King Kosoko Royal Family Announces Jide Kosoko as Oloja of Lagos-Elect
King Kosoko Royal Family Announces Jide Kosoko as Oloja of Lagos-Elect
A landmark event occurred on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, when the King Kosoko Royal Family officially named Prince Abdulrafiu Babajide Akanni Kosoko as the Oloja of Lagos-elect, a major milestone for the historic Lagos lineage.
The ceremony was held at the King Kosoko Palace in Ereko, Lagos Island, drawing hundreds of family members who came to participate in the culturally significant occasion.
The atmosphere in the palace courtyard was thick with tradition, featuring prayers and rites that reflected the family’s collective pride in their decision.
The official introduction was performed by Alhaja Mutiat Ashabi Ali-Balogun, the Olori Ebi General of the King Kosoko Royal Family, who presented Prince Kosoko to the crowd by raising his hands in a traditional gesture of confirmation.
Supporting her in this duty was the Deputy Olori Ebi General, Alhaja Oyindamola Ayepola, who serves as the Head of the Meshimo Ruling House.
By virtue of this announcement, Prince Kosoko now holds the title of Oloja of Lagos-elect, awaiting formal installation and the traditional capping ceremony performed by the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwanu Osuolale Okikiola Aremu Akiolu, in accordance with established customs.
The Oloja of Lagos remains one of the most prestigious traditional roles within the city’s history.
Historically, the position serves as a guardian of culture and leadership, focused on protecting the indigenous traditions of Lagos, especially those linked to the city’s founding royal families.
Existing since before the colonial era, the office has acted as a bridge across centuries, representing the identity and enduring strength of the traditional institutions of Lagos.
For the King Kosoko branch, the title holds even greater significance, as it is tied to the legacy of King Kosoko, one of the most powerful figures in the history of the region.
Selecting a new Oloja is seen as more than a ceremony; it is a renewal of their ancestral duties.
Prince Abdulrafiu Babajide Akanni Kosoko, famously known as Jide Kosoko, steps into the role of Oloja-elect with a background that combines royal birthright with a highly successful career. As a veteran of the Nigerian film industry, he is celebrated as one of Nollywood’s most influential actors and filmmakers.
Recognized for his talent and versatility, Prince Kosoko has appeared in hundreds of productions in both English and Yoruba, earning him a place as a household name.
His impact extends beyond acting to production and directing, where he has played a pivotal role in elevating Nollywood’s international profile. His career has garnered him deep respect from both the creative community and the general public worldwide.
Observers and family members noted that his selection represents a marriage of the past and the present—a royal figure rooted in history who remains a prominent force in modern cult.
With the King Kosoko Royal Family marking this achievement, there is widespread optimism that Prince Kosoko’s upcoming installation will bolster cultural harmony, highlight the heritage of Lagos, and encourage the youth to respect tradition alongside modern progress.
The declaration at Ereko is a historic turning point, not just for the Kosoko family but for the history of Lagos as a whole, as the community prepares to welcome a new Oloja through these ancient customs.
