Veteran Actor Jide Kosoko Declared Oloja Of Lagos-Elect

Veteran Nollywood actor and filmmaker Jide Kosoko has been announced as the Oloja of Lagos-elect by the King Kosoko Royal Family, nearly eight years after the stool became vacant.

Kosoko, 72, was formally presented at the King Kosoko Palace in Ereko, Lagos Island, following the death of the former Oloja, Chief Adebola Ige, on December 23, 2017.

The declaration was made by the Olori Ebi General, Mrs Mutiat Ali-Balogun, who affirmed Kosoko’s selection through traditional rites, supported by the Deputy Olori Ebi General and head of the Meshimo Ruling House, Oyindamola Ayepola.

However, the announcement comes amid a lingering succession dispute. Another branch of the royal family, the Akinsanya Olojo-Kosoko Family, has urged Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to approve the installation of Abiola Olojo-Kosoko, whom they claim was selected as Oloja-elect in December 2020.

According to the family’s General Secretary, Theophilus Olojo-Kosoko, a 16-member committee set up after Chief Ige’s death reportedly screened candidates and declared Abiola Olojo-Kosoko the most qualified, in line with existing chieftaincy laws.

Meanwhile, Jide Kosoko is expected to undergo traditional installation and capping by the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwanu Akiolu, in accordance with palace customs.

A graduate of Yaba College of Technology, Kosoko began acting in 1964 and has remained one of Nigeria’s most respected figures in the film industry.