In a compelling video response, the Balogun of Eko, Abisoye Oshodi has offered a detailed historical perspective, correcting the claims made by the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II regarding the ownership of Lagos.
The Herald recalls that Oba of Benin who was in Lagos State to visit Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Sunday had said, ‘’It is in the history books that the Binis founded Lagos. When some people will hear it now, they will go haywire, what is the Oba saying there again? But it is true. Go and check the records. Maybe not all over Lagos as we know it now but certain areas in Lagos, maybe the nucleus of Lagos, was founded by my ancestors. The Oba of Lagos will say so.”
Reacting to the monarch’s comment, Abisoye Oshodi in a video shared online on Tuesday emphasized, “Lagos was never founded by the Benin.” He acknowledged that while the Benin ancestors settled on a small island called Eko, now known as Lagos Island, they did not create the island itself.
Balogun of Eko clarified that Lagos has a rich history predating the arrival of Benin ancestors.”Your ancestors only came and forcefully imposed a taxation system on transit with the traders on the land,” he explained.
He went on to highlight the diverse tribes that existed on Lagos Island before the creation of Lagos state, including the Aworis, Isheri, Olafin, and others.
Abisoye Oshodi urged the Oba of Benin to revisit Lagos, specifically Isale-eko, the community where Benin ancestors are limited, emphasizing that Lagos as a whole was not founded by the Benin.
“To say Lagos is no man’s land is a misconception. Lagos has been in existence before the creation of Eko and even the creation of Lagos state,” he stated. The Balogun pointed out historical events, such as the role of Awolowo, in shaping the region before the establishment of Lagos state.
Drawing from his own family history, Abisoye Oshodi said, “I am Oshodi. My ancestors were from Lupe, and we also settled in Lagos.” He said that history cannot be rewritten and emphasized the presence of various tribes in Lagos before the arrival of Ashipa and the installment of Obato.
Abisoye Oshodi extended well wishes to the Oba of Benin, stating, “May you live long, sir,” and inviting him to explore the historical roots in Ìsàlẹ̀ Èkó for a more accurate understanding of Lagos’s heritage.
VIDEO: Balogun Of Eko Educates Oba Of Benin About Ownership Of Lagos
The Balogun of Eko Abisoye Oyeyemi Oshodi responded to Oba of Benin and educated him about the history of Lagos. And advise About history pic.twitter.com/prQ5ArFTli
— Ààrẹ Ayọ̀dèjì (@omolisabi1) November 27, 2023