Jide Kosoko Appointed Oloja Of Lagos: Veteran Nollywood Actor To Assume Historic Lagos Royal Title
OpenLife Nigeria reports that veteran Nollywood actor and filmmaker Jide Kosoko has been officially named the Oloja of Lagos-elect, filling a position that has remained vacant since the passing of Chief Adebola Ige on December 23, 2017.
The formal presentation ceremony took place at the King Kosoko Palace in Ereko, Lagos Island, where Kosoko, aged 72, was introduced to the royal assembly, which included family members, palace officials, and well-wishers.
In accordance with palace tradition, Mrs. Mutiat Ali-Balogun, Olori Ebi General of the King Kosoko Royal Family, raised Kosoko’s hand in affirmation, accompanied by prayers and customary rites. She was supported by Deputy Olori Ebi General Oyindamola Ayepola, who also heads the Meshimo Ruling House.
SUCCESSION DISPUTE WITHIN KOSOKO DYNASTY
Kosoko’s appointment comes amid longstanding succession disputes within the Kosoko Royal Dynasty.
The Akinsanya Olojo Family has repeatedly petitioned Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, advocating for their nominee, Abiola Olojo-Kosoko. In December 2025, the family reaffirmed that Abiola had been declared Oloja-elect on December 12, 2020, but had yet to be formally installed after more than four years.
The family submitted their appeal to the governor and copied key state officials, including the Secretary to the State Government, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, and the Lagos Island Local Government Chairman.
Theophilus Olojo-Kosoko, General Secretary of the Akinsanya Olojo-Kosoko Ruling House, explained that following Chief Ige’s death, a 16-member committee was established to oversee the succession process.
The committee instructed the Akinsanya Olojo Ruling House to nominate a candidate in accordance with customary chieftaincy laws. Four aspirants Abiola Olojo-Kosoko, the late Shola Olojo-Kosoko, Issa Aregbesola, and Abiola Aromashodu of the Odunsi Ruling House underwent traditional screening and interviews at Kosoko Palace on October 7, 2020.
The kingmakers subsequently declared Abiola Olojo-Kosoko as Oloja-elect on December 12, 2020, in line with the Lagos State Obas and Chiefs Law and the 1983 Registered Declaration.
FORMAL INSTALLATION EXPECTED
Jide Kosoko is set to undergo his formal capping and installation ceremony under the supervision of the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwanu Akiolu, adhering to palace protocols and state traditions.
JIDE KOSOKO: BIOGRAPHY AND CAREER HIGHLIGHTS
EARLY LIFE AND EDUCATION
Jide Kosoko was born into the prominent Kosoko royal family, tracing his lineage to Lagos royalty. He pursued higher education at Yaba College of Technology, where he earned a degree in Business Administration.
His royal background and academic foundation provided him with a unique perspective that blends traditional leadership values with modern professionalism.
CAREER IN NOLLYWOOD
Kosoko’s acting career began in 1964 as a child actor in the television production Makanjuola. Over nearly six decades, he has established himself as a cornerstone of Nigerian cinema, appearing in hundreds of English and Yoruba-language films.
Kosoko is widely respected for his versatility, professionalism, and ability to portray a broad range of characters, earning him recognition as one of Nigeria’s most celebrated screen veterans.
Beyond acting, he has also contributed as a filmmaker, shaping the growth of Nollywood and mentoring emerging actors. His career reflects a rare combination of talent, resilience, and dedication, positioning him as a cultural icon both in Nigeria and internationally.
HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF THE OLOJA OF LAGOS
The Oloja of Lagos is a traditional chieftaincy position of immense historical and cultural importance. Historically, the Oloja serves as the custodian of Lagos Island’s markets and plays a pivotal role in maintaining cultural heritage, mediating disputes, and advising the Oba of Lagos on matters affecting the community.
The position commands respect not only within the royal family but also among the wider Lagos community and state institutions.
Jide Kosoko’s appointment as Oloja of Lagos-elect unites his royal heritage with decades of professional excellence.
His deep understanding of Lagosian culture, coupled with a distinguished career in film, positions him to serve not only as a traditional leader but also as a bridge between modern Nigerian society and centuries-old customs.
As he prepares for his formal installation, Kosoko’s selection underscores the enduring significance of the Kosoko Royal Dynasty in Lagos history and culture.
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