The Akinsanya Olojo-Kosoko Ruling House has appealed to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to confirm and install Prince Abiola Kosoko as the next Oloja of Lagos following years of the stool’s vacancy.

In a letter dated December 5, the descendants of King Kosoko, the first Oloja of Lagos, told the governor they were frustrated by the four-year delay since their candidate was chosen.

They explained that Prince Abiola Kosoko was officially chosen on December 12, 2020, after a thorough selection process based on law and tradition.

The royal family reminded the government that the Oloja of Lagos position became vacant after Chief Adebola Idris Disu Ige died on December 23, 2017.

After a committee finished its report, the King Kosoko Royal Family asked the Akinsanya Ruling House, who were next in line, to put forward candidates.

This led to a traditional interview with four candidates at the Kosoko palace on October 7, 2020.

The candidates were Prince Abiola Kosoko, the late Prince Shola Olojo-Kosoko, Prince Issa Adeyemi Aregbesola, and Mr Abiola Yakubu Arowomashodu (from the Odunsi Ruling House).

According to the letter, the kingmakers all agreed that Prince Abiola Kosoko was the best choice.

He was declared Oloja-elect five days later, following the Lagos State Oba and Chieftaincy Law and the 1983 Registered Declaration.

The ruling house said the 1983 Registered Declaration is still valid and has not been overturned by any court.

The letter, signed by Prince Surajudeen Abiodun Olojo-Kosoko and Prince Theophitous Olojo-Kosoko, said only King Kosoko’s descendants have the right to the throne.

The family asked the State Government to fix the delay and reject any attempts to go against the 1983 Registered Declaration.

The Akinsanya Olojo-Kosoko Ruling House promised to keep acting respectfully and reasonably toward all authorities.

The family asked for a meeting to discuss the Oloja-elect’s confirmation, hoping the Governor would help ensure a smooth succession and protect Lagos’ traditions. (The Nation)