By Bilesanmi Abayomi
Mixed reactions trailed the birthday celebration of the Oloworo of Oworo Kingdom, His Royal Majesty Oba Babatunde Saliu, as the monarch marked another year on January 8, 2026.
While residents and well-wishers across the kingdom celebrated the young and dynamic traditional ruler for his leadership style and contributions to community development, some victims of the Oworonshoki waterfront demolition expressed lingering grievances, with a section of them continuing to link their displacement to the monarch.
This sentiment persists despite the Lagos State Government’s official position and a recent media briefing by the Honourable Commissioner for Waterfront and Infrastructure Development, Hon. Dayo Bush, who outlined the government’s plans for the affected waterfront communities.
Community observers, however, noted that peace and stability have largely characterised Oworo Kingdom since Oba Saliu’s ascension to the throne. Several residents described his reign as one marked by wisdom, unity, and calm, crediting him with fostering harmony and progress within the community.
“His leadership has brought a sense of order and togetherness to the kingdom,” a community source said, while offering prayers for the monarch’s continued good health, prosperity, and success.
KosofePost reliably gathered that the monarch, in his personal capacity, prevailed on the Lagos State Government to reconsider its initial stance of offering no compensation to demolition victims. This intervention reportedly led to the approval of compensation for some affected residents. While several beneficiaries accepted the offer, others allegedly declined for reasons yet to be clearly established.
According to reports, the demolished waterfront areas have been earmarked for major infrastructure developments by the Lagos State Government, including a proposed ₦7 billion jetty and housing scheme, among other projects.
As celebrations continue, the monarch’s birthday has once again brought differing perceptions of his role into focus, reflecting the broader tensions surrounding urban redevelopment efforts within Oworo Kingdom.