Eshugbayi Eleko

Oba Eshugbayi Eleko ruled Lagos from 1901 to 1925 and again from 1931 until his death in 1932. His reign was marked by significant conflicts with the British colonial government, primarily over issues of taxation and authority. In 1908, he opposed a piped water tax, leading to protests and riots that divided the local elite into pro- and anti-government factions.

In 1919, Eleko appointed Muslim leaders to key positions at the Central Mosque, which the British perceived as an overreach of his authority. This resulted in the withdrawal of their recognition and financial support, though it bolstered his popularity among locals who financially backed him.

The "Eleko Affair" involved the concealment of his Staff of Office, later used by Herbert Macaulay in London to highlight injustices, such as the disparity between Eleko's stipend and that of European gardeners. The British pressured Eleko to disavow Macaulay's statements, but he refused, leading to his deposition and exile to Oyo in 1925.

During his exile, other leaders ruled Lagos until legal efforts facilitated his return. Eleko's triumphant homecoming saw him praise Macaulay, after which he died in 1932, succeeded by his son, Oba Falolu Dosunmu.