The debate about the founding of Lagos has been ongoing for some time, with various commentators expressing different opinions on the matter. A recent comment by the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, during his visit to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu at the Lagos House, Marina, in November, reignited the debate. The Benin monarch claimed that his ancestors founded Lagos, which sparked reactions from several Nigerians.

The Oba of Benin stated that "it is in the history books that the Binis founded Lagos," and that "maybe not all over Lagos as we know it now but certain areas in Lagos, maybe the nucleus of Lagos, were founded by my ancestors." He also mentioned that the Oba of Lagos would confirm this.

In response, the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, had previously stated that "Modern day Lagos was founded by Prince Ado, a son of the Oba of Benin." However, some Lagos traditional rulers, academics, and history books disagree with these claims.

The Balogun of Eko, Abisoye Oshodi, refuted the claim by the Oba Ewuare II, stating that "Lagos was never founded by the Binis." He explained that the Island had been there before the arrival of the Benin ancestors and that there were other tribes in Lagos before its creation.

A lecturer of History at the Adekunle Ajasin University, Dr. Paul Akanmidu, also weighed in, stating that the history of Lagos could be traced more to the Awori from Abeokuta, Ogun State, rather than the Benin people.

Furthermore, historical books and academic writings have supported the view that Lagos was founded by the Yoruba, particularly the Awori people. Lasisi Olagunju, drawing from various historical sources, established that Lagos was not founded by Benin but by the Yoruba. He quoted historical texts and emphasized that the Awori inhabited the land that is now Lagos before the arrival of the Benin people.

The Olota of Ota, Oba Adeyemi Obalanlege, also supported the view that the claim by the Oba of Benin was untrue and unfounded, asserting that historical records have proven that Lagos belonged to the Awori people.

In conclusion, the debate over the founding of Lagos continues, with various perspectives and historical sources providing different accounts of its origins.

Naijamatta is a social networking site,

download Naijamatta from Google play store or visit www.naijamatta.com to register. You can post, comment, do voice and video call, join and open group, go live etc. Join Naijamatta family, the Green app.