Erelu Abiola Dosunmu was born in Kano on 29 July 1947, into the royal family of Omoba Adewunmi and Olori Adejoke Dosunmu of Lagos Island. She is a direct descendant of Oba Dosunmu of Lagos, and is therefore of both royal Yoruba and royal Bini origins. Her maternal grandmother was an Iyalode of the Owu Egba.
She Is a Nigerian businesswoman, socialite and traditional aristocrat.
Business career
Yeye Oodua Dosunmu studied business administration in London. She is also said to have “revolutionized the traditional Aso Oke business to become the multi-million dollar industry it is today”. Abiola Dosunmu promoted the culture of the Yoruba people in Nigeria through the Aso Oke. She later served as the interior decorator of the Nigerian High Commission in London. She also opened a shop on Bond Street in London.
Influence
The Erelu, a fashion trend consisting of a skirt and short agbada worn by women in the 80s and early 90s, is also credited to Abiola Dosunmu. Nigerian musician King Sunny Adé wrote a song honouring Dosunmu titled “Biibire Kose Fowora”.
In addition to a variety of other chieftaincy titles, she currently holds that of the Erelu Kuti IV of Lagos.
Honours And Recognition
National honour of the Royal Kingdom of Belgium.
Life achievement award by Vanguard newspaper
Honorary Doctorate Degree, D.Cul-Doctor of Culture at the 4th convocation ceremony of Igbinedion University, Okada.
Pan African Exemplary Leadership 2016 Honour /Icon of True Silent Mega Philanthropist in Africa – In recognition and appreciation of her immense contribution to Nation building, massive job creation, consistent assistance to the less privileged, excellent mentorship towards youths, youth employment, public service delivery with integrity in her discharge of duty, Promotion and Preservation of African culture and values including her selfless service to God, Humanity, Nigeria and Africa.
The Commonwealth Journalists Association Award.
Nigerian Institute of International Affairs Award.
West African Students Union Parliament Award for Exemplary Leadership.
Spouse
Major Adekunle Elegbede (widowed)
Chief Antonio Deinde Fernandez (divorced)
Children
Kunle Elegbede
Adewunmi Elegbede
Antoinette Oyinkansola Fernandez
