The recent statement by the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, asserting that the Binis founded Lagos has ignited a contentious debate. During a visit to Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Oba Ewuare II claimed, “It is in the history books that the Binis founded Lagos.” This proclamation has stirred opposition from various quarters, including the Olota of Ota, academics, and a Lagos chief.
The Balogun of Eko, Abisoye Oshodi, disputed the claim, stating in a viral video that Lagos was not founded by the Binis. He acknowledged that the Benin ancestors settled on an island called Eko but insisted that the island had existed before their arrival. Oshodi pointed out the presence of other tribes like the Aworis, Isheris, and Olofins in Lagos before the Binis.
Comedian Seyi Law also joined the conversation, emphasizing the diverse historical influences on Lagos, including the settlement of Itsekiri warriors and Benin warriors in different areas.
Academics weighed in on the controversy, with Dr. Paul Akanmidu, a History lecturer, emphasizing the Awori people from Abeokuta as the original inhabitants of Lagos. He argued that the claim of Bini founders was a historical distortion, as the Aworis had been in Lagos long before the Binis.
Professor Akinsola Agagu acknowledged the controversy in historical narratives but criticized the Oba of Benin’s claim, stating that it was far from the truth. He highlighted the cosmopolitan nature of Lagos and the complexities of its history.
The Olota of Ota, Oba Adeyemi Obalanlege, dismissed the Benin monarch’s assertion as unfounded and described him as an attention seeker. The Olota maintained that historical records proved Lagos belonged to the Awori people.
The debate underscores the complexity of historical narratives and the diverse influences that have shaped the development of Lagos over the centuries.