Erelu Kuti celebrates 50th installation anniversary

The Erelu Kuti of Lagos and Yeye Oba Oodua, Abiola Dosumu, recently celebrated the 50th anniversary of her installation in grand style in Ikoyi, Lagos.

One of the highlights of the event was a fashion show featuring designs by Olori Ronke Ogunwusi and Ejiro Amos, along with a cultural display by the Nefertiti group.

There were also goodwill messages from Dosumu’s admirers and associates, including a former military dictator, General Ibrahim Babangida (retd.), which was read by Chief Sena Anthony, a Lagos-based oil and gas law consultant and external director for Oando Plc.

Another notable moment was when former President Olusegun Obasanjo was called to speak, but he declined, deferring to the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

In his speech, Sanwo-Olu said, “This is a simple but historic event, and I am sure it will be difficult for anyone to match the history we’re witnessing today. They have described her in different ways, but I say that if 50 years ago, a 27-year-old young lady could be identified and crowned as the first Erelu Kuti of Lagos, it speaks volumes about her character and significance.

“Lagos had been in existence, long before Nigeria, which was formed in 1914. The colony of Lagos has a rich history that recognised and honoured a young, beautiful and outstanding Lagosian. We cannot celebrate her enough. She is a reflection of the best that Lagos offers. Her title was a wise and appropriate choice that has stood the test of time.”

Sanwo-Olu also commended Dosumu for using her position to uphold Lagos, Yorubaland, and African culture and tradition in general. He went on to offer a prayer on her behalf, encouraging everyone to emulate her, emphasising the importance of one’s legacy.

Following the speech, the guests were led by Erelu Dosumu to commission the Erelu Dosumu Cultural Centre and Heritage Site. The centre features a rich display of culture, including traditional clothing (adire), beads, accessories, and artwork.

Other notable guests at the event were Ibijoke, the wife of the Lagos State Governor, who represented the First Lady of the country, Oluremi Tinubu; Ogun State Deputy Governor, Noimot Salako-Oyedele; Kwara State First Lady, Olufolake Abdulrazaq; former Ekiti State First Lady, Bisi Fayemi; former Ogun State First Lady, Olufunsho Amosun; the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and his some of his queens— Ronke and Mariam; the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Ogunoye III, among others.