Oworonshoki, a vibrant and bustling neighbourhood in Lagos, Nigeria, is a place of rich cultural significance and geographical beauty. Positioned along the northern shores of the Lagos Lagoon, it serves as a gateway between mainland Lagos and the Third Mainland Bridge—one of the longest bridges in Africa. This location not only gives Oworonshoki strategic importance but also imbues it with a unique charm shaped by its proximity to the lagoon’s expansive waters. The Lagos Lagoon itself, a sprawling water body, contributes to Oworonshoki’s identity. The shimmering expanse reflects both the dynamism of urban Lagos and the serene beauty of natural waterways.
From Oworonshoki, one can catch breathtaking views of the lagoon, especially at sunrise and sunset, when the skies blush in hues of gold and amber, mirrored by the calm waters. Historically, Oworonshoki has been a critical transport hub, linking mainland neighbourhoods to Lagos Island via water routes and road networks.
Its lagoon-side location facilitated trade and interaction, making it a melting pot of cultures, traditions, and industries.
Today, remnants of its maritime heritage persist, evident in the activities of fishermen who launch their canoes at dawn, carrying on a tradition that has spanned generations.
Beyond its geographical allure, Oworonshoki thrives as a community deeply rooted in Yoruba culture. Festivals, music, and art are integral to its identity, reflecting the resilience and creativity of its residents.
The interplay between urban development and the natural environment also highlights the neighbourhood’s dual character: a place where modernity coexists with tradition and where the pulse of Lagos beats strong against the gentle rhythms of the lagoon.
Despite challenges such as urban congestion and environmental concerns, Oworonshoki remains a testament to Lagos’s spirit—a city that never stops reinventing itself. Its position along the Lagos Lagoon makes it a constant reminder of the harmony that can exist between urban growth and nature, offering a slice of tranquillity amidst the city’s ceaseless energy.
Oworonshoki is no doubt one of the most peaceful and beautiful terrains facing the seashore in Lagos State but since the death of the progenitor of Oloruntoyin Royal Family, His Royal Majesty, Oba Bashiru Oloruntoyin Saliu (Oloworo 1)
Peace, who used to be a bonafide citizen of the community, was forced into an untimely exile as a result of the kingship tussle among the children of the late Oba. Though one of the sons, Prince Babatunde Sali, was later crowned the Oba, peace still refused to return in the community as the kingship tussle continued to linger.
The reigning Oba and his main opponent are still in court, and each claims that he is the right person to ascend the throne of his fathers. However, quite recently, another vista was introduced into the lingering battle when some members of the royal family made a public disclaimer in the National Tribune Newspaper on 12th November 2024 claiming that they did not make a certain family resolution carrying their signatures and that the signatures contained therein were forged. The same people were even bold enough to call on the law enforcement agents to investigate the said document.
Our preliminary investigation has shown that the said document is the main exhibit relied upon by the reigning Oba or his allies as evidence that his family members nominated him according to the Yoruba custom and if this document is forged according to them, it might definitely affect the Oba’s chances in Court. Anyways, that is just a mere opinion for now but the Oba has to tackle this issue headlong seriously.
Interacting with some residents, they decried the adverse effects of the Oba tussle, traditionally, economically and even socially!
The feelers gotten from some of the family members who preferred anonymity is that right from the onset, the reigning Oba was never their choice but was allegedly imposed on them by the powers that be in the state and so they had no choice but to accept him. The question now is, assuming the claims on the said publication are true why should the Oba rely on such documents?
