By Damiete Braide
The traditional leadership of Isolo has defended the integrity and legitimacy of the newly installed monarch, Oba Issa Abiodun Faronbi Shekoni.
Some group of persons had alleged recently that the monarch was unfit for the throne.
The chiefs expressed their unwavering support during the ninth-day coronation ceremony held on Monday, April 7, 2025, at the new palace in Isolo, passed a vote of confidence on the king.
The controversy erupted following the circulation of a viral video showing Oba Shekoni, then a prince, handcuffed by police officers in connection with a land dispute. The video stirred public speculation and gave rise to rumors branding the monarch as a criminal. However, Isolo chiefs have collectively condemned the claims, describing them as malicious attempts by detractors to discredit the king and disrupt the peaceful succession process.
Yahya Lawal Arowooye, the Agbaakin of Isolo and a former contender for the Osolo stool, dismissed the allegations as baseless. He clarified that the incident captured in the video was as a result of a family land dispute within the Ojo Orisadeko Asalu Elemo Royal Family at Ajao Estate: “There has been no Court ruling declaring Oba Shekoni guilty of any crime.What we see is the handiwork of individuals bent on tarnishing his name. We expect the state government to investigate those responsible for spreading the video.”
Echoing this sentiment, Akibu Aregbe, the Lisa of Isolo, described the allegations as “pure nonsense.”
He noted that land disputes are common and do not define the character of the individuals involved. According to him, the overwhelming support and turnout at the palace since Oba Shekoni’s installation prove his acceptance by the community. “Those behind these attacks do not love Isolo. Only one person can emerge king, and we must all support him for the sake of the Town’s progress.”
Wasiu Arowooye, the Isolo regent and also a former contender, expressed gratitude for the smooth transition and urged other contestants to honour their commitment to unity:“There is no crisis in Isolo. We all agreed to support whoever emerged, and it’s time to come together for the development of our town.”
Kazeem Ewedairo, the Ajiroba of Isolo, pointed out that Oba Shekoni’s ascension was lawful and sanctioned by the Lagos State Government.
He said ,“Oba Shekoni is from a recognized royal lineage and has met all requirements. The smear campaign is politically motivated,”
Oba Shekoni was officially crowned on March 28, 2025, in a ceremony held at the Conference Hall of the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development at Alausa Secretariat .