Erelu Abiola Dosumu – A major figure in Lagos history
In the turbulent history of Lagos, one voice stands out for its authority and deep knowledge of the past of this dynamic city. This is Her Royal Highness, Erelu Abiola Dosunmu, a direct descendant of the founders of Lagos royalty. Her family heritage makes her an invaluable source of information on the origin of Lagos, more than anyone else.
The recent controversy over the true founders of Lagos has brought to the surface conflicting interpretations of this century-old history. As Donald Jordan, the author of “The Usefulness of Useless Knowledge,” said, history is often made up of “rumors, prejudices, personal accounts, rumors and official prevarications.” However, this does not diminish the instructive value of the story.
Erelu Dosunmu spoke to clarify these debates by sharing the teachings passed down by his ancestors. According to her, Lagos has always been an extension of the Kingdom of Benin, used as a passage to the port for trade and exchanges with foreigners. Foreigners visited the Benin Empire long before colonization and the signing of the Treaty of Lagos. They were treated as royalties and had to pay a tax, called Isakole, to the king of Benin.
In response to their refusal to pay this tax, the King of Benin sent an expedition to subdue the foreigners and established his own kingdom in Lagos. This is how the Kingdom of Lagos was born, with Oba Ado as its first king. According to Erelu Dosunmu, the kingdom of Lagos is therefore mainly Beninese due to its royal heritage, even if it has mixed over the centuries with Yoruba influences and other cultures present in Lagos.
This version of the story differs from what has been said before, but is based on stories and knowledge passed down from generation to generation within the Lagos royal family. As the keeper of this history, Erelu Dosunmu brings a unique and valuable perspective on the origins of Lagos.
Far from being a simple controversy, this debate reveals the complexity and multiple facets of Lagos history. It also highlights the importance of recognizing legitimate voices and authentic narratives in the study of the past. Through figures such as Erelu Abiola Dosunmu, we can deepen our understanding of history and appreciate the importance of its preservation.