Isale Eko, the cradle of Lagos civilisation, witnessed history as four illustrious sons of the land were officially approved, gazetted, and inaugurated as Paramount Traditional White Cap Chiefs of Lagos.
According to Omo Oba, Folarin Toheeb Ogbulu Animashaun, Funder/Creative Director@ginrin_leko_n_dan, “This monumental moment not only reaffirms the continuity of Lagos’ rich traditions but also heralds a progressive era where heritage, leadership, and modern excellence intersect. The newly gazetted White Cap Chiefs are: Arc. Gbolahan Owodunni Oki,Ogboni Iduntafa of Lagos (Akarigbere Royal Class), Engr. Ajibade Ismail Nosiru Ayeni, Eletu Odibo of Lagos (Head of Akarigbere Royal Class), Chief Adebola Olalekan Dosunmu, Olorogun Adodo of Lagos (Akarigbere Royal Class) and Chief Lookman Bolaji Oluwa – Onisemo of Lagos (Ogalade Class of Chiefs)”.
“Their elevation reflects the wisdom of Alaiyeluwa Oba Riliwan Babatunde Osuolale Aremu Akiolu I, the Oba of Lagos, whose reign has consistently safeguarded the cultural and spiritual heritage of the kingdom. The Lagos State Government equally deserves recognition for formalising these appointments, thereby securing the identity and continuity of Isale Eko for generations yet unborn” he declared
Arc. Gbolahan Owodunni Oki, Ogboni Iduntafa of Lagos: A seasoned architect and Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Architects (FNIA), Arc. Oki brings more than three decades of professional and administrative excellence to his stool. Currently Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Urban Development, he is revered for his integrity, resilience, and developmental foresight.
From his days as General Manager of LASBCA to his role as Chief Resilience Officer of Lagos State, Arc. Oki has always been a builder, not only of structures but also of systems. As Ogboni Iduntafa, he is set to uphold the dignity of the stool while shaping Isale Eko with innovation rooted in tradition.
Engr. Ajibade Ismail Nosiru Ayeni, Eletu Odibo of Lagos: Known popularly as Omobalufon, Engr. Ayeni now holds one of the most significant titles in Lagos; the Eletu Odibo, Traditional Prime Minister and Head of the Akarigbere Royal Class.
A graduate of Lagos State University and holder of an MSc in Mobile Computing & Communications from the University of Greenwich, UK, Ayeni’s credentials stretch across engineering, leadership, and governance. With certifications in IT, project management, and leadership, he exemplifies the blend of tradition and modern knowledge.
Also a grassroots politician and apex member of the Atari Ajanaku Caucus under the APC, he is a man deeply rooted in the community while equally comfortable in the corridors of power. His ascension strengthens the bridge between politics, culture, and Lagos’ enduring traditions.
Chief Adebola Olalekan Dosunmu, Olorogun Adodo of Lagos: Popularly celebrated as the Akinsiku of Lagos, Chief Dosunmu is the Supreme Head of the Adamu Orisha Play (Olori Eyo), custodian of one of Lagos’ most iconic cultural festivals. Through this sacred duty, he has for years safeguarded the dignity of Lagos culture and elevated its global recognition.
Beyond culture, Chief Dosunmu is also the CEO of Utica Integrated Services, a real estate consultancy, and a peace-builder trained in Conflict Resolution in the United States. His stool as Olorogun Adodo further strengthens his role as a custodian of unity, culture, and communal pride in Isale Eko.
Chief Lookman Bolaji Oluwa, Onisemo of Lagos: Chief Oluwa’s journey reflects resilience, humility, and loyalty to heritage. From his early education at St. Paul Primary School and Isale Eko Grammar School to his studies at Lagos State University and eventual sojourn in the United States, he has lived a life of service and dedication.
As a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) abroad, he built a career rooted in care and compassion. Returning home to assume the revered Onisemo stool, he brings with him a broadened worldview and a renewed commitment to the cultural sustainability of Lagos. His reign promises to fortify the Ogalade Class of Chiefs and champion grassroots development.
With the gazetting of these four paramount Chiefs, it is a statement that tradition and modernity can walk hand in hand. With expertise spanning architecture, engineering, governance, cultural custodianship, and international exposure, these new leaders embody the Lagos spirit: proud of its roots, yet always forward-looking.
The appointments of these eminenet personalities confirm that Isale Eko remains not just the heartbeat of Lagos history, but also a beacon of innovation, resilience, and unity.
This landmark event according to Omo Oba Folarin calls for gratitude, gratitude to His Royal Majesty, Oba Riliwan Babatunde Akiolu I, for his wisdom in choosing leaders of impeccable integrity and substance, to the Lagos State Government for preserving the sanctity of the institution as well as to Lagosians whose pride in their heritage remains unwavering.
As these new White Cap Chiefs take possession of their palaces and begin their sacred duties, Lagos prays for their reigns to bring wisdom, peace, prosperity, and cultural pride.
Moyo fun e, moyo fun rami.
Long live the Oba of Lagos!
Long live the White Cap Chiefs!
Long live Lagos State!!
