Sulaimon Adeshina Raji, widely known as Oniba Ekun or Jafo Authority, ascended the throne of Iba Kingdom in Lagos State on 7 December 2020, after the death of Oba Goriola Yishau Oseni, who ruled for 45 years. His journey from a labourer and motorcycle association chairman to a traditional monarch exemplifies a remarkable rise in Nigerian society.
Royal Heritage and Early Life
Born on 5 May 1954 in Iba, Lagos State, Oba Raji hails from the Idowu Balogun branch of the Idomila ruling house. In a 9 September 2023 interview with Punch, he highlighted his deep royal lineage: “I am from a royal family in Iba and my mother is from a royal family in Igbesa, Ogun State. My children can also become kings due to my mother’s royalty background.” He attended Local Authority Primary School, and his father, Oba Oseni of blessed memory, was a profound influence in his childhood.
From Labourer to Okada Leader
Before his kingship, Oba Raji worked as a labourer at a hotel, performing menial jobs to sustain himself. Remarkably, he later purchased that same hotel. He also became a prominent figure in the transportation sector, serving as chairman of the Nagari Nakowa Motorcycle Owners and Riders Association and leading the Lagos State chapter of the National Association of Motorcycle Owners and Riders (NNAMORAL). Reflecting on this phase, he told Punch: “I thank God for everything. I was the chairman of okada riders in Lagos State. In 2015, when I contested the chairmanship of the association, it was very tough, but I won.”
Becoming the Oniba of Iba
Following the death of Oba Goriola Yishau Oseni on 25 May 2020, kingmakers selected Oba Raji as his successor. A court ruling later upheld his family's right to produce the monarch. Despite his new royal duties, the government allowed him to continue overseeing the motorcycle association, as it did not interfere with traditional rites. His coronation took place in December 2020, and he has since balanced his roles as king, entrepreneur, and philanthropist.
Personal Life and Family
Oba Raji is married to two wives, one of whom is Olori Agba of Oniba Ekun. On 2 April 2021, he celebrated her birthday on Facebook, writing: “Happy Birthday to you my Honey, the Best Wife and Mother Ever. You make our Family Shine, even when the Skies are Grey.” The couple has several children; one daughter, Princess Adeshina Barakat Raji Oniba, married Adedire Adetunji on 4 October 2024 in a ceremony attended by numerous dignitaries.
Philanthropy and Legacy
As a philanthropist, Oba Raji engages in social development initiatives within and beyond Iba Kingdom. At 72 years of age (as of 2026), he remains a significant custodian of Yoruba cultural heritage. His story—from labourer and okada chairman to revered monarch—continues to inspire many across Nigeria.
