Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, was on Friday, December 26, installed as the Okanlòmo of Eyọ Ọba Alakẹtẹ Pupa, Laba Ẹkun, ahead of the highly anticipated Eyo Festival in Lagos on Saturday, December 27.
The Eyo Festival, last held in 2017, is famed for its white-clad masquerades, vibrant chants, traditional dances, and rich cultural symbolism. Recognised as a cultural treasure of the Lagos people, it is among Nigeria’s most iconic traditional events, drawing both local and international attention.
Congratulating Seyi Tinubu, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu wrote on his verified X page: “I warmly congratulate Barrister Oluwaseyi Tinubu @STinubu on his installation as the Okanlòmo of Eyọ Ọba Alakẹtẹ Pupa, Laba Ẹkun. This honour reflects service, character, and commitment to our culture and people. I wish him continued strength and clarity as he carries the responsibilities and expectations that come with this new role.”
On Friday, Governor Sanwo-Olu also commissioned the nearly 40-foot-high Eyo Monument at the John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History in Onikan, Lagos Island. According to the Lagos State Government, the monument is “a powerful symbol of Lagos’ heritage” and is expected to boost cultural tourism, provide educational opportunities, and contribute to the state’s economic and cultural development.
Speaking at the commissioning, the governor said the monument embodies the essence of Lagos culture and identity. “Its location within the John Randle Centre makes it a fitting landmark for preserving and showcasing Yoruba art, history and tradition,” he added. He noted that the site would provide visitors with a space to learn, take photographs, and share the history of the state.
Governor Sanwo-Olu affirmed that the Eyo Monument reinforces Lagos’ commitment to protecting its cultural assets while positioning the state as a global destination for arts and heritage tourism. He praised the curator, Dotun Popoola, for his craftsmanship and intellectual depth, describing the work as “a reflection of Nigerian creativity and excellence” and a demonstration of how indigenous talent can preserve history through art.
Ahead of the festival, the Lagos State Government issued a travel advisory on Wednesday, warning residents and motorists of traffic restrictions across Lagos Island. Major routes along the procession paths, including Third Mainland Bridge exits, Adeniji Adele Road, Obalende, CMS, Marina, Apogbon, and Idumota, will be partially or fully closed. Commuters were urged to plan alternative routes, with LASTMA officials deployed at diversion points to ensure smooth traffic flow.
