‘A Call to Service’ – Jide Kosoko Speaks on Becoming Oloja of Lagos-Elect

• Veteran Nollywood actor Jide Kosoko has described his emergence as Oloja of Lagos-elect as a call to service.
• The 72-year-old was formally presented at the palace of the Elereko of Lagos, ending years of vacancy for the stool.
• Colleagues have hailed the appointment as recognition of his character and contributions.

Veteran Nollywood actor Jide Kosoko has described his emergence as the Oloja of Lagos-elect as a solemn call to service, one that comes with deep cultural and communal responsibilities.

Kosoko, 72, was formally presented as Oloja-elect on January 24 at the palace of the Elereko of Lagos, marking a significant new phase in his public life beyond the film industry.

Speaking to journalists on Friday, the actor expressed excitement over the development, stating that he considers his selection well-deserved. However, he did not indicate whether the traditional role would affect his acting career.

Reacting to the announcement, Nollywood actor and theatre practitioner Bolaji Amusan, popularly known as Mr Latin, congratulated Kosoko, describing the appointment as evidence that practitioners in the creative industry are disciplined, responsible, and relevant contributors to society.

“Jide is not the only prince in Lagos or in the Kosoko family, but because of his intelligence and respect in the community, he was chosen as Oloja of Lagos,” Amusan said.

Kosoko now joins a growing list of Nigerian entertainers who have assumed traditional leadership roles, following the coronation of comedian and actor Okey Bakassi as a monarch in his Imo State community last year.

The Oloja of Lagos stool had remained vacant since the death of Chief Adebola Ige in 2017. Kosoko’s emergence was officially announced by Mrs Mutiat Ali-Balogun, the Olori Ebi General of the King Kosoko Royal Family, who formally presented him to members of the royal family and invited guests.

During the ceremony, Ali-Balogun raised Kosoko’s hand as a sign of recognition, while traditional rites and prayers were performed. She was joined by the Deputy Olori Ebi General, Oyindamola Ayepola, who also serves as the head of the Meshimo Ruling House.