Traditional Rulers in Lagos – Basic 1 History Lesson Note (Third Term)

Who is a Traditional Ruler?

• A traditional ruler is a king or chief
• He leads the people in his community
• People respect him very much
• He wears special clothes and a crown

Paramount Traditional Rulers in Lagos

The biggest traditional rulers in Lagos are called Obas (kings).

1. Oba of Lagos – The most important king in Lagos

1. He is called “Oba of Lagos”
2. He lives in a palace on Lagos Island

1. Eleko of Eko – Another important ruler 
2. Other Obas in Lagos 
   1. Oniru of Iru land

1. Elegushi of Ikate

1. Many other Obas in different areas

How Traditional Rulers are Chosen

• The ruler’s family chooses someone
• He must be from the royal family (king’s family)
• The elders agree on who will be king
• Special ceremonies are performed
• He is crowned and becomes the Oba

Why Traditional Rulers are Important

• They keep our history alive
• They settle problems in the community
• They lead traditional festivals
• They represent our culture
• They advise the government
• People respect them

Multiple choice exercise 

1. A traditional ruler is a _____. 

1. a) king or chief
2. b) teacher
3. c) doctor

1. The most important king in Lagos is called _____. 

1. a) Governor
2. b) Oba of Lagos
3. c) President

1. Traditional rulers wear _____. 

1. a) school uniform
2. b) special clothes and crown
3. c) nothing

1. A traditional ruler must be from the _____. 

1. a) royal family
2. b) any family
3. c) school

1. Traditional rulers live in a _____. 

1. a) school
2. b) palace
3. c) hospital

HOMEWORK 

1. Draw a traditional ruler with his crown.
2. Ask your parents: Who is the Oba in our area?
3. Write the name “Oba of Lagos.”
4. Tell why traditional rulers are important.