Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, was on Friday, December 26 installed as the Okanlòmo of Eyọ Ọba Alakẹtẹ Pupa, Laba Ẹkun.

This installation comes ahead of the Saturday, December 27 Eyo festival in Lagos.

The Eyo Festival, which was last held in 2017, is known for its iconic white-clad masquerades and vibrant display of chants, dance and cultural symbolism.

Considered a cultural treasure of the Lagos people, it is one of the most recognisable traditional events in the country, and this year’s edition is expected to draw both local and international attention.

Congratulating Seyi, Sanwo-Olu on his verified X page (formerly Twitter) said: “I warmly congratulate Barrister Oluwaseyi Tinubu @STinubu on his installation as the Okanlòmo of Eyọ Ọba Alakẹtẹ Pupa, Laba Ẹkun.

“This honour reflects service, character, and commitment to our culture and people.

“I wish him continued strength and clarity as he carries the responsibilities and expectations that come with this new role.”

Also, Sanwo-Olu, on Friday commissioned the Eyo Monument at the John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History, located in the Onikan area of Lagos Island.

The Lagos State Government had on Wednesday issued a travel advisory announcing widespread traffic restrictions on Lagos Island.

In a travel advisory shared on the government’s social media handles, residents and motorists were urged to plan their travels ahead, as vehicular movement would be partially restricted in the Lagos Island area.

“Vehicular movement on major Lagos Island streets, especially along the procession routes, will be restricted or fully closed to allow the traditional Eyo procession to move safely,” the notice read.

Consequently, the government listed major routes on the Island that will be temporarily closed to traffic.

They include Third Mainland Bridge exit to Adeniji Adele Road; Adeniji Adele ramps inward and outward, Oyebanji; and Adeniji Adele inward to Third Mainland (Church Bus Stop).

“Descending the Simpson Bridge to Sura from Osborne; outward Sura inward Osborne by Simpson Bridge; outward Sura inward Obalende Bridge; and Third Mainland exit to Sura.”

Other areas to be affected include Obalende, CMS, Marina, Apogbon and Idumota.

Commuters were therefore advised to use alternative routes. “Motorists are advised to plan their journeys, as LASTMA officials will be deployed to all diversion points for a seamless flow of traffic,” the notice added.

According to the Lagos State Government, the nearly 40-foot-high monument is “a powerful symbol of Lagos’ heritage” and is expected to provide “a major boost to the state’s cultural tourism drive,” serving both educational and tourism purposes while contributing to the economic and cultural development of the state.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Governor Sanwo-Olu said the monument represents the essence of Lagos culture and identity, adding that its location within the John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History, Onikan, makes it “a fitting landmark for preserving and showcasing Yoruba art, history and tradition.”

He said the monument would provide a space “where visitors can learn, take photographs and share the history of the state.”

Governor Sanwo-Olu disclosed that the installation of the Eyo monument reinforces Lagos’ commitment to protecting its cultural assets while positioning the state as a global destination for arts and heritage tourism.

He commended the curator of the monument, Dotun Popoola, for his craftsmanship and intellectual depth, describing the work as “a reflection of Nigerian creativity and excellence,” and noting that the project demonstrates how indigenous talent can be harnessed to interpret and preserve history through art. (The Nation)