Veteran Nollywood actor, Jide Kosoko has disclosed that he sees his emergence as Oloja of Lagos elect as a profound duty to serve, emphasising that the role is about community, not personal acclaim.
Speaking after his selection, Jide said, “My selection as Oloja of Lagos is a call to service. It is not about pride or celebration. It is about responsibility and commitment to the people.”
As earlier reported by eelive.ng, the actor was formally presented as Oloja of Lagos elect at the Elereko of Lagos palace, filling a role left vacant since Adebola Ige’s passing in December 2017.
Reacting to questions about how the role may affect his acting career, Jide said, “Acting is my profession, but tradition and service to my people come first. When duty calls, you answer.”
He further added that the selection process followed due traditional procedures, stressing that he did not lobby for the position. “I did not ask for it. It came as a surprise to me, but I accepted it with humility,” he said.
Mutiat Ali-Balogun, Olori Ebi General of the King Kosoko Royal Family, announced Jide’s selection and presented him to family members and traditional chiefs. Oyindamola Ayepola, Deputy Olori Ebi General and head of the Meshimo Ruling House, supported her.
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Jide’s selection has received attention in the entertainment industry. Actor and TAMPAN president Bolaji Amusan, known as Mr Latin, congratulated him and said, “Jide is not the only prince in the Kosoko family, but his character, intelligence and respect within the community made him stand out.”
This development unfolds against a backdrop of ongoing disputes within the King Kosoko royal family over the Oloja stool. While some relatives voiced concerns about past selections, family leaders insist the current process honours tradition and legitimacy.
A formal installation ceremony is expected to be held after all customary rites are completed, with the approval of the Oba of Lagos.
Jide now joins a rising wave of Nigerian entertainers stepping into traditional leadership, reflecting a broader trend seen across the country in recent years.
