The Akinsanya Olojo Family, a prominent branch of Lagos's historic King Kosoko Royal Dynasty, has made a direct and urgent appeal to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. They are calling on him to finally approve the installation of their chosen candidate, Prince Abiola Olojo-Kosoko, as the next Oloja of Lagos. This plea comes a full four years after the prince was formally selected for the revered stool.
A Prolonged Wait for Installation
In a formal letter addressed to the governor, the family's General Secretary, Prince Theophilus Olojo-Kosoko, detailed their long-standing grievance. He stated that Prince Abiola was duly selected as the Oloja-elect on December 12, 2020. Despite this, the crucial state approval for his installation has not been granted. The letter was also sent to key state officials including the Secretary to the State Government, the Attorney General, and the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.
The family revealed that a follow-up reminder was sent as recently as November 28, 2025, urging the government to take swift action. The vacancy for the Oloja title first arose following the death of the previous holder, Chief Adebola Idris Disu Ige, on December 23, 2017.
The Selection Process and Legal Backing
The succession process was initiated when the larger King Kosoko Royal Family directed the Akinsanya Olojo Ruling House to present a candidate. This was done in strict compliance with established customary procedures. A traditional screening interview was subsequently held at the Kosoko Palace on October 7, 2020.
Four candidates participated in this process:
- Prince Abiola Olojo-Kosoko
- The late Prince Shola Olojo-Kosoko
- Prince Issa Adeyemi Aregbesola
- Mr. Abiola Yakubu Aromashodu of the Odunsi Ruling House
After deliberations, the kingmakers found Prince Abiola to be the most suitable candidate. His declaration as Oloja-elect was made in full accordance with the Lagos State Obas and Chiefs Law and the subsisting 1983 Registered Declaration, which governs the order of succession.
The family strongly emphasized that no court judgment has nullified this 1983 declaration. They have also sent letters to the state government on September 26, 2023, and February 20, 2024, reaffirming their adherence to all required steps.
An Appeal to Uphold Tradition and Law
In their statement, the family firmly asserted the historical rights of the Kosoko lineage. "We are compelled to state clearly that it is the descendants of King Kosoko, the 10th King of Lagos and the first Oloja of Lagos, who are entitled to the throne," they declared.
They argued that the Akinsanya Olojo Ruling House is next in line according to the Akarigbere class hierarchy, and this tradition must be sustained for the dignity of the stool. The appeal to Governor Sanwo-Olu is framed as an intervention to prevent what they see as an attempt to impose a candidate outside the legal provisions of the 1983 declaration.
Striking a conciliatory yet firm tone, the family expressed their willingness to engage with the state government to resolve any concerns causing the delay. "We hope to be invited for discussions... As responsible members of the royal family, we shall continue to conduct ourselves respectfully and in accordance with the laws," the statement concluded, highlighting their desire for a peaceful and lawful resolution to the four-year impasse.
