The Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Babatunde Osuolale Aremu Akiolu I, on Saturday installed seven new White Cap Chiefs.

The installation, which took place at the king’s palace is one of the most influential components of indigenous authority in Isale Eko.

Those installed include Architect Gbolahan Owodunni Oki, who was conferred with the title of Ogboni Iduntafa of Lagos; Chief Ajibade Ismail Nosiru Ayeni, installed as Eletu Odibo of Lagos; and Chief Adebola Olalekan Dosunmu, who assumed the title of Olorogun Adodo of Lagos.

Others are Chief Yusuf Jinadu Bajulu, installed as Bajulu of Lagos; Chief Razak Onimole, installed as Onimole of Lagos; Chief Lookman Bolaji Oluwa, installed as Onisemo of Lagos; and Chief Tajudeen Adisa Abisogun, who was installed as the Ojon of Lagos.

White Cap Chiefs occupy a central position within Lagos’ traditional governance system.

Beyond ceremonial duties, they serve as senior advisers to the Oba, custodians of customs, and key figures in palace administration and community affairs.

Architect Gbolahan Oki, the new Ogboni Iduntafa of Lagos, is a seasoned architect and public servant with decades of experience in urban development and public administration. He currently serves as Permanent Secretary in the Lagos State Ministry of Urban Development and has previously held senior roles within regulatory and planning institutions in the state.

Chief Ajibade Ismail Nosiru Ayeni, installed as the Eletu Odibo of Lagos, assumes one of the most influential White Cap positions. Traditionally regarded as a senior palace figure within the Akarigbere class, the Eletu Odibo plays a key role in palace affairs. Ayeni, an engineer by training, has worked across the public and private sectors and is known for his involvement in community and grassroots activities on Lagos Island.

Chief Adebola Olalekan Dosunmu, now Olorogun Adodo of Lagos, is widely recognised for his role in cultural preservation. He has been closely associated with traditional festivals and community structures that form part of Lagos’ indigenous identity.

Chief Yusuf Jinadu Bajulu and Chief Razak Onimole, installed as Bajulu and Onimole of Lagos respectively, also join the ranks of senior traditional office holders charged with upholding palace traditions and supporting the Oba in matters relating to custom, order, and community relations.

Chief Lookman Bolaji Oluwa, the new Onisemo of Lagos, is an indigene of Lagos Island whose installation reflects the continued emphasis on lineage, service, and loyalty within the White Cap system.

The installation of Chief Tajudeen Adisa Abisogun as the Ojon of Lagos completes the latest round of White Cap appointments, further strengthening the traditional council and its advisory role to the throne.

The installations underscore the enduring relevance of traditional institutions in Lagos, even as the city continues to evolve socially and economically.

The Oba of Lagos is also expected to confer honorary chieftaincy titles on selected individuals as part of ongoing palace activities. (The Guardian)

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