The Olofin of Isheri and Adimula of Awori Kingdom, Oba Sulaimon Bamgbade, has contradicted the recent statement by the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, regarding the origin of Lagos. Oba Bamgbade stated that the Aworis were the first settlers in Lagos, challenging Oba Ewuare II to retrace the origin of the Benin Kingdom to Ile Ife, as the Aworis have always maintained.
This response comes after Oba Ewuare II claimed that the Binis founded Lagos during a visit to Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu. The statement sparked opposition from various quarters, including Awori monarchs, academics, and community leaders.
In his statement, Oba Bamgbade emphasized that Lagos was founded and established by Olofin Ogunfuminire, the progenitor of the Awori people. He explained that Olofin Ogunfuminire left Ile-Ife and settled at Isheri before migrating to present-day Iddo in Lagos. According to him, Ajaiye, Olofin’s wife, was blessed with children, and her offspring, known as Idejo, are the traditional landowners of Lagos.
The Olofin detailed the distribution of land among Olofin Ogunfuminire’s descendants, with Isheri serving as the dispersal point for other Awori towns. He disputed Oba Ewuare II’s claim by citing historical literature, including the book “Slavery and Birth of an African City: Lagos 1760-1900,” which notes that Aworis were the first settlers in Lagos, dispersing from Isheri.
Oba Bamgbade acknowledged the arrival of the Benin people in Lagos as traders who were well-received by the Aworis. However, he mentioned a historical feud that broke out, leading to the Benins seeking reinforcements from the Oba of Benin. Despite the conflict, a compromise was reached, and the Benins were relocated to live with Aromire on Lagos Island.
The Olofin concluded by urging the Oba of Benin to retrace the origin of the Benin Kingdom to Ile Ife, aligning with the Aworis’ historical account.
The conflicting narratives highlight the historical complexities and diverse perspectives on the origins of cities, emphasizing the importance of historical records and research in understanding the past.
