’s development.
Chieftaincy titles like Asiwaju of Lagos and Aremo of Lagos played a critical role in maintaining social cohesion, recognising leadership, and linking contemporary society with historical traditions. These honours signified social standing and influence in a modernising urban environment, preserving continuity between the past and present.
Colonial Legacy and Postcolonial Adaptation
The British colonial administration modified the powers of traditional rulers, incorporating them into indirect rule systems and limiting their political authority. After independence, these limitations largely persisted, with Obas and chiefs serving primarily as custodians of culture and intermediaries between communities and government.
The conferment of chieftaincy titles during this period demonstrates how traditional institutions adapted, continuing to offer recognition and legitimacy in a society experiencing rapid political, economic, and social transformation.
The conferment of the Asiwaju of Lagos title during Oba Adeyinka Oyekan II’s reign represents a ceremonial yet historically significant intersection of tradition and modern leadership in Lagos. The simultaneous recognition of Prince Kolawole Oyekan as Aremo of Lagos, and the presence of figures such as MKO Abiola, illustrates the enduring role of the monarchy in maintaining cultural continuity, recognising social influence, and linking contemporary society to Yoruba heritage.
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Author’s Note
This article highlights the historical importance of the Asiwaju of Lagos title, demonstrating how traditional institutions in Lagos have adapted to modern political and social realities. The story of Oba Adeyinka Oyekan II, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Prince Kolawole Oyekan, and MKO Abiola illustrates the continuing relevance of chieftaincy titles in recognising leadership, preserving cultural heritage, and fostering social cohesion in a rapidly evolving city.
References
- Falola, Toyin, The History of Nigeria, Greenwood Press
- Akinjogbin, I. A., The Cradle of a Race: Ife from the Beginning to 1980, Sunray Publications
- Peel, J. D. Y., Christianity, Islam, and the Orisa Religion, University of California Press
