Named in memory of Madam Efunroye Tinubu, a slave trader and
business magnate, Tinubu Square, Lagos is one of Nigeria’s many historical
landmarks worthy of celebration. It was formerly known as ‘Ita Tinubu’ before
it was named Independence Square by leaders of the First Republic.
Madam Efunroye Tinubu, born Efunporoye Osuntinubu was a
politically significant figure in Nigerian history due to her role as a
powerful female aristocrat and slave trader in pre-colonial and colonial
Nigeria. She was a force to reckon with in Lagos during the reigns of Obas
Adele, Oluwole, Akitoye, and Dosumu. In Abeokuta, Madam Tinubu traded in arms
and supplied Abeokuta with ammunition in the war against Dahomey. Her
activities in the war earned her the chieftaincy title of the first Iyalode of
Egbaland.
The Tinubu Square which was previously iron fenced with two
flowing fountains, flowers, tropical trees, and a life-size statue of Madam
Tinubu on a cenotaph now wears a cool new look courtesy of the Lagos State
Government headed by Governor Akinwunmi Ambode.
The Square currently boasts of features such as neatly painted
barricades to prevent easy access to vandals, cenotaphs with different
historical figures, the beautifully crafted
Zebra water fountain and a host of
others. The night view of Tinubu Square, Lagos is simply breathtaking.
Standing conspicuously on the popular Broad Street, Lagos
Island, Tinubu Square serves as an open space landmark giving way to Idumota
Market, CMS Bookshop, Kakawa, and Marina Street. The recently renovated square
is surrounded by some of Nigeria’s most beautiful high-rises housing notable
corporate organizations and entities.
I am Qismat Aderayo Yinus a.k.a thatisaleekochick and I am
pleased to celebrate the prestigious Tinubu Square, Lagos on this edition of
Fashion Meets History.
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