![]() Osareya, in becoming Kosoko’s queen, however, more than earns her freedom. Prince Kosoko reclaims the throne from Akintoye and equally beats Chief Eletu to the love of the pretty slave, Osareya, who would later compel him to abolish slave trade in Isale Eko to retain her affection. Prince Kosoko is thereafter cheated out of the throne by Akintoye (played by Yemi Sodimu) and in the moment building up to a major conflict over the throne, we are entertained with chants of “ ajekun iya ni o je” – that traditional tune recently made popular by controversial Senator, Dino Melaye. With a void left behind by Oba Eshinlokun who had gone to be with his ancestors, Chief Eletu and other chiefs of the Eko kingdom had the unenviable task of holding the kingdom together while Crown Prince Idehun Ojulari (played by Femi Durojaiye) and Prince Kosoko argue about control of resources and ownership of the slaves left behind by the dead king.įate hands Prince Ojulari the throne with a path to an unavoidable death, leaving the Queen Mother doubly bereaved. The dancers effected a paddling a canoe scenario as the orchestra belted one of the tunes with a refrain “ agbami la wa” loosely translated “ we are on the sea.”Īs entertained as I was by the sight of the dancers and the Eyo masquerades, I could not help but also think about the Otodo Gbame residents in their boats on the lagoon next to the ruins of their former homes, abodes destroyed by the state government.Īs the dancers exit the scene after a thrilling performance, we are treated to a portrayal of a time in history when refusal to pay tributes to the Oba Igodomigodo in Benin earns the Aworis in downtown Lagos (Isale Eko) a threat of invasion and enslavement. In the opening scene, for instance, energetic dancers in variegated costumes shake to the rhythm of cultural tunes about Lagos as the centre of unity, excellence and harmony. ![]() The story is also told through the abiding affair between a Prince, Kosoko (played by Nollywood actor, Femi Branch), and a captive Benin princess Osareya. Osareya also tickles the fancy of her master, Chief Eletu (played by Victor Okun).Īs with most plays, there is a masterful infusion of dance riding on a delightful mix of traditional and contemporary songs capable of evoking multiple sensations. Isale Eko tells the story of 14 th century Lagos and its interactions with other kingdoms, highlighting significant events such as the slave trade, and a dynamic tussle for the throne that progresses from a clash between brothers to a dispute between families. ![]() Olisa Adibua set the ball rolling with his welcome address, in which he appreciated the Lagos state government, particularly Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, for the support given to the project as well as the adoption of the play into the ‘Lagos at 50’ celebrations. That is one of the most outstanding features of Isale Eko, a play co-produced by veteran broadcaster and show host Olisa Adibua and investment banker Joseph Edgar, which run in Nigeria in April.
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