How summer break from abroad turned me into Mogaji in Ibadan — Olajuwon Subair

Oloye Olajuwon Enitan Adelokun Subair, the Mogaji of Ile Nla, Anlugbua, a prestigious family compound in Ibadan, was installed in March 2021 by the late Olubadan, Oba Saliu Adetunji. Olajuwon’s rise sparked controversy, questions of lineage, and even claims of being the youngest Mogaji in Ibadanland — a title he humbly accepts without disclosing his age. In this interview, he opens up about the dramatic family tensions that followed his acceptance of the title, and the pressures of traditional leadership at a young age.

You’ve been described by some as the youngest Mogaji in Ibadan, which has stirred mixed reactions — with a few people claiming you’re not. Are you aware of this?

Yes, I noticed the reactions — both positive and critical. Since my installation as Mogaji of Ile Nla on March 8, 2021, every media publication I’ve featured in has referred to me as the youngest Mogaji in Ibadanland. I don’t know the exact ages of all Mogajis in the land, but I can confidently say I have not met a Mogaji younger than I am — certainly not within the Association of Mogajis of Ibadanland.

Are you certain about that?

I was installed by the late Olubadan, Oba Saliu Adetunji Aje Ogunguniso I. While I’ve never publicly disclosed my age — for personal reasons — many people know it, and they know whether or not there’s a Mogaji younger than I am.

How did you become Mogaji of Ile Nla?

It’s quite an interesting story, actually. I came to Nigeria for my annual summer vacation in July 2020 and ended up staying longer due to the COVID-19 lockdowns. My plan was to return abroad in January 2021, but then I was approached with the opportunity to become Mogaji of my family compound. I accepted — and that decision sparked some controversy. Some members split to form a new compound, which I challenged, insisting they were historically part of Ile Nla. It was a tense period, filled with threats and pressure, but I stood my ground. I believe the courage I showed — especially at a young age — made people assume I was older than I actually am.

So you contested for the position?

Yes — technically, even though I was unopposed.

Have you heard of Mogaji Adegbola? Reports say he was installed in February 2018 at age 20 — three years before your coronation.

Yes, I’ve heard of Mogaji Adegbola — from Mogaji Adanla, actually. I was told he resides in the UK. Interestingly, during my 4.5 years of active involvement in Ibadan’s traditional and cultural affairs, I’ve never met him. But I’d love to meet him someday. That would be what we Yorubas call, “Mo ri eni fi oju jo.” [Laughs]

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What’s your opinion on younger people becoming Mogajis?

There’s nothing new about it, to be honest. The Olubadan institution is deeply rooted in tradition. The only real innovation proposed in over 200 years was the crowning of the Olubadan-in-Council. Olubadan Yesufu Kobiowu, for example, became Mogaji at a very young age and moved up the line early as well. So, it’s not unusual. What matters isn’t age — it’s the substance and values one brings. An 18-year-old Mogaji without purpose or service is less impactful than an 80-year-old Mogaji who serves his people and Ibadan with diligence.

Since your installation as Mogaji four years ago, how impactful have you been?

I think that’s a rhetorical question. [Smiles] The results speak for themselves. From the start, I commissioned a borehole project for Ile Nla. Through my foundation — the Subair Adelokun Foundation — we’ve offered free basic education for 100 children, academic scholarships, employment opportunities and professional recommendations, mentorship programmes, and sports sponsorships. Many of these efforts are public, though I’m not one to showcase everything I do. My focus is on impact, not applause.

Are you a member of any social or elite club in Ibadan?

Yes, I’m the Vice President of the prestigious Ibadan Polo Club and a proud member of the Ibadan Distinguished Royal Club.

Finally, how old are you?

[Laughs] You’ll have to wait for my next birthday — I plan to mark it with the launch of my book and a celebration of a significant age. But for now, my age is secondary. It would be frivolous to carry the title “youngest Mogaji” without real value. I’d rather be recognised for what I do, not how young I am.