The Osolo of Isolo royal stool is by no means a revered throne in the history of traditional institution in the centre of excellence called Lagos State. So, anyone found befitting enough to mount the throne must be someone of substance from the royal lineage of this ancient town.
No wonder that a year after the choice of Oba Isa Faronbi-Shekoni was pronounced by the Isolo kingmakers and his installation effected, the town has not only been in a joyous mood but has also been witnessing an inexorable transformation. Yet, the new Kabiyesi of Isolo is not relenting on his oars.
The journey towards today actually started precisely this day on March 28, 2025. On that date, history etched a memorable chapter in the story of Isolo Kingdom. On that day final denouement was made out of the intense succession process that followed the passing of the Faronbi-Shekoni’s successor as Osolo, the revered monarch, Oba Kabiru Alani Adelaja Agbabiaka Ilufemiloye Aina Gbeto Adeola Olushi III, the Osolo of Isolo.
The late monarch joined his ancestors on April 10, 2024; a day that should have been filled with celebration across Isolo, as it coincided with Eid-el-Fitr. Fate, however, had a different script.
Interestingly, history bears a striking resemblance, as it was also during the same festive period four decades earlier that Oba Disu Olayiwolal Faronbi Alagbeji II descended the realm of his ancestors.
The passing of Oba Kabiru Alani Adelaja Agbabiaka Aina Gbeto Adeola Olushi III truly signaled the end of a glorious era. His reign firmly entrenched Isolo’s place as one of the foremost Awori communities in Lagos and beyond. An embodiment of wisdom and tradition, the late Oba Agbabiaka was widely regarded as a living archive of history; a monarch whose humility, warmth, and fatherly disposition endeared him to all and sundry, including yours truly.
Almost a year later, consequent upon a selection process that was at that times intense and intriguing but yet ultimately transparent due to the keen interest of all stakeholders, destiny beckoned on a new custodian of the ancient throne. From the illustrious Alagbeji Royal Ruling Family, the royal house next in line to produce a king, emerged Oba Isa Abiodun Olakunle Faronbi-Shekoni, who was then Prince Engr. Isa Abiodun Shekoni. He stood tall among the final three contenders from an initial pool of fifteen aspirants who had signified interest in the exalted Osolo stool.
The announcement of his emergence came after days of palpable anticipation across Isolo.
Speculations had filled the air the night before, and by dawn, respected community leaders and stakeholders had gathered at Isolo LCDA Secretariat at the instance of the Executive Chairman, Olasoju Adebayo, for a final briefing on the selection process.
Shortly afterwards, all roads led to the office of the Lagos State Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, where the Honourable Commissioner, Robert Bibire, acting on behalf of the State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, formally confirmed the emergence of Prince Faronbi-Shekoni and presented him with the Staff of Office and Certificate of Nomination among other royal paraphernalia.
Back home, the mint monarch was given a rousing welcome into the community as he tirelessly acknowledged cheers from residents and well-wishers as he walked afoot from the landmark College Bus Stop to the new palace, where he was warmly received by the then Regent, Chief Wasiu Saliu Arowooye, and other esteemed chiefs.
Thus began the dawn of a new era.
Today, 365 days later, His Royal Majesty, Oba Isa Abiodun Olakunle Faronbi-Shekoni Alagbeji III, celebrates his first anniversary on the throne; a year marked by purposeful leadership and commendable strides that have justified the confidence reposed in him by the four Afobajes, the deities, government, the sons and daughters of Isolo Kingdom both at home and in the diaspora.
So far, Oba Isa Faronbi-Shekoni has demonstrated uncommon commitment to fostering peace, strengthening unity among the royal families, and promoting harmony among the diverse residents of the ancient yet cosmopolitan community.
At every opportunity, Osolo has placed the development of Isolo and the welfare of its residents at the front burner. His meetings with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, other government officials, fellow traditional rulers within Lagos and beyond, and the boards of directors of various multinationals in Isolo and beyond lend credence to this commitment.
In addition, under Oba Faronbi-Shekoni, Isolo now boasts of a modern palace befitting the dignity and heritage of the kingdom. Infrastructural improvements have gained renewed momentum, while Awori’s cherished cultural heritage and traditions have enjoyed renewed prominence.
Equally remarkable is the atmosphere of religious tolerance and social cohesion that has continued to flourish within the kingdom over the past year.
Indeed, Oba Faronbi-Shekoni wasted no time settling into the responsibilities of kingship, bringing to the throne a blend of wisdom, vision, and progressive leadership. On this special occasion marking his first 365 days on the throne of his forebears, one sincerely and heartily rejoice with Kabiyesi; the grand royal patron of youth, and pray that his reign remains truly prosperous and beneficial to all.
Long may Osolo reign…Kabiyesi oooo…
Damilola Kushimo, a journalist, writes from Isolo.
