A Significant Honor for President Bola Tinubu
On January 5, 2025, President Bola Tinubu, GCFR, was awarded Nigeria’s second-highest honor. He was recognized as an honorary old boy of King’s College, Lagos. To mark the occasion, he received the college tie, which he is now entitled to wear. This is a rare and prestigious acknowledgment. Some of the previous recipients include:
- General Yakubu Gowon (Rtd), GCFR
- Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR
- Alhaji Sa’as Abubakar III, CFR
- Brigadier General Mobolaji Johnson (Rtd)
- Otunba T.O.S. Benson, CFR
- Ambassador Michael Omolewa, OON
- Chief Tayo Akpata, CON
- Mr Odien Ajumogobia
- Dr Igwe Aja-Nwachukwu
- Alhaji Nuuman Barau Dambatta, OON; MNI
- Mr Sylvester Onoja, OON
- Prof. Akinwande Oluwole Soyinka, CFR
- Emeritus Professor Oladipo Akinkugbe, CFR
- Dr (Mrs) Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala
- Mrs Edna Soyanwo
The ceremony was presided over by Alhaji Femi Okunnu, SAN, former President and current elder statesman within the King’s College Old Boys Association. The event took place at the residence of President Tinubu, Oyinkan Abayomi Drive, Ikoyi, Lagos. It occurred at the end of Ramadan, a period that coincided with Christian Lent—both emphasizing fasting, sacrifice, and penitence. This coincidence is expected again this year.
At the event, Alhaji Okunnu delivered a formal request from the old boys of King’s College regarding the handing over of the institution to its alumni. President Tinubu accepted the request without hesitation, declaring, “Since this request is from my uncle, Alhaji Okunnu, SAN, I cannot refuse it. I hereby grant the request. The college will be handed over to its old boys.” There were no ambiguities in his statement, making it a clear presidential order.
What stood out was that President Tinubu did not ask for anything in return. His gesture was magnanimous. However, the Ministry of Education has interpreted the presidential order differently, using “concession” as the central point. Alhaji Okunnu remains firm in his stance, stating there were no ambiguities.
A Controversial Incident Involving a KCOB
I witnessed an incident involving a King’s College Old Boy (KCOB) from Hyde-Johnson’s House who encountered officials of LASTMA (Lagos State Traffic Management Authority). The KCOB was caught on camera failing to stop at traffic lights on Alfred Rewane Road (formerly Kingsway Road), Ikoyi, at 5:58 pm on Sunday, February 8, 2026. When he refused to move his car, a lady behind him pleaded with him to settle the matter. She recognized the King’s College tie he was wearing and became angry, accusing him of arrogance.
The situation escalated into a confrontation, leading to a scuffle. A policewoman intervened, arresting the KCOB for traffic violation, disorderly conduct, and assault. Despite his protests, claiming he had not committed any offense, he was taken to a police station and later to court. The magistrate imposed a four-month jail sentence, stating that KCOBs could not be considered first-time offenders.
It took two weeks for another KCOB to secure bail through legal intervention. Eventually, the case may reach the President’s desk with a plea for pardon.
The Symbolism of the King’s College Tie
The King’s College tie represents a special bond. For me, it was my father’s (Chief J.K. Randle) favorite tie. He looked forward to a photograph where both of us would wear the tie. Unfortunately, he passed away on December 17, 1956, just two weeks before I could don the blue and white tie. He was only 47 years old (ex-Hyde-Johnson’s House), while I was 13 and on my way to Harman’s House on January 2, 1957.
In recent times, King’s College has faced criticism online. Reports have highlighted issues such as unruly behaviors in dormitories, student suspensions, and even a teacher found dead in a classroom. These incidents have sparked public concern and debate about the state of discipline and safety in the institution.
One video showed bullying among students, prompting reactions from parents and educators. Some individuals defended the practice, calling it normal, which shocked many. Others emphasized the need for action to prevent serious harm to children.
The Legacy of King’s College
Despite these challenges, King’s College continues to produce successful individuals. Many alumni have faced bullying during their time at the school but have gone on to achieve great things. The boarding system, while not without flaws, has shaped countless leaders.
The recent events at King’s College have raised questions about the future of the institution and the responsibilities of its management. As the school navigates these challenges, the legacy of its old boys and the significance of the King’s College tie remain deeply rooted in Nigerian history.
