As the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu has reigned over Lagos the largest city in Nigeria with over 21 million people for 2 decades now. As the traditional and ceremonial monarch of Lagos, Oba Akiolu lives in opulence you can only imagine.
His royal palace is a sprawling estate, and he has a fleet of luxury vehicles to get around town. Not to mention, he has the power to make and enforce laws for his kingdom. The life of the Oba of Lagos is truly fit for a king. In this article, we’ll explore the lifestyle, family, rise to power of the Oba of Lagos, and Controversies.
Who Is the Oba of Lagos? Oba Rilwan Akiolu Biography
The King of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, is one of the most prominent traditional rulers in Nigeria. As the ceremonial monarch of Lagos, a city of over 20 million people, the Oba of Lagos reigns over one of the most influential kingdoms in the country.
Oba Rilwan Babatunde Osuolale Aremu Akiolu, was born on October 29, 1943 in Lagos, Nigeria. Between 1961 and 1965, he attended Ansar-Ud-Deen College in Surulere for his secondary school education. He graduated from the University of Lagos with an LLB in law. On May 23, 2003, he was chosen as the most suitable successor to Oba Adeyinka Oyekan. The choice was decided by the Lagos traditional kingdom’s kingmakers and recognized by the state government. The coronation ceremony took place on August 9, 2003, making him the 21st Oba of Lagos.
The Oba of Lagos has substantial wealth and lives a lavish lifestyle, befitting his stature. His net worth is estimated to be over $40 million, making him one of the richest traditional rulers in Nigeria. The Oba receives annual stipends and allowances from the government as well as income from vast real estate investments across Lagos.
Early Career
Before ascending to the throne, the 21st Oba of Lagos was a police officer. Before retiring in 2002, he had risen to the level of Assistant Inspector General of Police. In 1970, after finishing high school, he joined the police force. After serving in various capacities within the force, he retired only to be called back into duty to replace the late Oba of Lagos, who died on March 1, 2003.
The Oba of Lagos is a hereditary title currently held by Oba Rilwan Akiolu I, who has reigned as the King of Lagos since 2003. The Oba is considered the traditional leader of the Eko indigenes, the original inhabitants of Lagos.
Despite the modernization of Lagos into a bustling metropolis, the Oba of Lagos remains an important fixture, upholding the cultural heritage of the Eko people and ensuring the well-being of his kingdom. Long may he reign!
The History of the Oba of Lagos Title
You cannot discuss the Oba of Lagos without mentioning Ashipa. He was the Oba of Benin’s war captain and was tasked with ruling over the affairs of Lagos on behalf of the King. Ashipa was given the title Oloriogun, which translates as “War General” or “War Leader.” Ashipa may be regarded as the founder of the Lagos dynasty; however, he was never proclaimed the Oba of Lagos. His son, Ado, was the first Oba of Lagos.
Ashipa traveled to Lagos carrying a royal drum and a sword as symbols of power from the Oba of Benin. While some reports indicate that the Ashipa was related to the King, others have refuted the hypothesis. Regardless, we know the Ashipa was dear to the Oba of Benin.
If you’re wondering how the Lagos white cap chiefs came to be, they were officers sent by the Oba of Benin to maintain the empire’s culture and interests. Eletu Odibo commanded this team of officers. They were thought to be the first members of the Akarigbo class of Lagos White Cap Chiefs.
The presence of the British brought about significant changes in the Benin kingdom. The sitting King had to make a quick decision about whether to install someone as Oba of Lagos or not. Another notable event in the history of the Oba of Lagos was the defeat of Oba Kosoko of Lagos at the hands of British military forces. This significant event occurred on December 28th, 1851, and was said to be a reduction of Lagos or Ogun Agidingbi. It marked the end of Lagos’ alliance with the former Benin monarchy.
According to history, Oba Kosoko was the last Oba of Lagos to pay royalties or tributes to the Oba of Benin. The presence of the British in the area, as well as the re-installation of Oba Akitoye by a foreign authority, provided him with sufficient ability to sever links with the Benin monarchy. As a result, the monarch refused any request for tributes from them. Prior to the adoption of the Oba of Lagos, the ruler went by names like Eleko and Ologun. Iga Idunganran, a Portuguese-built palace, is regarded as the official royal residence of the Oba of Lagos.
The role of the Oba today is largely ceremonial, but he is still hugely influential and respected.
Oba Akiolu’s Ascension to the Throne and Reign as Oba
Oba Akiolu became the 21st Oba of Lagos in 2003, succeeding Oba Adeyinka Oyekan. The Akinsemoyin Royal Family of Lagos has challenged Oba Akiolu’s coronation in court, complaining, amongst others, that their lineage has been denied access to the throne.
The selection and coronation of a new Oba is an elaborate process steeped in centuries of ritual and history. When an Oba passes, the kingmakers come together to choose a successor from the two royal families of Lagos, the Ologun Kutere and Akinsemoyin, based on paternal lineage. Once selected, the new Oba endures weeks of seclusion, traditional rites, and rituals before finally being crowned in an extravagant ceremony.
Oba Akiolu’s reign as the Oba of Lagos has been characterized by modernization and development. Under his leadership, Lagos has grown into a mega city and the economic hub of West Africa.
Where is the Official Residence of Oba of Lagos?
The official residence of the Oba of Lagos is Iga Idunganran, the Palace of the Oba of Lagos, which is located on Lagos Island. This palace has been the traditional home of the obas of Lagos for over 200 years.
The Lagos Island was founded in the 15th century by Chief Aromire, an Ile-Ife aristocrat who utilized it as a fishing port and pepper farm. The historic palace was built in 1670 for Oba Gabaro (1669-1760). It was later rebuilt by the Portuguese, who brought in materials, particularly tiles, from Portugal.
The contemporary portion of the complex was finished and commissioned on October 1, 1960, by Nigeria’s Prime Minister, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa. It was recently modernized by Obas Adeniji Adele II and Adeyinka Oyekan II, and it was further modernized in 2007 and 2008 by the current Oba, Akiolu, in collaboration with the Lagos State government and the Nigerian Museum; the contract was awarded to Julius Berger Nigeria, PLC. The palace is estimated to be worth about 2 billion Naira.
Iga Idunganran has served as an administration center, island market, and the venue of the Eyo Festival. IGA is derived from the Oyo/Ife Yoruba language GAA, which means Royal Home or Palace; IDUN, which means land, place, or sound; and IGANRAN, which is the Yoruba word for pepper. Iga Idunganran thus translates to “the palace built on a pepper farm,” Aromire having previously utilized the site as his farm.
The palace is a sprawling complex made up of several buildings, courtyards, and smaller palace structures. Surrounding it are housing and administrative quarters for palace officials, guests, and the Oba’s large family. There are also shrines and places of worship within the palace walls.
The palace also frequently hosts elaborate ceremonial events, like the Oba’s coronation or birthday celebrations. Dignitaries, politicians, and people from all over Lagos come to pay their respects on these special occasions. Lavish feasts, music, and cultural displays showcase the richness of Lagos’ history and traditions.
The Vast Wealth and Lifestyle of Oba Akiolu
As the Oba of Lagos, Oba Akiolu lives a life of immense wealth and luxury. His position affords him access to vast riches and the perks that come with royalty. His Net Worth is over $40 million.
Oba of Lagos, like other top monarchs in the country, has multiple expensive cars in his palace. He is rumored to own a Rolls-Royce, which is not surprising. Rolls-Royce is a popular choice among Nigerian royalty. The Mercedes Benz S550 is one vehicle he enjoys being chauffeured in. He also has a Toyota Prado Jeep and many more.
The ultra Modern Palace of the Oba of Lagos’ is reported to be worth over 2 billion Naira. Julius Berger built the palace, which is outfitted with cutting-edge technology. The photographs of the Oba of Lagos palace on the internet provide a great impression of luxury and royalty.
Charity
Despite recent criticism against the Oba of Lagos, he has directly assisted over 2,000 graduates in securing positions in corporate and government sectors. Oba Rilwan has also provided hundreds of young people with skills that would help them earn a living. He was also known to have ordered Dangote, Zenith Bank, and other leading Nigerian corporations to construct a health center on Lagos Island for people. Several more charitable endeavors have been linked to his name. Another generous effort he made was when he provided $10 million to victims of the Lagos Island building disaster. This money was set aside for the treatment and rehabilitation of people directly involved in the terrible tragedy.
Controversies and Criticisms Faced by Oba Akiolu as Traditional Ruler
As the traditional ruler of Lagos, Oba Akiolu has faced his fair share of controversies and criticism over the years.
Oba of Lagos Allegedly Threatened Igbos Over Governorship Election
The speculation began with the Oba of Lagos, who, according to witnesses, was noticeably upset as he addressed a gathering of people while seated. He began by declaring his support for All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate Akin Ambode but then yelled, “If any of you [Igbos] go against Akin Ambode that I chose, that is your end!” I say this in the name of God!” He then jumped up from the table to address the audience while standing.
Oba of Lagos snubs Ooni
The Ooni of Ife is the most prominent and influential monarch among southwest Nigeria’s Yoruba people. A video footage purportedly showing Lagos’ traditional ruler snubbing the Yoruba spiritual leader has sparked outrage in Nigeria.
In a viral video in 2017, the 73-year-old Oba (King) of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, appears to dismiss the greetings of the Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, during a public ceremony in Lagos. The Ooni, 42, then returned to his seat calmly, but what looked to be the Oba’s dismissive attitude triggered online outrage and speculation as to what was behind it.
COVID-19 palliative Meant for the Public was Allegedly found In the Oba’s Palace
During the EndSars protest in 2020, his palace was attacked by hoodlums looking for COVID-19 palliatives meant for the people. The food was looted by the hoodlums, who then went to the main palace and stole money, the royal staff of office, and some other valuables. The royal staff was purportedly returned many days later.
Months after the palace invasion, the King issued a public remark regarding it; he said, “Many buildings were destroyed, including vehicles used to generate income.” “I can now say publicly that they stole $2 million and N17 million from my palace.” This disclosure sparked a public outrage, as the King was accused of money laundering. Keeping such a significant sum of money at the palace is against the Laundering Act of 2011.
Some social media users demanded that the monarch be arrested and prosecuted.
Oba of Lagos condemns portrayal of Eyo Masquerade in the movie Gangs of Lagos
Oba Rilwan Akiolu of Lagos has called the movie “Gangs of Lagos” offensive and sacrilegious for portraying the ‘Eyo’ as criminal gangs who perpetrate gruesome murder and terrorize innocent victims.
On June 28, 2023, the traditional ruler expressed his reservations about the film in a three-page letter to the management of Amazon Prime Nigeria and Greoh Ltd., citing four requirements that the producers and promoters must meet within 14 days. Akiolu demanded that Amazon Web Service, Greoh Studios, and the film’s creators “immediately remove, cease, and desist from using the image getup and manifestation of the Eyo in Lagos Gangs.”
Despite the controversies, Oba Akiolu remains a revered figure for many in Lagos. His supporters argue he has brought more development and international prominence to Lagos.
Honour
President Muhammadu Buhari appointed the monarch as Chancellor of Usmanu Danfodio University in Sokoto in 2021.
The Oba’s Net Worth and Assets
As the ceremonial head of Lagos, the Oba lives a life of immense wealth and luxury. His net worth is estimated to be over $30 million USD, much of which comes from his real estate and business holdings.
The Oba owns several palaces across Lagos, including the Iga Idunganran palace, which serves as his official residence and seat of power. This palace alone is worth over 2 billion dollars. He also owns other residential and commercial properties in high-brow areas of Lagos, like Ikoyi and Victoria Island.
The Oba receives an annual salary of over $200,000 from the Lagos State Government. He also earns income from his investments in major Lagos companies, especially in the oil, banking, and telecom sectors.
Additionally, the Oba benefits from the patronage and goodwill of wealthy politicians, dignitaries, and corporate organizations who frequently visit his palace to pay homage. These visits often come with large donations and gifts like luxury cars, expensive jewelry, and large sums of money.
Personal Life
Oba Rilwan Akiolu is a devout Muslim; he has four wives. His first wife, Olori Talabi Titiola, is the most well-known of the three.
Little is known about all of his children, but one of them, Moshood Akinolu, represents Lagos Island II in Nigeria’s Federal House of Representatives.
The Roles and Responsibilities of the Oba of Lagos
The Oba of Lagos has many important roles and responsibilities to uphold. Some of the key ones are:
- Serve as a symbol of the history, culture, and unity of the Lagos people. You represent continuity and tradition.
- Act as a custodian of customs and traditions. It is your duty to preserve the cultural heritage of the Lagos people.
- Promote peace, order, and good governance. You help resolve conflicts and disputes within the kingdom.
- Advise political leaders and government officials. Your wisdom and experience are valued.
- Preside over traditional and religious festivals. Things like the Eyo festival and other ceremonial events.
- Confer traditional titles and chieftaincy titles to deserving individuals. This recognizes people who have contributed to the kingdom.
- Settle land disputes and oversee land allocation. You make judgments on property and boundary issues.
- Support economic development. You encourage investments and partnerships that will benefit the Lagos people.
Past Obas Of Lagos
As the ceremonial leader of Lagos, the Oba has a long and rich history. The kingdom of Lagos was founded in the late 15th century, and since then, there have been 21 Obas of Lagos. Oba of Lagos is also known as the Eleko of Eko.
- Ashipa, founder of Lagos dynasty but not crowned as Oba of Lagos (c. 1682-1716)
- Ado (1716–1755), first Oba of Lagos (son of Ashipa/Esikpa)
- Gabaro (1755–1760)
- Akinsemoyin (c. 1760-1775)
- Eletu Kekere (c. 1775 – 1780)
- Ologun Kutere (also Ologunkutere / Ologunkuture) (1780-c. 1801)
- Interregnum between Ologun Kutere and Adele (c 1805 – c. 1810/11)
- Adele Ajosun (1811-1821)
- Oṣinlokun Ajan (Oshinlokun, Eshinlokun) (1821–1829)
- Idewu Ojulari (1829–1832) or until (1835)
- Adele Ajosun (second term) (1835-1837)
- Oluwole (1837-1841)
- Akitoye (1841-1845)
- Kosoko (1845–1851)
- Akitoye (second term) (1851-1853)
- Dosunmu (1853–1885)
- Oyekan I (1885–1900)
- Eshugbayi Eleko (1901-1925)
- Ibikunle Akitoye (1925–1928)
- Sanusi Olusi (1928–1931)
- Eshugbayi Eleko (second term) (1931-1932)
- Falolu Dosunmu (1932–1949)
- Adeniji Adele (1949–1964)
- Adeyinka Oyekan II (1965–2003)
- Rilwan Akiolu (2003–)
Conclusion
As you’ve seen, the life of Oba Akiolu is one full of wealth, power, and prestige. While his lifestyle may seem lavish and opulent to outsiders, it’s important to remember that he has immense responsibilities as the ceremonial leader of over 20 million people.
The role of traditional rulers like the Oba of Lagos remains an important one in preserving cultural heritage and promoting social cohesion. Though some criticize the amounts of money spent on their upkeep, others argue that they deserve respect and financial support as living representatives of history. Whatever your view, Oba Akiolu will likely remain an influential figure in Nigeria for years to come.