The residents and 52 prominent families of Ajah have made a passionate appeal to the Lagos State Government, urging immediate intervention in the ongoing dispute over the legitimacy of the Oba of Ajah and moves to impose a new traditional ruler against the will of the people.
The Lagos State Government had officially approved the Baale of Ajah in accordance with traditional and legal processes. However, tensions have risen due to opposition from key figures in the Lagos traditional council, including the Oba of Lagos, who has reportedly written a letter calling for the impeachment of the Baale. Additionally, the Oba Elegushi of Eti-Osa has allegedly excluded the Baale of Ajah from important meetings of traditional rulers in the region.
Residents claim these actions are part of a broader attempt to install Kolawole Olumegbon as a traditional ruler in Ajah, a move that they strongly oppose.
The families argue that this imposition disrespects their heritage and undermines the cultural and traditional values of Ajah.
“We do not want a repeat of the crisis of 2003. The Ajah people stand for peace and respect for the rule of law,” a spokesperson for the families said.
The matter has already been taken to court, and an injunction is reportedly in place. Despite this, the community accuses Oba Akiolu of Lagos and Oba Elegushi of trying to escalate tensions by ignoring the legal process and attempting to undermine the existing leadership structure.
In a demonstration of their frustration, residents of Ajah recently stormed the Lagos State Governor’s office and the State House of Assembly to express their grievances. They are calling on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to intervene swiftly and uphold the law.
