Oba of Lagos Rilwan Akiolu I also known as the Eleko of Eko on Thursday clocked 77.
The monarch has been on the throne of his forefathers since his coronation on August 9, 2003. His 77th birthday comes on a public holiday set aside to mark the Id el Maulud – the birth of Prophet Muhammad.
Oba Akiolu’s palace at Iga Idugaran, Lagos Island came under attack on October 21 by hoodlums who took advantage of the #EndSARS protest to wreak havoc across the state.
The monarch’s symbol of authority – the staff of office – was stolen, forcing President Muhammadu Buhari to make mention of the incident in his broadcast to the nation on October 22.
Several vehicles were also vandalised in the palace.
It was gathered that the thugs who invaded the palace were the same ones who set the family home of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu ablaze.
Many condemned the incident, including the Forum of Eko Princes and Princesses, an association of descendants of various ruling houses who have the right to the throne of Oba of Lagos.
Chairman of Isale Eko Descendants’ Union Yomi Tokosi also called on all sons and daughters of the community to lend their voices to the condemnation of the attack on the palace.
About 520 persons have been arrested for various charges related to the violence that followed the #EndSARS protest in Lagos.
Normalcy has, however, returned to the palace following the return of the staff of office and Oba Akiolu on Wednesday.
Several traditionalists were present to witness the return of the monarch to his abode.
As the 21st Oba of Lagos, Oba Akiolu is a descendant of the Ologunkutere Ruling House in Isale Eko (downtown Lagos).
Born on October 29, 1943, Oba Akiolu has a law degree from the University of Lagos.
He joined the Nigeria Police Force in 1970 where he served in various capacities until his retirement in 2002 as an Assistant Inspector General of Police.
