THE PART TO PLAY

An Autobiography

of

Chief S. T. Adelegan

Deputy-Speaker

Western Region of Nigeria House of Assembly 1960-1965

The Story of the Life of a Nigerian Humanist, Patriot & Selfless Service

i THE PART TO PLAY Author Shadrach Titus Adelegan

Printing and Packaging Kingsmann Graffix

Copyright: Terrific Investment & Consulting All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means mechanical photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the Author.

Republished 2019 by: Terrific Investment & Consulting ISBN 30455-1-5

All enquiries to: [email protected], [email protected],

ii

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page Dedication iv

Foreword v

Introduction vi

Chapter One: ANTECEDENTS 1

Chapter Two: MY EARLY YEARS 31

Chapter Three: AT ST ANDREWS COLLEGE, OYO 45

Chapter Four THE UNFORGETABLE ENCOUNTER WITH OONI ADESOJI ADEREMI 62

Chapter Five DOUBLE PROMOTION AT THE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE, IBADAN 73

Chapter Six NOW A GRADUATE TEACHER 86

Chapter Seven THE PRESSURE BY MY NATIVE COMMUNITY & MY DILEMMA 97

Chapter Eight THE COST OF PATRIOTISM & POLITICAL PERSECUTION 111

Chapter Nine: HOW WE BROKE THE MONOPOLY OF DR. NNAMDI AZIKIWE’S NCNC 136

Chapter Ten THE BEGINNING OF THE END OF THE FIRST REPUBLIC 156

Chapter Eleven THE FINAL COLLAPSE OF THE FIRST REPUBLIC - 180

Chapter Twelve COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY ASSOCIATION MEETING 196

Chapter Thirteen POLITICAL RELATIONSHIP 209

Chapter Fourteen SERVICE WITHOUT REMUNERATION 229

Chapter Fifteen TRIBUTES 250

Chapter Sixteen GOING FORWARD 275

Chapter Seventeen ABOUT THE AUTHOR 280

iii

DEDICATION

To God Almighty who has used me as an ass To be ridden for His Glory To manifest in the lives of people; And Also, To Humanity

iv

FOREWORD Shadrach Titus Adelegan, one of Nigeria’s astute politicians of the First Republic, and an outstanding educationist and community leader is one of the few Nigerians who have contributed in great and concrete terms to the development of humanity.

I knew Adelegan well over fifty years ago when our paths crossed on the education scene. I was at the Ibadan Grammar School as Principal, while he was at St. Luke’s Teachers Training College, Ibadan, as a graduate tutor, under the principalship of late Venerable Ayodeji Banjo. He appeared to me a complete and brilliant gentleman who would make a success of his career.

Adelegan later served as Chief Education Officer at the Ibadan District Council in the 1950s and made remarkable impact on the educational development of Ibadan and environs. He worked closely with late Oba I. B. Akinyele and my humble self, in attaining lofty heights in the education sector. I was to later request that Adelegan vacated his exalted position in Ibadan to return home to help his native community, Ipetu-Ijesha in establishing a Secondary School.

Like a true patriot, which he is, Shadrach Adelegan heeded my advice and returned home to found Ipetu-Ijesha Grammar School, which I urged him to regard as his baby. Our paths were to later cross again on the political scene where he played commendable roles in the development of the nation.

Reading through this publication, the patriotic and enduring spirit of Shadrach Adelegan shows through. From grass to grace, and from the lowly heights to an astronomical level, Adelegan’s stars have shined, reflecting him as a brilliant and honest educationist, politician and community leader.

His handling of the proceedings of the defunct post-emergency Western Region House of Assembly as Speaker Protempore, were commended by the political party in power and the opposition who saw Adelegan as an impartial arbiter. Like every other person, Shadrach Adelegan has his ups and downs, which have been carefully chronicled in this account.

This publication will surely be useful to students of History and Politics in our country, which is nurturing an enduring democratic culture.

It is indeed a pleasure to be requested to write the foreword to this publication. Venerable Archdeacon Emmanuel Oladipo Alayande OFR, LLD, JP. The Aare of Ibadan December, 2004

v

PREFACE “AUDERE ET PATI’’

In the year 1988, I met a professor of English Language – Professor Asein (now of blessed memory) at the University College Teaching Hospital, Ibadan. He was also a patient and we had occasions to discuss. The professor got to know so much about my antecedents and was highly impressed by the story of my life. It was he who suggested that I should endeavour to write my life story as he thought such an autobiography would be well worth it.

In order to relieve too much hazard of writing in long hand and recorrecting the manuscript, the professor suggested that he would ask one of his boys in the English Department of the Univeristy of Ibadan to come and listen carefully and write the story for me. Unfortunately, Professor Asein died before the arrangement could materialize.

Femi Adelegan, my son, then got me to settle down to write to occupy my time, having retired from the Public Service and as an active politician. Shortly after, some very sad events in the family made me stop unexpectedly. What also could one do when all interest in life was lost? But the Creator is bountiful in His mercies.

I decided to complete the manuscript this year (2004) after 8 years of abandoning the exercise. For the exercise, which had gone past mid-way, I recruited Hon. Sola Adeyekun of the SOLAK COMMUNCIATIONS for the completion of the manuscripts. He was a member of the Osun State House of Assembly (1992-93) representing Oriade State Constituency.

Some believe I have been “over-patriotic”, to use the words of retired Hon. Justice Ekundayo Kolawole. I find no explanation for this other than the fact that I believe very strongly in helping others. My motto: “Audere et Pati”, a Latin phrase which translates into “dare and endure” found a place in my way of life over the years. From my days as a teacher, headmaster and Education Secretary, through the period I served as a politician and community leader, I have always encouraged people to excel by helping others to succeed in life.

I never really thought I could attain a great height, coming from a very poor background. Again, I will remain eternally grateful to God for using me to positively affect the lives of thousands of people who have attained enviable heights in various spheres of life. I have been involved in serious communal activities since 1937, when I became the Secretary of Ipetu-Ijesha Improvement Union, now in Oriade Local Government of Osun State, Nigeria.

I am appreciative of the efforts of Tajudeen Salawu and Seyi Adejumo who typed the manuscripts. I appreciate Sola Adeyekun, a vibrant young man, who ran around, making useful contacts and collecting valuable materials for this publication. I am equally appreciative of the support and encouragement of very close relations, Chief Akinleye Fajemiyo and Chief Oladimeji Obakin, both of Messrs. Lee Fakino Nig. Ltd., Ibadan and my sister-in-law, Mrs. Mope Ajibola.

vi I must not forget to place on record the sustained love of my cousin, Mr. Olu Akinrinmade, Chief Olu Oladunjoye (Olu- Olad) and others, too numerous to be mentioned. I also acknowledge the interest of Emeritus Professor J. F. Ade- Ajayi, an eminent scholar and my colleague and classmate at the University of Ibadan, who also went through the manuscripts. I am equally grateful to my senior colleague and mentor, the Venerable E. O. Alayande; OFR, LLD, JP; The Aare of Ibadan for his involvement.

My children have been quite wonderful. I thank God for making them share the same traits I possess. In all, to God be the glory. S.T. Adelegan December, 2004

vii

THE PART TO PLAY

CHAPTER ONE ANTECEDENTS

he whole of my life revolves around my motto: AUDERE et PATI, which translates into dare and endure. It was T fashionable in the olden days to fathom school motto from Latin. There is a lot in motto that serves as an inspiration for charting the course of the lives of people in the journies through Planet Earth. I also adopted this as the dictum for Ipetu- Ijesha Grammar School that I founded and labored very hard to build for 15 years. This was partly borne out of the fact that I graduated in Latin, History and English. Latin was my best subject and so it was really part of me. Every time we had the Founder’s Day or valedictory ceremonies, I used to explain the meaning of the motto and doggedness in the pursuit of their ambitions to my students.

This greatly helped them to be what they became in life. Anyone that applies the motto in the pursuit of his/her endeavours would surely record success. Audere means daring – meaning to dare and dare is conjugated from the word audacity. Daring does not mean stupidity but to stand to do something as in the song: ‘Dare to be a Daniel Dare to stand-alone Dare to have a purpose firm Dare to make it known

That is the type of daring. It is like the Yoruba adage which says – ‘Eni to ba fe je eyin inu apata, ko gbodo wo enu aake: “whoever plans to eat honey from the rock would not heed the damage to the axe”. This could be further explained with a song of praise: 1. Father hear the prayer we offer Not for ease that prayer shall be

1 THE PART TO PLAY

But for strength that we may Always live our lives courageously 2. Not for ever by still waters Do we ask our way to be But we strike the living water From the rocks along our ways

Roads in those days were always crooked and so, longer that what we have this age. During construction works, mountains, rocks and valleys were avoided and so the roads bent a lot. But nowadays, when engineers come across rocks along the road they are constructing, they are not dejected. They utilize their skills and facilities to remove the hinderance. They are happy because they could get materials to use in the rock to be broken. They therefore broke through the rock rather than avoid the obstacles. I taught my students that hard work, prayers and a bit of luck would always shift mountains on their paths in life.

I drew examples from the story of the Israelites that I considered good example of daring. The nation of Israel is situated live in the desert; yet their agricultural productivity is sine qua non. Many countries of the world depend on them for sustenance either by way of buying their products or buying their skills. We go to them to learn about irrigation, animal husbandry, fisheries, etc. You can reap the Israeli’s carp and carps fishes within three months. These are fishes that we imported from Israel. I remember in those days too, we imported day old chicks from Israel. They are well off than we people that have vegetation. That is “Audure et Pati”. The motto was in the hearts of all my students who rose to high places. It helped them a great deal in their inspiration to go high. No wonder they are all over the places. Look at St. Andrew’s motto too, “Disce at Doceas” ‘meaning

2 THE PART TO PLAY learn that you may teach. If you want to be a good teacher, you must learn well. I really enjoyed the motto. It helped me to achieve what I have achieved in life. I learnt very hard and I was able to do well as a teacher. My class always excelled when results were out. In my teaching career, I enjoyed the subjects I taught: Current Affairs, Latin and English Literature. Even as school principal, I created the time to teach because I am a lover of impartation of knowledge. I engaged in discussions, especially thise requiring logical reasoning.

I listened to news on radio and knew what was going on around me, before I moved to classes. “Audere et Pati”, seemed to be the guiding motto of every dynamic person or nation, aiming to reach a higher altitude in all endeavours of life. This seems to be the guiding motto behind the Global Information Communication Technology (ICT) reaching out to make the whole world a small village. Of course, that is what we are now. The research into the depth of things has led us to a computer age. Knowledge is being sought everywhere, every time and the Internet is bringing the whole world together as a large but small family.

Every morning at the assembly preceding classes from Mondays through Fridays. The story of my life is in tandem with this motto that I utilized to encourage my students and all who passed through my hands as the Lord arranged, for me to impact their lives one way or the other. My daily current affairs briefs around the world made several students to create interest in politics, international relations and the society. At a point, I implemented a policy threatened students who fail English language that they would not the promoted to the next classes.

3 THE PART TO PLAY

MY EARLY LIFE I was born in Ipetu-Ijesha in the Oriade local government of Osun State. Oba Olabidanre, a grandson of Olofin in 1178 founded Ipetu Ijesha, a serene settlement in the Oriade Local Government Area of Osun State. After the Republican regime in Benin, the need arose to send a message to Ile-Ife to demand for a Prince to come down to Benin to establish a stable Government after many years of confusion in Benin. Oranmiyan set out on his eventful journey to Benin in 1170 with a large entourage, which included one of his sons who was later known as Oba Olabidanre Olugbiele. A powerful hunter called ‘IJA’ who had traveled several times from Ile-Ife to Benin led the journey through that thick forest which later came to be known as Ijamo Forest, which stretches from Ile-Ife through Ijebu-Ode, down to Benin City.

On reaching the Idanre hills at a place called Ota Ipete, some of the Princes in Oranmiyan’s entourage were no longer interested of continuing the journey with their father, Oranmiyan then decided to settle his children down before the onward trip to Benin City. He arranged those who wanted to settle down there into groups and appointed accredited leaders. These group leaders invariably became traditional rulers (Obas) of their various groups. Among these group leaders who later became Obas were Oba Olabidanre who later became Apetu of Ipetu (now Ajalaye of Ipetu Jesa), Owa of Idanre, and Jegun, the traditional ruler of Ile- Oluji, Ondo State, to mention just a few.

These Princes who had settled to life in their new places thought that their father and leader Oranmiyan would return to them within

4 THE PART TO PLAY a short time. After over half a decade of expectation, Ifa oracle was consulted on the issue. History has it that Ifa then revealed that their father (Oranmiyan) might never return to them again if adequate precaution was not taken. Sacrifice was prescribed, which involved human blood. As if it were by arrangement, the time the sacrifice was prescribed coincided with the annual “Ore festival” celebrated to enable the people have bumper harvests, as agriculture was the mainstay of the economy of the people in the settlement. In the circumstance, Oba Olabidanre was forced to order his men to hunt for and sieze three men to consummate the two sacrifices i.e. (1) the annual sacrifice to Ore and (2) the sacrifice stipulated by Ifa for the return of Oranmiyan– their father.

This exercise eventually provoked the leaders of the groups whose men happened to have been victims. Consequently, they were after the life of Oba Olabidanre who was eventually confined into a cubicle, but the elders in his group who were convinced of the necessity of the exercise used the “APETU” incantations to free him from confinement. Apetu Olabidanre -- Ajalaye Ajalorun immediately left the settlement with members of his group. Since then, it was resolved that Oba Olabidanre shall henceforth be known by the title “Apetu” and that any settlement eventually founded by him and his forebearers shall be known by the name “Ipetu”. And ever since, Oba Apetu Olabidanre Olugbide Ajalaye Ajalorun has led his people to develop into a warrior kingdom which has never been subjugated by any invader.

After departure from Otapete, in keeping with the resolution, all subsequent settlements were named Ipetu. They include Ipetu- Ipoti, Ipetu-Orodi, whose environ was covered with kolanut trees

5 THE PART TO PLAY to be known as Igbojika, later to Ipetu Aro-Odo popularly known today as Ipetu-Jesa. The claim of the Ipetus to valour is recognized in documented Yoruba History in the unparallelled military role they played in June 1870 to rescue the Ijeshas from the onslaught of the Ibadans in the “Afero War” of that year. Ipetu’s history would be a bit arid if Balogun Apoti’s name is not mentioned. Apoti was the great Generalissimo of Ipetu army who was the first to settle at Ipetu Apoti after the Ijero war, during which Ipetu and Ilesa parted company when Ilesa was being constantly ravaged by the Ibadans.

Oranmiyan, their father, left Benin in 1182 in a move probably not unconnected with the efficacy of the sacrifice made, when he arrived at the settlement and he was told that some groups had left the site. He was told the story of occurrences in his absence. Oranmiyan there and then blessed Oba Olabidanre and all who supported his action. Oranmiyan later proceeded to Ile-Ife to be in command of the throne of his father. The word “Ijesa” was first added to Ipetu to make the town Ipetu-Ijesa in 1909 in the Church council meeting in which Rev. R. S. Oyebode was Chairman to distinguish the town from Ipetu-Ibokun (now Ipetu-Ile).

The size and power of Ipetu Jesa was recognized in 1916, when Ipetu Jesa was one of the four recognized powers in the creation of Ila/Ife/Ilesa/Ipetu District. It is a matter of fact that the wars of old scattered several settlements in Yorubaland. The Kiriji War was one of those wars fiercely fought. According to historical facts, settlers were dispersed as a result of these communal disturbances. My great grand parents are reputed to have their roots in Igbajo, Boluwaduro Local Government Area of Osun

6 THE PART TO PLAY

State from where they migrated to Ipetu-Ijesa as a result of war. According to history, my family belonged to the Olowa family.

Ipetu-Ijesha and Igbajo have so many things in common with several quarters in Ipetu-Ijesha sharing the same cultural affiliation with Igbajo. Some other settlers of Ipetu-Ijesha are said to have come from some other places. It therefore appears very senseless to me when people engage themselves in communal violence on account of place of birth, especially in Yorubaland.

EARLY CHILDHOOD I was born on the 19th day of May, 1921. It was an uncle, named Ayo Fapohunda who wrote the date of my birth. My father had an idea that I was born earlier. He put it at 1919 or 1920. But when I checked with others who were older than me, I had to adopt Uncle Fapohunda’s version of my birthday. My father was Joseph Fatusa, and my mother was Esther Ogunjemilola Fatusa who hailed from the Apoti quarters of a family of warriors in Ipetu- Ijesha. She was a brave and agile woman. I spent my early childhood with my grandfather called Kuponiyi, and my grandmother Okunmikore, simply referred to as ‘Yeye’. I would talk much about them later.

Our family house at Odo-Ajo consisted of three courts – the outer court faced the road which still exists, the central court, and the last court backing the other road. My grandfather and grandmother lived in the last court. My mother and I lived with my grandmother. Grandfather’s house was a local building of three courts. As aforementioned, he lived in the third court. I can remember the great door leading out of the front door of the 1st

7 THE PART TO PLAY court (Akodi) and facing the road from Itamerin to Ologudu, which has now been tarred. This great door was very heavy. In front of the door were carved images of named ladies, animals and birds. It was so heavy that I could not succeed in opening it, even from the front as heavy stones were hung at the back to press it on. There were two giant bolts made by the local blacksmith while I could reach the lower one, I could not move it.

The roof of the house was thatch made of ‘gbodogi’ leaves. Rainwater dropped into the centre of each court and passed through a passage called ‘Ojuto’ out of the court. Construction of the structures was through local materials. The women plastered the mudwall with the palm and the floor was beaten to a smooth surface with a carved wooden structure called ‘Alupo’. The surface was then blackened with cow dung mixed with the leaves of certain creeping plants to be free from pests and some other dangerous earthen parasites. For seating, grandfather’s parlour and other places made pavements raised along the walls to serve as ‘benches’. For sleeping as beds, they had broad pavements on which as many people as they chose would sleep on. But care was taken to always apply the cow dung and creeping plant to prevent the dangerous parasites which suck human blood from coming at night. Mats were spread on sitting and sleeping places. The floor must be swept clean before the mats were spread to prevent stinging ants.

There were no wooden doors to the rooms but mats and bamboo mats were hung on the doorways. Our forefathers were so honest that they would not pry into other peoples’ rooms. I know that grandpa was a slender man of light complexion and was always

8 THE PART TO PLAY sleeping on his earthen bed. Later in his life, he built his own coffin called ‘oko’. It was ornamented manually as the ‘vehicle’, which would take grand pa to heaven when he died. It was there before I was born. Everybody respected this huge coffin. Grandpa was growing pale with age and all his body had grey hair. We were returning from farm one day, when on reaching Uncle Agbuwajo’s front door, we were told that granddaddy was dead. I did not cry but smiled. Then Uncle Ijitusa put me down from his shoulders and said I could walk home. They were crying, all of them. Ijitusa took me up when I was too slow for their movement home.

On reaching home, we found a large crowd. Instead of crying and shouting, they were in groups dancing and singing and calling the dead old man by the family prose (oriki) – “Igbajo npe mi, Iresi npe o, Iresi ni ma je Ki n mu gba-dola”. Since there were many children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, there were many groups. When Yeye (Grandmother) saw me, she asked me to come and sit down by her. She was also calling her husband like the others sitting in the passage (Orowa) by her room. She made sure I ate my food. The next morning, the children of the house were up again welcoming the day with the song ‘Baba Ma jire’ (the old man will wake up heartily) as if the old man had woken up again. The third day, a big deep place had been dug where granddaddy’s big coffin used to stand. In the evening, there was a huge concourse of people in front of the courtyard. Here, many people brought goats, cloth and money.

It was obvious that granddad had many relatives on earth and in heaven because those who brought these things were asking him to greet their people when he got to heaven. They were

9 THE PART TO PLAY mentioning the names of his predecessors. The next morning, the departed old man had been lowered into the grave and the whole burial place had been decorated. The people were now dancing and singing: “Baba has gone on his last journey, heaven is the last destination of the traveler. Baba has gone and we will never see him any more”. The funeral obsequious ran for fourteen days.

MY GRANDMOTHER My paternal grandmother was a very influential woman of her days as she was a female quarter head. The town used to be administered by the quarter arrangement. Notable quarters were Ifofin and Odo Ise. Her name was Okunmikore. She was born in to the royal family at Igando Quarter of Ipetu-Ijesa. Grandma was very fond of me. She kept me with her when my mother went over to my father at Oluponna – Iwo. She kept three of us, her grandchildren with her. The eldest of us was Ojo Ebire, who was born by my father’s elder brother. Ebire, was in later life known as Edward Owoeye. His son, Dr. Akanbi Owoeye is the proprietor of Logos Clinic, Surulere, Lagos. Ogunmola, another grandchild was only 7 months older than me.

My grandmother gave me the name “Adelegan”. Earlier I was called by all, especially the more elderly ones: “Boy Joseph”; that is the son of Joseph, my father being Joseph Fatusa, a carpenter. The younger ones merely called me “Boy”. But my grandmother always called Adelegan or ‘Delegan’. So, others learnt to call me my name. My grandmother gave me the appellation “Agidi Adaba, Omopariola, Olarigisoye”. She told me I would take after one of her ancestors named “Fasopin”. Fasopin was a very great man.

10 THE PART TO PLAY

So, I would be a great and notable man. She always repeated this. She was very fond of me, her reincarnated great ancestor. Whenever any of us was ill she had a ready answer – it was a magic covering cloth. It was dyed crimson colour with cowry shells sewn on the outer part. It was very heavy. She asked us to sleep and covered us with the cloth. In a matter of minutes the sick child begins to sweat and runs out to play about. But if the sickness persisted, then it was all too bad. If it was very high temperature then we would be drenched in some thick red oil called ‘ero’ and we had to drink some very bitter concoction called ‘Agbo’ and take bitterroot soup.

Grandmother was very watchful for our safety. To her sorrow one day, I strayed to the palace (Aafin) on the day Oba Ariyeloye was having a ceremonial occasion. The crowd was large and there was a stampede. I was trampled under the feet of the crowd and the bones of the upper left arm got broken and peeped out at the centre. The arm was promptly guided with bamboo and I was carried home. ‘Yeye’ (Grandmother) could not bear the sight she saw when I was brought home. She however made prompt arrangement for the treatment of my broken bones. She brought an experienced bonesetter who reset all the bones and bound the whole arm up with some bamboo. He came down to check up the arm. In a few months I was using my arm like any other boy around. She later kept more vigilance on my movements.

Grandmother, fondly called ‘’Yeye’’ was a dignified woman of middle size who was very well built, dark complexioned, whereas grandfather was very light complexioned – the hue of the Omo Olowas. She had four parallel marks on each cheek. She moved

11 THE PART TO PLAY with confidence and never panicked or made unnecessary noise like others. I never saw her ever being annoyed or fighting. She was head of her band of enlightened women who always met at our house and often were entertained with pounded yam. After their meetings, they drummed, sang and danced. The old women’s music was called ‘Sabarikolo’. When dancing, the women took very slow but graceful steps. One thing significant about their dress is the absence of blouse (buba) on top of their loincloths. Their cloth was dyed deep in black.

Yeye was a very religious woman who worshipped the family god called “erinsile”. She feared and respected erinsile. In fact, everyone in the family feared erinsile which they believed was the protector of the family, especially children. Each morning, when she blessed us, she always invoked the spirit of her forefathers and our family god, Esile to protect us including her children abroad (out of town). She prayed that we would grow old as our ancestors (those of the age of the dawn (Ara Owuro). She wanted us to worship erinsile and no other god. I once went to Gbaungbaun Street, to the house of Pa Fapohunda who first introduced the Cherubim and Seraphim Church into Ipetu and listened to small children who talked about Jesus and made some staff that Pa Fapounda blessed. The staff, we were made to believe, would protect us from all evil and from sickness. The next day, I brought my own staff to be blessed.

I promptly took the staff to Pa. Adeogun, the leather man to have the hilt built with leather. When I got home I showed the staff to Yeye. She was astounded and called me into her room saying: “My son Adelegan, you must never keep the company of those

12 THE PART TO PLAY going to Adubiesu (Fapohunda). The only god we worship in this house is Esile. Go and throw off the staff. It is a bad staff. It is the staff of nothingness “Opa ofo”. Esile is a very mighty god. Never you go there again”. So, I stopped going there. I realized later in life, that it was a wrong impartation and great mistake because Jesus Christ is supreme. On festival days, Yeye always had a big chicken ready for me, usually a cockrel. She stripped me naked and swept my whole body from head to toe with the cockrel, praying for me all the time against sickness or death or any danger. Then the chicken is slaughtered and usually melon soup was prepared. In the afternoon small children like myself, gathered around and they all partake of the meal of pounded yam.

That was my celebration for that year and a hope that I would not die before the next year. If it happened on a certain day called Iyena Day, she brought forth wall nuts and kola nuts too for the children. My grandma honoured and respected me, calling me her father. This was because when they performed divination – (tried to find out who I would be in future), they found out that I was the re-incarnation of her father, Fasopin and that I was going to become a great man. She usually addressed me as follows: “Iyun Baba Ileke, agidi adaba, Omopariola Olarigisoye”. During the festivities of the two prominent communal festivals in Ipetu-Ijesa – Iyena and Olookun, Yeye would make sure that my companions came in for their pounded yam and crab stew and of course, the chicken stew. And during Olookun, the friedcake (akara) was often ready for me. I was my grandmother’s favourite by all means.

Any reference to traditional issues in this book is made for the

13 THE PART TO PLAY purpose of records, and not because I believe in traditional religion. I have been a Christian all my life and will never depart from the path charted by Jesus Christ. It is important to explain that this section that deals in traditional worships and religions is being inserted only for the purpose of records, and for the benefit of those who may be stydying comparative religions. I became a fervent Christian from youth and as an adult, never indulged or promoted any religion except Christianity. Readers would also be able to visualize how rural settlements looked like in those days. My father was also a deep Christian always playing his accordion, singing praises to God. However, the information under reference could also be useful for students of Comparative Religions.

Grandmother was respected because she had many children. Her first three children were females who married early and also had many children. The fourth child, a male was a famous herbalist, Ebire Owoeye, father of an uncle, Edward Owoeye, who in turn was father of Dr. Akanbi Owoeye of Logos Clinic, Surulere, Lagos. Next came my father, Joseph Fatusa and Philip Ademakinwa, who was father of late policeman - Omolayo Ademakinwa. When grandma felt she was growing too old to meet the needs of grandpa, she found another woman, called Atanjemife, for her husband. Through this latter wife, grandpa had three children: Ijigbuyi, Jolaade and Ojo. Ojo later became the Olotoporo. Yeye had a way of disciplining me, even though she never raised her hand up to beat me throughout as she often called me her father.

There was a man called Famuyide whom Yeye always called to frighten me whenever I was troublesome, or whenever I was sick

14 THE PART TO PLAY and would not agree to eat my food. He was a man who could not speak very well, even though he was not dumb. He used to make a wild noise “gbo gbo, gbo” all the time. He expressed himself with his hand. His face was like that of a monkey. I feared him a great deal. My grandfather was the Olotoporo, custodian of the shrine of a small god brought to Ipetu Ijesha when my forebears migrated from Igbajo, a settlement in Osun State, on account of a chieftaincy disagreement on whose turn it was to rule or reign in the town. He custodised the mask of Otoporo (a masquerade) and went out with the family drum every other year.

On the day the Olotoporo decided to come out, all the priests known as Olowas or the Esile worshippers got ready to receive him. The other worshippers were also ready to receive him. The family band gave music known as ‘Ogege’. The drums were put under the traditional flowing gowns (agbadas) of the drummers. The music was very solemn. The procession usually started early in the morning. The women, especially the younger ones sang and danced round the streets in praise of the mask. They called on the mask to come out and fight should there be war. The boys cut small batons made of wood and threw them high and far in front. The children, both boys and girls carried some fresh sticks about eight to ten inches long which they called ‘Okufe’ which they threw freely all over the place. The band sang songs as follows:- Otoporo bogun bade O mo ba aja otoporo Translated into English, the foregoing means: ‘’Otoporo if war comes, come out and fight it for us’’ They apparently were convinced, errorneously though, that a small god could help them prosecute wars and encounters with adversaries when in fact,

15 THE PART TO PLAY only God Almighty is invested with such power. The Otoporo is credited with powers to disappear and appear at will. He moved mysteriously and did not stay with the drummers and singers but sometimes, he goes inside a very important personality’s house and takes a small rest. His followers keep gifts presented to him by the host but sometimes he takes a drink, usually alcohol.

Then he leaves, many times, through a strange route. The drummers do not know where he is, but they have a traditional route they go through the town. Now the Otoporo is at large and may suddenly come out from any direction. The crowd yells and shouts praises as if he had been coming from ‘heaven’ or the ‘unknown’. The Otoporo is very strong indeed and often jumps over some high walls to cut his way short while all others watched in admiration, as they would not be able to do so but go the ordinary way. Meanwhile, his whereabouts is not known. May be, he has been visiting some other VIPs or an important member of the Olowa family. The procession goes its normal course through the town not knowing where the Otoporo would appear next.

Then suddenly as they see him appear, the music is raised and the singing heightens and there are unanimous shouts of “Ofe o” and the throwing of batons gathers momentum. The Otoporo then stays with the group to encourage them and receive encomiums and execute some dances. Then abruptly, he runs aloft and jumps another fence. The Otoporo runs and dances from dawn till dusk. Why does he have such a supernatural energy? I have never seen it done, but I understand he takes some energy-giving palm wine drink. I cannot be sure. But I saw my grandfather’s successor jump over a wall at Oke-Owa quarter while others

16 THE PART TO PLAY looked in bewiderment although they were decades younger than him. That was the only occasion I saw him jump like that.

REINCARNATION Yeye (Grandmother) Okunmikore died early 1932. My father sent me with Uncle John to Oluponna, a rural settlement near Iwo in today’s Osun State. We went with his debtors’ notebook to recover his debts from his customers. We came back on the third day. On our way back to Ipetu, we stopped at Ilesa at a house facing the Ogudu road leading to the present Magistrate’s court. I saw grandma was coming from Okesa Street. I then ran to meet her and to ask what she came to Ilesa to do. I prostrated before her and she greeted me in the familiar way – “Agidi Adaba, Omopariola, Olarigisoye”.

She was in her old well-dyed attire. But she went down Ogudu way. I told Uncle John that I saw Yeye go down Ogudu way. Brother John rose and went that way but could not see her. Uncle John then said I was merely dreaming. We took pounded yam and continued our journey back home. When we arrived in Ipetu- Ijesa, we were told that Yeye (grandmother) died about the time I saw her in Ilesa. When I insisted that I saw her in Ilesa, the people merely remarked that Yeye had come to show herself to me, and that it was not too strange an occurrence. The third very important person I remember in that house, as I grew older was my father’s immediate elder brother, a man called Ebire. He seemed to have assumed leadership of the household as my grandfather grew less active and was merely sleeping in a room near his huge carved coffin. Uncle Ebire was father of Ojo (Edward Owoeye) one of the three toddlers catered for by our grandmother.

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He was a kind man; light complexioned, with a sizeable stomach and fleshy, smooth skin. In the afternoon, he often sat on his armchair and asked us his children to come around and scratch with our finger nails the rashes which heat might have created on his back and huge arms. Like Lilliputians, Ojo and I would take one arm each and work on his body with our small fingers. Sometimes his wife, Asa was called upon to do the same kind of duty. His farm was at Uragba. My nephew, Ijitusa carried me on his shoulders to farm. On arrival on the farm, I sat at the entrance of a small hut, made of palm leaves. Ojo (Edward) was able to walk to the farm and back. Papa’s (Uncle Ebire’s) name was also that of a soft vegetable, which the people, both young and old would not use for the vegetable. We used the other name of the vegetable, “Ebolo”.

We must not call the name “Ebire”. In fact, our uncle was loved and feared by all. He attached his own apartment to the third court. It was a more modern apartment with a big living room with windows, well lit and a few rooms surrounding the living room. It had a way leading into it from outside on the other end of the street. It was on the spot where Chief Banji Sapaye now built his storey building. He was a very famous man who always had visitors from Ilesa. In fact, Edward’s mother was an Ilesa woman of the Aromolaran family who was called Ade. There were times when Oba Aromolaran’s son visited him and we children clustered around to have a glimpse of the son of the traditional ruler. Uncle was a traditional medical practitioner. But he died young. I knew that because there was terrible wailing in our compound and the whole of the street the day he died. I could not

18 THE PART TO PLAY say the cause. It was just like a dream. His friends from outside the town came into the house to visit us.

Soon after the death of his father, Ojo (Edward) went to Ilesa to join his mother. I felt his absence a great deal. Although my uncle died, father did not take me away to Iwo because our grandmother was still around to take care of me. As I grew older, the elderly ones amongst us requested me to come to farm with them. I was now able to strut to farm. Soon I was able to hold the wood carrying fire, which the elders would use to make a big fire when we reached the hut. Yeye would always give me a delicacy made from corn (abari) in the morning before I left for farm. When the fire was made, I sat by it. The elders soon came with yams to put in the fire when the charcoal was red-hot. They brought small pieces of yam for me. I was taught to turn each yam around so that they were not burnt out and that each side be evenly cooked all around.

They did the same when fresh corns are available. They put many in the burning fire and it was my duty to turn them around, if necessary, with long sticks. I witnessed the killing of snakes, by our hut on two occasions. On an occasion Ijitusa and another boy killed a very huge black snake, which was ‘sleeping’ or resting in our hut coiled in a big gourd. They promptly fetched the decaying stem of a banana trunk and sealed the top of the gourd. Then they made a very big fire and burnt the gourd, with the snake inside it, in the big fire. There was a big struggling in the gourd. But the fire was too much. The gourd was consumed and the snake died. It was very big and long. The seniors promptly cut off

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its head and tail and buried them deep in the ground. The rest was cut into small bits and roasted and eaten up by all. On another occasion, I stepped on something cold and soft and ran and shouted.

Ijitusa ran out to see it. It was a big cobra coiled with its head on top. He put a wrapped cloth on the top and said it would remain there to watch the wrapped cloth. Then he fetched a long stick and sharpened its edge. This he used to pin down the head of the big snake. The snake struggled and was put in the fire. The head and tail were later cut off and buried deep in the earth. I went to farm with the seniors until I could carry first, one piece of yam, then two, then three. I was then ripe for school age. One day the Oke Owa children were marching in front of our Compound, drumming and singing. I very much wished I were one of them and I followed them till we reached Ologudu, which I thought was a long distance. My zeal and enthusiasm had been fired by the school pupils that I saw.

MY TEENAGE YEARS—AT OLUPONNA My father used to come home periodically from Iwo. Sometimes, he brought his bicycle. He kept his bicycle in the porch behind the great big heavy door in the first court facing the road. I watched him as he rode out his bicycle and waived him bye bye. I still lived on the third court while he sojourned in a room facing the road on the first court. It seemed as if my father knew what I was thinking about schooling. When he came home, he decided to take me with him to Iwo. It was a memorable journey

20 THE PART TO PLAY from Ipetu-Ijesha to Oluponna. We went by a big mammy wagon called Brockway from Ipetu to Osogbo and then booked to travel to Iwo Station at Osogbo Railway Station. There, I had my first taste of sardine and bread. The sardine cost two pence half a penny and the bread cost a penny. This was in 1928. I got a half ticket – a triangle. It was my first time of seeing a train, which was then simply called “Railway” (Reluwe). It came roaring and I clung to my father.

Then I was helped into the train. Soon the train moved and there was music. After some time, I sang with the train as it moved “A ti ta nta, A ti ta nta” and I was dancing. My parents were amused and sang with me. We arrived Iwo Station. My father picked me to Oluponna with a bike while all others trekked home. My father then took me down to Ajimagbo Baptist School where I started schooling. I must have spent two years at Ajimagbo because I went through both local textbooks “ABD and Ijapa”. I was there at Oluponna with my father, who left me there with his friend named Abraham. Pa Abraham was an Ijesa man whose house was at Ikoti. His wife was called Ere. Perhaps Ere was a native of Oluponna. Both husband and wife were very good to me. They saw to it that my hygiene was properly done – that I took my bath, washed my clothes and especially clean my teeth every morning.

Moreover, they made sure that I had my regular meals. Most prominent of the meals we took was amala with gbegiri stew or draw soup, pap, yams and pounded yam. Pa Abraham took me on tours of Ilesa, Ikire, Edunabon and some other places I

21 THE PART TO PLAY cannot remember now. Ajimagbo School, as far as I can remember now, seemed to have only two classes, which were held in the Church building. I cannot remember any of the teachers or friends I had. The house my father lived in at Oluponna was next to that of a masquerade called: alagbaa. I got familiar with all the children of the compound; so familiar that I also carried the mask along with others. I dressed like one of the “kulus” (tiny masquerades). It was remarkable that I was able to speak like an Oyo boy a few weeks after arriving Oluponna. Children’s minds are so flexible.

BACK HOME IN IPETU-IJESA Early in 1930, my father brought me back to Ipetu. I came back into his new house at Gbaungbaun Street in Ipetu- Ijesa. I was already aware before I left for Iwo, that my father had a plot on a place near the Church with the thatched roof. He had brought me to the Church some time before he took me away. There were flowers planted all around the Church. That was the memory I had of the Church. The Church was no more there. There was a much bigger one with iron sheet roofs. A church so large that one could scarcely see the length! But very near our house, in fact the building third to our house was the famous St. Paul’s School, Ipetu-Ijesha. It was a small building where both the Infant and Primary Departments were accommodated. The classes were small and demarcated with mat screens.

I was not immediately admitted into school. Two teachers were living in two rooms of our house – Messrs Ogundeji and Akingbola. They taught me at home, especially in the reading

22 THE PART TO PLAY and writing of both English and Yoruba Languages. At Easter, I was to be baptized in the Church. My father and the teachers conferred on what my baptismal names should be. My father wanted me to have a name each from the Old and New Testaments. So, they chose Shadrach Titus. So, on Easter day 1930, I was christened Shadrach Titus Adelegan. The vicar of the Church then was Reverend, later Canon E. O. Ajibola who happened to later exert a lot of influence in my life, and even that of Ipetu community. After Easter, I was sent to School. The Headmaster was Mr. Adesoji, a native of Ile-Ife.

I was admitted into Infant Class III after the teachers had checked my ability to read and write in Yoruba. The two teachers living in our house – Ogundeji and Akingbola were natives of Ifetedo and their houseboy was Christopher.

They taught in the Infant Department. My uncle, Ayo Fapohunda was a teacher in Standard One. They all kept me under close surveillance. It was he who entered my date of birth in the Admissions Register. He always asserted that he was there when I was born and he wrote down my birthday in his diary. But he always saw to it that I was not given the double promotion, which all other teachers agreed to give me. I should have been promoted from Class III Infant to Standard II. The teachers all said that I should have been admitted to Standard I to start with because I performed beyond the standard in Class III Infant. In standard 1, it was the same story. The Headmaster was now Prince Adenle who later became the Oba of Osogbo. Uncle Ayo Fapohunda pleaded against my being promoted to

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Standard III from Standard I.

He said my score in arithmetic was not high enough to deserve double promotion and moreover, some damage might be done to my steady progress. It was better to be steadily first in class than to be mediocre in a higher class. I was not happy with my uncle’s argument, but to my father, his ruling was final. As soon as I was admitted to school, my father saw to it that I was admitted into the Church Choir too. I had a very good soprano voice and whenever it was necessary to sing a solo, I was invited because of my ‘lead voice’, as the headmaster called it. It was easy for me to catch the tunes as dictated by the organ.

But at first, I found it difficult to sing the half notes fe-se-ta-le- re-ma etc. But I soon got used to the half notes. It was towards the end of the year and we were being taught the tune of the ‘Doxology’ – Praise God from whom all blessings flow followed by the long Halleluyah Chorus, somebody next to me was spoiling the strain with a voice like a frog. Mr. Adesoji came around, and asked him to stretch forth his left arm to receive a stroke or two on his palm. He stretched his palm near my right eye and as the stick was descending he removed the palm and the stick hit my right eye. Everybody thought I had lost my right eye. The news went all over the town that headmaster, Adesoji had made me blind on one eye. So, my uncle, younger brother to my father came down to Gbaungbaun Street and took me to the Headmaster’s house in anger and said many uncomplimentary things to him. But my father rushed to the scene and stopped his brother.

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He told everybody that it was a mistake on the part of the headmaster, and that by the grace of God his son would regain his sight. Then the headmaster thanked my father and fetched a jar of Mentholatum. My father’s junior brother, Mr. Philip Ademakinwa did not leave until nightfall. He advised my father never to let me attend the Choir practice again. But my father did not consider things that way. He was a great lover of church music. He had two accordions with which he played Christian songs in the evenings. He accompanied us as we sang at prayer meetings, which we held every evening at Pa. Fapohunda’s house next to the St. Paul’s Vicarage. Pa Fapohunda had built his house to provide enough space for a large number of people to worship. My father loved his music on the accordion and as he played, he sang too. Sometimes he took his accordion out and played as he walked along. As soon as my right eye was healed, I headed for the choir again. I was always happy to be there. I was singing with treble or soprano group till 1935 when I went to Alto and in 1938 when I became a ‘pupil teacher’, I joined the ‘Tenor’ group. Now, I sing both tenor and bass. Sometimes, I enjoy a song in tenor, sometimes in bass. I loved my father because he loved music. I thought he was handsome, a humble Christian. He could quote many psalms from memory and sometimes said as many as four Psalms from memory before praying in the morning, or in the evening.

This was typical of Christians of those days. They did not fear the idol worshippers who were in the majority in those days. In

25 THE PART TO PLAY fact, our house faced in the East one Asaolu – a pagan medical practitioner, in the South, the high priest (Oloriawo) himself, in the West, Ogbelehunkan, a native occultist, and in the West, the Adamo, a very boastful native medicine man and a cultist too. My father was hemmed in between the native priests. But he damned them all and often played the tune. “My faith looks up to the Lamb of Calvary” and many other tunes. He was quite happy with his God. One other man who influenced my love for music was my father’s cousin, a tailor in the shop in our house. He was called Jacob Kolade. When sewing, he sang very beautiful numbers in very melodious tunes. He had just arrived from Lagos and was a member of the Choir of St. Jude’s Church, Ebute Metta. He loved me for being a choir member and made very fine school dresses for me. When Uncle Jacob did not go to farm on Saturdays or when he returned, I made sure to iron all my Sunday dresses and washed my school uniform for the next week. When he went to farm, he brought small yams for me.

Back to school in class III, I was an object of ridicle for many of my classmates because of the language I spoke. I had gotten used to speaking the Yoruba tongue as spoken in Iwo, which was quite strange to Ipetu boys. The manner of my speaking, diction as well as my behavioural traits were strange to all, and they clustered around me to jeer at me. They taunted me and when I spoke. I protested that I had not disturbed them (ng ma to o o) but they jeered the more and were so amused. I was so humble and walked away into the classroom. Groups of boys and girls even come near our house to jeer at me “Oyo, Oyo,

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Oyo”. After some time, I could not bear the situation and started beating up some whom I could. I first beat up a few girls – Rebecca Alawiye, Omodun Fadiyimu, and Alice Olakanpo. Then I beat Bolarin Ilesanmi and Ogungbaigbe.

But soon, I faced a lot of persecution from the more elderly boys who cornered me and beat me up mercilessly. Deji Odofin and Modupe Jogbodo almost sent me away from school. Many times, when I answered questions, which other members of the class could not answer and the teachers praised me, they came on me when the teacher left and gave me vicious knocks on the head. But in course of time came a saviour. He was an uncle, Matthew Akindele. He had newly joined St. Paul’s School from the Catholic School. His arms were long and strong. He hit them hard if they wanted to come at me. My adversaries were very determined. I once caught a bird and put it in a bamboo cage I had built for the purpose of keeping a pet bird. I put it somewhere at our backyard. Deji and Dupe came to our house, seized the bird and exhibited it in the class saying: “This is his bird of night, the bird he uses to beat everybody in exams. We will kill his bird and his wizardry today”. They then killed the bird.

But my uncle, Matthew Akindele comforted me “Don’t mind them. You will soon have another bird.” But there were even bigger boys in the class than my tormentors. They were kind and, though not so clever in bookwork, they still taught us handwork – basketwork, raffia work etc. We went to their houses after school to learn how to make wall mats and cane-work of various types. They taught us how to use the cane for traps to

27 THE PART TO PLAY catch fish. This I liked intensely because I liked fishing very much. A stream named River Oika was not far from our house. After school I went to the river with hook, line and sinker and did a lot of fishing. Towards evening we usually caught claries, electric fish, and native tilapia.

One Sunday, I strayed from Church service in the evening with my friends to fish at Orota. As soon as I arrived home, my father, who had been lying in wait for me, seized my food and took me to the Headmaster, Prince Adenle who later became the Ataoja of Osogbo. The next morning was a Monday. At the morning assembly the headmaster asked me to come out and to stand on a table, as he considered me not tall enough. Then he told the whole story of my fishing on Sunday. He touched my stomach with his stick all along as he talked. He asked all school children to call me “Mr. Fisherman” and gave me six strokes of the cane. The others who were not reported to the Headmaster also joined the rest in calling me “Mr. Fisherman” until I threatened to tell the whole story to the headmaster for sometime after that, I was not allowed to go and fish. But my friends brought me fish every time they went to fish.

At about the year 1932 our parents demolished the remaining walls of the abandoned church site and started building a ‘Central School’ on that site. Each morning at 6.00 a.m., the church bell rang and our fathers and mothers went out with their various tools to work on the site. At the end there stood a beautiful long storey building on which Revd. Ajibola scripted “Melville Jones Memorial School”. There proudly stood the St.

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Paul’s Central School Ipetu-Ijesa. To this school came children from Ipetu, Ikeji Ile, Ikeji Arakeji, Erin Oke, Erin Odo, Omo, Iperindo, and Odo. Indeed, it was the “Golden Age of St. Paul’s”. The economic down turn of the early 30’s adversely affected our family.

THE FUTURE BECKONED In 1933 when I was half way through the elementary school, I found it hard to pay my school fees. My father’s trade could not answer. There were too many carpenters in Ipetu. Very little work was brought to him. We seemed to live from hand to mouth, as we didn’t have much to sell from farm produce. My father tried his hands on a cocoa farm, which did not do well. My mother traded in foodstuffs like Gari, beans and sometimes okro. Many times, I missed schooling, as I had to help my mother carry her commodities like gari, beans, palm oil, tins, etc. I joined others to Ogotun to carry mats and Igbara Odo to carry pots. Moreover, on days when I could go to school I had to wake early to go to father’s farm in Uragba and come before school.

Then after school I had to go back to farm to work, sometimes accompanied by my friends. When we finished early, we cooked yams and had big pounded yam meals. We hunted for big rats or rodents, digging their holes. On a certain occasion we killed four in a hole. It didn’t matter at all if we didn’t bring soup from home. What we needed was salt. We would make soup on the grinding stone using vegetable or materials like melon or certain creeping plants. We fed till we felt our stomach bulging. This was my life pattern as from 1933

29 THE PART TO PLAY to the time I left school in 1937.

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CHAPTER TWO PREPARATION -- MY EARLY YEARS

e woke early at the first cockcrow – at between 3.30 and 4.00 a.m. We took with us prepared food W wrapped in leaves – corn cake (abari) or cooked beans of all kinds and pap. If we were bound for Igbara Odo 15 miles away we reached our destination before taking our meal. If our destination was Ogotun – 9 miles away, we might buy all we need before taking our breakfast.

Early in the 1930’s, a cousin of my father called Daniel Obakin frequently visited our house and often called my father “Brother” and always called for me. He got very interested in my affairs and always told my father what a good boy I was. He would call on my father early on the ‘outing day’, the final day in the school that term or quarter, as it was then called. “Brother, let us go and hear about the reports of our children”. Sometimes my father asked him to represent my parents. Most of the time my reports were quite pleasing to my uncle for I came first in class no matter how long I was absent from school.

Uncle D. M. Obakin who also was one of those late arrivals from Lagos was to become the Osolo of Ipetu-Ijesa, a very high- ranking chief. He played a very significant role in my life since then. In the upper classes of the elementary school my friends were Ojo Awobamise, Caleb Omolayo, Kayode Ajayi, S. T. Adenigbagbe and J. T. L. Idowu who later became an Archdeacon in Lagos. We were

31 THE PART TO PLAY mostly studying in my place. I had a room and parlour in our house. One very memorable occasion each year tended to make us happy. It was the Parish Harvest, which fell on different weekends as from November. We rejoiced to have the season back. If it was Ikeji Ile, three miles away, we left Ipetu late in the evening as pounded yam was waiting for us in various houses there. We ate till morning and came back in the morning.

We were not afraid to walk back at night. We also made trips in like manner to Erin-Jesha and Ikeji-Arakeji. It was all the same community for us. I was not afraid of the dark. If my friends were afraid, I emboldened them. Sometimes Ojo Awobamise, Caleb Omolayo and I, dared the burial ground at the Churchyard. We went there at midnight to see if there were some ghosts. We saw nothing. Then somebody asked us to stand on one leg if we wanted to see ghosts. The next morning, we repeated the visit to the graveyard at midnight. We stood on one leg but could not see any ghost. We later tried by washing our faces with water taken from the trunk of trees but could not succeed in seeing any ghost. Our confidence was now so firm that we no more feared ghosts and spirits. One day after school, my mother asked me to walk down to Ikeji- Arakeji to ask for some money owed her by a certain woman. We (Laseinde, Idowu and I) were expected to come back the next morning. On getting to Arakeji, I sought for the woman and found her. She could not produce the money. So, between 8.30 p.m. and 9.00 p.m, I decided to trek back to Ipetu. Laseinde thought I was joking. When he knew that I was serious he ran to tell his father. Before Daddy Idowu could speak to me, I was

32 THE PART TO PLAY beyond earshot. I reached Ipetu that evening. Everybody complained about my daring attitude. The next morning, Papa Idowu came from Arakeji to tell my father who was his friend that I was too daring and should be warned.

CHRISTIAN ENLIGHTENMENT IN IPETU-IJESHA Rev. Canon Ajibola did a lot in terms of spreading the gospel. Our group in school often discussed among us the pagan priests and sometimes considered the pagan priests as the priests of baal. Reverend Ajibola had a lot of influence over our belief and general outlook on life. He was very clever and dutiful. He did everything to civilize his congregation by making them to see themselves as citizens of the world. He often told us the story of the First World War, the beginning of hostilities at Sarajevo and the spread throughout Europe and the whole world. He told us of the armistice 11/11/1918. He told us of the influenza and the League of Nations. He told us of the rise of Hitler and Mussolini. He told us about the King of Abyssinia – Ethiopia – Emperor Haile Sallasie. He told us how Emperor Haile Sellasie cursed the nations of Europe for looking on while Mussolini seized his country Ethiopia. He prophesied that the European countries would also have their own share of shame. That was in the 1935 Italo- Abyssinian war.

ENDURING HARDSHIPS

My mother was “like a proverb in the vale for endless industry.” She woke early to ply the route to all villages around. She also taught me to do the same. We woke early at the first cockcrow

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– at between 3.30 and 4.00 a.m. We took with us prepared food wrapped in leaves – corn cake (abari) or cooked beans of all kinds and pap. If we were bound for Igbara Odo 15 miles away we reached our destination before taking our meal. If our destination was Ogotun – 9 miles away, we might buy all we need before taking our breakfast. We usually bought clay pots from Igbara-Odo and mats from Ogotun – all for resale on market days in Ipetu-Ijesa. From one of my tours I could gain a shilling to two shillings. Also, after school, I sometimes fetched firewood, which could fetch me from four to six pence. These were substantial sums of money in those days as I paid only a half penny or at most one penny for my meal. In fact, in those days the least denomination of money was one tenth of a kobo called “onini”. If you had three or four “Onini” you could feed satisfactorily. Each bean cake (Akara) was sold for one ‘onini’ by the old woman, Fayonbo, the most popular akara seller at Odo-Ona area. It was not usual to take 3 meals a day. But the main meal for the day was usually the pounded yam meal taken between 4.00 p.m. and 5.00 p.m. each day with okro or vegetable soup or with egusi. Our fathers condemned the idea of going to bed soon after taking supper. We used the Oika and Oiyo streams and on the same stream we fetched water for domestic use.

In the middle, on the way to Ikeji-Ile, we used to bathe while returning from farm. But at Oiyo river where the bridge crossed the river, the washermen and small children were plenty. Children who were more daring than others jumped down from the top of the bridge into the river down below. They ran the risk

34 THE PART TO PLAY of drowning but nature was ever so kind, and only a few accidents have been reported ever. Now that the bridge has been rebuilt there is no more flooding on Oiyo and the place where we used to play so much is but a weedy abandoned and deserted area.

EARLY EDUCATION Towards the end of my course in the elementary school, my mother’s senior brother hired our shop and he decided to employ my services not only in taking care of his shop but also in delivering merchandise to two firms: S. Thomopulous in Ondo and Alhaji A. R. A. Smith in Ilesa. Travelling with produce was quite a memorable experience. The experience on Ondo route, especially if one has to travel with a very boisterous man called Ado Ude. The lorry left Ipetu towards evening and had to go through Akure. The man, Ado Ude was seemingly drunk all the time with his visage threatening and his eyeballs reddening. He had some whiskers, which made him look more terrible. Yet he always comes to the women sitting at the back trying to play indecently with them. When we reached Akure, he parked at a cafeteria in the garage and called for pounded yam and bush meat.

Before he took his meal, he held on to his stomach and pretended as if to vomit something. Then he opened his mouth and vomited a tiny bronze bottle with lid (ado). He poured out a small quantity of black powder on his left palm and swallowed with gusto. Then he opened his mouth swallowed the “Ado Ude” again. This man was appointed years later as a “car seizer.” He

35 THE PART TO PLAY seized cars or Lorries bought on hire purchase from United African Company (UAC) United Africa Company, a British conglomerate has transformed into a Nigerian publicly listed company based in Lagos. Its areas of operation include manufacturing, services, logistics and warehousing, agricultural and real estate. UACN's food operations include UAC Franchising, UAC Restaurants and UAC Dairies.

Ado-Ude seized such vehicles on Lagos – Asaba road. Sometimes he stayed at the market place in Ipetu and often had epic wrestling matches with stubborn drivers of the Lorries that he wanted to seize. Sometimes, the brawls were of such a nuisance that they were charged and tried in the neighbouring court. Another driver I travelled with both to Ilesa and Ondo was Mr. Laregun. He drove a mammy wagon OS 9415 owned by Pa. Awobamise and Pa. Afowowe, my first wife’s father. The Manager of S. Thomopulous in Ondo towards the end of 1937 invited me to write an application for the job of a clerk. So also did Alhaji A.R.A. Smith of Okesha, Ilesha. I asked for an advice from my mentor, Uncle D. N. Obakin. He said I should do nothing of the sort; I should better wait for the result of my Government Six exams.

AS A PUPIL TEACHER When the result of my government standard six exams came, it was very wonderful. I passed with distinction. I was called to appear for an interview for a scholarship entrance into Government College, Ibadan, whereas I did not take the

36 THE PART TO PLAY entrance examination to Government College. Uncle D. M. Obakin said it would be better if I applied as a Pupil Teacher and to enter St. Andrew’s College, Oyo. He however provided money for me to travel to Ibadan for the Interview. But I did not receive any letter of admission on scholarship to Government College, Ibadan. Rev. Ajibola had come as soon as the results were out to dissuade my father from allowing me to go into Government College. He had argued that products of St. Andrew’s College, Oyo were always more useful to their communities and the country while graduates of Government College always became civil servants and always ran the risk of being imprisoned. He offered me a position as a teacher in St. Paul’s School, Ipetu-Ijesa – my alma mater.

My appointment was retroactive from January 1, 1938. My salary was to be £1 (One pound). That was very generous because my classmates who were appointed to teach in the Ikejis and Erins were paid fifteen (15) shillings per month. These salaries were however adequate for us. Later on in the month, my friends S. T. Adenigbagbe and J.T.L. Idowu were also appointed to St. Paul’s School and were treated in the same way as I was treated. We all felt good and started buying things that would equip us as teachers. I decided to make first a pair of white shorts and shirts with white canvas shoes and white socks to match. Then I bought various shades of singlet shirts – white, yellow, blue at 1 & 3d i.e. fifteen pence each. Singlets cost about six pence to nine pence. Schools reopened in the fourth week of January and I was posted to teach Standard One A.

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At that time, I had to learn how to handle the register, the record book and prepare notes of lessons. At first, it was all drudgery, but I learnt to live with it later. I taught in the same class Standard 1 for 3 consecutive years. Some of the boys I taught were S. T. Oludare, later Hon. Member for Oriade in the Osun State House of Assembly and Oluwadare Toye – a retired teacher. As for girls, I remember Dorcas Subulade and Fehintola Awodutire. As a teacher, I loved my children. Some of them, like Olatunji Opemiyan, came to live with me. I visited their parents and told them their children’s needs. The class teacher taught all subjects in the school including music and physical training. As a teacher I made myself very responsible and saved sometime up to three quarters of my salary unless I had to provide myself with clothes or shoes that month.

I was prompt at choir practices and held Sunday school classes on Sundays. My interest in music grew beyond the choir music and I learnt to play some guitar and play juju. So I became leader of a juju band and played through the streets in town. I was not ashamed. I played the juju and led the singing. Our band was very sober and did not indulge in drinking wine of any sort. If we went out in the evening we make sure to come back early. We did not abuse people but if some ladies did not behave well we could produce some songs to warn them. Before the first year ended our group of S. T. Adenigbagbe and J. T. L. Idowu were discussing which of the schoolgirls pleased us best and also started moving around the quarters where the girls lived.

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Once more, towards the close of my first year as a teacher, I got some other job, which I thought, childishly though, was more prestigious than teaching – a native court clerk. I quickly ran to my uncle, late Chief D. N. Obakin. I have got a very good job I said, “N.C.C.” He looked in askance and asked what I meant. “Native Court Clerk”, I said, expecting him to feel satisfied. But, instead, he frowned and hissed and asked me if my position then was not better than that of an N.C.C. “I have lived with a number of NCC’s since I arrived and moved into this my shop. Most of them have been taken to Ilesha, tried and imprisoned for misappropriating court money. So never you imagine being an NCC in the whole of your life.”

At the end of our first year in teaching, my friend S. T. Adenigbagbe informed me that he would start the next year in Ilesa Grammar School. The information had the effect of changing my attitude to life altogether. I would also wish to attend a secondary school. I shut the door of my parlour and went into my room to ruminate. I had lost early in the year the chance of a scholarship and here was my friend entering the secondary school next year. And some were preaching to me to wait for the rigours of St. Andrew’s entrance. If I asked my parents what did they have to help me? I remembered all we suffered together before I could complete my elementary education. I therefore knelt before God in what I considered to be my hour of decision. I then decided that though I would not choose to go to Ilesha Grammar School I would in future equip myself and read the same books as S. T. read.

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PREPARING FOR FURTHER EDUCATION Whenever Adenigbagbe came home on holidays we would read together. I would visit him on weekends and see his notes and the written work he did for his teachers. I decided to match “students” in style and in character. So the next new-year eve, I prayed fervently to help me fulfil my wish. As soon as the year 1939 was proclaimed at 12 midnights, I did not wait for any merriment or collect my musical team to play till morning. I quietly went into my room, shut the door as well as that of the parlour and went on my knees in my room and prayed and prayed. I prayed for the blessings and the ability to work so that even those who were admitted to Government College neither would nor do better than me. Since then, I distanced myself from all things that were infamous and time wasting. As S. T. Adenigbagbe went to school, I traced him at the next week-end to Ilesa and obtained his list of recommended books for class II as follows:-

 Mathematics  Algebra -C. V. Durell  Geometry -Geometrical Drawing Practice Books I & II  English Literature - Charles Kingsley - The Heroes  Shakespeare - As You Like It.  Latin - Latin for Today Book I  Dictionary - Michael West

I promptly bought all these books for my Library. Happily, the headmaster had in 1937 built a good library for the school on

40 THE PART TO PLAY the southern corner of the first floor of the storey building. I was always in the library reading and lending books. There were books which were based on the Greek and Roman mythology, Greek and Roman gods coming down to earth to fight with humans – gods of the sea, the god of love, the goddess of the sea, the thunder and so on. With the background of the books I read, I was able to understand and enjoy Charles Kingsley’s Heroes. I also tried to understand all I could from Shakespeare’s ‘As You Like It’ because in the library, I had read Tales from Shakespeare’s plays. I was preparing for the Junior Cambridge for June 1941.

As for Latin, it was difficult at first. Sunday (S. T. Adenigbagbe) and I started vocally with the first conjugation, Mensa and the Nouns and adjective declensions. I followed slowly until I could make up small sentences and finally read the stories in Latin for Today Books I and II. I had the books in Mathematics, Algebra and in Geometry. I soon mastered the exercises prescribed in Book I. I did not attempt the “Oyo Entrance” in my second year, as was the rule. I planned to pass Junior and Senior Cambridge on my own. But in 1940, my uncle, Daniel Obakin advised me to try “after all” he said, “You cannot know what plans God has for you. It may be He wishes you to go through St. Andrew’s, Oyo. You try and see”. So I decided to try that year. The Oyo entrance examination was in two stages – The Preliminary and the Final. I tried and got through the “Prelim” finals for Ijesha Division held at Rev. Gesinde’s living room and Portico. 29 of us sat for the exam. I was the only successful candidate in the whole of Ijesha division.

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The Principal of St. Andrews wrote a hand-written letter asking me to meet him at McKay Hall, Osogbo on 11th January, 1941. I appeared for the interviews. He wrote that very day to me at Ipetu-Ijesha congratulating me and asking me to resume with others. We were to pay only eight pounds tuition and boarding for the four years 1941- 1944 in St. Andrews. I was able to get the money from some contribution I had with Rev. Ajibola and some that I kept with my uncle, Ademakinwa. Uncle D. N. Obakin fetched the pocket money and transport money and asked me to write whenever I needed help. Sometimes I refer to him as my mentor, my guardian angel or simply my guardian. It was now a parting of the ways also for me and all of my friends at St. Paul’s Central School; Mr. Ojo (Aran) Awobamise had left for Ilesa Grammar School and soon joined the Railways. After finishing at Ilesa Grammar School, S. T. Adenigbagbe (Sunday) also left for the Nigeria Airways. Mr. Adeniji Omilana became a forester. Mr. J. T. L. Idowu continued teaching until he later became a clergyman.

I had then lost touch with Rev. Ajibola whose brilliant leadership had influenced the fortunes of many people in Ipetu-Ijesa. He had chosen a course for many youths – printers, tailors, academicians. Before the Second World War broke out in 1939, there he was on the pulpit telling the course of development. He was the first man to posses a radio (or wireless) in Ipetu. He allowed all who cared to come into his house to listen. He talked about the Maginot Line and the Siegfried line, the neutrality of Switzerland, and the restlessness of Hitler – his bid to conquer

42 THE PART TO PLAY the entire world. His voice whether in English or in Yoruba was benign and even palatable. He was truly progressive. In the mind of all members of his congregation, he was an Angel. As long as he lived, he was their hero. Besides the establishment of a Postal Agency, he also pursued the establishment of a C.M.S. Bookshop, a plan which was abandoned after he left. Many church elders talked of seeing Canon Ajibola before he died. Pa. Ogunro, who was the church patron (Baba Ijo) on his deathbed some twenty years ago, said he dreamt that Canon Ajibola came to him in his dream to invite him to “Heaven”. Such was the impression Reverend, later “Canon Ajibola left on the minds of all Anglican Churchmen in our Parish – Ipetu-Ikeji-Erin. Considering the success of his evangelization, his standard was very much above average. So inimitable was the standard that the adage was often quoted “O gbona girigiri bi igbagbo Ipetu” i.e. some trial was as hot as the Christianity of Ipetu. The cults also acknowledged it by singing ‘Igbagbo lo nigi iwe o Awo lo loogun’ – the Christians hold the power of knowledge but the Awos hold the power of medicine. Although the Awos did not come to church they had been sending their children to St. Paul’s School.

Christianity soon spread and was embraced in Ipetu-Ijesha with predominantly Anglican believers. My mother was baptized in the mid 30’s that same year in which the woman rainmaker was baptized. My mother was in the same group as Idaro, the rainmaker. That year, the baptism was at the Oba’s square in front of the Palace. My mother took the name Esther. The woman rainmaker showed her prowess that day. For some time,

43 THE PART TO PLAY the community had been praying for rainfall and had been waiting for long. After she was baptized that day she promised that the rain would come. She then took off her headgear and the rains came down in torrents. Idaro, the woman rainmaker showed her prowess on many other occasions.

Once, she filed a civil suit in court. After judgement had been delivered, she was so happy that justice was done. As the community had been looking for rainfall for sometime, she opened her headgear and the rains came down heavily. On another occasion she brought down a torrent of rain on our party, the Action Group. Chief S. L. Akintola was billed to address a big rally at Ipetu-Ijesa. The helicopter was to arrive around 5 p.m. He came some thirty minutes late, and as he was alighting from the helicopter the rains started. Before he could say a word, he was soaked through and had to hurry back into the helicopter, ostensibly to change into dry clothes. The rain continued to pour down, and after about a quarter of an hour, Chief Akintola’s helicopter took off. The Action Groupers in annoyance trooped to Idaro’s house and piled up branches of green foliage in front of her house and did not give her peace until she declared for the Action Group.

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CHAPTER THREE AT ST. ANDREW’S COLLEGE, OYO ’The motto was “Dixe at Doce-as” i.e. “learn to be able to teach” or “learn, in order that you may be able to teach”. And from the first day to the last in St. Andrew’s, it was learning and learning and learning’’

ith my admission to St. Andrew’s College, Oyo, I had to leave my home and old friends to go to a new W environment and also make new friends. On a Friday morning on the 5th of February 1941 I traveled with the lorry OS 9415 down to Ibadan. I changed transport for Oyo at Ogunpa – Oyo, Ibadan. Many of Us were bound for St. Andrew’s. The transport took us right into the compound. We arrived to find that we had already been assigned to various houses and halls of residence. I was to stay at St. John’s Hall of residence for the year like most new students. I was to be in Oluwole House, throughout my course.

We arrived to a very warm welcome that day. The college was in very high mood, and we all felt comfortable and proud that evening. The next morning, we all obeyed the bell and came out to receive instructions. We lined up in front of St. John’s Hall to receive our tools. First, we lined up according to our heights. I was No. 4 in height, and so all my tools were numbered four. Our first tools were our pails then our rakes, brooms, cutlasses and hoes. Then our working suits. The first thing we did was to jump over our pails. We got our beddings and wears (most wanted agbadas) for chapel wear. We had to wait for our much

45 THE PART TO PLAY loved blazers and caps until the Tailor would come and take measurements.

Then we had our badges to pin up on our shirts where we chose. The motto was “Dixe at Doce-as” i.e. “Learn to be able to teach” or “Learn, in order that you may be able to teach”. And from the first day to the last in St. Andrew’s, it was learning and learning and learning. Usually each entrant into St. Andrew’s of our time must have been a “pupil” Teacher before he was allowed to take the Oyo Entrance. He himself, not having been organized to teaching methods and behavioural attitudes, shouldn’t have been allowed to handle the young children. He might have been “educated” or exposed to some learning of some sort. On the third day of our arrival in St. Andrew’s, we were shown practically how “raw” we had been. It was our immediate seniors who invited us into the Art Room to really show us what we really were.

Before that day, we were, in the euphoria of becoming members of the honourable set of people called “Andrians”. We were behaving as if we were at home. In fact the seniors pampered us beyond measure. Some of us behaved carelessly. They crossed the lawns at will, chewed their sticks in the open and spat all over the place. While chewing sticks, they strolled around the compound and spoke to everybody with sticks in their mouths. They put their heads in the air and whistled as if they were in their parlours. On this third day after lunch, in the Art Room the immediate seniors talked to us about this ‘raw’ behaviour.

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ST ANDREWS YEARS We thought we were “Teachers” but really we were “cheaters”. We were merely ‘raw, bush teachers”. Some of us really agreed we were. But most of us thought we could have been advised under better and more honourable atmosphere. But all Andrians are happy that they have gone through that College, and the system in that college. As soon as we settled down we wrote to loved ones and friends who could also come into this college to prepare hard. We sent down help to them to prepare them for the entrance examination. In our class (1941 – 1944) we were about twenty four in number as follows:

 Abiodun Johnson (Lamikanra)  Adelegan Shadrach Titus  Ajibola Nathaniel Ayoade  Akerele Samuel Ajibade  Akinyemi Isaac Bandele (formerly Akinbosede)  Akinyemi Stephen Ayodeji  Ayeni Julius Uanbahoro  Ayodele Jacob Olufemi (J. O. Oshuporu out Dec. 1942)  Ayodele R. Stephen Adebayo  Etimiri Timothy Olusanya  Jamgbadi Michael Akinsola  Jeje Michael Akinsola  Oarhe Humphrey Michael  Ogunlade Rufus Akinloye

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 Ogunlola Emmanuel Onaola  Oguntugbiyele Emmanuel Michael  Olokesusi Zacchaeus Babalola  Olugboju Nathaniel Ekundayo  Oladunjoye Josiah Williams Oyedele  Omoikhudu Joseph  Orojo Joseph Ola  Orotayo John Ojo  Osuntokun Joseph Oduola  Philips Moses Olajide (Ero Philips)  Yoloye Samuel Christopher Ayoolu

Our class was very proud of its records while we remained in St. Andrew’s. Of the colleges first eleven-football team we could boast of four members – Ajibola, Lamikanra, Osuntokun and Ogunlola. There were more as the years went by. In all other games we were prominent. I was champion in Table Tennis, in Tenikoit, game of vives, Oshuntokun, Ogunlola, Olokesusi others including myself were prominent. We were found in large number in the Library. In our Literary Evenings, we also excelled. Since our Third year, we were involved in giving lectures on Current Affairs. I remember the evening at which we gave lectures as follows:

1. Osuntokun - The War in Europe and the Russian front 2. Adelegan - The War in the Mediterranean 3. Olokesusi - The War in the Far East

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When essay competitions were written in College, our class was sure to win a prize. Although we thought highly of our class, we were able to hear of exploits of others in our senior classes or even those who passed out long before us and even some of our tutors. Here was Rev. S. A. Banjo B. A.; the Senior Tutor, a very deep academic, and philosopher, who handled our School Methods, Ancient History and Doctrine. One other Andrian had just left. He was teaching “SCIENCE” in the Science Laboratory. So we were all wondering what a wizard he would have been. His name was Awokoya.

Another was Ighodaro. He had even come to give us a Lecture. He was a Lawyer. Then came another on the staff to teach us Mathematics. He was named Mr. J. A. Osanyin. He graduated with a B.Sc. in Mathematics. Ha! These were the true Andrians. Many of us thought in our minds “If God helps us, one day we too will be graduates”. But even here in the midst of us, among the ‘gods of the fourth year were geniuses”. It was all clear for Otubanjo, Odumosu, Ojudu and others. In the third year were Fakankun and the “Bankole Brothers”. They were geniuses in their own trade – Sports. Throughout, it was “Bankole Z” or “Bankole E” whether it was on the track or on the field. But before all, there was an old student, J. K. Oye by name, whose pole vault and high jump records could not be beaten till I left St. Andrew’s. I met him later in Ibadan as an Education Officer in charge of Aworerin Publication.

St. Andrew’s College had two other brother colleges – Baptist College, Iwo and Wesley College, Ibadan. Each was respected

49 THE PART TO PLAY in its own constituency, although St. Andrew’s is the oldest. It is no gain-saying the fact that among them they have produced the foremost leaders of Nigeria in our days. There is no doubt that the Eastern and Northern Nigeria Teacher Training Colleges have produced such leaders, too.

Members of our class in all our deliberations, decided to have a history of excellence not only in our academics, but also in our character. We worked and prayed to have full pass in our class. We made sure we were not disgraced at the end of term. With the exception of our Principal and the other expatriate staff, all our teachers were old Andrians. Each was a master in his field. Our Principal was no other than Archdeacon George Burton who was easily the most popular Principal St. Andrew’s had for all time. He married a former tutor in UMC called Miss Batten in 1941. He had earlier lost his first wife. The science teacher was Mr. Soulsby, a young Englishman. He later became Principal of the Government College, Ibadan. Mr. Birch also taught us Phonetics using the book: “The Sounds of English Speech” by Harman.

CHOSE TO ALWAYS SAY THE TRUTH Mrs. Soulsby taught us English for a short period. My bravery and frankness endeared me to our Principal, George Button. This had started even during my first year, when on one occasion in the night, we were supposed to be sleeping. All lights must be off. But we were flagrant. We were busy writing letters and suddenly, we heard the footsteps of the Principal.

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We quickly put off the lights but I did not put off mine. He ordered us all out but nobody was ready to volounteer the truth. I opened up and told him ‘I was not sleeping because I had some letters to write”. And this was exactly what I was doing when we heard your footsteps sir. The Principal punished us all. But he developed love and adoration for me simply because he knew I would always say the truth.

I remember another occasion when Mrs. Burton slapped my friend and classmate, Akinyemi for drawing a table of five legs. I mocked the two, Akinyemi wept the more and Mrs. Button felt bad because she felt debased. She reported me to the Principal, her husband, who gave no response. In my fourth year, the list of prefects was out. I was made Sanitary Prefect. I took Augustus Adebayo as my boy. Augustus was very brilliant. He grew later in life to be Secretary to Government/Head of Service in the old Oyo State, and later, Chairman Osogbo Steel Rolling Mills and Chairman, Ondo State Civil Service Commission.

I have told you about our Senior Tutor, Rev. S. A. Banjo. Besides the classroom subjects he taught us, Rev. Banjo was the Scoutmaster. I learnt that he introduced scouting into schools in Ijesaland when he was a ‘Certificated’ teacher there. He handled the spiritual side of our upbringing in St. Andrews generally. He supervised the “silent hour”; the one hour individual devotion and Bible study of Sundays. Because he taught us ‘Church History’, some of us named him “Tertullian”. Tertullian, during the time Christians were persecuted,

51 THE PART TO PLAY prosecuted and killed did say: “The more they mow us down, the greater the harvest. The blood of Christians is the seed”. This was the sort of spirit in those early Christians that made the faith spread throughout the world. Today, even in Nigeria, Christianity is expanding in leaps and bounds and the leaders are bold and telling even the rulers the naked truth without fear.

Rev. Banjo, later Archdeacon Banjo, founded the Ibadan Archdeaconry Teacher Training College, which first started at Yemetu, Ibadan and later found a home at Molete at St. Luke’s College, Ibadan. I taught in St. Luke’s College between 1951 and 1954 as a graduate teacher of English and Mathematics. He was father of Dr. Bayo Banjo a Medical Doctor of note and Professor Ayo Banjo, former vice-chancellor of the University of Ibadan. Mr. A. F. Olatunji of Esa Oke was our music teacher and the organist in St. Andrew’s College. He was kind and generous, a father to all, especially to us Ijesa Students and a good patron of all Oyo Union of Students including Ibadan. He later joined the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation.

Mr. J. O. Opelami, later Archdeacon, former Vicar of St. Annes Church Ibadan was a very dutiful teacher. He taught us English Grammar and Geography. I was very lanky when I entered St. Andrew’s and when he wanted me to answer his question he called: “lanky man”. I loved his subject, Geography, which usually came up first in the afternoon when I battled not to sleep. Then he called me “Mr. Sleeper, Mr. Sleeper have you taken

52 THE PART TO PLAY too much food this afternoon, sit up and answer my question”. So we included in our valedictory song at the end of our course. “Opelami, dutiful tutor; approachable Lafimihan” So we sang about our Tutors. They were all good to us.

Archdeacon Opelami and I later worked under Archdeacon Banjo who was principal of St. Luke’s College, Ibadan. He was godfather of Femi Adelegan, my first son at his baptism. He was later Vicar of St. Anne’s Church, Molete, Ibadan. Mr. Lafimihan was our teacher of Agriculture and Botany. He spoke clear tone King’s English when he dictated notes to us. He was very approachable to all students. We had nice times on the farm. I remember the Act Room 1. Mr. Adenuga, then Mrs. Burton and later, Mr. Wusu; a very patient and friendly figure master. I remember my table now, with S. A. Akinyemi besides all the class and me during perspective drawing. Our pencils are sharpened and we are drawing lines that would eventually meet at the horizon. Now it is Mr. Wusu and we are mixing colours and he is telling us anthems for organists. In my class, the first 3 were:

1. 939 - R. S. A. Ayodele 2. 955 - S. C. A. Yoloye 3. 932 - S. T. Adelegan

Also the three of us were very keen members of the college choir. So, I found myself located to Holy Trinity Church School, Idoani, in today’s Ondo State after my course. Agriculture was the most remarkable skill developed in St. Andrew’s. As soon

53 THE PART TO PLAY as we arrived, the Agric Master, Mr. Lafimihan took us round the farm. Each student’s farm was 0.1 acre and was developed into a four-year rotation of yam, groundnut, maize and mucuna. Farm work was not strange to me, although some of us did not like it much and complained. We did our farm-work after school hours and on Saturdays. Every one of us later loved the farm and all it yielded. Moreover, on the road to the farm was the Mango Avenue. Passing through that avenue was also very rewarding, especially if you were armed with your cutlass or a knife. You could even climb a mango tree, which bore very tantalizing fruits to “recuperate”.

Sometimes, some of the farm crops found themselves in students’ dormitories much against the rules of the college. If the authorities found out that the pilfering of yams were getting too much, the Principal would announce that he was told that students should watch over their farms to check some people coming from outside to do some harm as he was sure his students would not steal them. Then the pilfering stopped. There were dining hall announcements and the students “watched” it. Our farm work practice with the agric Tutor was often related to our Botany studies. For example, we studied the reasons for planning times e.g. when we planted our yams late October to mid-November, we made large ridges and did the planting and the “mulching”.

When we planted maize, we measured 18ins “staggered” and later we did the “thinning” i.e. removal of the excess stems to give space for the best one to grow well and avoid competition.

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We also had some soil Science and learnt how to enrich our soil by the planting of mucuna and the leguminous series. Although Principal Burton was the great tutor of Botany, he had Mr. Lafimihan as his assistant. If he could not be present in class, he handed over his notes to Mr. Lafimihan who dictated to us in class. We were first thrilled with the Botany lesson when Principal Burton took us out into the gardens of St. Andrews to show plants and teach us about some common plants and their botanical terms. Thus we knew that waterleaf was “Talinum Triangulare” and pawpaw was “carica papaya”. Plants were classified not only by their roots, but also by their stems and leaves. Leaves themselves are classified into simple and compound. In the primary school, we had learnt to observe plants and animals but at this stage we were given real “deeper teachings” about plants and animals.

For the study of the animal side our tutor was Mr. Soulsby in the science laboratory. There were in the Laboratory Library huge books on insects, birds and animals from all parts of the world. Mr. Soulsby, who was very prolific, raced us through many books, and we had to draw many of the series and label them in our Zoology notebooks. Mr. Soulsby also prepared many experiments for us in subjects, which can now be termed Physics and Chemistry. We were taught about properties of air and water and the process of distillation. We called Mr. Soulsby “AJES” which connotes wizardry. He showed keen interest in the college literary activities. He often was responsible for setting our essay competitions and debates.

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Our literary evenings, which involved all staff and students, took place once or twice a month. We often had lectures from very important personalities from Ibadan. We had some lectures given by T. T. Solaru who had just been back from the U. K. and from Mr. Justice S. O. Ighodaro an old student (No. 604 admitted 1928). He qualified as a Lawyer in U. K. and the College brought him to inspire contemporary students. We were indeed much inspired to work harder, and possibly surpass these brilliant “old Boys”. In fact from the classes of 1928 and 1929 one could find a few of the names of those who made significant marks on Nigerian development:

THE OLD ANDRIANS 1928 Class 604. S. O. Ighodaro - Iyase of Benin 588. Adedayo T. A. - Revd. B. A. Dunelm- Later founding Principal of Obokun High School, Ilesa. 593. Adeyefa S. A. - Revd. B. A. Dunelm-Later Principal Oduduwa College, Ife. 600. Dina (Chief) I. O Later lecturer in History, University College, Ibadan and Head of Service, Western Region, Ibadan 620. Owotomo (Chief) E. O. -Later a successful lawyer and community leader in Ijebu. 1929 Class 642 - E. O. Alayande (Archdeacon) B. A. Dunelm One-time Federal President of Saint Andrew’s College Old Boys Association and retired Principal, Ibadan Grammar School who has served Nigeria in various positions. President,Yoruba Council of Elders. 644. S. O. Awokoya - B.Sc. (Lond) who has served as first Education Minister, Western Region of Nigeria and in the Federal Government in various positions. 648. J. O. I. Longe (Chief) - For many years Permanent Secretary,

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Western Region, Ibadan and retired from the post of Permanent Secretary Federal Republic of Nigeria.

650. J. A. Akinyemi (Canon) - B. A. Dunelm Principal Ilesa Grammar School, Principal St. Andrew’s College, Oyo,; Commissioner for Local Government, Western State.

The sampling of Andrians (SACOBA) that I have done from the years 1928 and 1929 goes to justify the respect we have for our old Boys (SACOBA). Good training and brilliance was however not the sole preserve of any class of all the years, even till now. Just sample any class and you would see the glory of the great institution.

1921 356 -- Adenle S. A; later Ataoja of Osogbo, who was my former headmaster

1922 386 -- Ogunlesi, J. S. – Renowned pioneer Adult Education Officer; whose wife founded Children’s Home School, Ibadan.

1923 430 -- Yoloye (Revd.) senior. Father of my late classmate and friend – Yoloye S.C.A. – 955

1924 439 - Ajasin M. A. – Founding Principal Imade College, Owo – former Governor, Ondo State and rugged politician 455 Olatunji A. F. – My late music Tutor in Oyo.

1925 481 Aladesanmi D. A. – One-time Ewi of Ado-Ekiti 488 Banjo S. A. Senior Tutor St. Andrew’s College, Founding Principal St. Luke’s College, Ibadan, and later Deputy Speaker Western House of Assembly (My predecessor in the office of Deputy-Speaker) 504 Osanyin J. A. -- B.Sc. Mathematics – Our tutor in Mathematics at St. Andrew’s, later Principal, Offa Grammar School.

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DISCIPLINE The achievements and records of Old Boys of St. Andrew’s will only be too much for the scope of my narration. But the salient point worth recording is that the Andrian, wherever you meet him, should be seen as an ‘achiever’ in all the fields he undertakes. As long as the standard of training remained what it was in those days, the Andrian was sought after in all fields of endeavour, even in government and trade concerns. I am well aware that there were other institutions, which were Teacher Training Colleges at that time – Iwo Baptist College and (Methodist) Wesley College, Ibadan, but it is true that all well trained gentlemen were, and are, still referred to as “SACOBA” by younger ones.

For example at the University College, Ibadan (now known as the University of Ibadan) all former teachers who became undergraduates were refereed to as “SACOBA”, no matter what Teacher Training Colleges they attended. It might even be because they behaved very responsibly and were self- respecting. I remember an occasion at the University College, Ibadan. The Students Union had met on a very important happening – “The Shooting at Ira Valley Mines”. There were divided opinions whether the students should march out the next morning and destroy things in the streets of Ibadan or send urgent messages by telegram and representations in solidarity with workers. Some of us advised the student body and the executive that it was better to send a telegram followed by a delegation to the scene of action rather than troop out to the streets of Ibadan damaging things. Many of us could not wish

58 THE PART TO PLAY to be seen in a rowdy assembly.

The student body executive therefore decided against ‘marching out’. The assembly became rowdy with students calling members of Executive such names as “SACOBA II” “Oduduwas”, Andrians, etc. While all this was going on, some students became violent and could have damaged many things but for the prompt arrival at the scene by our agile principal, Dr. K.O. Mellanby, who dismissed the nocturnal meeting. Some of us, elders at the meeting who had been headmasters, and some others, like late Bolarinwa Ogunyomi, Adeyemi, Bifarin and Osinulu, then president of the Students Union had a talk on the incident later and wondered what would have happened if all the students were people who just passed out of secondary schools, or if Dr. Mellamby had not appeared at the right time.

Some of us thought it would have been the occasion to send us out of the University College, (UCI) Eleiyele Ibadan. Before I entered the UCI, I had been a successful headmaster of St. Stephen’s School, Modakeke (1946- 1949). Some of my boys had been admitted to Government College, Ibadan. I could not imagine myself being seen with a rowdy group looting or burning stores belonging to white men at Gbagi. Besides I had a very good testimonial of good behaviour from my primary school days. I was reported for being bold and could say what I felt even to my great principal, George Burton. But I could never be moved to conspiracy or cowardliness. I was too proud of my reputation to have a hand in those things being planned and

59 THE PART TO PLAY could have resolved to leave the university the next morning.

As a matter of fact I had discussed the behaviour of the younger undergraduates with a friend, G. K. Dada and complained about the whole atmosphere as being quite disappointing. He too had said the atmosphere at Fourah- Bay was much better. Fourah Bay Students behaved like mature men. They were mostly “SACOBA”. But, perhaps, inevitably, the young impulsive youths are destined to own the universities eventually and rule and shake them with impulsive, sporadic and intermittent upheavals occasioning destruction.

100 YEARS OF BREEDING FUTURE LEADERS – THE CHARACTERISTICS OF TEACHERS St. Andrew’s College was in 1996 a hundred years old and is yet to know any of these violent student upheavals and dire destructions. The Andrian in those days passed out of College acquiring various skills and aptitudes besides mere book knowledge. He is an artist in the true sense having been taught various skills in the art room. He is a teacher of music, and also the theory of music. Besides the time we had to train to play on the organs we also had lectures in the “Theory of Music”. Before I left St. Andrews, I acquired two certificates from the London College of Music in the Theory of Music and could handle the syllabus for school certificate in Music.

One very valuable Andrian who has been the talk of those who passed through St. Paul’s Central School, Ipetu- Ijesa from the

60 THE PART TO PLAY mid-thirties to the mid-forties was Mr. (Late Chief) D. O. Famodimu (No. 716) He was the Agric Master, choir master and organist, school music teacher, arts teacher and was nick- named “Egbert of Wessex” because he taught the History of England. Some called him “Ethelred the unready” although he was apt for everything. He was strong and tall and children always dramatized his character. He was the school’s Agric Master and handled all matters connected with the school farm. He was also the school’s physical education master and football coach. Sometimes, he was the master in charge of the schools percussion band. That was the Andrian of those days. He moved to Oduduwa College later. We often times sang some of the anthems he taught us: “The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want” Jerusalem my glorious home If Christ be not raised your faith is vain” “This joyful Easter Tide” joyful “Memories of Galilee”:

Mr. Famodimu introduced the pingpong game (table tennis) into the school. Mr. Famodimu was one teacher I wished to copy, but I did not succeed in making his grade because I gave my leisure time to study for my degree. He gave all his time.

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CHAPTER FOUR MEMORABLE ENCOUNTER WITH OONI ADESOJI ADEREMI ’Your act of bravery is typical, only of royal priesthood. ‘’You should not be far from this palace, and I will like to see you at least once in two weeks’’ – Ooni Adesoji Aderemi

ba Sir Titus Martins Adesoji Tadeniawo Aderemi, (Atobatele 1) KCMG, was one of the most prominent O and foremost traditional rulers in Yorubaland. He wielded tremendous influence as a natural ruler and was greatly enhanced by the fact that he was educated. Adesoji Aderemi was a Nigerian political figure and Yoruba traditional ruler who reigned as the Ooni of Ife from 1930 until 1980. He served as the ceremonial governor of Western Region, Nigeria between 1960 and 1962. He encouraged Yoruba unity and in 1948 hosted a meeting of the Egbe Omo Oduduwa that later transformed into the Action Group, a political party led by Chief Obafemi Awolowo. The Ooni enjoyed the priviledge of being the first literate traditional ruler of the settlement regarded as the cradle or origin of the Black race all over the world. More importantly, Oba Adesoji Aderemi was imbued with great native wisdom that he utilized to rule his domain and intervene in matters concerning the Yoruba, particularly politics of that era. He was able to motivate and guide forces towards a common goal. Oba Adesoji Aderemi emerged the first ceremonial governor of the Western-Region and had the power of Proclamation of the House of Assembly and ratification of the election of governor in a Parliamentary democracy. He could

62 THE PART TO PLAY also remove the governor on the recommendations of the majority in accordance with constitutional provisions. He was installed at a relatively young age of 40 years in 1930. Most of the other prominent Yoruba traditional rulers were more advanced than him in age. Oba Aderemi was a very comfortable royal father who really couldn’t be bought by any influence. He had previously worked with the Nigerian Railway Corporation before starting a Motor Transport business. Oba Aderemi was a produce marketing agent who traded in produce like Cocoa, palm-kernel, cash crops and general merchandise. He held the franchise for the United Africa Company owned by the British, John Holt, Mc lever, OLGeyser and became wealthy as a result of his business acumen. He emerged such a success that he bought his first car in 1920 and by 1930 already had three cars, including an open roofed car. He was a celebrated prince and heir to the throne.

LIFE AFTER ST ANDREWS I got my posting in 1945. I was posted to Holy Trinity School, Ido-Ani. I did not really like it but the joy of being a certificated teacher and the good time I had at St. Andrews, filled my life. So I was not bothered. I stayed there for one year and began to work for my transfer. I wrote the Chief Superintendent of Education, E. B. Osibo in Lagos that I needed a transfer.He pleaded with me and encouraged me to stay one more year. Reluctantly, I obliged. Soon, I had serious malaria and

63 THE PART TO PLAY developed some irritation over my body. This came as a result of the poor facilities and accommodation made available for me there. Besides, there was no doctor or even hospital in this town. I succeeded in getting a letter of transfer to St. Stephen’s, Modakeke. In his letter, Osibo wrote ‘Now you are hereby posted to a place where you could have access to doctors but I pray you would never need one’. Now, Fajemisin had just taken over the management of the school from Chief C. O. Komolafe who left for further studies abroad. I was made the acting Headmaster and later the headmaster.

ENCOUNTER WITH OONI, OBA ADESOJI ADEREMI – 1946 I discussed earlier, the status and influence of Ooni Adesoji Aderemi, the royal father who was old enough to be my father. Apart from his status, age, and influence, I was brought up to have due regard for the elderly ones in accordance with Yoruba customs and traditions. A very unfortunate incident that occurred in his domain, however, almost earned me the wrath of the royal father. He was such a magnanimous personality. Circumstances providentially brought me very close to the revered traditional ruler. I was residing at Isale-Agbara area of Modakeke. I kept the last born of my mother, Abiye Comfort (now Mrs. Adeleye), with me. I was occupying a whole house, as a headmaster. There was a day I came back from school expecting to meet Abiye at home or perhaps to join me later. But to my surprise, Abiye failed to return home. The day was ‘Olojo’ day. That was a day the Ifes set aside to perform some

64 THE PART TO PLAY rituals and sacrifices. We expected Comfort throughout that day, but she did not return home. No one could suspect that she could take taxi to anywhere talkless of travelling out of the town. We began to search for her, the first, second and even third day. Comfort was nowhere to be found. During this time, I was the Secretary of Ijesa Union, Ile-Ife Branch under the chairmanship of Pa E. O. Makinde.

We had to take another step. All the Ijesas in Ife, both male and female gathered together and headed straight to the Ooni’s palace. The great king rose up to find out what was happening. We narrated how, for the past three days, we had not found one of us, my own sister. The king calmed me down and urged us to take it cool. That nothing evil would happen to our sister and that we would soon find her. We were almost taking it cool when one his wives snapped and issued some insultive words on our king, Owa Obokun Adimula. We became furious again and returned the words to her. But Ooni Aderemi handled the matter carefully such that it did not degenerate to communal misunderstanding and we were pacified. This reached the ears of our people at home including Owa Obokun Adimula, who sent for me and handed over my sister to me. The king told me that a driver had just brought her to the palace.

When I came back to Ife, the following morning, I received a summon inviting me to the Ooni’s Court. I had to run to Fajemisin, who also ran to Rev. Ajibola, the then Chairman of

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Anglican District Church Council, Ile-Ife. We also sought the intervention of the Chiefs in Modakeke. The court premise was filled to capacity on this fateful day. Many people came from all over the place, chiefs, teachers, head teachers, clergymen and so on. On the arrival of his Royal Highness, Oba Adesoji Aderemi who was also the President of the Court, before he could say a word, we all prostrated and began to plead for mercy. He opened his mouth but felt short of words. He became astounded. At last, he opened up and expressed disappointment for the action of Ijesas in respect of this issue.

He warned that such a thing could bring communal clash and unrest between Ijesas and Ifes if God had not really intervened. He warned that such a thing should never happen again. He urged us to be at peace all the time. And so, I was released. Ooni Adesoji Aderemi was a father figure. Ifes and Modakekes were living peacefully as brothers and sisters. On so many occasions, he did trek to Modakeke. What a humble king! All his children have this trait as expressed by one of his children who was teaching with me at St. Stephens. Oba Aderemi was large hearted during his time. He was well travelled, wealthy and loved by everyone. God has His way of doing things; this event happened so I could have a closer relationship with His Royal Highness.

The following day, he sent messengers to bring me to the palace. I felt frightened; perhaps, he wanted to charge me

66 THE PART TO PLAY afresh. To my surprise when I got there, I greeted him and he began to throw some questions at me. He asked if I was born into a royal family. I told him I was not. He told me the courage I had and my act of bravery was typical, only of royal priesthood. He told me I should not be far from his palace. He would like to see me at least once in two weeks. That was how I became a friend to the highly esteemed traditional ruler of our time. The traditional ruler became my good adviser. He counselled me on life generally. In 1947, one of his children, Miss Aderemi – later Mrs. Ogunfidodo was posted to my school as a schoolteacher. This further strengthened my closeness to the royal family. I was close to him to the extent that he wanted to help me secure scholarship to the University but I felt I did not need it.

AWOLOWO & FORMATION OF EGBE OMO ODUDUWA I had become the secretary of the Nigerian Union of Teachers, Ife Branch, and I had my London Matriculation. So the Lord has been so nice to me. I had bought my Raleigh bicycle that I rode through the streets of Ile-Ife amidst cheers and admiration of the people with the shout ‘L.M.’, ‘L.M.’ (London Matriculation). I was in this enviable position when Chief Obafemi Awolowo came to Ife, to launch the socio-cultural group called Egbe Omo Oduduwa, in 1948. He seemed to be appealing to the sense of the Yoruba as children of the same cultural origin who had so much to gain if they come together. I refused to join them, as I felt so much cosmopolitan.

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I thought the group would likely end up parochial and localized, so I did not show interest. Besides, their approach and particularly the utterances of Dr. Akinola Maja did not go well with me. a Nigerian medical doctor, businessman, philanthropist and politician who was president of the Nigerian Youth Movement from 1944 to 1951 served as president of Egbe Omo Oduduwa in 1953. That year also, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, the publisher of the West African Pilot former editor of the Ghana’s National Newspaper, came to Ile-Ife. Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe had been a renowned Pan African leader and nationalist Nkrummah of Ghana. His paper enjoyed widespread circulation and readership throughout the length and breadth of Nigeria then. He came to Ile-Ife to seek support for his own political party, National Council of Nigeria and Cameroon (NCNC). This was the first and only notable party then. The party enjoyed a tremendous spread throughout the nooks and crannies of Nigeria most especially in towns, cities and urban settlements.

The party also was in the forefront of anti colonial struggle in Nigeria. It was championing the struggle for National Independence. This had started, even, since the Second World War ended in 1945. For instance in that same year, it organized a nationwide campaign against the Richard’s Constitution. Because of all these activities and its prominence, the party was so popular. By then, every enlightened heart looked for a time

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Nigeria would regain her independence. Little wonder the crop of elites in the country then was more cosmopolitan in thought than being parochial. Egbé Ọmọ Odùduwà is a Nigerian political organisation established in 1945, when Chief Obafemi Awolowo along with Dr. Akinola Maja Dr. Oni Akerele, Chief Akintola Williams, Professor Saburi Biobaku, Chief Abiodun Akinrele, Chief D.O.A Oguntoye, Chief Ayo Rosiji and others, met in London. Their stated aim in setting up the organisation was to unite the Yorùbá in a manner similar to the tenets of the Ibibio State Union and the Ibo Federal Union; which were political action committees of the Ibibio and the Igbo respectively. Egbe Omo Oduduwa started growing from 1948 when it was launched in Lagos with great fanfare by prominent Yoruba politicians associated with the Nigerian Youth Movement. These politicians included Chief Bode Thomas, Sir Adeyemo Alakija, Chief H. O. Davies, Sir Kofo Abayomi, Chief Akintola Williams, Dr. Akinola Maja and others. The core of the Action Group members came from Egbe Omo Oduduwa. The Action Group was birthed to serve as the vehicle for realizing its primary objective of mobilizing the Yoruba to come together under one political umbrella. The Action Group was therefore formed to implement the ideas and objectives of the group led by Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

It was only after the visit to Ile-Ife that Egbe Omo Oduduwa began to gain a sparing acceptance among the Yoruba and in

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1950, the socio-cultural group metamorphosed to a political party called Action Group. This time, I had gained admission into the University College, Ibadan and so I had to leave Modakeke. I soon found myself in this political party called Action Group. The 1950, Iva Valley Mines tragedy, which claimed the lives of 27 workers and the sporadic action of the students Union that greeted the event, gave me a rethink about tribal sentiments. I shall write fully on this incident later.

My stay as Head teacher of St. Stephen’s School, Modakeke, was full of memorable and remarkable days. I enjoyed my self so much there. I was able to meet with so many people amongst who are: Ilogu E. C. O., then a student of Immanuel College of Theology, Ibadan who later became an Anglican Bishop. He loved spending holidays with me at Modakeke. I cannot forget Ogunfidodo and Odelola, all late now. I had an encounter with necromancer, by name ‘Omoge’ who approached me for fetish assistance. This man had not studied me well before he approached me. This time, I was no longer what I used to be while I was at Ipetu Ijesa. I had lost respect and love for any fetishism. ‘Omoge’ was so popular all over the place, and people feared him. He asked me to bring a ram and £30, for help so that I would be able to fulfil my divine mission on earth.

I had to report him to Fajemisin who later reconciled us together. But he now knew that I belong to Jesus. Unfortunately, many of our mates fell to this man and eventually had their destinies

70 THE PART TO PLAY polluted. All I was interested in then was my students, perhaps Ijesa Union and how to further my studies. I put in extra work to see that St. Stephens became great, a sort of school which become enviable and sought after. During an inspection to the school by Rev. I. K. Butler, he described me as a resourceful and capable Headmaster. He commented that the tune of the school was very good.

That was a correct assessment then, as so many people always wanted their children to pass through St. Stephen’s, because they knew their children would gain admission to Higher School, if they attended St. Stephens. This time I had good teachers such as Mabel Fawehinmi, Odetola, Jolaade Aderemi, daughter of Adesoji Aderemi, later to be wife of Ogunfidodo, my good friend. Mr. Adeloye who was also working with me took over the headship of the school, when I finally moved to Ibadan. Amongst the students who passed through my school as the headmaster were Abayomi Coker, a good artist and trumpeter, Abayomi was then a poor student who could not really pay his school fees. We only allowed him to stay in school on sponsorship by some of our teachers like Miss Aderemi and even me.

Other students who passed through me were Jimoh Ibrahim Inaolaji, an Ikire born businessman, the present Timi of Ede, Oba Oladokun Oyewusi, David Isawumi, Odelola, a professor of Pharmacy until his death, Sunday Makinde, the Fajemisins,

71 THE PART TO PLAY the Omisores, Apeke Awoseyi (Mrs. Obembe) a retired Permanent Secretary in the public service of Osun State. While at Modakeke, one of those who taught under me, Mabel Fawehinmi started the Girl’s Brigade, and Mr. Odelola and others started the Boy’s Scout. While in Modakeke, I took time to read. I did not leave any stone unturned, as my ambition was to become a graduate teacher, though I thought of being a lawyer. Lawyers then were highly respected. Lawyers were freer and had influence. They could partake in politics and were dignified. While I was in St. Andrews, Barrister Ighodaro, a prominent lawyer and writer, who later became Attorney General and Minister of Justice in the old Western Region came to give us a lecture, which really charged me to love the Law profession.

Also, my reading partner, and good friend S. C. A. Yoloye used to spend holidays with me at Modakeke. During this time, we did have time to read and study together. We were both good in English Literature we felt we should go for the same course. We agreed we should do our Intermediate Bachelor of Arts (Inter B. A.), after which we could now go for Law as did B. O. Olowofoyeku, our senior. Since the latter half of the nineteenth century, Nigerians trooped in significant numbers abroad in pursuit of higher education. The United-Kingdom was the major attraction while Fourah Bay University, Sierra-Leone also trained a substantial number of Nigerians. A few others headed for the United-States of America.

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CHAPTER FIVE DOUBLE PROMOTION AT THE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE, IBADAN

I was one of the first set of the University College undergraduates to write degree examinations, marked by the London University under the University College special relationship programme in 1951. The result was disastrous as many of us failed. For instance in my own faculty, out of the 24 graduating students, the only person who passed in 2nd class lower division was J. F. Ade Ajayi, who later in life became a great educationist, a professor and vice-chancellor, University of Lagos. Seventeen (17) of us passed in Third Class Division and the remaining 16, failed.

n Nigeria, The Yaba Higher College (established in 1932 but formally opened in 1934) and the Yaba Medical School I (established in 1930), which granted diplomas and certificates in selected subjects, hardly satisfied the aspirations of those who longed for university education.The Yaba Higher College’s phase of education in Nigeria further illustrated the desire of Nigerians for degrees, diplomas and certificates which were not inferior to those awarded by universities in the United Kingdom and elsewhere. So long as British officials did not envisage self-government for Nigerians and senior posts in the public service were reserved for expatriates, pleas for university education in Nigeria fell on deaf ears.

Before then, several Nigerians had acquired higer qualifications by studying at home and through correspondence provided by British institutions like Wosley Hall. Several Nigerians who chose this educational path were able to acquire university degrees from home. A few Nigerians had in 1887, enrolled for

73 THE PART TO PLAY the first time in the University of London Matriculation Examination as external students. The opportunity provided for Nigerians through the London Matriculation examinations increased the thirst of people for higher education. This enabled us to combine work and study at critical points of our lives. The University of London was established in 1836. At first, until 1858 the London examinations were open only to students in affiliated colleges, like the University College, Ibadan that enjoyed a special relationship with the University of London.

A publication on the history of the University of Ibadan states that ‘’the British Government seriously considered the possibility of establishing universities or university colleges in the Commonwealth, and in West Africa particularly, during World War II. The Asquith and Elliot Commissions, - both set up in 1943- reported on various aspects of this problem in 1945. The majority and minority reports of the Elliot Commission agreed on the establishment of a university college in Nigeria. The Asquith Commission concentrated on the fundamental principles, which were to guide the development of institutions of higher learning similar to the University College subsequently established at Ibadan.

The Asquith Commission emphasized the principles of a residential university college in special relationship with London University, high academic standards in admissions and staffing, and autonomy. Both the Elliot and Asquith Commissions, which

74 THE PART TO PLAY exchanged information, agreed that the Inter-university Council for Higher Education in the Colonies (later Overseas) was to advise the new University Colleges on how best to attain the objectives for which they were established. The University College, Ibadan, founded in 1948, at first occupied the old site previously used by the 56th Military General Hospital about eight kilometers away from the ‘new’ or permanent site.

The new site covered over 1,032 hectares of land generously leased by the chiefs and people of Ibadan for 999 years. With equipment transferred from Yaba Higher College, the 104 foundation students (including 49 students in teacher training and survey courses) began their courses at Ibadan on 18 January 1948; the formal opening took place on 25 March 1948. In February 1948, London University allowed Ibadan its special relationship scheme. Arthur Creech Jones, then Secretary of State for the Colonies, and an influential member of the Elliot Commission, cut the first sod at the permanent site of the University College on 17th November 1948, which became the university’s Foundation Day. The yearly graduation ceremonies are now held on that day, and if it overlaps could be held for two additional days to cater for the large numbers of graduates being pushed into the society.

For the foundation medical students, the facilities provided in 1948 by the Native Administration Hospital at Adeoyo and the Government Jericho Hospital, for which the Faculty of Medicine

75 THE PART TO PLAY was responsible, were inadequate. Our set was not privileged to stay on the present site of the University. Initially, I had no intention of entering the University for my Course of study. I wanted to go ahead and obtain my degree by correspondence through Wolsey College, Oxford. I had passed my London Matriculation without any tuition. As for my Intermediate Bachelor of Arts, I took lectures by correspondence from Wolsey College, Oxford. I passed my three subjects: English, Latin and History.

With this, I had an alternative course to follow in order to bag my degree. I could take up an appointment with Ibadan Boys High School. With this, I would not really need to go through the University. During this time, the proprietor of Ibadan Boys had invited me with a stunning salary of £240 per annum, with good accommodation.

This was a great amount considering what I was earning at St. Stephens, Modakeke, as headmaster, which was £96. If I had taken the appointment I would have had better opportunity to take tuition to pass after all I have had the Inter B. A. But then I felt I should pass through the walls of the University as a full time student.

I was invited by the Dean of Faculty of Arts, Mr. Cadle for an interview. He felt impressed about my performance in the

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London Matriculation examination and the brilliant interview he had with me, even though I did not sit for entrance examination. He interviewed me in Latin and I quoted several books, which I read. This really impressed him. He immediately admitted me and told me to be attending Lectures with part 2 and 3 students, pending the time I would receive my result of Inter B. A. After a month of lectures, Mr. Cadle himself went ahead to extract my result and he told me I had passed. That was how I skipped Part 2. I was now fully Part 3 student.

I soon exhausted my saving, and so I had to look elsewhere to seek financial sponsorship or assistance. I went to Rev. Aderinola, Secretary, Ibadan Archdeaconry Education, and I was made to sign a bond to serve the Anglican Mission, 2 years for one year of training. That was how I was able to complete my University degree. I spent just one and half years to bag my degree. (1949 October to June 1951). Throughout my stay in the University, I was very busy and therefore, no time for socials. It might also be because I was not really young, a former headmaster. Only the younger ones among us in the University then socialized at parties where quick steps were learnt. Those days, if you didn’t know the steps, you would not be able to stand and dance at Dance halls.

By the time I was at Ife, I had learnt to dance quickstep, so I could dance whenever I chose. Throughout my stay in the University, we were at the temporary site, not in the present day

77 THE PART TO PLAY campus at Sango. The temporary site was at Eleyele. Most of the structures were temporary, and were demarcated with mats. By the time we finished in 1951, the new site was in place. There, we had our graduation in 1951. I was not really an active student unionist. Student unionism then was not as fierce as it is now. I only remember an occasion when we had to show some activism. That was in 1950. It happened when the Iva Valley Mines workers rose against the authority with regard to their salary. Twenty-seven of them got shot dead. This event caused pandemonium throughout the whole country. I have talked briefly about this in the previous chapter. I only want to add that the students of Igbo Origin were in the forefront of this struggle as they called for mass protest and confrontation.

Rather, we students of Yoruba origin, under the then President of University College Students Association, Mr. S. Ade Osinulu later in life a school Principal, preferred a peaceful option. It was not because we were not really concerned and pitiful of the whole situation. We did have pity for the families of the shot workers. But I could not imagine myself, with the level of my stature and exposure going into the streets, looting, and rioting. Thank God for the prompt intervention of our Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Keneth Mallanby, the whole issue would have gone out of hand. This gave me the idea that the Igbo were too boisterous for the Yoruba temperament; too violent. The effect of this on me was that my love and sympathy for NCNC got deeply dwindled and eventually died off. This time, the Igbos had dominated the party and their attitude towards Oduduwa people

78 THE PART TO PLAY was contemptuous. I decided, I would join the Action Group Youth Wing immediately I finished my course.

From time past, I have been a true patriotic Ijesa man. Despite my tight schedule, I did find time to socialize with my Ijesa brothers even in the University. We had come together in a Union. We had close rapport with our elders, seniors and mates even outside the campus. Ijesas were many in Ibadan. Among them was S. T. Akerele, a London trained tailor, who had just come from U.K. There were others like Chief D. O. A. Oguntoye, a Lawyer who had newly arrived from the United-Kingdom and Mr. Ayoola. Another thing that is worth mentioning is the fact that there was nothing like cultism in Universities then. The only thing we had was Press bug. The younger and junior colleagues were even doing this, late Bola Ige being one of them.

I was one of the first set of the University College to write degree examinations, marked by the London University under the University College special relationship programme. The result was disastrous as many of us failed. For instance in my own faculty, out of the 24 graduating students, the only person who passed in 2nd class lower division was J. F. Ade Ajayi, who later in life became a great educationist, a professor and vice- chancellor, University of Lagos. Seventeen (17) of us passed in Third Class Division and the remaining 16, failed.

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LIST OF 1951 GRADUATING STUDENTS UNIVERSITY COLLEGE, IBADAN UNIVERSITY OF LONDON DEGREE ADELEGAN, Shadrach Titus - B.A. AGU, Benson Nwabueze - B.Sc. AJAYI, Jacob Festus Ade. - B.A. BASSEY, Ekpenyong - B.Sc. CHINWA, Josephus George - B.Sc. CLAUDIUS, Cole O. A. - B.A. EDGAL, Samuel Fowe - B.A. FATIMEHIN, Joseph Oladipo - B.Sc. ILUYOMADE, J. A. - B.A. IWEANA, William Enebeli - B.A. IYALLA, Joseph Tonye Fubera - B.A. JOLAOSO, Augustus Oluwajimi - B.A. MUNONYEDI, Jabez Onwughalu - B.Sc. OGUNJOMI, Ezekiel Abiodun Adetayo -B.A. OGUNNAIKE, Jacob Adesujibomi - B.Sc. OHOCHUKWU, John Emejuru Chikwari Maxwell - B.Sc. ONYEJEPU, Robert Chukwuemeka -B.Sc. OSINULU, Samuel Adeoye Ajayi - B.A. RAISING A FAMILY I was in standard six, preparing to write the first school leaving certificate examinations. I began to notice her; very beautiful, smart looking and fair in complexion. She lived very close to our family compound. Each morning she went to fetch water; she

80 THE PART TO PLAY passed in front of our own compound. I loved seeing her, walking quietly. In 1938, having passed well, with distinction in the School Leaving Certificate Examinations, I was posted to the Central School as a pupil teacher. I was to teach standard One Class. I would have preferred Standard II because of her as she was in Standard II. She too curiously took notice of my admiration for her and she took interest in me. In the evenings, she went out hawking and I knew the time she usually came back. I was always in their compound.

Her father was the quarter head of Odo-Ise, the largest quarter in Ipetu-Ijesa, comfortably rich and comparatively comfortable than others. He had a lorry for his transport business. No other person had a lorry in the whole of Ipetu-Ijesa. Her mother later became the Head of Women Chiefs – Esemee of Ipetu-Ijesa. The father was blessed with many children. There were many girls in their compound. So then the father could not know who was attending to who. We were always in their compound till 9.00 p.m. playing. And usually by 9.00 p.m., the father sounded the bell and they entered for night prayer. Then I left for my own house.

We were on like this for a long time. It was as if there was a natural link between us. We were so used to each other. When she was sick, the mum would call for me to visit her so that she would eat and get well soon. When I did so, the sickness always disappeared. She was a member of the Choir and I was

81 THE PART TO PLAY one too. We sat opposite each other in the Church and did choir practice together. After services, we trekked home in a short distance. This continued till 1941, when I got admission to St. Andrews Teachers College, Oyo. About this time, she too left Ipetu. She followed her sister, late Mrs. Alice Omigbodun to Abeokuta, where she completed her standard six. She passed her standard six examinations in 1942 and in 1943 she gained admission to the popular United Missionary College Teachers Training College, Ibadan, where she trained as a teacher. She finished in 1945 and was posted to Ijero. I finished mine, a year earlier and was posted to Modakeke.

She succeded in working her transfer back to Ilesa Holy Trinity Primary School, Omofe, Ilesa. We were closer again. We were not talking about anything other than marriage. This continued up to 1947 when I got her engaged and expecting to do the proper wedding very soon. But as fate would have it, the marriage could not come until January 1952. We came together when I passed out of the University College Ibadan in 1951. My senior wife is God sent, very loving and caring. Always quiet. We had the first child Foluso in 1952 and in 1954 we had our first son, Femi. We further got increased. The family experienced great storms but thank God, we were not totally blown off. My wife is alive and the remaining children too. I lost a girl in her infancy and two graduate sons. But despite this, I give God the glory.

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My senior wife has been very supportive. In 1957, we were invited home to found the Ipetu-Ijesha Grammar School for our community. We did not initially like it as we thought were too young to go back home. But as soon as we dicided to respond to the patriotic call, my wife did not pose any problem at all. She followed me immediately and gave me full support. At home, she participated actively in the development of the town, especially in Church activities, with leadership of Mother’s Union, enrolling matrons. While in Ipetu-Ijesha, she was also a leading member of Girls Morning Star Society and that of Young Women Christian Association (YWCA). As I was busy organizing the Young Men Christian Association, she too was actively involved in the Young women Christian Association. When I was in the Western House of Assembly, she took great interest in my visitors and political associates. She was never tired of receiving them. They all liked her because of her quiet but warming nature.. A painstaking woman, when I was transferred out of Ipetu-Ijesa, she endured the hardship that followed. At a difficult time, she no longer had a car of her own so she had board public transport from our compound to her school, which was more than two miles in distance. When I noticed the suffering, I had to relocate my family back to Ibadan. Eunice later retired as a School Headmistress in 1980 after thirty-five years of meritorious service as a school-teacher.

I should not forget to add that she is from a good family and this goodness permeates all through her life, very loving and caring.

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Late Pa Dennis Afowowe, her direct brother, first son of her mother, exhibited this trait too. Through him, I was able to enlarge the circle of friends I had in Ibadan. I was able to know notable indigenes of Ibadan like Alimi Adesokan and Muibi Akanbi, both of blessed memory. The two and other friends like Lekan Salami and others encouraged me to take up appointment as Chief Education Officer for IDC. I have a strong passion for having people around me. All my life, I had taken on additional responsibility of getting children of relations and friends to live with my family.

Our brothers and sisters equally enjoyed being brought up by my senior wife and I. She is a particularly tolerant and warm woman who is always willing and ready to support me. I was lucky to have Eunice as wife, same with my junior wife Bisi who is a retired Principal. I met her in 1962. It happened that in that year, Mr. Olowe who used to be my Latin teacher got admission to University of Ibadan. I then needed assistance to prepare the final year students for School Certificate Examinations for that year. The teachers I needed were not to be full time. Meanwhile, I had been visiting Methodist High School, Ilesa and had been fascinated by the architectural pattern of the school, particularly their domitory, whose pattern I brought to Ipetu Ijesa Grammar School. In the course of time, I became friendly with the Principal, Mr. Onaeko who was later to become the Chairman, Western State Schools Board. I contacted the Principal to request for his assistance in this

84 THE PART TO PLAY respect. He gave me two young female teachers to teach Latin and Yoruba. Among the two was this beautiful girl, Miss Bisi Edun. She was to teach Latin. I was so grateful she did, without any remuneration. Naturally, we fell for each other but with no string attached. She soon finished with us and went back to Ilesa from where she later changed her service to Oranmiyan Grammar School, Ile-Ife. On my way to the House of Assembly in Ibadan, I usually stopped at her place; even though we had no intention other than friendly relation. But I liked her skin. She was dark complexioned, cheerful and full of laughter. Our relationship continued this way till when we both fell in love. She got pregnant and we had our first daughter Funbi Fagade, now a Computer Scientist in 1965. And the following year 1966 we had the second child, Omobola when we least expected.

With the birth of Omobola, our relationship got sealed and we have three additional children. It is interesting to note that her zeal for further studies was never dampened even though she was married. She went further and studied at University of Ife. She had the last two children after she graduated.God greatly increased me through my wives such that in 1982 I had six children in the University, all at the University of Ibadan. It was not really easy at all. That time I had retired. But I thank God; all my children are successful in their chosen professions.

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CHAPTER SIX NOW A GRADUATE TEACHER ‘’I worked closely with Olubadan Akinyele, Emmanuel Alayande, Wuraaola Esan and Adegoke Adelabu who was like an idol, the strongman of Ibadan politics, then, as Lamidi Adebibu is now, in Ibadan. Who dared look up to his face!’ reported at St. Luke’s Teacher Training College in 1951 sequel to the bond agreement I had with the institution while I I was in the University. Meanwhile, Mr. Osanyin, the Principal of Offa Grammar School wrote to me requesting that I should come to his school on offer of extended scale; to start with £450 per annum, plus other fringe benefits including a car. I could go, but I did not because I did not want to leave Ibadan. I preferred to receive the £240 that would be paid to me, in Ibadan. During this time, there were variations everywhere. It was those in the Government Service that earned better. I could, as well, take appointment with the government only with the understanding to pay St. Luke’s back. I took the best option.

I was not disappointed I took this option as I enjoyed my stay in St. Luke’s. All my students in Advanced English and Mathematics really enjoyed me and I enjoyed them too. I was given a place at Oke-Ado as my official residence. It was a beautiful place. Oke-Ado, then was as Bodija is now to Ibadan as most of the newly graduating students and elites in the old Western region were finding a place there. It was a place for the government workers, private agencies and even expatriates. The then Premier of Western Region late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, too had his houses there. J. F. Ade Ajayi lived exactly

86 THE PART TO PLAY opposite my residential quarter.

I had a long courtship with my wife as we have been coming along since 1938. This long courtship had its own advantage. My wife is well behaved, a straightforward person. We were already used to each other such that even before our marriage, and thereafter, if she was sick and could not eat, as soon as she saw me, she would eat and the sickness would go. I worked in St. Luke’s from 1951 to 1954. Throughout the period, I was not put on extended scale. It was about the time I was leaving, that they decided to put me on extended scale. But it was rather too late. In 1952, I enjoyed a salary boost. There was a salary review, which gave me huge arrears. I spent the money to set up a Printing Press; Folulope Press for my junior brother; Tope Fatusa and to purchase my first car. Mr. Awani, also an Andrian, was the acting Principal. He was receiving instructions from Rev. Banjo who went to Britain on study leave.

I remember some of my fellow teachers such as Mr. D. B. Oni and D. T. Laleye. I handled Mathematics and English Language. Among my students then were: rtd. General James Oluleye, Gabriel Onibonoje, retired book publisher and farmer and Aderibigbe, one time Secretary to Government of Kwara State. I have had keen interest in building a library since I was in the University. During this time I took correspondence courses in Library. I knew of two methods. I used one of these methods to build up the library of St. Luke’s College. I could,

87 THE PART TO PLAY therefore, be credited with the building of the school library. This extra knowledge also helped me later when I became Education Officer as filing was never strange to me; any longer. The students during my stay in St. Luke’s were attracted to using Library and to reading literature textbooks. Their interest in Literature therefore increased. So, I succeeded in firing their love for reading and Current Affairs.

I did encourage my students to read extensively and not to be restricted to textbooks. They should read any book, on any subject matter, as much as they could lay their hands on, so that reading will not only be for passing examination. Aside from this, I got my class involved in literary activities. There was an occasion when I coordinated the students to act a play on the book, Abraham Lincoln. We went to the Military barracks to hire army uniform. The students performed wonderfully well. Late Bishop Akinyele, was the Chairman at this occasion. He was very happy and he greatly applauded us. One point of interest here is that J. J. Oluleye, one of my students then acted as General. He later joined the Nigerian Army and retired as a Major-General.

While in St. Luke’s also, I took interest in Games. Mr. D. T. Olaleye was the Games Master. We were close then. This really fired my love for Games. We did travel to Ila, Ife, among others, for sporting activities. About this time, Rev. Banjo came back to

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Nigeria after his study leave in Britain and brought the game of Badminton to us at St. Luke’s. I was also the best table Tennis player around the place. There were extra mural classes; preparing students for examinations at both GCE Ordinary & Advanced levels. I was one of the English language teachers; I took one guinea per hour. We always traveled as far as Ijebu- Igbo for extension classes of this Extra Mural. I stopped when I became Education Officer in 1955. While I was a teacher at St. Luke’s, I had the opportunity of knowing and meeting prominent people in Ibadanland.

This opportunity was to help me later in my future sojourning in Ibadan. I got to know A. D. Adeleke, a prominent Ibadan indigene, popularly called ‘A.D’ on Top’. Our relationship and friendship developed so rapidly. He was Headmaster of District Council School, somewhere at Eleta. Some of our students at the Teachers College were posted there for teaching practice. By then I had not bought my car, so I trekked from my place at Kudeti to Eleta, everyday to supervise them, for a period of up to a month. That was how our friendship developed. He and other Ibadan indigenes like Lekan Salami became my good friends. They both helped me to be established very strongly among the Ibadans, such that people like late Olubadan, Oba Adeyemo and other notable people offered to get me vast land in Ibadan. I was not too keen because I am not a particularly materialistic person.

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AS EDUCATION SECRETARY Thirty of us applied for the job of Education Officer at Ibadan Divisional Council. This was a time when Mr. J. M. Johnson was taking over the Chairmanship of the Council from Chief Adegoke Adelabu, who was then a Federal Minister, in Lagos. Ibadan Divisional Council was NCNC controlled. Lekan Salami was a member of the Council (Councillor). Other Councillors were Muibi Akanbi and Alimi Adesokan, both of blessed memory. I knew them all and they were kind. Through them, I was able to know other prominent Ibadan indigenes. Our friendship had blossomed to a state that we did not give regard to nativity. This greatly helped me to secure the job among the 29 others mostly Ibadan indigenes, who were also well qualified for the post.

Not that alone, Mr. Owolabi Esan who was the Secretary of the Council gave preference to my candidature simply because I was working as a trainer of teachers in a Teachers Training College, young vibrant and versatile. Our office was at Mapo. Shortly after I joined their service, it was observed that the Staff strength had expanded as we were now having a larger organization. We had to look elsewhere for office accommodation. We were able to secure one at Oke-Ado, opposite UMC practicing School. The Mapo Office was now turned to a Library. It was a wooden block directly under my supervision. I had the inventory and record of everything there kept.

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Suddenly, we heard that the whole block was engulfed in fire and everything therein got burnt. “What could have been the cause of fire accident in this type of office”? We asked ourselves. Meanwhile, we did not occupy the block alone. There was a treasury office there. I wrote the report of the incident and submitted it to the District Officer (D.O.). Few weeks after, I received a letter of recommendation for sending inventory of all what we lost, even though our neighbour, the treasury, could not do so. However, I had a nasty experience I would never forget which occurred partly as a result of my carelessness. It happened when I omitted a financial order, to place a requisition before the standing committee on Education for its ratification and approval.

But because I had enough fund that was about to lapse, if I did not spend it from the budget. I hastily approved the list that was brought before me. The suppliers immediately delivered the items. In a matter of days, Education Committee met and my issue came up. I was accused of issuing irregular contracts, perhaps, that I might receive kickback. I felt so bad, because all my actions were done with good intentions. My background, as a missionary trainee could not have made me a ‘kickback stuff’. Anyway, I left everything for God. There was nothing I could say that would convince them that I did it in good faith. The committee decided on what to do, perhaps to surcharge me. God has his ways of doing things. About this time, Chief

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Adegoke Adelabu came to Ibadan and met with the Chairman in respect of the issue.

He observed that not much money was involved and that my action was one acted in good faith. That was how the case was rested. The situation really saddened me and I was becoming tired of working with IDC. I thought perhaps if it were in the government establishment, I would not have been treated the way I was treated. After this incident, I applied as Adult Education Officer with the government, but the IDC would not let me go. I was seconded to IDC for another six months and later to MidWest, but I refused to go to Benin. There was another incident that is worth mentioning. That was the Nicholson Panel of Enquiry in 1955. I was made one of the defence witnesses. That is to say, I had to be attending court proceedings. I had never been to court in my life for whatever reason, either to observe or testify.

The Nicholson Panel of Enquiry was set up to look into alleged acts of nepotism and irregularities surrounding the appointment of three forest guards. This case, directly involved Chief Adegoke Adelabu, a Minister and former Chairman of IDC. He was found guilty of some of the charges and was to be punished accordingly. But he was absolved of the irregularity in appointing the three forest guards, on my defence – in all honesty, proper examinations were conducted for the guards and they were properly appointed. Nicholson Panel found him

92 THE PART TO PLAY guilty of other charges and he was removed as a Minister and the IDC was dissolved. The Ibadan people were not happy about his removal, but there was nothing they could do.

Joseph Sanusi Gbadamosi Adegoke Adelabu was like an idol, the strongman of Ibadan politics then, as Lamidi Adebibu is now, in Ibadan. Who dared look up to his face! I remember the time I employed the service of his driver, to come and be driving my newly bought car, ‘Zephyr Six’, one of the best elegant cars then. “Unknown to me, the driver that I employed was his driver. When the report got to him, he was angry although I did not know he was. One day I went to Adelabu’s area to see my good friend, Ero Phillips. His men accosted me and dragged me to him. He only cautioned me and I promised I would withdraw the service of his driver, after all I did not know the man was his driver.

So with the report of Nicholson, he was found guilty. A new council had to be put in place. Oba Olubadan Akinyele was made the new chairman of the council. Rev. E. O. Alayande became the new Chairman of Education Board, Mr. V. O. Esan retained his position as the Secretary of the Council, his wife, Mrs. Wuraola Esan became the woman member of the Board and I retained my position as Education Officer. Mrs. Wuraola Esan was a good woman, very pleasant. She was later installed the Iyalode of Ibadanland. She was very hardworking; and she really tried for the Board. It was during this time, she founded

93 THE PART TO PLAY the Peoples Girls School at Molete.

With Rev. E. O. Alayande at the helm of affairs of the Education Board, I was directly working with him as the Education Officer. During this time, the scope of activity became expanded. We were working hand-in-hand with Oba I. B. Akinyele who was the new Chairman of the Council. We saw the need to found a new Teachers Training College. We succeeded in doing so. Mr. D. B. Oni became the Principal. The school was temporarily sited at Oke-Ado. It later moved to the present site of Ibadan North East Council and later when it was merged with the existing IDTTC, they were moved to the permanent site at Iyana Offa. That happened shortly after I left in 1957. We also succeeded in sending many Ibadan indigenes to institutions of higher learning on scholarship. My other colleagues at the council then were Chief S. O. Fadahunsi who headed the Works Department and later became a top public servant in Lagos State. There was also Chief J. A. Woye a retired Permanent Secretary and local government guru in the then Western State Public Service.

ELECTORAL OFFICER During my tenure as Education Officer for Ibadan Division, I was the Electoral Officer for Ibadan Central, covering Mapo, Oranyan, Popo-Yemoja and so on. Through out the Western Region, this constituency was no 1, that is, constituency 1. My

94 THE PART TO PLAY travelling teachers also were electoral officers. They were – Nathaniel Ayo Ajibola for Ibadan North, Ogunkeye for Ibadan South, Amosu for Ibadan East and Fatola for Ibadan West. Months ahead of elections we were out into our constituencies, appointing supervisors, electoral clerks, returning officers and polling orderlies. The 1956 election, which we supervised, was peaceful. The electioneering campaign was not violent. There were two parties for the elections – namely – NCNC having ‘cock’ as its logo hence the name “Egbe Alakuko” and Action Group, having Palm tree as their logo, with the name ‘egbe olope’.

There were some independent candidates too like Adeoye Adisa, who won one of the seats then. But Action Group then won the majority of the seats. The Action Group dominated the Western House of Assembly. But in Ibadan and other urban centres, NCNC won majorly. It was in the rural areas that AG won their major seats and thus was able to form the government. My experience as electoral officer greatly helped me a lot when I was to join politics. I gained so many insights into politics and the mathematics and intrincacies of politics became clearly known to me. Furthermore, I was representing the travelling teachers at the Secretariat; this made me to be able to master electoral laws, its usage, operation and rules, even though I never had the dream of being a politician. That

95 THE PART TO PLAY was not to say I had no political bias. I was an underground member of Action Group. Action Group members then majorly dominated my council. But when it came to electoral processes, I remained unbiased, in discharging my duty as Electoral Officer.

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CHAPTER SEVEN A CLARION CALL BY MY NATIVE COMMUNITY & MY DILEMMA ‘’My colleagues in Ibadan would not see me leaving the splendour of a city for a repulsive village situation to start a virgin school from my prestigious position. I acted against spiritual warnings from an uncle. But the events that followed, as a matter of destiny, made me to resign my appointment in Ibadan to live in my rural community. Chief Emmanuel Adeyemo, a much elderly friend who later became Olubadan counselled me against going back home. My mentor, Ven. Emmanuel Alayande told me to go hme and make the school my baby’’ was already making my mark as Education Secretary in Ibadan where I was deeply loved. I was spreading my I tentacles through my commitment and dedication to my job that included assisting to grow the Education sub- sector. The elite class had become fond of me and I had gained their confidence. I was a senior public servant and never thought I would ever be required to leave a thriving career at that period. Towards the end of 1956, Hon. C. O. Komolafe, then member of Federal House of Representatives (1954–1959) an Ipetu indigene, Principal, Ijebu Jesa Grammar School was leading the campaign for establishing a secondary school at Ipetu-Ijesa. This was being done in the usual NCNC hasty manner.

He wanted the name called Apoti Grammar School, in honour of the late war hero, Balogun Apoti of Ipetu-Ijesha. He was requesting people to bring in applications even though they had not met the specific requirements for a Grammar School. There was no land, no required amount as specified by the Government of Western Region for establishing a Secondary

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School. Orunmuyi, who had just arrived from Britain, was welcomed with the offer of principalship. He, however, rejected it on the grounds that he would prefer to take up appointment with Government. At this time, I was in Ibadan working as Chief Education Officer. I had been accumulating my leave over the years so as to enable me go on study leave in Britain. I had the intention of reading law.

So I did not have the intention of going back home to start any secondary school though I did not mind to contribute my own quota to make founding of a Secondary School in Ipetu Ijesa possible. Definitely not to be a principal of a virgin school, a status greatly lower than the one I occupied as Chief Education Officer at Ibadan Division. But then, I agreed to be the Secretary of the Board of Governors for the school. I found them a Principal, in person of Mr. Adeosun. Not quite long, before the school could take off, Mr. Adeosun came back to me in Ibadan informing me that he could not really hold the position. He urged me to go home and re-organize everything, as there was not a single intake to the school not to talk about availability of good classrooms. I had to go home and prepare questions for entrance examination.

This made me to be neck-deep in the setting up of the school, even though I did not intend to do so. Moreover, my colleagues in Ibadan would not see me leaving the splendour of a city for a repulsive village situation. But the events that followed, as a

98 THE PART TO PLAY matter of destiny, made me to resign my appointment as Chief Education Officer. So many people thought it was foolish of me to do so. I would not forget the advice of Ven. Emmanuel Alayande on this subject. His was encouraging, as he told me to go home and make the school my baby. I took this as a challenge and complied. On getting to Ipetu-Ijesha, I observed that nothing was really on ground, no office, no conveniences, no field, no typewriter, and not a single staff, no money, nobody to assist me, and moreover, there was no organization at all.

It was as if I went to punish myself. However, I realised, I had taken a step, and for me, there was no going back. That was how I became the principal and co-founder of Ipetu-Ijesa Grammar School. The love for my hometown brought me out of office as an officer controlling so many institutions to be the principal of a virgin secondary school in a rural setting lacking all basic facilities and social services. The school could not provide accommodation for me in contradiction to a palatial accommodation I was enjoying in Ibadan. But then I had built my own house in Ipetu-Ijesa. That was the first house I built, though it was a small house. The next thing to do was to look for an Assistant, as I could not do it alone. I got one. Oluwole Onawumi began to assist me till the time he proceeded to Germany to read Medicine. Dr. Onawumi is now a medical Doctor based in Lagos. He was, one time, Commissioner for Health in old Oyo State. He assisted me a great deal, within the few months he worked with me.

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PRINCIPAL, IPETU-IJESA GRAMMAR SCHOOL – (1957- 1972)

We put in extra energy to see that the School took a proper look, with all paraphernalia put in place. The school started as purely male but after we passed out two sets, it became mixed. At the start, it was very difficult to get a good and reliable bursar to hold the bursary. Most of them employed usually messed up the treasury and thus betrayed the confidence of the people. By the third year, 1959, the school became double stream. This shows the intensity of work done on the school. In those days, schools were scrupulously patrolled and the system was highly regulated. There were so many conditions that had to be met. In 1962, the first set sat for the West African School Certificate examinations and performed creditably. Many students had ‘A’s in Latin and some in Mathematics.

Before long, the school became day and boarding as we built boys hostel, and girls hostel. We also built residential quarters for the female staff and the expatriate staff. Moreover, most of the time the expatriates preferred to live in my house. The first student enrolment was 33. Among them we had many outstanding and clever students. Some of them were indigenes and indigent. I gave scholarship to six of them at £30 each per

100 THE PART TO PLAY session. Among these brilliant students were Tunji Oluwatayo now a retired, Permanent Secretary, Lagos State, Oluwatayo Kuponiyi, my cousin, also retired Director in one of the federal government establishments and Adeayo Gbadegesin, now late. They were all brilliant minds who passed out in flying colours and secured admission to different universities of their choice. Oladipo Doherty, (Bobo Doherty), Solomon Ezobi, a chartered accountant, and Tayo Olowoye were some of the first intakes.

D. A. Falode, who later beame a clergyman after a stint in the private sector was senior prefect from the outset of the school. He was the Prefect throughout these six-years in the school. Whenever I see these good old students or hear about them, I always remember the good old days. I loved my students and they loved me too. The act of rascality was never found in them. But one major event happened that really affected the school. I should call this one of the challenges I faced as the Principal of Ipetu-Ijesa Grammar School. We were to train staff of our own on bond arrangement. We would have them bonded to serve at least 2 years for one year of training. The government of the day too gave its support and so the programme came under the term ‘Regulation 19’. This regulation was to help individual school to train staff. Government gave each school subvention, in addition to the usual grant, for this exercise. This meant that the school owned the money and not the students on training.

We had seven of them in University of Ibadan. They all came

101 THE PART TO PLAY back. One of them, M. O. Olowe, whom we trained since he was in Government College, through Nigeria College of Arts and Science, now Polytechnic, Ibadan, to the University level became rebellious. He began to be rascally. He had a walking stick, which he brought to school. He would not resume punctually. He usually came late especially when we were in the assembly and would be marching the walking stick uncaringly and rascally. If this was allowed unchecked, it would affect the discipline of the school. He was warned but he could not yield. I therefore called the attention of the Board of Governors to this unfortunate behaviour of Mr. Olowe.

To my greatest shock, one of the members of the board argued that Olowe was a graduate teacher and so was I. That I was only fortunate to be ‘primus-inter-pares’, but ‘’graduate is graduate’’and so, Olowe could not be suspended. With this, the tone and discipline of the school began to go down. Olowe applied to other schools around but I wrote them that Olowe had not completed the bond he had with the school. Immediately the school authorities received my letters, they rejected him, but at last he landed as St. Finbarr’s College, Akoka, and Lagos. I wrote them too, and he was rejected but later employed. The case finally got to court.

I was only acting in good faith. What informed my action was the fact that Mr. Olowe got trained under ‘Regulation 19’ and he was bonded to serve Ipetu Ijesa Grammar School two years for

102 THE PART TO PLAY one year of training and the school had boned him for this training since he was in the Government College. I only summoned him to the Board for discipline so that the standard of discipline in the School, which obtained before he came from training, did not fall. The suspension order, which I gave him, was not meant to send him away. And so, he could not use this as an excuse to leave the school. Anyway, the action of the Board member who took sides with him was precipitated by political factor. I shall write about this later as this work proceeds.

But it is interesting to note that the remaining six of the teachers that were trained under this Regulation 19, did well. They served Ipetu-Ijesa Grammar School with all their energy and brought fame to the School. Chief Mojisoluwa Akinfenwa, one of them, a native of Erin-Ijesa, was the Games Master. He helped to promote the image of the School. He was particularly useful to me through his supervision we were able to have a standard field and different courts such as table tennis and lawn tennis courts. Before now, Chief Akinfenwa had served in various capacities. He was a strong Action Group member, former Commissioner for Education in the old Oyo State, and Senator, Upper House of the National Assembly from 1999 to 2003.

Chief Olu Oladunjoye fondly called Olu Olad was one of the seven. He served Ipetu Ijesa Grammar School, until he

103 THE PART TO PLAY completed the bond. He was a very good Geography teacher and a wonderful patriot. With him, there can never be a dull moment. He left after the bond and served severally outside Ipetu. He later came back home to serve as Principal of the Grammar School. There he retired. While he was serving with me at the Grammar School, he was very diligent. He worked in solidarity with me throughout. Many were wondering why the relationship could be so strong. Others were rtd Commander Rufus Oke who joined the Navy and lectured for years at the Nigerian Defence Academy and Ambassador Dapo Fafowara who returned his scholarship expenses after the first year. Chief Olu Ogunyemi after completing his own bond later served as principal, Odo-Otin Community High School, Okuku.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Needless, do I say that the love for my community brought me back home. Way back in 1938, I was an active member and secretary of Ipetu-Ijesa Progressive Union. The union had come together, during that time to work on retrieving back the Igbojika, a forest reserve and how to bring back our traditional ruler who was excommunicated to Oyo on the order of Government for mounting opposition against it in respect of Igbojika afforestation. I came back home in 1957, to be a member of Ipetu-Ijesa Development Committee under the Chairmanship of Mr. Goke Ibiyemi, an ex-police officer who had become a court Assessor. My niece, Bolanle Babalola (nee Obakin) of blessed memory, who was very fond of me, was also a member and

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Secretary of the Committee.

Bolanle was a teacher at home. Her activity helped her to secure government scholarship to study abroad. She later got married to Dr. Babalola at Ikole-Ekiti. She was the daughter of my late mentor, Pa Obakin who in his lifetime gave me authority over his children, the same way he related to me. The first thing we did was to organize the people to build a sub post-office, with few boxes and bags. Meanwhile, before I left home for St. Andrews, Revd. Ajibola, cited earlier had single-handedly built a Postal Agency for Ipetu-Ijesa Community. Now, we needed a Post Office because the town was developing fast. We have now had a secondary school and other new things.

We were able to complete the building and we sent Ajetomobi for training as Postal Assistant. He trained under Mr. Kio and came back to work with my uncle, Agbuwajo Fateropa who was the erstwhile Post Master. This greatly brought progress to Ipetu-Ijesa. Now we did not need to travel to Ilesa to collect our letters as we used to do. We could now receive and send letters out. Another thing we worked on was making proper layouts for streets. We persuaded our people to release parts of their lands to make this possible. Some did but many did not. That really affected road networking in Ipetu-Ijesa even till now.

In order to make my stay at home more meaningful and

105 THE PART TO PLAY productive, I joined the Ipetu-Ijesa Young Men Christian Association. Mr. Goke Ibiyemi was also our Chairman. Through this Association, so many developmental programmes were carried out for the town. We took time to explain issues to the common people. Hon. C. O. Komolafe, former Federal Minister was also a member of the Association. He was a strong member of NCNC while the Chairman and I were members of Action Group. But this did not in any way affect us negatively. It was more of religion that politics. We were leaders at St. Paul’s Anglican Church; and also as the development of the town.

The association donated money to convert the old postal agency to a public library, which was opened by Chief T.L. Oyesina, the President, YMCA Nigeria. It was a big occasion that promoted YMCA in Ipetu. During that time, Ipetu Ijesa YMCA was next to Ibadan in the whole of Western Region, as YMCA did not enjoy much spread then. The General Secretary, of YMCA worldwide, a white man came to Nigeria during this time to organize the activities of the Association in other parts of Nigeria. After he visited us at Ipetu, he stayed in my house throughout. He liked me so much. I was made Vice- President YMCA Nigeria. Meanwhile, I had reserved the top floor of my house for visitors. At different times, important visitors who handled projects in Ipetu did stay there, as the place was the most comfortable place in Ipetu Ijesa then.

Ipetu Ijesa Young Men Christian Association became central to

106 THE PART TO PLAY other areas like Ilesa, Osogbo, Ile-Oluji, Akure, and so on. In my school, I organized the Y-teens that always went as far as Akure and Ile-Oluji for football and other sporting activities. Y-Teens Nigeria was good for Character building. Parents did appreciate this and brought their children for membership. Every year they did go to Eruwa for camp activities. They also camped locally. The association was so strong in Ipetu to the extent that Y’s men in Rhur area of Germany visited Ipetu with the plan of sponsoring a small institution where boys from all over the country would be trained in smithery and carpentry. We drew plans for these courses. But on a sad note, when the project was at its thickest point of negotiation, I was transferred out of Ipetu at the end of 1972. And that marked the end of the project. This should have been a bonus for Ipetu-Ijesa as the Germans were almost set to be bringing iron from Germany for smithering. This was really one of my constraints.

IPETU-IJESA WATER PROJECT Like many communities in Nigeria, in those old days, an Ipetu Ijesa person depended on streams for drinking and for other domestic uses. We depended on River Oika, which we drank raw without any treatment. People of this town did their washing and bathing inside the water, particularly after the day’s work on the farm and on their way back home they stopped over and washed themselves clean. The danger of this was that the water became polluted and did carry germs, which could not be seen ordinarily and so people got infected somehow; as a result of

107 THE PART TO PLAY which many people died. During this period, Erin, which is our close neighbour town has had its own water scheme, which provided water from a source called Olumirin.

Needless do we say therefore that our people too would have made drastic efforts to see that theirs too, came to reality. Fortunately ours appeared in the 1958 gazette together with 9 other towns in the old Western Region. As soon as I got to Ipetu- Ijesa, consultation began which brought Chief S. O. Fadahunsi and other Engineers down to Ipetu-ijesa. The survey was carried out which gave us two options: Oluminrin Waterfalls or Oika Stream. The Olumirin water was tested, but found to be dirty, as it contained specks, even though it is perennial. Oika river too was tested and found, to be even dirtier. So we had to look elsewhere. Another source tried was Olokuku stream.

This was also perennial but too small for the purpose. We found that it could not climb the hills to Ikeji-Ile. That is to say we put our immediate neighbour towns in mind for supply, even though we called the project Ipetu-Ijesa water scheme. This took us to Okun-Oke, on the way to Ogotun at the outskirt of Ikeji-Ile. The water was found perennial and neat, good enough to supply water that will serve Ipetu Ijesa, Ikeji Ile and Ikeji Arakeji. But, it was found that no amount of digging could bring the water down to Ipetu. Chief S. O. Fadahunsi therefore suggested that the Ikeji Reservoir be installed at Ikeji-Ile from where pipes would be fitted to bring the water to Ipetu, by gravitational pull.

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The water was dammed even with the intention of future expansion to serve agricultural purpose. A reservoir of 250,000 gallons capacity was erected very close to Ikeji-Ile into which the water was pumped from the source. It was also found that the gravitational pull could be too severe thereby breaking the pipes if it could have to serve the towns directly from the Reservoir. This made us to erect a stoppage reservoir of 75,000 gallons capacity, very close to Ipetu to check the force at which the water was coming down. The project became a reality in 1965 when we started drinking tap water. Arrangements were made also to see that Ikeji-Ile and Ikeji-Arakeji got supply from this source. The water could not get to Ikeji-Ile until we installed a return valve, which supplied two points to Ira and 2 points to Ikeji-Ile.

We did not stop at that, a booster station was constructed at Alahun to facilitate frequent supply to us. And so, we had uninterrupted supply of water until recently, when we found that the taps were dry. The two engines mounted were projected to last for more than 20 years. Invariably, they did. By the time this project was in the pipeline, we were mindful of its maintenance. We thought people would pay a little water rate to be able to service the scheme. I doubt if such rate was paid. But then we were happy that the project came to reality. Goodbye to diarrhoea and cholera, which had brought about tragic loss of lives.

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I was glad I had made great impact in making Ipetu-Ijesa great. By 1965, we have had a Post Office, Secondary School of our own, the water project too got completed and we were waiting to have electricity. We had this, not quite long. My coming home had been eventful.

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CHAPTER EIGHT THE COST OF PATRIOTISM & POLITICAL PERSECUTION

t the Ibadan Divisional Council, where I worked last before I went back home, I had a very nice time. Besides, I Aenjoyed a very good working relationship with other members of staff, right from the Chairman of the Council to the lowest member of staff. The councillors too were not left behind. We were all good friends. This was contrary to the thoughts I had in mind while I was moving to the council. I thought I would be a fish outside the water. Apart from the problem I had with the erstwhile Chairman of the Council, Chief J. M. Johnson about which Adegoke Adelabu promptly intervened, I had no regret. Mr. S. A. B. Babalola was next to me in command. He was the Officer in charge of movement of travelling Teachers. He went round to supervise teachers at Ibadan urban and rural. Because he did a lot of travelling, he had a Chevrolet car. He was very loving and was a good Christian.

He led our prayers each morning. He had a very good wife, very loving and caring. My travelling teachers included late Nathaniel Ayo Ajibola, my very good friend, about whom I have written much, E. O. Ogunkeye (deceased) Amosu and S. A. Fatola. My Chief Clerk was Sekoni. Olukotun was the Finance Clerk and S. A. Lawuyi ‘STA Law’ was my good typist. At the end of each

111 THE PART TO PLAY typing, he put the ensign: ‘STA Law’. They were all loving and very loyal. All of them, no exemption, stood against the idea of going home to start a secondary school. Their argument was that, a single prosperous man among 20 indigent people, himself is indigent. Chief Adeyemo, who later became the Olubadan, was then the Treasurer of the Council. He approached me personally. He talked as an elderly person, much older than me, even to have me as a son; he shared some experience with me in respect of the idea of going home. That it was as if I was going to endanger my life.

According to them, what obtained in Ibadan was quite a different kettle of fish compared to a small town like mine. In Ibadan, nobody envies anybody. The situation was “live and let live”. Most of the government workers lived outside the family area, despite the fact that nobody envied them. All these dampened my morale, if there was any. I did not have it other than the patriotic consciousness that it would be better for me to go, so that people would not say that this one was staying in Ibadan while his people failed to start a Grammar School at home. The feeling of shame if I sat down playing the big head here came repeatedly. As from that moment, my joy became diminished. Apart from my colleagues at work, my friends and other colleagues were echoing the same opinion. Among them was Alimi Adesokan who vehemently opposed the idea, warning me that some people at home would be thankful of my coming, others would be jealous of any achievement I had thinking that it was ‘their own’ money I used to build myself up.

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SHUNNED SPIRITUAL WARNINGS TO HONOUR NY COMMUNITY’S REQUEST The only person who was positive about the whole idea was Pa E. O. Alayande. He advised me to go and pick it up as my baby and that God being with me, I would not regret. Meanwhile, I had given my word at home that I would come and I was feeling the sense of shame if I did otherwise. Ultimately, the feeling of patriotism surpassed any negative advice I received. I was positive. But then, the very day I got home I almost regretted that I came to show them that I had succumbed to their clarion call. What happened was that I met Rev. S. F. Ayotunde, an uncle to my mother. He too came home. He did not like the idea at all. He said I should not have considered the appeal to come home at all. He added that I should have asked Mr. C. O. Komolafe (as he then was) to come home himself and take up the challenge; after all, he too was a graduate. He believed if I should leave my job at Ibadan, it should be for a higher offer, eight years after graduation rather than going low to start a virgin secondary school. Had it been I had heard from him earlier, I would not have chosen to come home. It was as if I had fallen into a trap.

As if that was not enough, he told me about his own experience of the behaviour of Ipetu people, especially when it comes to the question of money. He had once worked at the St. Paul’s

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Church and he knew what he was talking about. He could be right, but then I had already made up my mind, to forget the position, the money, and benefits I was enjoying in Ibadan. I decided to settle down for the job ahead. The first thing I observed was that, all what they told me that they had put in place were not available. None of the requirements was available. Before a school could be established, the community or person doing so, must have ₤4000 in an account, but by the time I got home, they did not even have ₤400, no principal’s house, no staff quarter, no official car, no single classroom, no typist, no teacher, nothing whatsoever. I felt I had been foolish not to have found out these things before I left Ibadan. If I knew all these things were not available, I would not have succumbed to any pressure. I could as well choose to start my own school at least; I would know it was my property.

As if that was not enough, those who brought me down home did not give me any necessary co-operation. They all deserted me. I had to do all things on my own. But then, people were not capable of doing much even if they wanted to. Normally, before a school could start, there should be a principal who should see that classrooms are readily available, administrative department put in place and entrance examination or admission made ready. All these were not done. The first thing I did then was to look for a place to accommodate most of the first intakes who were mostly non natives. On my own initiative, I constructed desks and started off at St. May’s School, Oke- Owa on 27th February, 1957. I was desperately in search of

114 THE PART TO PLAY someone who could replace me. I took my accumulated vacation, believing that before the expiration of my leave, I would get one. It was impossible.

The problem then was that there was no graduate to take the appointment. Even if we got one, there was no money to take care of his accommodation and buy a car for him. While at Oke- Owa, I took time to supervise the progress of the proposed classroom building at the proposed permanent site, which was the site of Aro-Odo Grammar School. We worked on two classrooms there initially. And so, my first constraint was lack of preparation. Another constraint was the issue of recruiting qualified teachers and other non-academic staff. With the village life of Ipetu, it was difficult to get qualified teachers, who would not mind to work there. During this time, there were no tap water and electricity. I managed to recruit just one person to assist me. That was Oluwole Onawumi, who took arts subject while I took Mathematics. Mathematics at that time entailed arithmetic, algebra and geometry I also taught them Latin.

Onawumi then was an auxiliary teacher, who soon left for further studies overseas. As we continued to develop this site, we found out that the place was not really suitable for that purpose. The topography was rough and sloppy running to a stream called Aro-Odo. That was a site they picked before I came. I convinced them to take a new place, almost opposite this site. I succeeded in doing so. We started developing the

115 THE PART TO PLAY present site. By the fourth year, we completed the first block of building and moved there. Ipetu people usually referred to the grammar school as the ‘School of Adelegan’ (Sukuru Adelegan). I single handedly acquired the land for the school from the Obakin family. Some people even had the insinuation that I was going to build my own school on this newly acquired land and leave them to continue at the old site.

As works were progressing, I went about looking for more qualified teachers so that the students would be sound academically. This took me to Sapele where I succeeded bringing down one Mr. Akande, a graduate teacher, who stayed with us for two years and left when he secured a better appointment. By this time, I was already Deputy- Speaker of Western House of Assembly. I contacted the then Minister for Education who helped me to locate one Mr. Paul Mozia, a thickly built man and indigene of Issele-Uku in the Mid-West Region. I took all the risk to travel all the time without any driver. It was not easy to get a driver then as those who knew how to drive preferred to drive the commercial vehicles called mammy wagons to earn more. Paul Mozia was a Principal before that time. I needed him to assist me because I was sometimes absent in the School to be able to attend to my duties at the House of Assembly.

I gave Mozia a free hand to operate. His disposition to the Staff especially the teachers was very tough. His spartan discipline made some of the teachers especially the natives to be against

116 THE PART TO PLAY him. Besides, he was a hunter. He handled gun. This made people to fear him. I did not stop recruiting good teachers and by 1963, we have had good and qualified teachers. I left them in the hands of Mozia who was acting as Principal. About this time also, the teachers we trained under Regulation ‘9’ were graduating and they reported at the school to complement their bond. I had problem with one of them, Mr. Olowe, who was not behaving well at all. I had earlier written about his act of insubordination. But there was more to this than meet the eye. His action was backed up by the partisanship of those people who opposed me, because we were no more in the same political camp. Besides, Principals generally were affecting the tone and discipline in schools as a result of the loss of power when they now equate the Principal with others.

But in all honesty, people like Olu Oladunjoye and Mojisoluwa Akinfenwa greatly co-operated. The two saw me as a father figure who was out for their good all the times. Eventually, the case of Olowe landed in court. He might have been encouraged by government officials in his bid to break the bond and was now a staff of St. Finbar’s College Akoka, Lagos and yet they did not do anything about it. Instead the then Provincial Education Officer, Ala, came to court to stand a witness for him, that Regulation 19 was not controlled by schools directly. And based upon the evidence of the Education Officer, he was allowed to go without serving any bond. This to me, was good riddance to bad business. Our inability to appoint a good bursar or accounts clerk who had a good knowledge of accounts and

117 THE PART TO PLAY bookkeeping caused a major setback for the school. This issue of bad accounting caused me a lot of embarrassment.

Meanwhile for the first year, I had no accounts clerk. I handled this personally even though I did not really have experience of Accounting other than ‘one side’ account. In the second year, I succeeded in getting one Mr. Ladipo Ogunbinu, an Ipetu indigene who was earlier working with a cooperative society in Ikirun before he was laid off. I taught him the old experience I had about ‘filing’, which I acquired in Ibadan while I was Chief Education Officer. Not quite long. I received a major embarrassment resulting from carelessness of the clerk for filing away a student’s file. There was a particular student whose guardian was residing overseas. He sent a letter to us in respect of the school fees of that student. The letter was attached with postal or money order. The clerk did not have the intention of stealing the money order. He was only careless to have filed out the student’s file into the cabinet. Nobody knew there was such in the parcel left in the cabinet.

We now drove the student away for not paying the school fees. The guardian heard about this and instead of writing the school to find out what happened to the money he sent, he went ahead to write a petition to the Ministry of Education. This incident became a public issue that brought about public inquiry at the court hall, Ipetu Ijesa. It was nothing to worry about because both the clerk and I were innocent. He brought out the student’s

118 THE PART TO PLAY file and there we saw the letter and the money order; which was presented at the public inquiry. The confidence, which the people had in me, was eventually justified. As if that was not enough, as soon as I got elected into the House, there arose opposition from so many quarters. Opposition from the rival party NCNC added its own toll. Not quite long, the NCNC scribe wrote the Ministry that I had sold the old site to the Anglican diocese for ₤50 (fifty pounds).

This also became a case of public inquiry. This time, at the market place, Mr. N. O. Faluyi, who led the previous one, was also to lead this inquiry. Again, they had not done their homework well before they wrote their petition. They should have found out from the Anglican Mission, how they obtained the site. At last, the petitioners could not justify their accusation, as we did not take any money from the Anglican Mission. I could not have done that. He was put to shame publicly at the market square for leveling such unfounded accusation against a person, who had brought fame to the school. All he could say was “Me mu gbee”, meaning I did not know the time. As from that day he was nicknamed ‘Ojo me mu gbee” and so he failed in his bid to put me to public ridicule and shame. His was just a tip of the iceberg, compared to what my treasury clerk did. I had received several complaints, about him from different quarters in respect of his shady deeds and financial impropriety.

But I had not caught him. I did check his account, that is, the receipts he issued with the amount he recorded. Meanwhile, I

119 THE PART TO PLAY did not detect his tricks, until I appointed an Assistant Bursar. Through this man, we were able to detect his tricks. We found out that he usually received fees from students without issuing proper receipts to them. I had always told the students to insist on receiving receipt for any payment they made. I believed the students were doing exactly what I instructed them to do. At the end of the day, I usually checked his record and I was almost cock-sure, that he was not stealing the school’s money. My Vice Principal, Mozia did not also detect any theft. We always had yearly auditing of our accounts without any detection of fraud. I did not know he was conniving with the External Auditor. It was the Assistant Bursar who found out that he had been collecting money from the students without issuing them the school receipts. The students had just challenged me that there were some students who did not pay their school fees among those that I allowed to remain in the school.

I was surprised to hear this, because it was only that names I received from the Bursar that I acted upon. I then thought something funny was going on. I told the Assistant Bursar to investigate somehow. That was how he was able to solve the riddle, class by class from where I started my own investigation. I gathered that he actually took money from the students and gave them hand receipts. I realized he had stolen up to ₤2,000 (two thousand pounds). The students who were not issued with the school receipts were made to write their statements. They wrote that he gave them hand receipts, and their parents did not reject them. I later found out that the parents of these students

120 THE PART TO PLAY were members of a popular cult and he himself was one. And because of the fraternity that bounded them they did not raise any alarm.

Immediately I detected this and put him on suspension. Meanwhile, that was going to be the second time. I gave him one when I found that he took money from students in my name. He collected money from the new intakes before he gave them admission letters and he always claimed he did so, on my instruction. That time the Board of Governors intervened and he was re-appointed. I brought his case again before the Board. There was one Mrs. Bamigbose whose children were among the victims. They were not issued receipts for 3 terms. She came from Ibadan with the temporary receipts he issued to her children. I made her to write statement in respect of this. She too was a member of their cult. Yet she wrote it. He thought everything he did with members of the cult would not be exposed.

ATTEMPTS TO SMEAR MY INTEGRITY The standing committee ratified that he should remain suspended and his case be refered to the police. It was sad to note that while investigation was on, he remained unrepentant as he continued to steal. This gave the committee concrete evidence that he had been stealing and so he could not offer any defence before the Board. I took all the evidence straight to Osogbo Provincial Police Headquarter and the matter was

121 THE PART TO PLAY taken up. To my surprise, some people were mischievous about the whole matter. They argued he could not do it all alone. I should know about it. But what saved me was the manner by which I brought about detectives on him to see the lapses. The Board had no option than to ask the police to go ahead and charge him to court. The case was brought to Magistrate Court, Ilesa. It did not end until 1973.

Some parents were serious enough to say they would follow up until he was punished. Even some members of is cult, who were not natives of Ipetu Ijesa, were ready to give witness against him while those of the native Ipetu backed out because of the fraternity that existed among them. During that time until the time Obasanjo came to curtail activities of cults in government circles, their influence was so permissive and people feared them a great deal. Counsel to the Bursar, Abiodun Onibokun put it to me that the day I asked the accused to go and purchase day old chicks for my poultry farm that he used the money he collected from the students to buy them, and so I knew about the money. But I told the court that the money he used to buy the day old chicks was given to him by my wife. He could not raise any objection to it. I was surprised that Biodun Onibokun, who used to be my close associate in Action Group could sell his conscience and take up the case against me. In 1961, he was one of the governors of the shadow election/meeting we held at Pa Gabriel Oyinlola’s house at Erin-Oke when he was adopted as the one to take over from Olamijuilo as Chairman, Ijesa North Local Government Council. On that day too, I was

122 THE PART TO PLAY confirmed the leader of Action Group in our local council area. Meanwhile, I had taken the leadership from Olamijulo since I defeated him at the shadow election in 1959. Pa Gabriel Oyinlola liked me a great deal. God bless his soul.

Nevertheless, it was proved that the bursar stole and he had to pay back or get imprisoned. In 1969, I experienced another shock of my life, when some, staff of the institution got themselves involved in examination malpractices which eventually led to seizure of the result of 1969 West African School Certificate Examination. This was another sad moment I would never forget. I was known and reputed for discipline. I had track record of honesty and strict adherence to the rule of examinations. I would never encourage my students to cheat even in internal examinations not to talk of external. What happened was that, one of my officials had come to me suggesting that the WAEC Question papers, which by practice, were always given to the Principals for safe keeping, be opened so that the students would receive help to pass well. I vehemently rejected this. What followed was that, the teacher did not say anything until the examination started.

He and some members of staff collected the examination questions from students especially in Physics and Chemistry and worked them out for them. I did not know this. It was from the news on Radio that I heard that the WASCE result for Ipetu- Ijesa Grammar School for that year was cancelled. I felt very

123 THE PART TO PLAY sad and as this kind of thing had never happened in my life. This particular incident and that of the Bursar went a long way to tarnish the good image of the school, which had been built over the years. People had been talking highly about our school particularly about the integrity of the principal and the fame I had earned for the school. But then out of envy, I suppose, my enemies went about whispering about that I stole the school’s money. They went to the extent of checking my account in the bank and perhaps if I had accounts in other banks and even stock exchange.

I WAS WARNED That reminded me of the words of Chief Adeyemo, (later Olubadan of Ibadan) Treasurer in Ibadan Division, when I was ruminating on plans to come home. I had bitter, perhaps the worst experience with one notable contractor in the town, so to say. Through this same man, I had built three ‘blocks’ or building; two for classrooms and the third was the girls hostel. Each time, the contractor insisted against my wish, he would take argumentation, on top of the initial contract agreement. Before he came to request for this, he usually received go- ahead from the board, against my wish. But then, I had no choice, than to augment the contract. The building that was not supposed to cost more than four thousand pounds (₤4,000) would now cost five thousand and five hundred pounds (₤5,500). Each time my colleagues asked me how much I spent on each building, they were always astounded. I made up my

124 THE PART TO PLAY mind on what I would do next.

There came another time for me to embark on other projects. I wanted to build three staff quarters and one physics/chemistry laboratory. I contracted one of the staff quarters to his cousins and the remaining to another person. Both did the work perfectly without having to seek for augmentation on top of the original contract agreement. Hence he was jinxed at and scornfully called ‘augmentation contractor’. He was highly infuriated with this situation. Since then, he chose to show me the other side of life. I had not done him any bad. About that time too, I built another block of classrooms, which turned out to be the most beautiful of all the buildings in that school. It was done by direct labour through the students and some local bricklayers and carpenters. It was the size of the ones we used to contract out at ₤4,000. This one cost me a little less than ₤1,900 (One thousand and nine-hundred pounds) so; I did not regret my action. He could go ahead and do whatever. I did not fear him.

At this time, I went to London for the CPA meeting and it took me one month. By the time I came back, there was cold reception and I knew the allegiance had reduced and people had become less enthusiastic. Not quite long, some people began to lead insurrection against me in the school. This eventually resulted into students’ riot in the school premises. That day I was not in Ipetu. I went to Ibadan to attend the House sitting and on my way back, I branched at Erin-Ijesha. It was at

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Erin, that I heard that my students were rioting. When I got to Ipetu, one of the students came to intimate me about how the whole thing began. According to him, came to the school premises, and broke a small demonic calabash called ‘irere’ to stir up trouble. In a matter of minutes there was trouble all over the place; as the rioters went about destroying things.

They wrote all sorts of rubbish with black coal chalk on the newly completed buildings that were built by direct labour. What bothered me most was that when I was coming from Ibadan on that fateful day, someone believed to have instigated the occurrence was one of the people I met at Erin-Oke who informed me of the incident. He even alleged that Moji Akinfenwa was being paraded as the new Principal. I found it difficult to believe that Akinfenwa could plot any coup against me just like that. The following morning, I went straight to the Kabiyesi’s palace to report what I was told. I did not go with my car. Not quite long, my driver brought my car and I could see a big hole on the car’s windscreen. Rioters had already damaged it. The rioters again continued the following day. This prompted my supporters to go to Ilesa to invite mobile policemen who hunted for the rioters and got hold of some of them.

Some of them had run away including the paraded Principal – Akinfenwa, who ran to Owo. Those people caught were remanded at Alabere in Ilesa. I knew why this was happening. Apart from the fact that some people were envying my position

126 THE PART TO PLAY and status, they believed I had made so much money from the school. Some were not happy because I had left the camp of Chief Awolowo, believing that I was now in the Nigerian National Democratic Party. It was a mistake on their own part as I was with Akintola, only because I still wanted to be able to achieve my plans for my constituency, more importantly, my immediate community, which was about having its water project completed. I could not afford to be in opposition and watch the chance slip away. Politics need some common sense. I believed I applied it and I did not believe in violence and ugly incidents.

The truth about the matter was that I was closer to Action Group, or UPGA, so to say, than Akintola’s NNDP. I was almost divulging information to AG through Mojisoluwa Akinfenwa. But with the arrest of some people during the riot and the result of the election of 1965, which gave NNDP total victory, the teachers could not take my alibi. That was too bad. I had served Action Group loyally and honestly too, the decision to join Akintola’s Government was jointly taken by all the leaders at Pa Babajide’s house in Esa-Oke. Furthermore, in the course of serving the Action Group, I lost my third child whom I brought from Ibadan. Sade was very sick, yet, I went to Imesi Ile and Esa-Oke to organize people and later in the day to receive Awolowo at Banuso Hotel Ilesa. Before I came back, she had convulsed and there was no vehicle to bring her down to Ilesa on time. At this time the only person who had a car, apart from me, in the whole of Ipetu-Ijesa was Fagbulu; and he too was not

127 THE PART TO PLAY available. It was later when he came from where he went that, he helped to bring my daughter to Ilesa. But it was rather too late. They located me and I took her to Osogbo where she gave up the ghost.

Sad as it was, I brought the child to Ipetu and buried her, but not quite long, the opposing party NCNC came around my house dancing and jubilating. They were rebuked by some people, but they replied that it was only my daughter who died, that it would be better I die, so that they would jubilate the more. That shows how bad people were. That was what I suffered for Action Group, yet they chose to pay me back in a bad coin. They planned to ruin my school and the name I had laboured for over the years. In fact, nobody could claim he was more Action Group than I was. Moreover, where were these people when we were working day and night in the 50’s to break the preponderance of Fadahunsi led NCNC in Ijesaland? Those leaders with whom I fought this fight and won Ijesa North for Action Group were not in any way expressing opprobrium about me. I was still very close to Canon Josiah Akinyemi and Dr. Lawrence Omole during this time. The most unfortunate thing about the whole thing was that some of the people concerned were not natives of Ipetu-Ijesa.

They only connived with my people who loved me for what I did to promote the image of the town. Most of these people were based in Ibadan. The military had taken over, it seemed the

128 THE PART TO PLAY supporters of Awolowo were then in control. There were signs that the Ministry of Education was being moved to persecute principals locally. They allowed politicians to persecute the principals who were known to be followers of S. L. Akintola. Central Schools Board messengers who were merely to carry files were discussing the affairs of such principals, openly. This was due to the fact that their bosses had debased them. Besides, reports from many angles showed there was sign that many people wanted to ruin me politically and even ruin my school. People involved in this plan were varied, from those very close to me; to political opponents who did not care about scruples, neither were they patriotic.

The first thing they did was to campaign for the removal of 10 shillings education tax, since they knew we were no more in government and this education levy was the root of the school development. They succeeded in removing it. Next, they wrote petition under the aegis of Ipetu Ijesa Students Union about the running of the school. The Provincial Education Officer, Mr. Ala came and reported that myself and the Board of Governors had no right to send the students out because of the riot and that it was the Ministry of Education who had the exclusive right to do so. But in actual fact, we did not order the closure of the school; it was the police who did it when they saw that things were being destroyed. More so, some of the students had fled from the school, the remaining students were now asked to go home for safety reason after the board met and confirmed that the school should remain closed temporarily.

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The board also resolved that they should pay for the repair of the building and damages done to the Principal’s office and car. They were to sign an undertaking that they would be of good behaviour, when they came back. Chief Akinfenwa who fled to Owo came back six months later. The new board was in place and they were dictating at the time. He was to be paid the salaries of those months. This behaviour of the board was merely slowing down the development of the school. It killed the tone and discipline of the school, whether it was political or not. It was unusual. This was unlike other schools like Ilesa Grammar School where all were working to bring about development. The problem was that people did not look into the future, the damages were done and it affected the school, till now, but then we actors are now relating together as good neighbours. All the same, I took up the challenge to remain undaunted and inspite of the victimization, I refused to be intimidated.

I should not relent in my effort to upgrade the school I realized that the school was progressing and was next to Ilesa Grammar School when compared to other schools in Ijesaland. Apart from Ilesa Grammar School, we were the only school that had standard Physics and Chemistry Laboratories. Our sporting field was second to none, as we had separate courts and standard football fields. My storey building, which I should have built in Ibadan for good income, I built in Ipetu-Ijesa for the use

130 THE PART TO PLAY of the Grammar School staff. Whereas, I would have been satisfied with my first building in Ipetu Ijesa. Some of my opponents were even saying they would acquire my storey building as part of the school property. I remember, Chief Sekoni who had just finished his extended Management course from Britain came to visit me. He said that my house was a large valuable estate but a wasted asset.

Chief Lawrence Ayeni of Rational Bookstores also held the same view when he said I should have built the house at Ibadan. According to him, my people would never appreciate my patriotism. The house was big, really and had at its back some valuable assets like poultry, piggery and fishpond from where we had valuable food and meat. I also had tangible portion of citrus, plantain and oranges and grapes. All these combined to provoke them to jealousy. Sometimes in 1970, Brigadier Adeyinka Adebayo, the then Military Governor of Western State came to Ipetu-Ijesa to visit my school. He disclosed his aversion to removing principals who had spent many years to develop their schools no matter, whether he had poultry or piggery at the back of his compound. Then I knew there had been report about me to the government. They did not stop there; they influenced the Ministry of Education to write me about the dissolution of the Board of Governors and reconstitution of a new one by the Ministry. I wondered whether the Ministry had right to do so without my prior notice. They sent down names of persons they wanted on

131 THE PART TO PLAY the board but I ignored them. This further escalated the trouble. I went to Dr. Omololu Olunloyo, the then Commissioner of Education, to justify my action. Besides, I was busy with other things then, such as having to visit the Assets Declaration Bureau in respect of my assets. I had just left the House and members were called forth in respect of this subject. This was normal with any public office holder. They too could not find anything in me. I did not have much money in my account. Because of my tight schedule when I was at the House, I could not even find out what entitlements I should receive even as Deputy Speaker, so if anything at all, it was the Government that was still owing me.

Olunloyo gave us another day on which the Board would come. He told me to include four new members out of the list of the reactionaries, to my own list of loyalists. Olunloyo came to Ipetu Ijesa accompanied by his mother to speak to my people especially the representatives of the so-called Ibadan reactionaries. He told them about the recent developments in Nigeria and the need for our community to enhance the human talents we had; the likes of the principal that is, myself. He told them that if I had remained in Ibadan, I would justify my position in this country, considering the level of my interaction with people that really mattered. He concluded by telling them that he had instructed me to pick four out of the petitioners list and add four of my own choice. It was amazing. I did not know Olunloyo when I was in Ibadan but he could have heard about me through his leaders or perhaps, passed through some of the

132 THE PART TO PLAY extra mural classes I did when I was in Ibadan.

I worked with the new board for some time and we carried along smoothly. They soon realized the way we worked and the problems facing the school. Mr. Oni, Principal Government Teacher Training College became the new Chairman. He took over from Chief C. O. Komolafe. He did not stay long before he was transferred to Ibadan. Another person who took over from him as the chairman happened to be one of my extra-mural students in Ibadan. Towards the end of 1972, there came grading of schools in Western State and mass transfer of Principals. About this time, I was close to retirement. I was therefore seeking other alternative of settlement in Ipetu-Ijesa after retirement. That was my thinking, when some officials came from the Ministry of Education, Ibadan. They told me I was one of the oldest principals and should normally be posted to Grade one school, precisely, they mentioned, Olivet Baptist High School, Oyo.

I was next to Chief Solomon Omitade on the seniority list, he being a 1950 graduate. But according to them, my people i.e. the rivals, had prevailed upon them to post me to place far from home, where my influence could not be felt at Ipetu-Ijesa. Eventually, they succeeded and I was posted to Akoko Anglican Grammar School, Arigidi- Akoko, and a school that could not match my school. If it was upgrading, why was it not another school that was graded more than Ipetu Ijesa Grammar School? No regard was given to my age, stature and experience. I

133 THE PART TO PLAY reported there in 1973 January I left my family including children, at Ipetu-Ijesa. This exposed my family to stress. I had to find my way back to Ibadan gradually. I brought my family back to Ibadan and in 1974; I got a transfer to Fiditi Grammar School, Fiditi. That was better, as I was closer to my family. I was in Fiditi till 1976, when I was transferred to Ayedaade Grammar School, Ikire. I enjoyed my stay there for the two sessions I spent, before I retired in 1977. I worked hard to build a standard laboratory and technical subject’s workshop. Even though they had no water, I managed to make myself comfortable; I did not complain. I finally retired in 1977 after spending twenty years as school principal (1957-1977), three years as Chief Education Officer (1955-1957) four years as Graduate Teacher at St. Luke’s Teacher Training College, 1951-1954) five years as Certificated Teacher (Headmaster, 1945-1949 and 3 years as Pupil Teacher 1938 to 1940).

I have no doubt in my mind, that I have lived a fulfilled life. At a time, I remembered what Professor Majasan told me in respect of having to go for my masters and Ph.D. so that I could serve better in the country’s higher institutions. I had no regret at all. I consider everything I lost as the price I had to pay for serving my people. And in all honesty, my people appreciated it and forever they would continue to appreciate what I did for them. The standard with which I built the school in terms of infrastructure, building and staff made the school second to none in the whole of Ijesaland, except Ilesa Grammar School,

134 THE PART TO PLAY at least when someone talks about the schools founded before ours. The school buildings were supervised directly by me even though I contracted them out to builders. I never allowed the contractor to use inferior materials.

That was the reason why till now the buildings are still solidly intact. I am vindicated when one observes what the present administration is now precipitating on in respect of contract evaluation and award processes. The site they chose before I came was a valley. They had started building a six-classroom block there. No survey was done according to the ministry of education’s prescription. The Aro-Odo stream flows very close to the building such that when you are in any of the classrooms you would see the stream flowing. In short, the topography was so bad that an institution could not thrive there. I had to choose the new site and before I left in 1972, we had more than enough classrooms and still there were rooms for expansion, and the fame of the school was tremendously great. Before I left, my people had started drinking water and the electricity project was rapidly in progress. My coming home was a great blessing. The only regret I had was that, by the time I left, I have had some hypertension.

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CHAPTER NINE IN POLITICS HOW WE BROKE THE MONOPOLY OF DR. NNAMDI AZIKIWE’S NCNC IN IJESHALAND s the principal of Ipetu-Ijesa Grammar School, I realized there were lots of works for me to prosecute if I would Asucceed. The school was virgin and a lot of development needed to be carried out. How to do the work successfully and impact positively on my community and environs made me join politics. I realized that in a political dispensation, every leader needs to affiliate himself with a particular party if he is to succeed. You do not win battles by remaining an outside. It is always better to be a participant in order to get a full grasp of the situation.

Those of us who had the opportunity of going to school in our time were very few. By then education was not free, schools were not many, most Nigerians lived from hand to mouth and developmental level was low all over. The economy then was mostly agrarian except few people who took to trading. Economic activity in those days was dominated and controlled by the whites. Few of us who had access to formal education could not do, but have our eyes on releasing our dear country from the yoke of colonial rule and imperialism.

And so, pre-independence politics was majorly centred on

136 THE PART TO PLAY struggles to obtain independence and sovereignty. But then, this really started in the South, Lagos being the Centre and beehive of political activities. Herbert Macaulay led the only major party, which produced constitutional representatives - The Nigerian National Democratic Party. Members were drawn from all over the country but majorly they were the crops of enlightened Nigerians, who made Lagos their base. In those days, over 90% of Nigerians were illiterates. Not quite long, we heard of a group of people with Dr. Maja being one of their leaders under the name ‘Area Party’. Most of the members were Lagosians.

The first experience of people in my part of the country outside Lagos, participating in politics was when Salami Agbaje, Adebisi and other Ibadan indigenes went to Lagos to represent their people. They clamoured for provision of social amenities such as electricity and water. They were all illiterates who could hardly express themselves in English. In short, it was NNDP, which was dominating the political scene of the country up till the time Dr. Nnamdi Azikwe formed a new party under the name National Convention for Nigeria and Cameroon (NCNC). The party was to embrace Nigeria and Cameroon. Majority of the members of NNDP fused with this new party to continue the struggle for liberation.

NCNC was so strong and elitist; and the party was helped a

137 THE PART TO PLAY great deal in the propagation of its political beliefs by the publication called West African Pilot. It was a daily newspaper that competed favourably with the Daily Service. Dr. Azikwe was the Editor of the Pilot newspaper. He had just come back from Ghana where he was a follower of Nkrumah, the Pan African Leader; and was the former editor of Ghana’s most popular newspaper. No wonder the West African Pilot sold like hot cake. I was in Ile-Ife in 1948, when Chief Obafemi Awolow, Dr. Maja and other prominent Yoruba people came there to launch the socio-cultural group called ‘Egbe Omo Oduduwa’. That time I was headmaster and Secretary of Nigeria Union of Teachers, Ife Branch.

Expectedly, people of my like would be expected at the launching. It was good Awolowo came at that time. He felt that the Yorubas should not be left out of the struggle for the political sovereignty of the country and so our people needed to come together as a tribe. As at then, the Igbo had galvanized themselves together; courtesy of Dr. Nnamdi Azikwe. Many of them were in the political forefront, especially with the birth of NCNC. The Igbo Trade Union, led by inspiration of Zik had given scholarships to students of Igbo origin. The coming together of Yoruba people at this time became expedient. However, I was not pleased with the manner and approach given to it especially the utterances of Dr. Maja who resented those who had no royal blood in their veins.

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To me, it was as if they were not speaking for poor people and those who did not have noble birth amongst who I was. Besides, I had developed interest in NCNC because of the personality of Dr. Nnamdi Azikwe. In addition, I felt cosmopolitan than being tribal. Zik was gaining acceptance everywhere. His was beyond tribal inclination as people in the North too had begun to join his party. In Kaduna, for instance, whose population was not Northern dominated, NCNC was gaining rapid acceptance. In those days, the Southerners mainly inhabited Kaduna.

We had a concentration of Yoruba and Igbo in major areas of the city. Some of them were rail workers, traders and even civil servants. Kaduna was a railway terminus and rail workers were therefore many. They were highly respected in those days, even more than other government workers. The reason is attributable to the fact that the major means of transport then was rail. Roads then were not good enough to carry loads and besides there were too many products to be transported and which could not be done by vehicles. Trailers were very uncommon. North enjoyed this railway network better than any part of the country because they were geographically favoured. There were no thick forests to clear and mountains to break through before railways were constructed. This was unlike the South. During this time too, the North enjoyed real boost in groundnut production. Those were the days of groundnut pyramids in the North.

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As earlier written, rail workers were mostly Southerners. They were enlightened. It was not surprising therefore that theyhad sympathy for the NCNC in large numbers. What also helped the party were the activities of the Trade Unions led by Pa Michael Imoudu, himself a Zikist, hence many unionists became NCNCers. Zik was predominant on political field throughout the length and breadth of the country. The effect of this was that the Igbos were becoming preponderant, almost colonizing the Yorubas, even in Ibadan. They were everywhere reaping the popularity of Zikism and exploiting the gains of nationalism, which was imbued in Nigerians by Azikiwe’s propaganda. For instance, Dr. Ikejiani, an Igbo, medical doctor, based in Ibadan was made Chairman of Nigeria Railway Corporation.

The Yoruba then were not bothered as their faces were covered by spirit of nationalism as a result of which there was nothing like National character in distribution of posts or appointments whatsoever. All what everybody wanted was National independence and self-government. The traditional rulers in the East, Obis then were not really part of the struggle as they were satisfied with the status quo. At that time, the Obas and traditional Rulers were highly favoured as the British colonialists accorded them the right of rulership indirect rule. Alaafin of Oyo was very strong during this period. The then Alaafin Adeyemi, father of the present Alaafin was an undisguised supporter of NCNC.

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He could not read the political atmosphere of the country particularly the West, which was going the Action Group way. This was unlike Oba Adesoji Aderemi the then Ooni of Ife, an educated Oba, who was able to read the political climate of the West and quickly embraced the Action Group. The ‘Egbe Omo Oduduwa’, which later metamorphosed to Action Group, was launched in Ile-Ife in 1948. He never parted with Obafemi Awolowo until death separated them. The membership of Oba Adeyemi in NCNC cost him banishment from the throne in the early 1950’s. He later died in exile. This could have been averted, if he knew that Action Group was taking absolute power in the West. He also failed to realize the fact that he needed to support his own subject, Chief Bode Thomas who as deputy leader of Action Group was next to Chief Obafemi Awolowo, the Action Group leader.

The relationship between Alaafin Adeyemi and Bode Thomas could be described as that of ‘cat’ and ‘rat’. The death of the latter further caused deep-seated animonisty, as the circumstances’ surrounding his death was full of suspicion. With Alaafin of Oyo being an NCNC sympathiser, it was difficult for Action Group to really penetrate Oyo area. Many Oyo people were in NCNC. The irony of it was that the ‘whites’ greatly recognized and respected his royalhood. In the North also, the political situation began to gather momentum. The North too had come out with a party through the inspiration of the then

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Sardauna of Sokoto, Sir Ahmadu Bello. The name of the party was Northern Peoples Party. They were less agitating. This was due to the fact that they held their Emirs in high esteem more than other tribes did. The system of Indirect Rule used by the British Colonialists really satisfied them as the indirect rule system gave the Obas and Emirs certain rights to rule their people. Religion too was another reason why they took everything softly.

The pre-independence North believed in gradual process of self-rule. No wonder, in most of the constitutional conferences held in Lagos and London, the Northerners were less agitating than the West and East. I remember while I was in the University in 1951, Ahmadu Bello said the North did not want to be hastened to self-government otherwise they would continue their conquest to the sea. Later, at one of the conferences, the North agreed to self-government for Nigeria but did not agree on one date for the three regions. And so the East and West received their own self-government in 1957, two years earlier than the North.

AS GENERAL SECRETARY IJESA ACTION GROUP PARTY – BROKE THE RANKS OF THE NCNC I did not go to Ipetu with the intention of being a politician. But it could be somehow difficult, if not almost impossible for this new school to stand because of the inter-play of politics and education in those days. Firstly, my experiences as Education

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Officer in Ibadan proved me right as most of our activities then were dictated by political tone. Secondly, the way the local politics of my new environment was being played did not favour the growth of schools. During this period, the Ijesa Division had 20 councillors; the division was divided into two Federal

Constituencies. 12 for Ilesa urban and rural, now called Ijesa South Federal Constituency and the remaining 8 for Ilesa North Federal Constituency comprising – Ipetu-Ikeji Area Council having Ipetu-Ijesa as headquarter, Erin Area council, Ayepeju (Erinmo Ijeda) Area Council, Ijebu-Iwoye Area Council, Kiriji (Imesi-Ile, Ilare) Area Council, Esa-Oke – Esa-Odo Area Council, Osun (Iponda, Ilase) Area Council and Ibokun Area Council. Out of the 20 councillors, Ipetu-Ikeji Area Council was the most viable.

This was because of the forest reserves. Revenue accruing from this area was the highest. One would think therefore that Ipetu Ijesa should enjoy a good share of the income and particularly the newly established school should enjoy a good boost. The reverse was however the case as the revenues were diverted to other purposes such as contracts. This situation coupled with the urge of my people informed my joining politics as I felt I would help the school to grow well if I went into politics. In 1957, a congress of Ijesa Action Group Party was held at Obokungbusi Town Hall, Ilesa. There, I emerged the Secretary of the Ijesa Division of Action Group Party while Canon Josiah

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Akinyemi; the father of Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi, former Minister of Foreign Affairs and himself, Principal, Ilesa Grammar School became the Chairman.

Dr. Lawrence Omole, one of the greatest Ijesas ever known, a very intelligent personality was Treasurer and late Chief J. A. Lawanson of Ere-Ijesha, one of those convicted in the celebrated 1963 treasonable trial was made the paid Secretary. Before then, Ijesa Division was mostly dominated by NCNC. Nobody dared oppose them. Chief J. O. Fadahunsi who later became the Governor of Western Region was the leader of the party. Whenever he came to any part of Ijesaland with his ‘Iganda’ drum, no opponent dared show face of showed opposition. He was patently seating comfortably on top of Ijesa politics. But with the new leadership of Ijesa Action Group Party, the political atmosphere began to wear a new look and there seemed to be a brighter future for Ijesa Action Group.

We started organizing and re-organizing. We brought the idea of ward-by-ward organization. By then, the whole Ijesa Division was to be broken into 3 local councils instead of the then existing two councils. NCNC wrote and submitted a memorandum and we submitted ours too. The two favoured existence of two councils. But our major difference was the component, that is where and where, should be marked for each council. While the NCNC submitted that the 20 councillors

144 THE PART TO PLAY for the two Local Councils should be shared, half, for the South and half for the North geographically without any historical consideration, we of Action Group submitted that the Division should be considered historically. The historical background was that Ijesa South was made up of Ilesa and other villages around it whose indigenes chose to claim Ilesa as home.

These villages included Iperindo, Odo-Iwara, Ifewara, Ibodi, Osu and so on. But we at the North preferred to associate with our real source and so we preferred to be called by our home town such as Ipetu, Erin, Esa-Oke, Ibokun, Ilare, Imesi-Ile and so on. We believed we had so many big towns that could stand on their own. Another consideration that informed our submission was the Igbojika forest reserve in Ipetu area. The reserve had been there before Fadahunsi became the Chairman of the Ijesha Council. Infact, it had been creating problem for the British Administrative Officers. This problem started in 1927, when the Divisional Council reserved that area and marked it ‘reserve”. The then Apetu of Ipetu, Oba Osuntuyi withstood them as a result of which he was banished from the throne and exiled to Oyo.

Part of the reserve was later de-reserved by the Regional Headquarters, Ibadan. This came to the knowledge of the NCNC controlled Ijesa Divisional Council under the Chairmanship of J. O. Fadahunsi. He immediately brought some Ijesa men, from Ilesa to come and take-over the

145 THE PART TO PLAY deforested area. His argument was that, he wanted to prevent the Ondos from taking over the land from Ijesa. During this time, Ijesa Division shared boundary with Ondo Division at a place not far from Ile-Oluji. He even added that Owa Obokun of Ijesaland was the traditional owner of all lands in Ijesa Division, and so nobody dared confront him. The land was shared among them even though they did not occupy it directly. They brought Oyo people to hold the land, for them and formed themselves into an Association called Association of landholders. They received tributes from the tenants. We the Action Group thought that if their memorandum won, and the Division was divided to two as they wanted it, they would ever be dominating the 2 councils as they would win majority of the seats, if not all. Fortunately for Action Group, our memorandum won and so Ijesa Division was divided according to our proposal. Thank God for the Action Group controlled the regional headquarter in Ibadan.

AWOLOWO TOLERATED SUPERIOR ARGUMENTS Being the General-Secretary of Action Group Party in Ijesa division, I had the privilege of attending meetings at Ikenne with prominent leaders of Action Group including Chief Obafemi Awolowo himself. He was a very good leader who listened to the views of others. This was contrary to the opinion of some people who felt he was overlord. He was very honest and a lover of common people. This too was contrary to my erstwhile opinion while I was at Ile-Ife in 1948, when he brought ‘Egbe

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Omo Oduduwa’. I could be close to him now and I saw things clearly. On many occasions, he respected my view. There was a particular day we were in a meeting of the elders of the Party at Ikenne. Chief Awolowo referred to some people as ‘Omo Okele’ meaning ‘child of free food’.

These were the two youngmen who wrote an article in the West African Pilot, eulogizing Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe. “These two men were new comers into Action Group”, I responded. I went further, with reverence, to suggest or advise the leader to take some time to explain the programmes and policies of the party to the newly arrived sons and daughters of Oduduwa, some of whom were just arriving from overseas countries. The influence they had received in their overseas countries of abode over the years, really informed their actions and they should be tutored in respect of the reality of African political development. As I was making my point known, so many shouted me down, forbidding me from ever disagreening with the leader. Rather for him taking an offence against me, he bade them to give me a benefit of expression.

Chief Awolowo later considered my opinion and took to the suggestion I made. He formed a Committee to accomplish this. Through this committee the likes of Professor H. A. Oluwasanmi who later became the vice chancellor, University of Ife were brought into the party. My activities as the Secretary of Ijesa Action Group Party won me support from the more elderly

147 THE PART TO PLAY members of the party such as late Canon Josiah Akinyemi, Dr. Lawrence Omole, Pa J. O. Lawanson and many others. My contributions at the Elders meetings at Ikenne also gave me some popularity. I was enjoying this popularity and support, even at my constituency as our efforts had made Action Group to become popular among the people who had hitherto been NCNC members. The party was almost sure of winning election into the House. The Party had just won the Chairmanship election and so for the first time ever, Action Group won an election in Ijesaland.

THE SHADOW AND GENERAL ELECTIONS People wanted me to represent them in the Western House. At the same time, there were three other persons who showed interest. This situation called for shadow election. The candidates were Olamijulo, Dele-Ige, Osunloye and my huble self. Olamijulo seemed to be the most influential among us. He was Chairman of Action Group Party and also Chairman of the Council. At that time, the Council had 36 councillors, one for each ward, meaning there were 36 wards. A representative was drawn from each ward to vote during the shadow election, which made a total of 36 representatives. It was really a great battle. The campaign we did before the shadow was more than the one we did during the real general election. I had the support of some traditional rulers such as the then Aloko, Oba Olasore and the Ogboni of Ijebu Jesa, Oba Arojojoye II. The Apetu of Ipetu, Oba Agunbiade II was having his eyes on the House of Chiefs.

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Like I have mentioned, I had the blessings of Dr. Lawrence Omole and Canon Josiah Akinyemi.

For a long time, election had been full of deceit. Those who claimed they support you could at the dying minute turn you down and vote for another candidate. I was naïve to have thought otherwise. I was receiving information from various sources, some palatable, some dreadful, but I remained calm and positive. We had to spend money too, but it was not as serious as it is now. We spent money to organize and mobilize at ward levels.Inspite of Olamijulo’s popularity, the youth preferred me because they felt Olamijulo was much older and needed some rest. The shadow election was conducted and was keenly contested. When the result was out, I had 16, Olamijulo had 15, Dele Ige had 3 and the last candidate had 1. That was how I became the flag bearer for Action Group in the Western House of Assembly election. My opponent for the other party, NCNC was Mr. Orioke of Ijebu- Jesha. I had a landslide victory. He even lost his deposit. The victory was very significant. This was because the whole Ijesaland was predominantly NCNC. We have never had a seat in the Western House of Assembly. I was going to be the first person to represent Ijesa North Constituency in the House. My heart was gladdened. Meanwhile, the other 3 seats from Ijesa South Constituency were won by NCNC. They were Lawyer Olaitan, Chief J. O. Fadahunsi and Chief Babajide Olowofoyeku representing Ilesa Urban, Central and East respectively. This

149 THE PART TO PLAY made the 1960 election into the Western House of Assembly, a landmark, in the history of Ijesa politics. And it was free and fair. We were no more part of Ilesa Rural South. Ijesa North could now have representative in the Western House.

ELECTED DEPUTY SPEAKER, WESTERN REGION HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY 1960-1965 The second House of the Western Assembly was inaugurated in 1960. Meanwhile, there had been the first Western House of Assembly whose majority of its members gained re-election into the New House of Assembly. The West and East had been on self-rule since 1957 and the Houses had been in place. During this period, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Leader of the Action Group, one of the greatest men history has ever produced, was the Premier. That is to say, the West was firmly controlled by the Action Group Party, which had the majority seats in the Parliamentary House. This time, the West, like other parts of the country operated parliamentary system of government as it did until the British handed over power to us. During this period, I was electoral officer 1 for Ibadan Division, 1956-1959 and later, the General Secretary, Ijesa Action Group when I returned home later in 1957. I had therefore been neck deep in activities of Acton Group, since the middle of 1955.

It is a thing of joy to note that the West was able to record

150 THE PART TO PLAY greater success than any other part of the country during this period under review. It was then we had the Liberty Stadium, WNBS/WNTV, Cocoa House, to mention just a few, which were first of their kinds in Africa. All these great and wonderful achievements were made by the Obafemi Awolowo led Action Group Party. As Education Officer then, we were executing the Education policy of Action Group, particularly the expansionist policy. When I was elected to the Western region house of assembly in 1960, nothing else was strange to me. I did not have to do much lobbying even within the house or among our leaders, before I was alloted the post of deputy speaker. Prince Adeleke Adedoyin who had been Speaker since the first House maintained his chair as Speaker. He represented Ijebu Remo South. MEMBERS OF WESTERN HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY - 1960 1. Abiosun Mr. J. O. - Iwo South Sub urban 2. Adebesin Mr. K. S. - Egba Central II 3. Adedoyin Prince A - Ijebu Remo South 4. Adedigba Mr. M. A. - Iwo South East 5. Adegbenro Alhaji D. S. - Egba South 1 6. Adekeye Chief A - Ondo West II 7. Adekunle Mr. V. - Ogbomoso South East Urban 8. Adelegan Mr. S. T. - Ijesa North 9. Adelodun Mr. I. A. - Oyo North West II 10.Adenekan, Mr. A. L. - Egba Central II 11.Adeniran, Mr. J. L. - Ibarapa West 12.Adeniya, Mr. S. S. A. - Oyo East II 13.Adesanya, Mr. A. A. - Ijebu North I

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14.Adewunmi, Mr. M. A. - Ibadan Central East 15.Adeyemo, Mr. J. O. - Osogbo North I 16.Adeyi, Chief A. O. - Oyo South East 17.Adibi, Mr. N. A. - Ogbomosho North-East 18.Adigun, Hon. J. O. - Ogbomosho North West 19.Adisa, Mr. A. - Ibadan South-East Rural 20.Aghahowa, Mr. W. - Benin South East 21.Agbaza, Mr. J. U. E. - Urhobo East II 22.Aina, Mr. E. - Egba South II 23.Ajibola, Mr. A. - Ibadan North-West Rural 24.Ajimobi, Mr. L. A. - Ibadan South Central 25.Ajuwon, Mr. J. A. - Ibadan East Rural I 26.Akere, Hon. C. I. - Ishan North-East 27.Akerele, Mr. S. A. - Ekiti North-East 28.Akerele, Mr. S. O. - Ife-Ila North 29.Akingboye, Mr. A. O . - Okitipupa South-West 30.Akintola, Chief S. L. - Ogbomosho South-East 31.Akinyemi, Mr. R. A. - Ikeja South 32.Akran, Oba C. D. - Badagry West 33.Amadasun, Mr. V. I. - Benin West I 34.Aniyi, Mr. I. O. - Iwo West I 35.Anuku, Hon. E. - Asaba North-West 36.Areola, Mr. R.O. - Ekiti South-East I 37.Arowojolu, Mr. E. B. - Okitipupa South East 38.Aruwajoye, Mr. S. B. - Owo South II 39.Ashiru, Mr. B. - Egbado South-West 40.Atie, Mr. A. - Western Ijaw I 41.Atohengbe, Mr. A. - Benin North-West I

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42.Atolagbe, Mr. D. - Ekiti North-West I 43.Awopeju, Mr. L. O. - Ijebu Remo North 44.Babatola, Chief J. E. - Ekiti North East II 45.Babayemi, Mr. A. A. - Egba North-West 46.Bello, Mr. A. B. - Oyo Central II 47.Deko, Chief G. A. - Ondo North-East II 48.Ebubedike, Mr. F. - Badagry East 49.Edeki, Mr. I. - Afenmai North-West II 50.Ekwejunor-Etchie, Chief G. E. - Warri West 51.Elusade, Mr. T. E. - Ife Town South 52.Ewah, Mr. B. I. G. - Ishan North East 53.Fadahunsi, Mr. J. O. - Ilesha Rural South 54.Fadayiro, Chief E. A. A. - Egbado North West 55.Fani-Kayode, Mr. R. A. - Ife-Ila South 56.Fashola, Mr. O. - Ibadan South West Suburban 57.Fawehinmi, Alhaji B. O. - Ondo West I 58.Fetuga, Mr. M. A. - Ijebu Central East 59.Gbolahan, Mr. O. O. - Oyo North West II 60. Idodo, Mr. M. A. - Afenmai South-East 61. Igugu, Mr. T. E. - Central Urhobo East 62. Ijie, Mr. M. O. - Ishan West Central 63.Imafidon, Mr. E. O. - Benin Central East 64.John, Mr. C. O. - Oyo East I 65.Kehinde, Mr. J. O. - Ede-Ejigbo North 66.Kotoye, Mr. N. A. B . - Egba East II 67.Lana, Mr. R. A. - Oshun North-East II 68.Lawal, Mr. J. L. - Oshogbo South-West Urban 69.Layonu, Mr. S. A. - Ede-Ejigbo South

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70.Momoh, Hon. K. S. Y. - Afenmai North East 71.Obadara, Mr. A. O. - Ibadan North-West Suburban 72.Obisesan, Alhadji B. O. - Ibadan North East I 73.Odebiyi, Chief J. A. O. - Egbado North East 74.Odigie, Mr. J. O. - Ishan South East 75.Odutuga, Mr. I. A. - Epe North 76.Ogundiran, Hon. D. - Ibadan East Rural II 77.Ogunmuyiwa, Mr. J. A. - Oshun South East II 78.Ogunyele, Mr. Y. - Oshun South-East I 79.Ojeniran, Mr. B. - Oshogbo North II 80.Oke, Mr. E. O. - Ogbomosho South West 81.Okeya, Mr. S. A. - Ekiti South East II 82.Okumagba, Mr. D. E. - Warri East 83.Okwesa, Mr. P. V. - Aboh East 84.Olaitan, Mr. O. - Ilesha Urban East 85.Olamigoke, Mr. C. O. - Okitipupa North East 86.Olaniyan, Mr. B. - Ibarapa East 87.Olowofoyeku, Mr. B. - Ilesha Urban West 88.Olukoju, Mr. I. A. - Owo South I 89.Olumofin, Mr. D. K. - Owo North II 90.Olusa, Mr. R. A. - Owo North I 91.Omitowoju, Dr. J. O. - Ife Town North 92.Omokowajo, Mr. J. O. - Okitipupa North West 93.Onabamiro, Dr. S. D. - Ijebu North II 94.Onasanya, Mr. S. - Ijebu Central West 95.Opaleye, Alhadji Z. A. - Egbado South West 96.Popoola, Mr. D. A. - Oyo South-East 97.Oputa-Otutu, Chief F. - Aboh West

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98.Orowole, Mr. D. O. - Iwo West II 99.Osagie, Mr. B. E. O . - Benin West II 100.Ositelu, Mr. I. A. - Ikeja North 101.Osuhor, Mr. F. - Asaba South West 102.Osuntokun, Chief J. O. - Ekiti North West II 103.Otobo, Hon. J. E. - Urhobo East I 104.Otubanjo, Mr. S. A. - Ijebu South East 105.Oviasu, Mr. G. I. - Benin Central West 106.Owonikoko, Mr. K. O. - Oyo central I 107.Oye, Hon. J. O. - Afenmai North West I 108.Oyewole, Mr. S. A. - Ibadan Central West 109.Rerri, Mr. A. T. - Urhobo West I 110.Riemu, Mr. J. A. - Urhobo West II 111.Sanni, Mr. S. A. - Ibadan North-East II 112.Sobande, Mr. O. - Egba East I 113.Sogbein, Chief S. O. - Egba North East 114.Somotan, Mr. A. S. - Ibadan South West Central 115.Tabiowo, Mr. P. K. - Central Urhobo West 116.Tifase, Mr. J. L. - Ondo North East I 117.Tinubu, Chief S. A. - Oshun North East I 118.Utomi, Mr. F. H. - Asaba South East 119.Williams, Mr. C. A. - Epe South 120.Zuokumor, Mr. A. A. - Western Ijaw II

HOUSE COMMITTEE MEMBERS COMMITTEE OF SELECTION 1. Mr. Speaker - Chairman 2. The Minister of Finance and Leader of the House - Member 3. The Minister of Health and Social Welfare - Member

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4. The Minister of Agriculture and Natural Resources - Member 5. The Minister of Lands and Housing - Member 6. Chief A. Adekeye - Member 7. Mr. S. T. Adelegan - Member 8. Chief J. O. Fadahunsi - Member

STANDING ORDERS COMMITTEE 1. Mr. Speaker - Chairman 2. The Minister of Finance and Leader of the House - Member 3. Chief J. O. Awopeju - Member 4. Mr. S. T. Adelegan - Member 5. G. I. Oviasu - Member

PUBLIC PETITIONS COMMITTEE 1. Mr. Speaker - Chairman 2. The Minister of Justice and Attorney-General - Member 3. Chief S. B. Aruwajoye - Member 4. Mr. J. A. Odutuga - Member 5. Mr. A. Adelodun - Member 6. Mr. M. O. Ijie - Member 7. Mr. I. A. Olukoju - Member 8. Mr. B. I. G. Ewah - Member 9. Mr. A. B. Bello - Member 10.Mr. T. E. Elushade - Member HOUSE COMMITTEE 1. Mr. Speaker - Chairman 2. The Minister of Finance and Leader of the House - Member 3. Mr. N. A. B. Kotoye - Member

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4. Mr. S. O. Akerele - Member 5. Mr. F. H. Utomi Member 6. Mr. O. Olaitan Member PUBLIC ACCOUNTS COMMITTEE 1. Chief Adedapo Adekeye - Chairman 2. Mr. S. Onasanya - Member 3. Mr. J. U. E. Agbaza - Member 4. Mr. A. Ajibola - Member 5. Mr. D. A. Popoola - Member 6. Mr. S. Sobande - Member 7. Mr. Y. L. Adekunle - Member 8. Mr. S. A. Akerele - Member 9. Mr. V. I. Amadasun - Member 10. Mr. P. K. Tabiowo - Member 11. Mr. R. A. Akinyemi - Member 12. Chief J. O. Fadahunsi - Member

SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE A. Adedoyin, Esq. DEPUTY SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE S. T. Adelegan, Esq.

OFFICERS OF HOUSES Mr. J. M. Akinola - First Clerk to the Regional Legislature Mr. D. E. O. Oriola - Second Clerk to the Regional Legislature Mr. M. O. Maduemezia - Acting Official Reporter, Grade I Mr. E. O. A. Soyege - Acting Hansard Editor Mr. D. O. Ajulu - Official Reporter, Grade II

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Mr. A. O. Bamishe - Official Reporter, Grade II Mr. S. A. Onadele - Official Reporter, Grade II Mr. A. O. Idowu - Official Reporter, Grade II Mr. W. Akinwunmi - Official Reporter, Grade II Mr. J. A. Darlington - First Sergeant-at-Arms Mr. R. S. A. Akinrinmade - Second Sergeant-at-Arms

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CHAPTER TEN THE BEGINNING OF THE END OF THE FIRST REPUBLIC

he West minister or Parliamentary system of government, which we were operating in Nigeria during this period, did not make clear-cut distinction T between the Parliament and the cabinet. That is to say, the Western House of Assembly and the Regional Executive Council were somehow inseparable. Majority of the members of the Regional Executive council were drawn from the membership of the House of Assembly. Let us see the Regional Executive Council Members as it was constituted in 1960.

COMPOSITION OF WESTERN REGION EXECUTIVE COUNCIL – 1960-1962 The Governor - Sir Adesoji Aderemi, KBE, CMC REGIONAL EXECUTIVE COUNCIL The Premier The Honourable Chief S. L. Akintola, MHA The Minister of Finance - The Honourable Chief J. A. O. Odebiyi, MHA The Minister of Local Government - The Honourable Alhaji D. S. Adegbenro, MHA The Minister of Education The Honourable Dr. S. D. Onabamiro, MHA The Minister of Agriculture and Natural Resources The Honourable Chief G. Akin Deko, MHA The Minister of Lands and Housing - The Honourable J. O. Adigun, MHA The Minister of Home Affairs - The Honourable D. Ogundiran, MHA The Minister of Economic Planning and Community Development - The Honourable Oba C. D. Akran, MHA The Minister of Information - The Honourable Chief E. A. A. Fadayiro, MHA The Minister of Labour The Honourable K. S. Y. Momoh, MHA The Minister of Chieftaincy Affairs The Honourable Dr. J. O. Omitowoju, MHA The Minister of Justice and Attorney-General - The Honourable S. O. Ighodaro The Minister of MidWest Affairs - The Honourable J. E. Otobo, MHA The Minister of Works and Transport The Honourable Chief S. O. Sogbein, MHA The Minister of Trade and Industry The Honourable Chief A. O. Adeyi, MHA The Minister of Health and Social Welfare - The Honourable Chief J. O. Osuntokun, MHA The Minister of State (Justice) - The Honourable J. E. Babatola, MHA The Minister of State (Trade and Industry) - The Honourable Chief G. E. Ekwejunor- Etchie, MHA The Minister of State (Local Government) The Honourable Chief S. A. Tinubu, MHA The Minister of State (Economic Planning) - The Honourable E. Anuku, MHA The Minister of State (Agriculture and Natural Resources) - The Honourable C. I. Akere, MHA The Minister without Portfolio -The Honourable Oba I. B. Akinyele, the Olubadan of Ibadan, MHC The Minister without Portfolio - The Honourable Oba Tewogboye II,

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Osemawe of Ondo, MHC The Minister without Portfolio - The Honourable Oba S. O. Abimbola, the Oluwo of Iwo, MHC The Minister without Portfolio - The Honourable Obi Obika A. Gbenoba, Obi of Agbor, MHC The Minister without Portfolio - His Highness the Honourable Erejuwa II, Olu of Warri, MHC The Minister without Portfolio -The Honourable Oba S. K. Adetona, Ogbagba II, Awujale of Ijebuland, MHC

The first indigenous Governor of the Western Region was Sir Adesoji Aderemi. He was not elected but appointed and so his duty was non-executive but ceremonial. The Premier, S. L. Akintola was an honourable member representing Ogbomoso South East Constituency. He was Head of Government. All the substantive Ministers too were members of the Western House of Assembly, duly elected by their constituency members. This was quite unlike the Presidential system, which Nigeria is presently operating, which has all the Ministers or Commissioners drawn by the President or Executive Governor from outside the Legislature. All the Ministers of State for different Ministries too were chosen from membership of the Western House of Assembly. (Look at the list and see MHA in front of their names).

It should be noted also that there were Ministers without portfolio in the post-independence Regional Executive Council. They too were drawn from the membership of the Western House of Chiefs. (See MHC) in front of their names) It is important to note thereafter that the West was operating a sort of bicameral legislature – that is to say there were two Houses – House of Assembly and House of Chiefs. We always had separate sittings

160 THE PART TO PLAY but at times, we did have joint sittings. We usually had joint sittings when appointments to the Upper House (Senate) were to be ratified, or when the Premier wanted to present budget speeches and when matters of urgent importance arose. But in our own House, we did legislate and carry on debates on matters affecting Western region, which might have been discussed at Parliamentary sessions before the House sat.

POLITICAL ACTIVITIES OF EARLY 1960’S – MY WITNESS Prior to independence, the Action Group was more of a Regional Party as it did not enjoy national spread like other parties. It had become almost regionalized. The Party was performing creditably in the West; the level of development in the West as I said earlier, was better than any other region in the country. The Premier, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, was very hard-working. His leadership and administrative qualities could not be matched with that of any other leader in the country then. The credentials and catalogues of his achievements predicted this. All these made Awolowo to stand above all other leaders. The outstanding performance of Awolowo in the West was a very good one. If this could be extended throughout the whole country, Nigeria would be great. In the light of this, Awolowo chose to go to the Federal House, so that he could become the Prime Minister.

While Awolowo was Premier of Western Region, Chief S. L. Akintola was in the Federal House, representing his Federal Constituency. He was the leader of Opposition in the Federal Assembly, and also a Minister. He was a warm and hospitable

161 THE PART TO PLAY person who was also highly intelligent. Akintola had great oratorical skills. The 1959 election was to be held to elect Representatives into the Federal House. Awolowo was to go Federal while Akintola was to come back to the West. In their bids, Awolowo won the Federal election to the Federal House. But he could not realize his ambition of constituting the federal cabinet. The NCNC had alligned with NPP to form majority, whereby Tafawa Balewa of the Northern peoples Party became the Prime Minister while Dr. Nnamdi Azikwe, Leader of NCNC, became the 1st Ceremonial President of Nigeria.

Chief Awolowo was left with the position of Opposition Leader. Meanwhile, Chief S. L. Akintola had formed the Cabinet in the West and had become the Premier of Western Region. Akintola was only a figurehead, because Awolowo was still the leader of the Party and the party was supreme. He had to implement decisions reached at party caucuses. The whole rulership was complex, as only few people knew what was going on within the Government. The 1959 Federal election cost a lot in terms of energy and expenses, especially during Awo’s canvassing for prime ministership. The Hausas and Igbo only took our money, all what we were hearing was echo of ‘Baa ko daya’. The government of S. L. Akintola took office 1960. That year, things went on smoothly and it was a year of celebration for the West and the entire country. The independence celebration took place on 1st October, when the British finally-handed over the governance of the country to Nigerians.

During this year too, there was political cohesion, and party

162 THE PART TO PLAY loyalty; a situation which helped the parliamentary system to work. In 1961, the Northern Region was preparing for the Assembly election, which could hold later in the year. We, of the Action Group needed to extend our campaign and mobilization drive to the North. On May 1st 1961, the schedule for campaign in the North was released. All the leaders of the party including all members of the House, who belonged to Action Group, were to be involved. Before this time, we had passed the 1961 Budget. My team was to go to Maiduguri in Borno province of the Northern Region. Borno province now has Yobe and Borno States. This team included myself, late Pa Chief J. F. Odunjo an elderly person, author of ‘Alawiye’ books and prominent leader of the party; Alimi Adesokan my good friend, Adedeji a.k.a. baba l’eje a prominent son of Igbara-Oke and one other person from the MidWest. We went in Adesokan’s Mercedes Benz car and we ordinarily adopted Baba J. F. Odunjo as our team leader. He was older than all of us.

The journey was very interesting but it took us days to get to Maiduguri. The first day we slept at Jebba and the second day we were at Jos. That night we met with Chief Awolowo. We were together listening to the news on the Radio, when we heard the comment of Chief Maja who said Action Group should not have extended its campaign to the North. He expressed the view that the whole exercise was a waste of money. He said the Northern Peoples Party should be allowed to maintain predominance in the North, while NCNC be predominant in the East and Action Group, to remain preponderant in the West. That comment really shook us to the marrow, even though Chief Awolowo took it with

163 THE PART TO PLAY equanimity. But then we knew something terrible was about to happen. With this comment on the radio, the younger members of our party were now able to know that the elders had already had some misgivings as regards the whole exercise.

Nevertheless, we proceeded on our journey. The following morning, we left Jos, passed through Potiskum, straight on to Damaturu and in the evening of the third day that we left home, we got to Maiduguri. There we began to feel the hostility of the North towards Action Group’s mobilization tour. The Hotel, which had been earlier booked to provide accommodation for us, would not allow us in. We were told that some white men who had booked before us had occupied our rooms. We were not really bothered because we knew it had political undertone. We eventually got a hotel which was owned by an Igbo man. He was very glad to receive us. It is important to note that up there in Maiduguri we were not free as we were in the West.

Our movements were restricted as spies were all over the place trailing us, and the ‘Yandokas’, local policemen were everywhere, monitoring us. The situation was so tense and the news spread throughout the whole country, particularly at home, in the West that the Yandokas had shot some of us with arrows. Panic gripped the whole of the West as to our safety and our whereabouts. Up there, we were treading carefully and were being received warmly by our kinsmen who were living there. That was the only area of success. Any move towards the Northern indigenes was almost impossible and futile. We were able to visit the Administrative Staff College where we succeeded

164 THE PART TO PLAY in making very few friends, who were not really keen to join our party. The reason they gave was that North was conservative, more than any part of the country. They also claimed that we Southerners were pagans and so we could not do anything together. We compared notes with them proving that their conservative attitude had put them under a dictatorial arrangement and structure which made slaves out of them. They seemed not to be convinced. So our words made little impact on them. The little impact it had reflected during the second republic during which time the North realized the importance of national cohesion and a national party, hence the birth of National Party of Nigeria in 1978. We were there for a whole month; and eventually came back to the West.

1962 DECLARATION OF STATE OF EMERGENCY AND SUSPENSION ORDER Shortly after we passed the 1962 Budget, we heard there was going to be a conference of Action Group, to be held in Jos. I was surprised to hear this, same with other leaders of the party who were not informed of such a conference nor involved. That was very wrong. Who could have organized such a conference and who were the people to participate in such a conference if we did not do? It was a total surprise. We later found out that the younger members and the crops of new graduate members of the party, those members whom we did not know, attended the conference. We later heard on the Radio that the conference had resolved that Chief S. L. Akintola should resign as Premier of Western Region. We became more confused.

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This was never discussed in our meeting at Ikenne. It was also not discussed at the Parliamentary meeting. Those of us who had been working through the thick and thin to make Action Group Party great were never consulted. Delegates were not chosen from the constituencies, as it ought to be. The only thing we were told was that the ‘Party was supreme’. This time, I was still the Federal Secretary of Ijesa Action Group Party. At this point, I was called upon, as the Deputy Speaker, to go with some people to Ikeja where a meeting had been slated to take place at Late Chief Sonibare’s house. At that ime, Ikeja was part of the Western Region. At the close of school on that day, I left Ipetu Jesa and proceeded to Ikeja. It was not really a difficult task because I had a very good driver, very hardworking Tayo Seweje. The meeting was to sort things out and resolve the differences. But it was a failure, as it could not bring solution to the existing problem.

Another meeting was therefore called at A.G. Secretariat, Oke- Bola, Ibadan. After the meeting, we held our Parliamentary meeting where majority of us agreed to toe the party line in support of Chief Obafemi Awolowo. We agreed with him that the Premier should resign, or be removed. 62 members out of 102 members that were present in the House on that fateful morning had signed for the removal of the Premier if he failed to resign. The Speaker was already on chair; He said the prayer and was about reading the order of the day. Just like a volcano waiting to erupt, or a time bomb waiting to explode, the disgruntled members who were not satisfied with the parliamentary decision,

166 THE PART TO PLAY showed their discontentment.

Most of them were Yorubas who believed in ‘West for West’, the set of people Awolowo always referred to as ‘Omo Okeles’. Hon. Oke E. O., representing Ogbomoso South West, stood on the table, and exploded: “Fire on the Mountain”! The Honourable member representing Badagry West, Hon. F. Ebubedike, took up the Mace, the official symbol of authority and smashed it on the Speaker’s table. The mace broke into two. There was commotion all over the place. Chairs began to fly in different directions. One located Chief Awolowo but was quickly intercepted by Chief Alfred Rewane. There was free-for-all fight, a situation which attracted tear gas from the security men. As soon as the tear gas was thrown, the whole place became deserted as the honourable men fled.

The Speaker, myself, Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Chief Jonathan Odebiyi managed to find our ways to the Speaker’s Office. There, Chief Awolowo telephoned the Prime Minister, Alhaji Tafawa Balewa to inform him of the rascality displayed by the people on the floor of the House. Mutually, we should agree to keep decency in the House. The opposition should learn not to be violent and ought to know that nobody had monopoly of violence. But Tafawa Balewa urged us to be calm; promising, he would call the people to order and that the police would only keep vigil but would not throw tear gas on us. We were to meet again on that same day by 2.00 p.m. We actually met. But it was a continuation of pandemonium that started in the morning. In flagrant disrespect to an earlier promise, the police went on, tear-

167 THE PART TO PLAY gassing us. After this, we proceeded to the High Court Premises to swear to affidavit supporting the result of the voting which the opposing members disrupted. We took the case to the court and later to the Privy Council. But before any judgement or hearing, a state of emergency had been declared, and the House was suspended and the cabinet forthwith dissolved.

THE 1962 LEGISLATIVE DISTURBANCES: THE HIGH POINTS Western Region was clearly ahead of other Regions in terms of physical and socio-economic development. This could be attributed to the foresight, vision and commitment of the Action- Group Party led by Obafemi Awolowo. The first television station in black Africa, Liberty-Stadium, Cocoa-House, a 25-storey building, the first University and a host of other meaningful advancements had been recorded in the West. The Region also boasted of a large concentration of enlightened people who acted as torchbearers and opinion leaders. Ikeja, then in Western- Region but in today’s Lagos State was fast developing into a blossoming industrial centre. The intelligentsia and political class were fast imbibing the culture of democratic governance.

The political crisis which developed within the Action Group, following a crisis within the National Executive of the Party, and the attendant deposition of Chief S. L. Akintola as Deputy Leader and asked him to resign his appointment as Premier of Western- Region caused a lot of stir. He refused. Attempts were made to recognize Alhaji Dauda Soroye Adegbenro as the new Premier. This did not materialize. Chief Akintola on his part called for the dissolution of the Action-Group and the redistribution of its

168 THE PART TO PLAY assets. He and Chief Ayo Rosyi (Federal secretary of the Action Group) had been expelled from the Action Group. Chief Akintola however argued that he had also contributed to the Party in energy, time and money and so could not be dealt with that way.

On the 20th of May 1962, the Premier advised the Governor of Western Region that in view of the political crisis that had been developing in the Region and counter-claims by the two factions for a majority support of the electorate, the Governor should exercise his constitutional powers to dissolve the Legislative House of the Region. The Governor, Sir Adesoji Aderemi refused. At the same time, the Premier requested the Hon. Speaker to convene the Western House of Assembly for May 23, 1962 to consider and pass the Motion for a vote of confidence in the Government of Western-Nigeria. The Speaker also refused. The Governor moved thereafter, invoking the relevant section of the constitution to remove Chief Akintola as Premier with effect from May 21, 1962. Chief Akintola went to court to challenge his removal. A meeting of the House was eventually summoned for the 25th of May.

Two unsuccessful attempts were made that day to hold meetings of the Western-House of Assembly. It was a red-letter day. The problems of a stable, political society in Nigeria could be said to have commenced that sad day. The mace, symbol of authority was broken into pieces and the Speaker, Prince Adeleke Adedoyin, narrowly escaped being battered. He ducked when a member grabbed the mace and swung it at him. A Minister in the crisis Cabinet, Hon. Kessington Momoh – was treated in hospital

169 THE PART TO PLAY for a head injury. The confusion began when the leader of the House and Minister of Finance, Chief J. A. Odebiyi, rose to outline the day’s business. He had hardly started speaking when a member from the Government side jumped on the desk and raised a war cry. In the confusion, that followed, members threw chairs at one another. And immediately the place was turned into a bedlam – chairs were broken and the fences were pulled down.

A legislator is Mr. A. Abioshun (NCNC, Iwo) was seriously beaten up by the police. Mr. Abioshun was later dragged to the police post of the House and detained. A police officer said he had been detained for rioting on the floor of the House. NCNC leaders headed by Mr. F. S. McEwen immediately protested on the floor of the House. One other legislator, Mr. Ebubedike (NCNC, Badagry North) was also detained. It was he who took the mace. Riot No. 2 started about 11.45 a.m. when the Speaker attempted to reconvene the House after receiving a message from the Prime Minister through the Commissioner of Police. Although there was a policeman behind each legislator, there was no order from the word go. The Commissioner of Police, Western Region, was himself in the chamber near the Speaker.

And as if from nowhere a chair hit the head of the Speaker. This appeared to be the signal for the riot, which was certainly fiercer than the first one. Legislators went into blows and chairs and every handy object were used. Legislators under heavy pall of teargas fled through windows and every opening, leaving behind shoes and hats and brief cases. I was fortunate to have escaped unhurt. Outside the House, several members fainted from

170 THE PART TO PLAY exhaustion. The House was later cleared and Ministers were lead away under police protection. The new Premier, Alhaji Adegbenro was not seen but his rival Chief Akintola later drove away under police guard followed by a motorcade of his supporters.

The Prince Minister, Alhaji Tafawa Balewa after the first round of the riots in the Western-Region House of Assembly and following protests by Chief Awolowo issued a statement which was widely publicized: “The two factions in the Action Group have contacted the Prime Minister regarding the holding of another meeting of the Western Nigeria House of Assembly today. “The Prime Minister cannot stop the meeting from taking place but, because of the fight which has broken out in the House this morning, if the parties decide to hold a meeting of the House of assembly they may do so. It must be on the strict understanding that there will be no police protection provided within the chamber.

“If, however, any party insists on being afforded police protection within the chamber the police may be so present; but the Federal Government will not accept any decision reached as a result of such proceedings in the chamber. “If, in spite of all the efforts of the police, there should be an outbreak of violence or any further disorder, the police have authority to clear the chamber and lock it up.” The deposed Premier, S. L. Akintola, Oba C. D. Akran and Ministers and Parliamentary Secretaries still loyal to him followed Akintola and took their seats on the Government bench. As soon as Chief Akintola took his seat, the new Premier, Chief Adegbenro moved away from his seat and took his seat

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Debate of the crisis of the Western-Region later shifted to the Federal House of Representatives. Records indicate that the NPC and the NCNC members kept out of the debate. They left the debates to the two opposing Action Group factions. Out of the 60 Action-Group members in the Federal House, 16 registered their support for the declaration of a State of emergency in the west. Chief Awolowo vehemently opposed the motion for a state of emergency in the West and accused the Federal Government of planning to take an unwarranted step. Awolowo described the move as a gross misuse of powers by the Federal Government.

Chief Rosiji, an Akintola supporter and member of Parliament for Egba led one faction while Chief Awolowo led the other Chief Rosiji alleged that the crisis in the West was caused by financial irresponsibility, the affairs of a private firm – National Investments Property Company (NIPC) – into which £10,000,000 (Ten Million pounds) of public fund was diverted. He equally cited the affairs of Nigersol and the Water Resources Company as the remove causes of the division within the Action Group. Rosiji requested the Federal Government to institute an inquiry into what he called nepotism in the west and the funding of some companies by Government. Anthony Enahoro, however, said that the crises had nothing to do with money. Enahoro explained that the root cause was Akintola’s intransigence and decision to defy the Action Group Party.

Enahoro further pointed out that Rosiji had no complaints against

172 THE PART TO PLAY the Party until he was removed from office as the Federal Secretary of the Action Group. The House of Representatives took cognizance of the fact that the case filed by Chief Akintola challenging his removal was still in court. However, Tafawa Balewa was of the opinion that no responsible Government would allow the situation in the West to continue without taking measures to ensure peace, considering the fact that it was not clear whether there was a properly constituted Government in the Western-Region as at then. There were two Premiers for one Government, a constitutional aberration.

The Federal House of Representatives thereafter passed a resolution declaring a State of Emergency in the Western- Region. Awolowo, on his part appealed to Party supporters to be calm and show their resentment constitutionally over the emergency regulations. Senator (Dr.) Moses Adekoyejo Majekodunmi was on May 29, 1962 named Administrator of Western-Region for a maximum period of six months. He was to govern the region with a landmass of 45,376 square miles and population of over 6 million following the resolution of the House of Representatives, which was passed by a vote of 232 against 44. Abubakar Tafawa Balewa moved the motion invoking section 65 of the Nigerian Constitution to declare the State of Emergency. This was after the Senate had ratified the resolution.

A Minor Twist Chief F. R. A. Williams, a foremost legal practitioner then already a Queen’s Counsel (now Senior Advocate of Nigeria) who was the legal adviser of the Action-Group filed a motion in the Federal

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Supreme Court challenging his restriction to a radius of three miles within Abeokuta Township. The first batch of seventeen political leaders was restricted under the Emergency Powers (General) Regulations, 1962, passed by the Federal Parliament on May 29, 1962. Others served were Alhaji D. S. Adegbenro, Chief A. M. A. Akinloye, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Chief

Anthony Enahoro, Alhaji S. O. Gbadamosi, Mr. R. A. Fani- Kayode, Mr. Alfred Rewane, Chief Ayo Rosiji, member for Egba East in the House of Representatives; and Chief S. O. Shonibare.

Served in Western Nigeria were Mr. Adeoye Adisa, a leading member of NCNC in Ibadan; Oba C. D. Akran, Mr. Duro Ogundiran, Dr. J. Omitowoju and Chief A. O. Adeyi, Mr. S. O. Ighodaro, former Minister of Justice and Attorney-General, Western Nigeria, and Chief S. O. Sogbein, former Minister of Works. Chief FRA Williams equally filed another motion for a temporary injunction to restrain the Administrator from executing the restriction order served on him. The court granted Chief Williams ex-parte motion seeking a court ruling that the Administrator should withhold execution of the emergency restriction order to enable him argue his motion before the court. The restriction list soon grew beyond the initial seventeen. Chief Dr. Majekodunmi soon resumed duty and appointed 14 Commissioners to assist him in running the emergency Administration.

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The Commissioners were: • Prince Adeleke Ademiluyi Agriculture and Natural Resources • Chief S. O. Adedeji Chieftaincy Affairs • Dr. O. Olunloyo Economic Planning and Community Development • Mr. T. E. A. Salubi Education • Mr. Y. Owolabi Esan Finance • Mr. A. Laosebikan Home Affairs • Mr. A. Y. Eke Information • Mr. W. E. Egbe Justice • Mr. Olajide Esan Labour • Chief J. O. Fagbemi Land and Housing • Chief E. A. Adeyemo Local Government • Mr. B. O. Mark Uzorka Mid-West Affairs • Mr. Adeniyi Williams Works and Transport • Mr. J. Oyegoke Office of Administrator

Chief Majekodunmi’s administration was in place for six-months during which period the emergency regulation lasted. Even during this period a flumy of underground politicking went on in preparation for the resumption of the Western-House of Assembly and the putting in place of a new Government for the Western-Region. One can safely posit that the political problems of this nation, culminating in the military intervention of 1966 started from the unfortunate crises in the West.

Akintola had been restricted to Olokemeji while Awolowo was restricted to Lekki Island. Because I was a Principal, I was not restricted. Perhaps providence played a major role in ensuring that I was not affected. I had to carry out my duty as the Principal of Ipetu-Ijesa Grammar School. During this time, I took upon myself, the task of going round to speak and encourage our

175 THE PART TO PLAY leaders. The only person I did not visit was S. L. Akintola. I was in my school one day, when I received a message which purportedly came from S. L. Akintola that he wanted me in his camp and that he would give me appointment as Minister, if I do wish and that two houses would also be given to me. I was not really moved by this generous offer, as I did not have the intention of going against the wishes of my constituency.

In the first instance, I did not go to the House for the purpose of wealth accumulation. My interest was for my school and for my people. And so, I threw away the offer. I chose to remain in the faction of Awolowo. This time the Party was becoming factionalised. This position, he was how offering me had been suggested to him by Chief Awolowo in 1960 while he was choosing his cabinet. But he would not take it. Awolowo had told him to make use of competent hands and make me one of them. Anyway, I was satisfied with my position as the Deputy Speaker of the House. Even if he chose me as one of his cabinet members, I would not have accepted it because I was much inclined to my school than any other thing. I would not take any appointment that would make me stay permanently in Ibadan to the detriment of my school that catered for the interests of my constituents and even students from all parts of Western region including the area now

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WHY I CHANGED POLITICAL CAMPS: Politics was going on covertly during the emergency period. The two factions in the party were working hard each struggling for prominence. Politics is a game of number, each faction working hard on the Honourable members to have majority. The emergency period would soon be over. The faction that had the majority would form the government. Meanwhile, all avenues to resolve differences had been exhausted, and so there was no more move to unite the two factions. Perhaps that would come later when the government was formed, nobody knows. From the information I received, Akintola seemed to be having majority and so would likely have an upper hand. He was very much on ground. At this point, my reliable friend of several years, Ayo Ajibola, a fellow Honourable member, representing Ibadan North- west constituency came to me in Ipetu-Ijesa and gave me a hint that they (Akintola Group) had formed Government as they have had more than majority. He told me many things about the composition of the cabinet and I felt convinced.

I still needed to call the attention of my constituency to this latest development. So, a meeting of Ijesa North Constituency was called I told them what I heard from Ajibola. We needed to take a wise decision. If Akintola formed the Government, we should expect the merger of our Constituency with the Ijesa South Federal Constituency thereby destroying all what we had laboured for. Meanwhile, the 3 honourable members representing Ijesa South were already for Akintola. The NCNC was fading away in the West and remnant members were almost merging with Akintola faction to form the NNDP, I told them. Not

177 THE PART TO PLAY that alone, our prospects in that constituency could never be realized if we decided to stay in opposition against the ruling Government. For instance I joined politics to enhance the growth of my school and our communities. Would I realize this goal if I decided to be in opposition, I asked?

The meeting took place at Pa Babajide’s house in Esa-Oke. We had in attendance all the prominent traditional rulers and leaders except Bola Ige and J. Lawanson who were facing treasonable felony charges at that period with our leader, Chief Obafemi Awolowo. Solomon Adebayo Aluko, the Field Secretary was at the meeting together with Labeodan who was a councilor then. Apart from one dissenting voice, all of us agreed that Ijesa North should be part of the government. That only dissentient voice was that of Dele Ige. He disagreed because he felt that the reason I gave was naïve. Well, that was his own feeling. I could not open my eyes and see those pipes that were already in town, waiting to be laid for our water supply in Ipetu-Ijesha carted away. True to my belief, the 10- shillings education tax, which we relied on to build our schools, was scrapped in 1967, two years when I was no more in government.

That time I was taken to be in the opposition. At the Ijesa North constituency meeting it was agreed that I should sign in with Akintola who had apparently formed the government. The decision was arranged, to be announced on the radio, while Labeodan and I should proceed to Ogbomoso to inform the premier about the decision of our constituency. Meanwhile, I had lost the chance of becoming a Minister as I have turned down the

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Premier’s invitation earlier on. But then we left our constituency, enroute Osogbo, Iwo, straight on to Ogbomoso. When we got there, Labeodan spoke on behalf of the constituency. Chief S. L. Akintola only gave a cold response, that yes, he has heard about our decision from radio broadcast. I was not really happy or satisfied with his response.

Not quite some minutes after we had left his house, precisely on our way back to our constituency, we heard from our car radio, that the Deputy-Speaker and the Ijesa North Constituency have decamped to his group. Anyway, that was politics. Eventually, the emergency period lapsed and the House reconvened and the Regional Executive Council was reconstituted. I maintained my position as Deputy Speaker, and another person took the Chair as the Speaker. That was Mr. Elusade T. E., representing Ife Town South. The former Speaker, Adedoyin who had been Speaker since the first House, when Awolowo was Premier, became a Federal Minister.

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CHAPTER ELEVEN THE GALES THAT COLLAPSED THE FIRST REPUBLIC POST EMERGENCY POLITICS (1963-1966)

n 1st January, 1963, Chief S. L. Akintola formed the Government of Western Nigeria. There were major changes I in the structure of the post-emergency government. One of such changes was the carving out of the Mid-West Region from the old Western Region. That is to say, the old Benin Province, which was part of the West, had been carved out. The West was purely west; and the government was purely Yorubas. The effect of this was that, there had to be reduction in the number of the Representatives in the House. We now had 86 as against the former 120 members. Also, the cabinet was restructured. There was no longer a Minister for Mid-West Affairs. Alhaji D. S. Adegbenro, who had been Minister for Local Government in the previous government, now became Leader of Opposition in the Western House of Assembly.

The position of Deputy Premier was also created and Chief Remi Fani-Kayode became the Deputy Premier. The Governor was also replaced. Chief J. O. Fadahunsi became the new Governor in place of Oba Adesoji Aderemi, the Ooni of Ife. The Governor performed ceremonial duties. On ceremonial days, he presided at functions. He also presided on occasions that cut across party consideration. On the day of independence, he read the “Speech from the Throne”, about the policy of the government for the whole year. The Premier presided over cabinet meetings. He was the Head of Government. He had the responsibility of awarding

180 THE PART TO PLAY portfolios to the Ministers and he led Government business in the House. All-important details of governance were handled by him on the floor of the House.

In short he had both legislative and Executive powers. He himself was a representative and elected member of the House. He was not elected directly by the people as Premier. He owed his appointment to the Representative members of the House, with due consultation with the Party. In view of this, he could be removed by majority of the House either by asking him to resign or a vote of no confidence passed against him. That was exactly what happened in 1962 when the Premier was asked to resign, with the intention of replacing him with Alhaji Dauda Soroye Adegbenro. The opposition, prior to the emergency period was not as serious as we had in the post- emergency time. The House now had a more constructive opposition, very peaceful, recording meaningful debates. It was the best House, ever.

GOVERNMENT OF WESTERN NIGERIA (Formed by Chief S. L. Akintola on 1st January, 1963) MEMBERS OF THE REGIONAL EXECUTIVE COUNCIL The Premier - The Honourable Chief S. L. Akintola, MHA The Deputy Premier and Minister of Local Govt -The Honourable Chief R. A. Fani-Kayode, MHA The Minister of Finance - The Honourable Oba C. D. Akran MHA The Minister of Justice and Attorney-General The Honourable Chief B. Olowofoyeku, MHA The Minister of Education - The Honourable D. K. Olumofin, MHA The Minister of Agriculture and Natural Resources -The Honourable Dr. S. D. Onabamiro, MHA The Minister of Lands and Housing - The Honourable D. Ogundiran, MHA

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The Minister of Home Affairs - The Honourable S. L. A. Fajimi, MHA The Minister of Information The Honourable O. Adebayo, MHA The Minister of Labour and Social Welfare - The Honourable Chief J. O. Adigun, MHA The Minister of Chieftaincy Affairs - The Honourable Chief S. A. Layonu, MHA The Minister of Health - The Honourable Dr. J. O. Omitowoju, MHA The Minister of Works and Transport - The Honourable Chief A. O. Adeyi, MHA The Minister of Trade and Industry - The Honourable A. B. Bello, MHA The Minister of Economic Planning and Community Development - The Honourable Chief J. O. Oshuntokun, MHA The Minister of State (Premier’s Office) - The Honourable Chief J. L. Tifase, MHA The Minister of State (Premier’s Office) - The Honourable S. S. A. Adeniya, MHA The Minister of State (Local Government) - The Honourable N. A. B. Keroye, MHA The Minister of State (Agriculture and Natural Resources) - The Honourable Alhaji Z. A. Opaleye, MHA The Minister of State (Education)- The Honourable Ayo Ajibola, MHA The Minister of State (Economic Planning and Community Development) -The Honourable K. S. Adebesin, MHA The Minister of State (Trade and Industry) - The Honourable Chief S. A. Tinubu, MHA The Minister of State (Lands and Housing) - The Honourable C. O. John, MHA The Minister of State (Works and Transport)- The Honourable Chief E. B.Arowojolu, MHA The Minister of State (Health) - The Honourable Chief O. Olaitan, MHA The Minister without Portfolio - The Honourable Sir Olateru Olagbegi, The Olowo of Owo, MHC The Minister without Portfolio - The Honourable Oba S. O. Abimbola, the Oluwo of Iwo, MHC The Minister without Portfolio - The Honourable Oba A. Gbadebo II, The Alake of Abeokuta, MHC The Minister without Portfolio - The Honourable Oba S. A. Adenle, The Ataoja of Oshogbo, MHC The Minister without Portfolio - The Honourable Oba A. Adeleye II, The Elekole of Ikole Ekiti, MHC The Minister without Portfolio - The Honourable Oba S. Aminu, The Olubadan of Ibadan, MHC

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WESTERN HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY LIST OF HON MEMBERS 1. Abiosun Mr. J. O. - Iwo South Suburban 2. Adebayo, Hon. O. - Ibadan South Suburban 3. Adebesin Hon. K. S. - Egba Central I

Iwo South-East Egba South 1 Ondo West II Ogbomoso South East Urban Ijesa Rural North Oyo North West II Egba Central II Ibarapa West Oyo East II Ijebu North I Ibadan Central East Osogbo North I Oyo South East Ogbomosho North-East Ogbomosho North West - Ibadan South-East Rural Egba South II Ibadan North-West Rural Ibadan East Rural I Ekiti North-East Ife-Ila North Okitipupa South-West Ogbomosho South-East Ikeja South Badagry West Iwo West I Ekiti South-East I Okitipupa South East Owo South II Egbado South-West Ekiti North-West I Ijebu Remo North Ekiti North East II Egba North-West Oyo Central II Badagry East Ife Town South Egbado North West Ibadan South-East Suburban Ife-Ila South Ibadan South West Suburban Ondo West I Ijebu Central East Oyo North West I Oyo East I Ede-Ejigbo North Egba East II Oshun North-East II Oshogbo South-West Urban Ede-Ejigbo South Ibadan North-West Suburban Ibadan North East I Egbado North East Epe North Ibadan East Rural II Oshun South-East I - Ogbomosho South West Ekiti South East II Ilesha Urban East Okitipupa North East Ibarapa East Ilesha Urban West Owo South I Owo North II Owo North I Ife Town North Okitipupa North West

71. Onabamiro, Dr. S. D. - Ijebu North II 72. Onasanya, Mr. S. - Ijebu Central West

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73. Opaleye, Alhadji Z. A. - Egbado South West 74. Orowole, Mr. D. O. - Iwo West II 75. Ositelu, Mr. I. A. - Ikeja North 76. Oshuntokun, Chief J. O. - Ekiti North-West II 77. Owonikoko, Mr. K. A. - Oyo Central West 78. Oyewole, Mr. S. O. - Ibadan Central West 79. Popoola, Mr. D. A. - Oyo South-East 80. Sanni, Mr. S. A. - Ibadan North-East II 81. Sobande, Mr. O. - Egba East I 82. Sogbein, Chief S. O. - Egba North East 83. Somotan, Mr. A. S. - Ibadan South West Central 84. Tifase, Mr. J. L. - Ondo North East I 85. Tinubu, Chief S. A. - Oshun North East I 86. Williams, Mr. C. A. - Epe South SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE -- T. E. Elusade, Esq., MHA DEPUTY SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE -- S. T. Adelegan, Esq., MHA

WHIPS Government Chief Whip - R. A. Lana, Esq., MHA Government Whips - J. O. Kehinde Esq., MHA O. Fashola, Esq., MHA LEADER OF OPPOSITION Alhadji D. S. Adegbenro, MHA OFFICERS OF HOUSES Mr. J. M. Akinola - Clerk to the Regional Legislature Mr. M. O. Onajide - Clerk Assistant Mr. O. B. Okuboyejo - Clerk Assistant Mr. E. O. A. Soyege - Hansard Editor Mr. S. A. Onadele - Official Reporter, Grade I Mrs. W. A. Akinwunmi - Official Reporter, Grade II Mr. T. O. Famadeji - Executive Officer (Accounts) Mr. R. S. A. Akinrinmade - First Sergeant-at-Arms

REGIONAL MINISTERS AND DEPARTMENTS PREMIER’S

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OFFICE Premier - The Honourable Chief S. L. Akintola, MHA The Ministers of State - The Honourable Chief J. L. Tifase, MHA - The Honourable S. S. A. Adeniya, MHA The Ministers without Portfolio - The Honourable Sir Olateru Olagbegi, The Olowo of Owo, MHC - The Honourable Oba S. O. Abimbola, The Oluwo of Iwo, MHC - The Honourable Oba A. Gbadebo II, The Alake of Abeokuta, MHC - The Honourable Oba S. A. Adenle, The Ataoja of Oshogbo, MHC - The Honourable Oba A. Adeleye II, The Elekole of Ikole Ekiti, MHC - The Honourable Oba S. Aminu, The Olubadan of Ibadan, MHC Parliamentary Secretaries - Mr. E. O. Oke, MHA - Mr. C. O. Olamigoke, MHA MINISTRY OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT Deputy Premier and Minister of Local Government - The Honourable Chief R. A. Fani-Kayode, MHA Minister of State - The Honourable N. A. B. Kotoye, MHA Parliamentary Secretaries - Mr. J. L. Lawal, MHA

MINISTRY OF FINANCE Minister of Finance - The Honourable Oba C. D. Akran, MHA Parliamentary Secretary - Mr. O. A. Akingboye, MHA

MINISTRY OF JUSTICE Minister of Justice and Attorney-General - The Honourable B. Olowofoyeku, MHA Parliamentary Secretary - Mr. K. O. Owonikoko, MHA

MINISTRY OF EDUCATION Minister of Education - The Honourable D. K. Olumofin, MHA Minister of State - The Honourable Ayo Ajibola, MHA Parliamentary Secretaries - Mr. J. O. Abiosun, MHA- Mr. J. A. Ajuwon, MHA

MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE AND NATURAL RESOURCES

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Minister of Agriculture and Natural Resources - The Honourable Dr. S. D. Onabamiro, MHA Minister of State - The Honourable Alhadji Z. A. Opaleye, MHA Parliamentary Secretary - Mr. A. S. Sanni, MHA

MINISTRY OF LANDS AND HOUSING Minister of Lands and Housing - The Honourable Duro Ogundiran, MHA Minister of State - The Honourable C. O. John, MHA Parliamentary Secretary - Mr. C. A. Williams, MHA

MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS Minister of Home Affairs - The Honourable S. L. A. Fajimi, MHA Parliamentary Secretary - Mr. S. O. Akerele, MHA

MINISTRY OF INFORMATION Minister of Information - The Honourable O. Adebayo, MHA Parliamentary Secretary - Chief A. Borokinni, MHA

MINISTRY OF LABOUR AND SOCIAL WELFARE Minister of Labour and Social Welfare - The Honourable J. O. Adigun, MHA Parliamentary Secretary -Mr. I. O. Aniyi, MHA

MINISTRY OF CHIEFTAINCY AFFAIRS Minister of Chieftaincy Affairs - The Honourable S. A. Layonu, MHA Parliamentary Secretary - Mr. I. O. Aniyi, MHA

MINISTRY OF HEALTH Minister of Health - The Honourable Dr. J. O. Omitowoju, MHA Minister of State - The Honourable Chief O. Olaitan, MHA Parliamentary Secretary - Mr. I. A. Adelodun, MHA

MINISTRY OF WORKS AND TRANSPORT Minister of Works and Transport - The Honourable Chief A. O. Adeyi, MHA Minister of State - The Honourable Chief E. B. Arowojolu, MHA Parliamentary Secretary - Mr.M. A. Adewunmi, MHA

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MINISTRY OF TRADE AND INDUSTRY Minister of Trade and Industry - The Honourable A. B. Bello, MHA Minister of State - The Honourable Chief S. A. Tinubu, MHA

MINISTRY OF ECONOMIC PLANNING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Minister of Economic Planning and Community Development -The Honourable Chief J. O. Oshuntokun, MHA Minister of State - The Honourable K. S. Adebesin, MHA Parliamentary Secretary - Mr. J. O. Adeyemo, MHA

In spite of the distance, we covered from our constituencies to the Assembly, attendance were very good. During this period, there was no official accommodation for the members. We normally stayed in Hotels or with our relatives in Ibadan when we came to attend sittings. Besides, we could choose to leave our constituencies very early, around 2.00 a.m. There were no heavy traffics then and the roads were safe. Armed robbery cases were not as it was nowadays. Lives were relatively safe. Besides there was party discipline and self discipline. Members faced expulsion from the party if one failed to attend meetings and sittings. And so the Parliamentary meetings and the normal sittings were always lively and interesting.

I want to mention here that in my own perception, the House was the best ever put in place in this country. The composition, stuff, presentation and even defence of one’s constituency’s interest made the House unique. The standard of Debates and the ways and manners by which members advanced the needs of their

187 THE PART TO PLAY constituencies were remarkably better than what obtained after us. It is important to note that, inspite of the poor allowance of the Honourable members and lack of provision of accommodation for members; we still performed so wonderfully well. I was not provided with accommodation despite my position as Deputy- Speaker. It was only when I became Speaker protempore that I was allocated accommodation. SPEAKER PROTEMPORE The Speaker of the House Mr. T. E. Elusade, representing Ife Town South soon took ill and the bulk of the duty rested on my shoulders. I was Acting Speaker through a major period of the post emergency West. I discharged the duty of the Hon. Speaker remarkably, without any bias or prejudice. Both sides of the House were really satisfied. This could be seen in the tribute, the Premier and Leader of Opposition gave on 6th April, 1965 –

DEPUTY SPEAKER – TRIBUTE Excerpt from the Hansard – Official Bulletin of 6th April, 1965 Chief S.L Akintola (Premier) Perhaps I may express the sentiments of both Sides of the House. We pay you, Sir, the commendation that is due to you for the efficient manner in which you have been able to carry on and discharge the duties of the Speaker of this honourable House. (Cheers). It is unfortunate that ill-health prevented the Hon. Speaker of this House from attending this important Budget Meeting but, in spite of the short notice, you came to our rescue as an experienced Deputy Speaker who has been able to assimilate and acquire a great deal of practical knowledge. For this, we are very much indebted to you for the successful completion of this Budget Meeting and

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I think that your performance on this occasion augurs well for the future because you have discharged your duties remarkably well, so efficiently and so charmingly, that the Members of the Opposition will always like to see you on the Chair. Alhaji D.S Adegbenro: Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, I like to associate myself with the views and sentiments expressed by the hon. Premier. When the appointment of Mr. Speaker was proposed, I was consulted, and I argued that you, Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, ought to have been promoted to the post of the substantive Speaker. I was informed that there were some difficulties in the rank and file of the NNDP and I had to agree that you still hold your post as Deputy Speaker and in spite of the fact that you happen to be the Deputy Speaker, you have discharged your duties impartially and you deserve our commendation as well. There is only one request I will like to make and I wish that you give this your serious consideration. I hope you will not fall into the trap of preventing Hansard to be distributed to hon. Members as was done during the closing days of your predecessor in office. This is very important and I will wish that you do not allow yourself to be used for that type of funny business. Mr. Deputy Speaker, Sir, we congratulate you for being an efficient and impartial Speaker. Mr. Deputy Speaker: I thank the hon. Premier and the hon. Leader of Opposition for their compliments and I wish fervently that the hon. Speaker (Mr. Elusade) will be well in time to take up his duties. Thank you very much.

1965 REGIONAL ASSEMBLY ELECTION & THE FINAL BLOW The Western Nigerian government was restored on 1st of

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January, 1963. The leader of Action Group and some other strong members of the party had been imprisoned on charges of treasonable felony, having been found guilty by a High Court, presided over by Justice Sowemimo, another Egba man. In his judgement, he submitted that his hands were tied. What tied his hands? Some people erroneously took this to be as a result of undue interference or influence of the Federal Government. But it was not really so. His hands were tied because of the evidence on ground. Some of his very close associates, especially, Dr. S. D. Onabamiro, a former member of his Cabinet, representing Ijebu North II Constituency, testified that he had the knowledge that Awolowo was training some people in an undisclosed place to execute plans to oust the government of Tafawa Balewa.

Since this period, political activity was on the low ebb. The Action Group Party had been weakened and there were ramblings all over. The party could no longer stand any future election successfully. There came, alignment and re-alignment of parties. Some of the erstwhile supporters of Chief Awolowo now pitched in the camp of Chief S. L. Akintola. I remember when I visited Chief Awolowo at Lekki, he lamented that even my Speaker, Prince Adeleke Adedoyin, had deserted him when he needed him most, same with Onabamiro, all of whom were his kinsmen. Akintola had now shown up in a new party called NNDP. Members were drawn from NCNC, A.G. and DPP. The loyalists of Awolowo too in Action Group and some factional members of NCNC formed what was called United Political Grand Alliance (UPGA) under the leadership of Chief Michael Okpara. Chief Okpara was the Premier of Eastern Region, controlled by NCNC.

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With this, the political climate of the country changed. Chief (Mrs.) H.I.D. Awolowo, towards the tail end of 1963, started campaign in company of Adegbenro who was now the leader of Opposition in the House. Everything went on peacefully. Some of us were still fond of Chief Awolowo. But around this time I chose to be inactive because of the duty I was discharging in the Western House of Assembly. At that time, Elusade, my Speaker had been ill and I was Speaker Protempore. I did not want to be too partisan but function as unbiased referee. Chief S. L. Akintola too brought his campaign to my constituency in November 1964. My people had learnt to eschew bitterness in politics. We received every political party that came to us with open arms. This had helped us a great deal. Hon. C. O. Komolafe, another man from Ipetu Ijesa was a candidate for Federal House, at that period. He represented Ilesa Rural Federal Constituency in the Federal House between 1954 and 1959, but he lost to Canon Josiah Akinyemi in the 1959 Federal election.

In 1964, Chief Komolafe regained his seat in the Federal House. Chief Akintola’s visit to our town was very peaceful, but it was not so in Ilesa that same day. He left Ipetu enroute Ilesa to Ifewara, Ile-Ife and finally Ibadan. At Ilesa, there was little disruption that made the Premier shut down Ilesa Grammar School. The school was however soon re-opened due to my intervention and that of other prominent cabinet members of his, such as Attorney General and Minister of Justice Chief Olowofoyeku and the Governor, Sir Odeleye Fadahunsi. This period, the UPGA had started to unleash terror on the West. That was what really

191 THE PART TO PLAY happened at Ilesa. They had been on the run for NNDP members. On two occasions, they failed in their bid to target me. The first occasion, they missed the road when they were trailing me.

I had taken Osogbo-Iwo Road to Ibadan, and unknown to them, they pursued me through Osogbo Gbongan Road. We were in this State when the 1965 election to the Western Region Assembly was conducted. Chief Dele Ige came out again as the flag bearer for UPGA while Awogboro, an Ibokun man made himself the flag bearer of NNDP. To the best of my knowledge, there were no shadow elections before this time. The NNDP hierarchy wanted me back in the House, not minding Awogboro’s candidacy. He too could go ahead as flag bearer for NNDP with the understanding of the leaders that another constituency would be created for me.

In all honesty, I did not want to stand for any election. I was satisfied somehow, even though I had my constraints. But then, the premier promised an additional constituency that would give Ijesa five seats instead of four. So, I did not campaign at all. Meanwhile I was very busy in the House. Chief C. O. Komolafe too, who had won election to the Federal House, was not very concerned about what was going on within NNDP at home. Awogboro was handling the campaign in such a careless and dangerous manner. He was not a native of Ipetu-Ijesa, but he had the effrontery to come to Ipetu in the guise of politics to forment trouble. He instructed his thugs to cut down the Action Group flags in Ipetu Ijesa. I had to challenge him in order to check his

192 THE PART TO PLAY excesses. I told him it was wrong to do so. He had rather carried on peacefully with his own campaign rather than trampling on the inalienable rights of others.

As he heard this, he started accusing me of taking side with Action Group. He went to Ibadan to report me to Akintola of antiparty activities in Ipetu-Ijesa. The latter, who knew my worth and disposition to matters warned him of his high handedness. He told him this would not profit anyone any good and that he should not do anything without informing me, after all I was his leader. In the night of the day, his boys cut A.G.’s flag; I learnt he was in a meeting with some people in Ipetu-Ijesa. I did not know the reason why he had chosen Ipetu Ijesa as his capital base to unleash terror. I did not know that they were holding meetings against me, in my hometown. I did not know it was a cult meeting. One of their scribes came out and pointed a knife at me. If not because of the prompt intervention of Tayo Seweje, my faithful driver, he would have stabbed me. Awogboro immediately called him to order. Anyway, that showed the internal disharmony and lack of organization of NNDP at about the time the 1965 election was to be conducted.

This permeated through the period of voting and counting of votes. Normally the counting should take place at Ilesa. Awogboro did not allow this to happen; rather the ballot boxes were forcefully taken to Ibokun his hometown. The election was characterized by rigging, fraudulence and other malpractices. At gun points ballot boxes were stolen, the poling stations were taken over by thugs and electoral officers wounded. That was the

193 THE PART TO PLAY situation through out the whole West, mostly rampant in Ijesaland especially Ilesa. NNDP candidates were declared winners of all the seats in the West. This called for violent reactions from UPGA, who had trained special thugs and fighters to face the onslaught of NNDP. These specialists in the art of putting houses and human beings on fire erupted with the slogan ‘Operation wet e’. As a result of this, many houses were burnt in Ilesa, particularly, more than in any part of the West. There were reports of such burning in Ikire, Akure, Ekiti and so on. The police could not stop them. Military men were therefore drafted to these areas. This was the period people commonly referred to as ‘wild wild West’. I lost two lorries that I was using for commercial transportation of people and farm produce.

THE 1966 – 1ST MILITARY COUP All these were going on till the end of 1965. While this was going on in the West, the other parts of the country were relatively peaceful. Tafawa Balewa, the Prime Minister was claiming that all was well in the country. Meanwhile, so many lives and properties were being lost in the West. No wonder, some people in the West were suspected to have influenced the Military to take over. But then, Tafawa Balewa could have declared another State of Emergency in the West, after all, it was only in the West that there were violence. Perhaps the military could not have had any excuse. Nevertheless, the situation was like that, when the Military struck for the first time in Nigeria, on January 15th 1966.

I got hint of this from some of my old boys who were now senior officers in the Army. One of them came to give me an escort to

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Ibadan, in the heat of the trouble but I told him, he should not bother. He told me of the plans of the Military boys, but I told him to keep his peace, nothing would happen to me. Moreover, my father, a deeply religious person, who was also at Ipetu then, insisted nothing would happen, so I should remain in Ipetu to observe things. In the evening of January 15, 1966, the Military struck in Lagos and killed the Prime Minister, who was breaking his fast; it was the period of Muslim fasting. Chief Festus Okotieboh, the Minister of Finance too was killed. That same night, some top military brass like Ademulegun and Maimalari were also killed.

Midnight in Kaduna, Ahmadu Bello, and Premier of the Northern Region was killed. In the West, S. L. Akintola was killed but the Premiers of Mid West and East, Dennis Ossadebey and Michael Okpara were spared. That was how we lost our democracy and opened the eyes of the military to the governance of the country. The Ceremonial President, Dr. Nnamdi Azikwe was abroad. The Prime Minister, Alhaji Tafawa Balewa had been killed. Power then devolved, according to the 1963 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, to the President of the Senate Dr. Nwafor Orizu. It was Dr. Orizu who unconditionally signed way the fledgling democracy to the military. It was evident the Senate President had no choice other than to comply with what the military wanted.

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CHAPTER TWELVE 1965 COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY ASSOCIATION MEETING IN LONDON & NIGERIA’S FRONTAL ATTACK ON APARTHEID

he 1965 budget debates took place in the early months of the year and were passed. The enthusiasm that Tsurrounded the debates and the brilliance displayed throughout this period endeared me to the premier and all members of the House. It was as if the premier was waiting for an occasion to compliment this, even though he had done same on the floor of the House. The Commonwealth Parliamentary Meeting was about to hold in London, in a week’s time. Mr. J. M. Akinola, the clerk to the Regional Legislature, suddenly brought a letter from the Premier, choosing me to represent Western Nigeria Government in the CPA meeting in Westminster, London. The meeting was to hold in May 1965. I had only one week to prepare. This was going to be the first opportunity, and perhaps the last because the House would soon wind down.

In fact it was the only journey I made outside this country. But then it was a splendid one, an unforgettable journey that one would ever pray to make. I did not have knowledge of how the climate of Europe was in May, whether it used to be cold or hot

196 THE PART TO PLAY during this period of the year. The clerk told me that it is always cold in May; so I had to prepare for the weather. I went to buy woolen singlets and thick pants that stretched to my knee. I decided I would not take along or wear any English dress; rather I would go with traditional attire of “Agbada, buba and Sokoto”, and caps to match. I wanted to look African throughout. Within a week, I completed the necessary arrangements including innoculation and getting necessary papers ready. The Government did all these and I was booked for the first class compartment.

I would have saved much money, as did the other two Nigerian representatives; Hon. Samuel. Lana and Hon. Gbinovia from Mid West. I could not forget that flight. We took off in a British Airways plane in the afternoon, first to Accra, Ghana. The plane flew there to pick other people that were scheduled to go on the same flight. That was the first time I was in Ghana. I did not see anything impressive there. The plane returned to Kano, in the evening of that same day, from where we eventually took off to London. I remember I was the only black man in the first-class cabin of the plane and I felt very unpleasant and uncomfortable. We stopped at Rome. Everything I saw there amazed me. I looked around and pondered, this was a place I had been reading about in Latin. We took off again, straight on to Heathrow Airport. By this time, it was dawning. The plane was flying on a lower altitude so we could see things faintly and later clearly.

We flew over Europe and we were told of the names of the cities and important places. We saw the farms that were broken into

197 THE PART TO PLAY little pieces. Eventually the plane landed. I was in my complete Agbada with a cap to match and something funny happened. The white waiters mistook me for Nkrumah. They gave me VIP welcome, ushering me out of the other white men who boarded the plane, to the VIP arrival lounge. When they realized I was not Nkrumah, they left me there. They were expecting Nkrumah to attend the meeting. He did not however come and so the British were disappointed. Ghana was not represented in that year’s Commonwealth Parliamentary Association meeting. Anyway, I was treated like a visiting president of a country. They did not bother to check my papers neither did they inspect my luggage. Everything was very strange.

They later came back to me and helped me to take a taxi to Strand Palace Hotel, where I was booked to lodge with all other representatives through out the Commonwealth. The Prime Ministers of some countries represented them; their Speakers and some by their Ministers represented some. The next person to me in the hotel was the Speaker of the Indian Parliament, Mr. Paul Mehta. He was very humble. We became good friends. He knew how to read the palm. He read mine and told me mysterious things about my life. He told me I would live long in life but that before I clock 70, I would have a serious health problem, that would almost terminate my life, but I should not fear, as I would not die. Before this time, I had been having the feeling that I would not live long. But true to his prediction, I thank God I am still alive at 84. When I was about to reach age 70, I had a terrible sickness that almost terminated my life. I was taken to the University College Hospital Teaching, Ibadan where I was operated for

198 THE PART TO PLAY prostatectomy. That same year, I knew of 3 persons, who died of the same ailment. This made me to celebrate my 70th birthday in a grand style.

My friend, Speaker of Indian Parliament did come to my room every morning before we went to meeting. By this time, I would have met with the two others representing Nigeria. We usually went together to the meeting. There was a day we were almost trapped inside the elevator. It was after the meeting when we were going back to the ground floor. The elevator got down, but the door did not open, instead, it went up again to the floor from where we were coming, then down to the ground floor and up again, on and on until it was rectified. We were all sore afraid, as none of us had ever experienced such a thing. It was during the first day of the meeting that I saw Chief Lana, who told me he had come to represent the Federal Government. At the end of the meeting, we took photographs together. To my amazement our photograph and the news of the meeting appeared in Nigeria dailies, the following day. I could not believe it when I was told this on phone from home.

FIGHTING THE CAUSE OF SOUTH-AFRICAN NATIVES

In many respects, the country of Rhodesia serves as a vivid example of the impossibility of a White Minority trying to impose its rule by force over a non-white majority. The country, known in history as Rhodesia (now called Zimbabwe) was created in 1888, when a black tribal chief in the area, one Lobengulla granted a mining concession to the British Empire builder, Cecil John

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Rhodes. Rhodes, who also served as the Prime Minister of the British Colony at the cape formed the British South Africa Company to settle the new region. He considered it not only valuable for its mineral wealth but also for its strategic position with the creation of a British Colony to the North of the then Independent Boer Republics. Rhodes must have thought of encircling the Boers with this move.

Rhodes’ desire to expand British territory was based on two pillars primarily motivated by capitalist greed. He sought to extend his personal wealth even further into the interior of Africa, and secondly by a desire to see all of Africa “painted red from the Cape of Cairo”. It became one of the ironies of early white rule that the single most significant effect was a dramatic increase in Black numbers. In 1890, the estimated Black Population was between 100,000 and 200,000 and within a matter of 50 years the population catapulted into the millions. This happened because the white settlers provided food, drugs and work for the blacks and also largely put a stop to the tribal warfare between the minority Matabeles and the majority Mashonas.

The number of white settlers in the region was tiny and unlike South Africa, there were no regions which were, either uninhabited. The black tribes, – the Matabele and Shona – soon started expressing their dissatisfaction with having been colonized by stealth through the innocuous granting of a mining licence. A series of black uprisings then took place; the tiny white minority through force of arms quickly suppressed them, with the last major uprising being put down in 1897/98. Very slowly, the

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Colony began to grow in terms of white numbers, mainly immigrants from Britain, but also a few Boers from South Africa, although they were always in the tiny minority amongst the Rhodesian white population.

The Region was named Rhodesia in 1894 in honour of Rhodes and his British South African Company (BSAC) not only retained control but gradually extended its influence, so that by 1923, it held not only what was to become Rhodesia, but the present day countries of Zambia and Malawi. By the end of the first World War, the number of white settlers in the Southern part of the BSAC’s territory had grown to the point where they started demanding self government. In 1923, the British Government acceded to this request, and the region became known as British Colony of Southern Rhodesia with the Northern part becoming the British Colony of Northern Rhodesia, ruled directly from London through a Commissioner.

Despite the relatively large numbers of white settlers, the blacks constantly outnumbered the whites by an ever- increasing ratio. White rule was only maintained through a policy of military subjugation and surprisingly, large- scale black acquiescence – but the latter situation would remain so for ever. The decolonization policy followed by the British Empire after the end of the Second World War saw Southern Rhodesia being first included in a Federation of three other regions: Northern Rhodesia (later to be Zambia and Nyasaland (later to be called Malawi). This federation lasted from 1953 to 1963 when it was dissolved in preparation for the independence of these States.

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However, the British Government forsaw granting these States independence on the basis of Universal suffrage and black rule. By now, the white minority in Southern Rhodesia was far too ensconced to accept such a dispensation. In 1964, Northern Rhodesia gained its independence as Zambia and Nyasaland as Malawi. Although the British government had initially told the white Southern Rhodesians that they would be granted independence, this undertaking was reneged upon. Incensed at the betrayal,, particularly because white Rhodesians had been so loyal to Britain in the past, the majority party in the Southern Rhodesian Parliament led by Ian Smith then issued the famous UDI – or Unilateral Declaration of Independence in 1965. We were in the Commonwealth Parliamentary Session, when we heard of this news.

Yet on another day, we had just finished a meeting and went outside to read newspapers. To our shock and total disappointment, we read that Ian Smith had made a unilateral declaration of independence for Southern Rhodessia. This was incredible! It made us shameful and sad. What sort of independence was this? What happened to the black natives of Southern Rhodesia? Would they remain in perpetual serfdom? The whites seizing the land that belongs to the blacks and declaring independence for itself, yet Britain could not stop him. This made nonsense of the declaration of human rights and the doctrine of equality before the law. It was Chief Samuel Lana who first raised the matter as a matter of urgent public importance, if Britain could not see it as such.

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When we came back from recess, this matter generated some heat on the floor of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Meeting that day. His argument was that, as a subject of the Queen, Ian Smith needed to be sanctioned. He had caused a problem for the Queen, a big one for that matter.

Speaking in line with Lana, but in a roaring voice, I condemned Ian Smith adding that it was not really his fault. It was because he thought his people would support him to trample the Blacks under his feet. But they should realize that in due course, the Blacks would secure might to be able to face the cannon of Ian Smith and remove his yoke off their heads. Our contribution sounded too harsh, to them. To them, mine was suggesting insurrection against the Queen. The Honourable members of the House of Commons present looked with disdain. Anyway, I had made my point known and I was not apologetic. Some of the members of the House of Commons responded and said there was nothing the House of Commons could do. That was not true; they could remove Ian Smith from South Rhodesia and bring back the status quo. I was not saying the British Parliament sent him there, but what he did was an insurrection.

The British should do something urgently. True to my word, before long, Robert Mugabe rose up to that challenge and with the help of Nigeria and other prominent African Leaders, the natives won the struggle later. Throughout the meeting, Chief Lana would have something to say, about UDI as a matter of addition, to whatever subject under debate. At the close of the

203 THE PART TO PLAY meeting, finally, Lana was called upon to give the vote of thanks to the Queen. In his short speech, he still had something to say about UDI, Ian Smith and South Rhodesia. Thank God for all these voices and forces that gathered together later to help the Black natives of Rhodesia who initially owned their land before Cecil Rhodes possessed the lands for British farmers, forcefully.

With Mugabe, it was a good fight which was won. The place obtained independence with the new name Zimbabwe. The report of this journey would be incomplete, if I don’t mention our visits to important departments of government and the places of interest we visited. We were in Britain for a period of one month. Apart from meetings, we visited different Parliamentary Houses in Britain. We were at Northern Ireland’s parliament, and we saw them at work. We stayed in Ireland for a few days. What impressed me most was their agriculture. I saw the biggest pig I had ever seen, same with cows. There was an agriculture exhibition that was going on then. We visited their Boat building yards where we saw healthy and strong youths engaged in boat building.

On their farms, all necessary social infrastructures, such as water, electricity, telephones, were found everywhere, even in the cottage. I thought about what time my country too would develop to this stage; might be in another 200 years. We noticed, unfortunately, the division, between the Catholics and the Protestants in the House and almost everywhere. The Protestants were in support of Union of Northern Ireland with Britain in the Commonwealth while the Catholics preferred that

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Ireland joined with Eire, the rest of Irish Island. The Catholics, at that time, were in a miserable minority. This situation led to war and wars in these regions; and would still continue to lead to war in as much as nothing concrete is done. I always felt sorry whenever I read about the feud in Northern Ireland and about what the politics of religion has adversely done to Northern Ireland. From there, we went to Douglas; a small island near England.

We met with the Governor and his wife. I spoke to the wife, who showed surprise about the way I spoke. She asked: “How did you learn English”? She faced her husband and said: “he speaks perfect Queen’s English”. I wondered in my heart, if these whites still thought we were monkeys. That immediately reminded me of the time I missed my way while we were in Northern Ireland. I was in my complete Agbada dress with Damask cap, holding my bag. I was finding my way through a bye pass to link to the major street. Then I saw some children who trooped after me calling attention of other white to me – saying: “look at this man, he is wearing rags”. At Douglas, I visited a Casino in the night. I met a drunken man who was dropping coins in the machine without any corresponding winnings. I dropped a coin in the machine and large number of coins exuded from the machine, I did it the second time and won, again: The drunken man was astonished ‘Lucky man, Aren’t you lucky? A VIP, very influential and rich man. You come from a great country. But look at me, wretched white man, unlucky, I kept loosing!”

We went back to London where we visited other monumental

205 THE PART TO PLAY places. We had time to receive visitors especially Nigerians who were staying in London. Amongst the enthusiastic visitors I received was Lase Ladimeji now a lawyer in Lagos. He was a staff of Ipetu-Ijesa Grammar School until he left for London. He and his wife came to my hotel room, almost daily. My junior sister and last-born of my mother, Comfort and Dare, my junior brother, were there with their families. Meanwhile, as soon as we arrived from Nigeria, we were classified according to our interest. As a school principal I was classified educationist. So apart from the general places we visited, I had the opportunity of being taken round schools in London. The Education Minister took me round some institutions I was not taken to any place less than secondary schools. In one of the secondary schools, I taught Geography. I drew the map of Africa and indicated Nigeria. They seemed not to know anything about Nigeria as some of them asked – “Is Nigeria in East Africa”? They seemed to be interested in East Africa. They knew Kenya, Mozambique and others. I drew the map of West Africa and showed them Ghana. They knew Ghana; I could see the glory Kwame Nkrumah brought to Ghana. The people knew Nkrumah quite well. They might not know him as a person but they have heard a lot about him, no wonder, they were expecting him at the CPA Meeting. At the Middle Schools there, the students knew about Nigeria. We were in Oxford, for a whole day. There I bought a camera for Young Femi. I went to Wosley Hall, Oxford, a place from where I had taken correspondence courses and examinations to pass up to my Inter-B.A.

We visited London Zoo and River Thames where we were told

206 THE PART TO PLAY stories about the ancient River and the engineering works on it. They showed pride for the achievements of their forefathers and we too, appreciated it. I remember the first time the Minister for Education came to pick me for our outing. I was expecting to see his driver come to my room and inform me that ‘Oga’ was waiting for me. He came to me himself and we went inside the car. I was expecting we sat at the back, so that the driver would drive us. To my surprise, he entered by the driver’s side and I sat beside him. The car was very small. It was Morris Minor. I asked him what happened to his driver. He told me, he could not afford taking a driver adding that, drivers at times earned more than he did. Their drivers combined ability to drive with good education.

Apart from driving us to places, they showed very high intelligence in explaining things to us. I remember when they took us to Canterbury; they referred to history of King Charles and the songs they sang in those days including the poems. They knew their apples. Any subject they wanted to discuss they did expertly. Their education must be high, no doubt. The Minister told me, he did not earn as much as they did. I looked back to Nigeria; I had a Pontiac car, plus others like Volvo, Simca, Zephyr six and Peugeot 404. I had a driver, whom I paid. I could not explain. That was the second time I looked at myself as being unwise. Anyway, I was a school Principal and Deputy Speaker, I rested my mind and consoled myself.

But then, Nigeria should emulate some virtues in this. We should learn to be moderate. Also, the government should employ well- educated and experienced drivers and attendants to work at Tourism centres. I remember in those days, the attendants at

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Olumirin water falls knew much about the history of the water falls, about its geography and about the town itself. I don’t think those that are there now; know anything about the waterfalls. They are just there to collect tolls.

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CHAPTER THIRTEEN POLITICAL RELATIONSHIPS CHIEF ADEGOKE ADELABU

hief Adegoke Adelabu was a stormy petrel and thorn in the flesh of the Action Group. He was a grassroots Cmobilize who was very intelligent. Adelabu had double promotions the elementary and secondary schools. He berthed at the Government College Ibadan, where he also had double promotion. He attended Yaba Higher College on a U.A.C scholarship in 1936. I touched briefly on the activities of this personality in one of the earlier chapters in this book. My very good friend, Ero Phillips, was a tenant, directly living opposite Adegoke Adelabu’s residence, at Oke Oluokun visited him constantly. In one of such visits, we went to Adegoke Adelabu’s apartment to felicitate with him during one of the annual Muslim festivals. He did not hide his indignation and contempt for those who were not Ibadan indigenes. On that occasion, I had cause to mention the name of Awolowo, as a great Yoruba leader. He quickly stopped me by calling me ‘Ohanran’. He asked if I was a Yoruba and I told him I was and that he ought to know. He told me; those of us who were not Ibadan or Oyo are not Yoruba. He said Awolowo was not a Yoruba, he was an Ijebu man.

We all laughed. But he was serious about it. The Ibadans loved and respected him so much. On the day he was removed from office having been found guilty of maladministration and

209 THE PART TO PLAY nepotism, the Ibadan people showed their disapproval. In 1957, when he died in a ghastly motor accident, the whole of Ibadanland was disturbed as his supporters insidiously insinuated that his political opponents assasinated him. He was a brilliant graduate of Yaba Higher College, a UAC Manager before he joined politics. Adegoke Adelabu was a follower of Dr. NnamdiAzikwe who loved to write bombastic English in the pattern of his leader and mentor. I remember he wrote a book he called ‘African in Ebullition’. He was a volatile leader in speech and action. I witnessed some of his campaigns. There was a particular one he held very close to Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s House at Oke-Ado. It was there he said, during his speech that Awolowo’s action in respect of a particular case was a peculiar mess. His band and supporters immediately echoed this as ‘penkele mesi’.

As soon as they heard him say that, they could not listen further as they went about singing “penkele mesi”. From that day, he was called Adelabu Penkele mesi (Peculiar mess). He was always tough during campaigns. He upbraided his opponents thoroughly. It was part of politics in Ibadan in those days that politicians went to the extent of seducing wives from their husbands. It happened that Adelabu snatched the wife of one of top Action Group leaders, by name Kosenatu. This incident happened at Kudeti area. At that time, I was residing in Kudeti. I witnessed how the whole politics went on. This woman got pregnant and gave birth to a child. On the day of the child’s naming ceremony, it was all politics and fun.

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The streets all over the place were blocked and different types of songs were sung:- ‘Adelabu gbayawo Olope, Kosenatu, ti bi mo’ meaning: Adelabu has taken over the wife of Action Grouper, Kosenatu. Kosenatu has given birth’. I met the particular child later in 1984 at Ijebu Jesa where he was working as Education Officer at Ijesa North Local Council, what a co-incidence! Adelabu was particularly interested in me fixing his children to schools. I remember I fixed two, one to Ijebu Jesa Grammar School and his first daughter, to Orita Mefa Anglican Commercial School.

Ibadan people loved him so much. Despite the fact that he was found guilty of reckless spending of Ibadan Divisional Council’s money in 1956 by a panel of enquiry, the Ibadan people still supported him. They showed this in the song; “Adelabu, maa k’owo wa na 3ce, Igunnu l’o ni Tapa, Tapa lo nigunnu Maako wo wa na. Meaning – Adelabu, Go ahead spending our money 3ce Igunnu belongs to Tapa, Tapa belongs to Igunnu, Go ahead spending our money.” I remember an occasion when he was invited to Ilesa by the NCNC members to come and address them in a campaign rally – The group meet him at Ayeso and he was welcomed enthusiastically by talking drummers in a song “Ko ti e japa lo, 2ce Okunrin benbele t’o ndaa mu Awolowo Ko ti e japa lo”. Meaning “He is not bigger than an arm 2ce the miniature hero who worries Awolowo, He’s not bigger than an arm”.

This was a time when the exiled Alaafin of Oyo was in Ilesa before he moved to Lagos. Adelabu addressed his supporters and encouraged them. His driver who worked with me for few

211 THE PART TO PLAY mouths told me that Adelabu was greatly impressed by the rally when he compared it with the reception he received at Oyo town where he managed to escape being lynched. I remember the last election he witnessed before he died in 1957. The campaigns were fierce with songs like. “Adelabu gbodo mi 3ce Iduro osi, ibere osi ti o fi gb’orita-mefa lowo ‘ope’” meaning – “Adelabu swallows mortar pestle 3ce He can neither stand nor sit before he takes Orita Mefa from Action Group Party.” They were referring to the secretariat as Orita Mefa, as it was so called in those days. The irony of it all was that, he knew no rest from then until he died in 1957 in a ghastly motor accident. What a pity’! His death caused both social and political crises in Ibadan. He was highly loved by the Ibadan people.

VEN. ARCHDEACON EMMANUEL OLADIPO ALAYANDE The Ven. E. O. Alayande, a great patriot, honest and strong member of Action Group was the Chairman of Education Board during the time I was Chief Education Officer for Ibadan Division. I worked directly with him to execute the education policy of the Chief Awolowo led Action Group Party in Ibadan Division from 1955 to 1957. Chief Obafemi Awolowo, the Premier of the West was credited among his numerous achievements, especially his education policy such as free education for all. In order to effect the educational expansionist policy, Ven. Alayande and I, in company of other Board members, worked relentlessly. Many schools were expanded and new ones founded.

Pa Alayande was and is still highly respected by Ibadan people and any other person who moves closer to him. I worked closely

212 THE PART TO PLAY with him and related personally with him. His advice greatly influenced me in life. I was reluctant to leave Ibadan in 1957 to start the Grammar School at Ipetu-Ijesa. But his advice geared me up to accept the challenge. I would never forget him in my life. When I came back to Ibadan from home, I had occasions to meet with him. Pa Alayande also visited me in Ipetu-Ijesha to encourage me. The Ven. E. O. Alayande is currently the President of Yoruba Council of Elders.

I knew him way back in 1949 when he was Principal of Ibadan Grammar School, then at Oke Are. I saw him as a very young light complexioned man, very handsome. I knew him more when I got to St. Lukes Teachers Training College, Ibadan as a graduate tutor. By then, Ibadan Grammar School had moved to its present permanent site, which was almost adjacent to St. Lukes. One Jewish lady, Miss Jacoby was English teacher in his school while I was English teacher at St. Lukes. We worked together at extra mural classes at Ibadan Boys High School to prepare Students for GCE Ordinary and Advanced levels examinations so, and I was always at Alayande’s school. My friend, S.C.A, Yoloye came to work with Pa Alayande in 1953. I was frequent in his staff Quarter until he left to found Epe Grammar School. This brought me closer to him.

I knew him more when I became the Chief Education Officer for Ibadan Division and he was Chairman, Education Board. We worked closely together until I left Ibadan in 1957, later to meet again when I joined politics. He was the official priest of Action Group Party, the leading NUT leader in Ibadan and at a time the

213 THE PART TO PLAY whole of Nigeria. He was father Andrian and the sole action in the founding of St. Andrews as NCE College and the mover of the Andrian Magazine. He has been leading the campaign for the establishment of St. Andrews University too, which will soon become a reality. He is a commentator on current affairs and also always cherishes interacting with youths.

CANON JOSIAH A. AKINYEMI I have heard of Rev. Ransome Kuti of Abeokuta Grammar School, his exploits in the field of education up to the founding of the University College, Ibadan and the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT). I was at Ibadan Division as Chief Education Officer during which I knew Rev. E. Alayande, the Principal, Ibadan Grammar School. At that time too, Rev. S. A. Adeyefa was Principal, Oduduwa Grammar School, Ile-Ife while Canon Josiah Akinyemi was Principal, Ilesa Grammar School.

Government intervention in the running of schools did one thing. - It stopped movement for establishment of mission schools and this affected the tone and discipline of schools in a way. When I got to Ipetu I was not happy with what I met on ground. Those I relied on for support could not really do so. Canon Akinyemi gave me the support that built up my enthusiasm again. He studied and understood the difficulty of the work and he sympathized. We were very close, may be because we were in the same party. He was the Chairman of the Action Group Party in Ijesa Division while I was the Secretary of the Party. We worked hand in hand. We jointly wrote what later became the charter of Ijesa State i.e. Urban, North and South.

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In the running of my school, we compared notes, even though his school was larger and much older than mine. In the development of Ijesaland, he played a prominent part. He soon got promoted when the government took over schools, and was posted to St. Andrews College, Oyo as Principal. He was made Commissioner for Local

Government and Chieftaincy Affairs during Jemibewon’s governorship in the Western State. He was founding Vicar of All Souls Anglican Church, Ibadan. Canon Akinyemi was the father of Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi, former Minister for External Affairs.

CHRISTOPHER OLUWADARE KOMOLAFE C. O. Komolafe, no. 788 in Andrian History and Register (1896 - 1966) was among the pioneer scholars of Ijesa Origin. He got admission into the famous St. Andrews College, Oyo in 1935 and passed out in 1939. He has regard for his training in St. Andrews. He believed in the College, no wonder he named his school after the most prominent principal of the College for ages, Archdeacon George Button. The name of the school was George Burton Memorial College, Ilesha, the school he started when he left Ijebu Jesa Grammar School as Principal.

He was a frontline scholar who attended the popular Fourah Bay College, Sierra Leone in 1946. He came back home in 1953 and returned to Ilesa Grammar School, which sponsored him at the University. He joined politics immediately as an NCNC member and was one of the leaders of the party in Ijesaland. He was a

215 THE PART TO PLAY strong follower of Dr. Azikiwe and in 1954; he won an election to the Federal House of Representatives representing Ijesa Rural (North and South) constituency. He defeated Canon Akinyemi of the Action Group. C. O. Komolafe was the main mover for the take-off of the Grammar School for Ipetu Ijesa. He was Chairman, Education Committee and I was the Secretary.

He headed the Ipetu-Ikeji Local Council, which was one of the 20 Local Governments of rural set-up in the Western- Region of old. He was highly supported by Ipetu elites. He was the sole star of the firmament of Ipetu and area politics until I came home in 1957. In 1955, he left Ilesa Grammar School for Ijebu Jesa Grammar School as founding Principal. We worked together as brothers. At first, we disagreed on the need for my coming home to start a Grammar School. I thought I was too big to start a virgin school. But as fate would have it, I had to yield to pressure from all angles. He was the first Chairman of the Board of Governors. We worked together for the development of the school.

We were greatly helped because of the reason that we were both members of Young Men Christian Association (YMCA). We enjoyed the various jokes together. He talked about his experience in the Federal House and some other places. His followers at Ipetu felt dismayed and some how uncomfortable that we were not quarrelling. They did not understand what politics was all about. They failed to realize that politics means working together in the interest of one’s community. Although we were not in the same political camp; we knew what we were doing. They always chide him for coming to my house to wine

216 THE PART TO PLAY and dine. People marveled at the fact that my house used to be his first point of call anytime he came to Ipetu. I also frequented his house in Ilesha What happened then was that both parties were working hard and developing according to their conviction and we understood this. While he was Secretary of NCNC, I was Secretary of Action Group Party. He was much older than me. He had his primary education at St. John’s Primary School, Iloro-Ilesa. This made him to be friendly with and close to many top Ilesa sons such as Fafoworas, Fadahunsis, Falohun, Adeyokun and others, who happened to be his mates. He advised me to join NNDP in 1962 when my party got a crack but I did not immediately yield to his advice until Akintola formed the government. It then dawned on me that I should be part of the ruling government in order to help my school and community realize their goals. We did not attend the same meetings, even in NNDP. While he attended Fani- Kayode’s meetings, I was with S. L. Akintola.

He lost the election to the Federal in 1959. That time, Canon Akinyemi who lost to him in 1956, now defeated him to replace him at the Federal House. In 1964, he stood election again on the platform of NNDP against Dele Ige of Action Group and defeated him. C. O. Komolafe was a large hearted man, very plain, jovial and simple. During the 1971 upheaval in respect of change of Board of Governors of Ipetu-Ijesha Grammar School, he remained loyal and supportive. He later became Chairman, Ijesa Northern Divisional Council.

OBA OLUBADAN I. B. AKINYELE

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I was Chief Education Officer, when Oba Olubadan Akinyele took the mantle of leadership at Ibadan Divisional Council. It was then that the Nicholson Enquiry, which found Chief Adegoke Adelabu guilty and recommended that the Council should be dissolved. A new one was consequently put in place. That was how Oba Olubadan Akinyele came in as the Chairman. As the Chairman of the Council, I was working under him. He was very hardworking and very humble despite his many achievements. We were always on the roads, visiting schools, acquiring land for expansion and setting up new schools. During this period, he was also member, House of Chiefs and Regional Executive Council member, a Minister without portfolio. I enjoyed working with him.

DR. LAWRENCE OMOLE I never met Dr. Lawrence Omole until I returned home in 1957. Before then, the whole of Ijesa Division was controlled by the NCNC. In 1957, the situation took a dramatic turn. The congress of Ijesa Action Group was held at Obokungbusi Town Hall. Canon Akinyemi became the Chairman, I was made General Secretary and Dr. Lawrence Omole emerged as the Treasurer. Since then, I have had very close relationship with the elder statesman, a great philanthropist, illustrious and industrious entrepreneur. He was councilor in the early 1950s and regularly attended the elders’ meeting in Ikenne. On many occasions, he would send his driver to come to Ipetu Ijesa to pick me especially when we wanted to go for Elders meeting at Ikenne. I traveled most of the time in his car. Dr. Omole was a person who was never spoilt by his wealth. On some occasions, he came down to Ipetu Ijesa to spend time with

218 THE PART TO PLAY me. I so much loved him as he had almost become like an uncle to me. He was close to my family members and I was close to his, too. Dr. L. Omole is a father figure in Ijesaland. He is kind hearted and he contributed immensely to the glory of Ijesaland. He is highly recognized as an important dignitary. He was a member of Western Nigerian Development Board, and the Western Nigeria Marketing Board among several others.

His advice and support greatly enhanced my political achievement. He would forever be remembered for this. From the way the NCNC sang to their drum beats (gangan) when I returned home in 1957, Omole was in the forefront of struggle for the support of Action Group. I did not know him until we held the congress of Ijesa Division of the Action Group in 1957. At the Congress, Canon D. A. Akinyemi emerged as Chairman of the Ijesa Division, while I was chosen as Secretary and Dr. Lawrence Omole was chosen as the Treasurer. I represented Ijesa South and Omole represented Ilesa urban. This made us to be close. We had to work together to break the dominance of the NCNC in Ijesaland. I was able to know him for what he was, very intelligent man, who had interest in the progress of Ijesaland as a whole.

He was known all over Ijesaland as some villages even claimed he was a native of their villages. This shows his general acceptability all over Ijesaland. He too had over-all interest in the generality of Ijesa. He was deeply involved in sourcing for tap water that would take care of all the areas in Ijesaland. He was happy when the Esa- Odo water scheme took off but was still not satisfied that the water could not really go round. His belief had

219 THE PART TO PLAY always been that for us to raise Ijesa politics, we need somebody who will stand with everything he had; a sort of ‘Oranmonise Fayati’ to borrow his word. That is to say somebody who will think mainly of Ijesaland as a unit to develop the land.

At that time, he made a tour each summer to Europe; perhaps looking for what industry he could found to develop the land. No wonder he came out with the International Breweries, Ilesa. He prepared enough ground to see that the industry took off in Ijesaland. He had the option of establishing the industry in a more economically viable city in the country. What an unparalleled patriotism! He did not stop there, he added another plastic Industry. His political sagacity is noteworthy in the history of Ijesa nation. He once took me to one of his houses in Lagos. I imagined how he looked far beyond the present. This could be the result of his wide exposure. He visited my place at Ipetu now and again. What a humble person. He was also interested in Akinyemi, making a huge success of the Action Group.

He was the person who took me to the Elders meeting of Action Group Party at Ikenne. At the time the University of Ife was to be established by the Western Region Government, Dr. Lawrence Omole fought in company of other top leaders of Action Group to bring the University to Ilesa, but unfortunately, Ijesa could not stand the strength of notable people of Ile-Ife then, particularly the strength of Oba Adesoji Aderemi, That time too, Ijesa people did not really support Action Group in contrast to the Ifes. This worked against us.

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DENNIS OSADEBEY In the course of discharging my duty as an Electoral Officer, I had become close to some notable politicians and I met quite a number of them. Among them was Chief Dennis Osadebey. He was the Leader of Opposition in the Western Region House and member of the NCNC. By the time I came to the House, I had further direct contact with him. That time, he was re-elected to the Western House and represented Asaba Constituency. He was such a humourous and thorough gentleman. I remember in one of our Parliamentary meetings, he moved to cut the vote of the then Minister of Works by one shilling. “I went to his house one day, he entertained me with half bottle of Heineken beer” he started. Everybody burst to laughter. He was never known to be boisterous in the House. He spoke gently and his manner was gentle and truly honourable. He knew what he wanted and how to get it. He co-operated with Chief S. L. Akintola and later succeeded in carving out Mid-West from the West, and eventually became the Premier. He was a poet and lawyer who served his people relentlessly. We enjoyed reading his article in the Pilot.

REMI FANIKAYODE He was another NCNC member of the Western House, representing Ife-Ila South Constituency. He was a very tough politician, who was very sound and intelligent. This tough nature was exhibited during the occasion of Nigeria’s independence celebration in 1960. Governor of the West, Sir Adesoji Aderemi was inspecting the guard mounted in his honour. When it was his turn to shake hand with the Governor, he disappeared. Newsmen

221 THE PART TO PLAY published the news on radio and the newspapers. Sometimes, we met at the Speaker’s Office. I remember he usually called me a ‘Socialist’ because of the way I dressed, spoke, simply and well-behaved. But I never responded because as Deputy- Speaker, I needed to exhibit some maturity and calmness. Besides, my background as a ‘former Andrian’ told much about my disposition and simplicity.

He could not hide the admiration he had for me when one day I rode in my Pontiac car to him at Akure in company of my young Femi to exchange pleasantries with him in appreciation of the love he had for me. I felt honoured by his word of commendation for the way and manner I was conducting the business of the House, most especially the ability to control the much younger members of the House who were at times boisterous. ‘’This was the experience of a school Principal”, he concluded. By this time, the NNDP was controlling the House. The Akintola Faction had merged with NCNC to form NNDP. Remi Fani-Kayode had become the Deputy Premier. Although, he was fierce looking, yet he was humourous. It was unfortunate I did not have another occasion to meet him before he died, since the House was dissolved.

JONATHAN ODEBIYI Chief Jonathan Odebiyi, representing Egbado North East was a very intelligent politician. He was very fluent. I loved the way he contributed to debates in the House. J. A. O. Odebiyi was a brilliant speaker, an orator and could be very jovial. He was Minister for Finance. With such a brilliant personality in the

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House, the House was always very interesting. You can never be sad in Odebiyi’s company. He remained in opposition during the premiership of S. L. Akintola and was steadfastly behind Awolowo during the hectic period. He later became a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1979-1983). He founded Egbado College, Ilaro.

ABRAHAM ADESANYA He represented Ijebu North I. A strong member of Action Group and unfailing supporter of Awolowo did not hold any post throughout, but his contribution in the House was great. He was a bold speaker, always frank and serious looking. We always met on several occasions at the Elders meeting at Ikenne. Most of the time, he brought me back in his car to Ibadan. This happened when I went to the meeting in Dr. Lawrence Omole’s car, but he might need to travel from Ikenne to Lagos. He had a small car, while I had a big car, the fact that made me to consider him a true Ijebuman, very thrifty. I looked at myself as unwise. Why did I need to buy a costlier car? Was it because I was Deputy Speaker? Well I could not blame myself further; I was a School Principal and Deputy Speaker. I could draw allowance from two sources. I usually comforted my heart. But then I wish I could be as thrifty as he was. By the time the Action Group became the opposition party, he always stood to confront Chief S. L. Akintola, on the floor of the House. On these occasions, he appeared very serious, ever taking sides with Awolowo, whom he stood firmly behind all the time.

NATHANIEL AYO AJIBOLA

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Ayo Ajibola was my personal friend since 1941 when we entered St. Andrews College, Oyo. We worked together at the Ibadan District Council Education Department. He was travelling teacher in charge of Ibadan North while I was Chief Education Officer for the whole Division. We were also related by marriage. His junior brother, Olatinwo Ajibola married my wife’s junior sister, Mope. Ayo Ajibola was so ardent against S. L. Akintola, when Action Group became factionalised in 1962. We were in the Western House together. He represented Ibadan North (Rural). Incidentally, he was also Chairman of Ibadan District Council, Mapo.

When the restriction order was slammed on him, he was restricted to Oleh in MidWest. The day he was going to Oleh, we received him in Ipetu-Ijesa in order to encourage him and cheer him up and followed him to Igbara-Oke. At the open market place in Igbara-Oke we made a show to encourage support for Action Group. Ironically, however, he came back from Oleh early in 1963 to join the Akintola Group. He informed me that Akintola had formed the government, because, he would have the majority. He had been named Minister of State for Education and Dr. Onabamiro too has been named the Minister for Education.

He intimated me with plans being worked out that if I failed to support Akintola’s group, my school would not stay and my constituency would be merged with Ilesa Urban Rural. I became convinced and I realized that if I really wanted to edify my community and my school, I could not stay in opposition. Ajibola was an Educationist, kind hearted, humorous and a faithful friend.

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We remained good friends till his death. He founded Iroko Community Grammar School and made S. A. Akinyemi, another classmate of ours, the Principal.

OBA C. D. AKRAN He represented Badagry West. He was one of the strongest Leaders of Action Group until he crossed to NNDP. In the days of Action Group, he was Minister of Economic Planning and Community Development. We were not really friends then; even though we were in the House together. He was serving the second term; but he was not in good tune with me. I remember an occasion when members who had big cars wanted to change their cars for smaller ones. All we needed to do was to sell the cars to the Government. I wanted to change my Pontiac to Mercedes Benz. I did not know the system was not as easy as it used to be.

Rufus Oyinlola, who was the Transport Officer, valued my car and I took the report to Jonathan Odebiyi, the then Minister of Finance. He told me to take it to Oba Akran, Minister for Economic Planning and because he was not disposed to me, he referred me to the Premier. The premier, who knew what this meant, also directed me back to Oba Akran to continue in a circle. That was a price I paid for been scrupulously inclined to Action Group. But then I thought we all were still disposed to Awolowo. Before long I could see things have changed. Most of Awo’s erstwhile Ministers in Chief S. L. Akintola’s cabinet were not happy because their allowances were reduced when Awolowo declared austerity measure in the West even though he was not

225 THE PART TO PLAY the Premier. But then he was the Leader of the Party and the Party was supreme.

The relationship between Oba Akran and I became kindled during the second half of our term in the House. That was the time I became Speaker Protempore due to the ill health of Eluyemi, my Speaker. He called me Darling Speaker and would want me to become substantive Speaker. He kept pouring encomium on me in such words like ‘who else could be Speaker other than Adelegan?’ I intimated Oba Akran with some opposition at home. I told him I have decided not to go for second term, because I did not believe in politics of bitterness and violence, the type, which was already in motion at home. But Oba Akran kept asking, who would be the Speaker?’ He believed I would do it better than anybody else. The way I was leading the house at that time really pleased him and other members of the House, including the opposition members. Oba Akran was very serious about this; he told me of the plan to delineate my constituency to carve out a new one for me.

This was with the intention of returning me as Mr. Speaker in December 1965. But at this time I had made up my mind to quit politics because of the manner in which politics was being practiced. I was not favourably disposed to all the hooliganism and violence. I could not forget the contribution of Oba Akran towards the completion of the water project at Ipetu Ijesa. The project was initially budgeted at £60,000. There was need for the project to be expanded to other areas outside Ipetu-Ijesa. The expansion shot up the project to over two hundred and fifty

226 THE PART TO PLAY thousand pounds (£250,000). He was the person who helped us to push forth the difference. Oba Akran explained to me, the silence of S. L. Akintola when we took to him, the decision of Ijesa North to join him, in forming his Government in 1963. Oba Akran told me that Akintola was silent because, he wanted to take my matter to his cabinet members and to take a joint decision concerning me.

That time, I was not going to ask for any position neither did I think of retaining my position as Deputy Speaker. But then I knew I would still maintain my seat, afterall my entire constituency would not be scrapped. I later found out the contribution of Oba Akran in the cabinet meeting in respect of this subject. I was told he presented me well before the cabinet and he recommended that I should remain the Deputy Speaker. All this made me to forget about his earlier hostile disposition when he did not allow me to sell my Pontiac car to the Government. We later became good friends.

CHIEF S. O. LANA I have known him since 1955, when he was a councilor at Ibadan Division. He was a powerful orator. “Mallam Lana”, as he was fondly called, won a seat in the Federal House on the platform of Northern Peoples Party. What a marvelous victory? He beat the AG and NCNC candidates in Action Group controlled west. That really showed his acceptability among his people. He was the Federal Honourable member representing Igbo-Elerin Federal Constituency. Because he chose to stand the election on the ticket of NPP and won, “Mallam” was added to his name. As a

227 THE PART TO PLAY result of this unique performance, he was highly respected by his fellow honourable members, including the Prime Minister himself. This portentously earned him the post of a junior minister in the cabinet of Tafawa Balewa. We attended the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association meeting together in 1965. Three of us went to London to represent Nigeria at the CPA. Lana represented the Federal Government while I represented Western Nigeria. The whole commonwealth Nations would not forget his contributions to debates. We were in London when Ian Smith issued a Unilateral Declaration of Independence for South Rhodesia. This issue was almost untouched were it not because of Lana and I who opened debates on it. Our contributions made all eyes to be on us. By the time the meeting was about to end, Lana was called upon to give the votes of thanks to the Queen.

A.D. ADELEKE, LEKAN SALAMI & ALIMI ADESOKAN I have had having some personal relationships with politician’s long before I joined politics. This started when I became a graduate teacher at St. Luke’s Teacher Training College, Ibadan. I became friendly with the Headmaster of District Council Primary School, Eleta, Mr. A. D. Adeleke. The friendship grew within the first one month of meeting. I was coming to his school daily, to supervise my students who were doing teaching practice. Through Mr. A. D. Adeleke, popularly called A. D. on top, I got to know other prominent Ibadan indigenes. I met with Lekan Salami and I became friendly with him. He later became one of the Councillors at Ibadan Divisional Council.

A.D. on top and Lekan Salami helped me a great deal to find my

228 THE PART TO PLAY footing among Ibadans. Before long, I got to know other members of IDC who were councilors, with whom I developed good relationship. Amongst them were Muibi Akanbi and Alimi Adesokan. My friendship with these prominent Ibadan indigenes was additional advantage that helped me to secure appointment as Chief Education Officer (CEO) with IDC in 1955. It was when I was Chief Education Officer that I had further relationship with people like, J. M. Johnson, who was the Chairman of Ibadan Division, who had just taken over from Adegoke Adelabu, another person, I had personal relationship with.

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CHAPTER FOURTEEN SERVICE WITHOUT REMUNERATION

lthough the Military took over in 1966, some political surrogates surreptitiously guided its activities. The way I A saw everything then was that there were some manipulations at the Ministry of Education. At this period, I had bolted out of Action Group. In fact there was nothing like a strong Action Group since 1963. The Party had been weakened by the political tension that culminated in the declaration of state of emergency in the West. Since then, everybody was working for political convenience to win in the West because Awolowo was synonymous with the West. He himself was serving a jail term for an offence of treasonable felony, with some of his top disciples. There was no strong person who could hold the party together. But then there were still some loyalists who did not bolt out of the party completely. These people were there till Awolowo was released and they continued to be together even till the days of Unity Party of Nigeria. But they were very few. Awolowo himself was a peace-loving leader. When he came back from the prison, I sent a telegraph to him to congratulate him for his courage. I was surprised to see people burning houses in his name. I did not see this as a good heritage to the Yoruba race. My father used to warn me that any one involved in burning houses would live to regret the act because all things burnt in the houses, even the cockroaches or ants would ask for those who burnt them. My own style of politics was peaceful. I hated

230 THE PART TO PLAY hooliganism and politics of violence and bitterness. When the second republic politics was around the corner, some of his close associates came to me that I should reconcile with Awolowo, but I refused to be part of his group. What was my offence? It was said that in 1965, I instructed policemen to detain and cast his men to prison. This allegation was never true. I was in the palace the day the police came to arrest them. My sympathizers, who saw the damages done to my car and their most cherished institution, went to Ilesa to bring the policemen.

It was later I had to use my position to see that some of them were released. The people of Ipetu were not happy to see those trained with the school’s money come back to disorganize the school system. They were not happy too for the charcoal marks on the newly completed block, which was not contracted to the unpopular contractor. The uncle of this contractor who led the riot was himself trained under Regulation 19. How then did he bite the finger that fed him? If Chief Awolowo could believe that I sent his boys to prison, that was too bad. I remember Chief Awolowo was in Ipetu-Ijesha to campaign in 1978 and he openly told my people to ask me to join the UPN as against the sympathy I then had for the NPN because I had suffered so much for community. The NPN on its part offered me the Senate or House of Representatives seat but I wasn’t keen on seeking an elective seat. My friends were however in both the UPN and the NPN. I attended NPN meetings in Ibadan and held consultations with people like Chief Adisa Akinloye and Chief Richard Akinjide.

Politics did not prevent me from mixing with people like Pa

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Alayande, my mentor and late Bola Ige who always respected me. When Awogboro and other members of NNDP in my constituency came to Ipetu to cut off the A.G. flag, I withstood them to their face. They even reported me to Chief S. L. Akintola that I was supporting Awolowo. Action Group boys were not being fair to me at all. Politics should not be played this way. You do not have to blackmail or blacklist people of high integrity, who had been in a party before you, so that the Party leaders could recognize you. This was what the new crop of politicians were doing. They are still doing it now. This would not help the country to make use of the best. That is why nonentities are in power in some cases. We should say no to politics of witch hunting.

I joined the Action Group in 1951. That dated back to my days in the University. During this period, I had personal relationship with Lateef Jakande, who was the Editor of Nigerian Tribune. He might have forgotten now. I even wrote a few articles for the newspaper. Why did they have to suddenly cast me as an enemy to be destroyed? I was never vindictive and besides I knew it would be preposterous to cast seven teachers, natives of my town, to prison at once. I would never do so. Shortly after the military took over, the petitioners succeeded in lobbying the Ministry to stop us from collecting education levy. This was the major source of fund, which we used to run the school and carry out various developmental projects. This was necessitated by the fact that except the government colleges, communities, private proprietors, or missionaries privately owned all other secondary schools needed funds to support their development.

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RETURN OF SCHOOLS TO VOLOUNTARY AGENCIES

While I was Chief Education Officer, Ibadan Division, all the Division’s Schools were directly supervised by me. During this period, we established some schools including Teachers Training Colleges and Secondary schools such as Lagelu Grammar School and Divisional Teacher Training College, Oke- Are. Dr. Oyelese, a Lecturer at the University of Ibadan was a member of the Education Committee. He was Chairman of a sub- committee of the committee in charge of planning. He asked if I could take up appointment as the Principal, Lagelu Grammar School. He wanted me there because he knew I was keen in educational growth and he knew my worth. I told him I could not.

What I want to bring out from this was that, the personality of the Principal reflects the tone of discipline and respect schools had then. Not that alone, the school would reflect the embodiment of the Principal and his character. The personality of the Principal was the school. That was why schools in those days were very good. The schools, which people like Ransome-Kuti of Abeokuta, Alayande of Ibadan, D. J. Slattery of St. Finbar’s Lagos, Lahanmi of Ilesa, and the likes ran offered good examples to my point here. They were of major influence to us then. And it was this influence we took to our own schools. But nowadays, things have changed. The young graduates of nowadays fail to realize that no one can buy experience. I was surprised to hear a notable highly educated indigene of Ipetu-Ijesha, now deceased

233 THE PART TO PLAY advanced the argument that there was no difference between me and the graduate teachers under me, and that I was only a primus inter-pares; or first among equals. Anyway, he was perfectly entitled to his opinion.

This kind of attitude made educational standard fall. I remember while I was Principal at Ipetu, the expatriates’ teachers, as a matter of habit, did not proceed to the staff room immediately after the morning devotion. Because of what obtained in their countries, they had greater respect for me than our native graduate teachers did. They knew the status of a Principal and so liked to emulate me. They were always ready to tap from my zest. Better if we go back to the past to address issues of educational system. That was the days of voluntary Agencies and school managers. That is to say schools could be returned to their original owners. They were doing it perfectly well. The manager, who could be the Chief Imam, as in case of a Muslim School, a Reverend Pastor as in case of Christian schools, and Education Officers as in case of divisional schools, were directly responsible to the voluntary agencies.

They managed the schools for their missionary agencies. They employed staff, conducted promotion exercises and could terminate appointments of staff if the need arose. The principal too worked directly with the Board of Governors. While I was the Principal, I held my ground and the Board knew and was always with me. That shows the type of respect a Principal had in those days that made the schools great. Added to this, the Parents/Teachers Association has to be improved. My school

234 THE PART TO PLAY was run in conjunction with the Board and the Parents/Teachers. We went to the extent of holding our meetings outside Ipetu Ijesa. We convened meetings at Ile Oluji for instance, at Chief Akinsogba’s residence. In this case therefore, the Principal could not do anything except in agreement with the Board of Governors and the Parents/Teachers Association. This was exactly what was going on in my school until the reactionaries came and confused the whole system.

This really made us to loose the opportunity of getting our school upgraded to operate Advanced Level studies in the ‘Sixth Form’. During this time, it was Ilesa Grammar School alone, that operated the Higher .School .Certificate -- Sixth form, throughout Ijesaland. There was a consideration to introduce this to Ipetu- Ijesa Grammar School because we were next to Ilesa Grammar School in terms of facilities. Ijebu-Jesa Grammar School, which could also be considered for this, was very close to Ilesa. But because of the rancour in the Board then, due to the hostile nature of the petitioners, we lost that ample opportunity to Ijebu- Ijesa Grammar School. This is a good lesson for us all. In those days also, there was no uniformity in salaries of teachers. Because the schools were privately owned, the administration of each school varied from one to the other. There was therefore no standard salary structure but then each voluntary agency tried as much as possible to take good care of their teachers so that they would be attracted to serve the mission conscientiously. Those teachers’ schools could be returned to the original voluntary agencies.

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Governor Ladoja of Oyo State seemed to realize this when he proposed this action. But the teachers did not want this to happen. They are feeling the sense of insecurity. They should not. They only need to buckle up and remove laziness and care free attitudes from their ranks. The level of work teachers of nowadays are doing cannot be commensurate with the high salary they are receiving. They are handling government business as no man’s business. If it could fall, let it fall. That is the slogan of many. If schools are returned to the volountary agencies, the subconscientious teachers would sit up and there would be effectiveness in the educational system.

CULTISM IN SCHOOLS: Cultism was deeply rooted in the society. Its days were long. I grew up to see them because they were all over the places, cities, towns and villages. While I was at home, I heard a lot about them. Cultists owned almost all the houses surrounding our compound at Ipetu-Ijesa. In fact their headquarters was very close to my father’s compound. You could not see their secrets. They were highly feared by people as they dictated the tunes of the society. You could not provoke them and if you did so, you had invited war. My father told me a story of what happened even before I was born, between members of a secret cult (Awo) and the Christians at Ipetu, one time. It was said that a Christian fellow seduced the wife of one member of ocult from Ikeji-Ile. The Awo’s determined to fight the man.

They threatened they would invoke the god of thunder to strike the man dead. True to the threat, there came a thick cloud all

236 THE PART TO PLAY over the sky preparing way for rain. The Christians too gathered themselves together in a place not far from where the Awos gathered together. The Christians started praying to their God and singing “Olugbala gbohun mi nibi agbelebu” the cultists too, began to beat their drums and chanting incantations in contest against the God of Christians. The cloud soon cleared off and rain refused to fall. There could be no thunder and God had the upper hand. That was the situation all over the society. There are different kinds of cults. A particular one was known to be more dreadful. You dare not offend them, as they have no mercy. They had been before any other ones. Another was more of a confraternity and so its members were less wicked. They worked together and assisted themselves when needs arose.

When a member is in trouble, they joined hands to release him. That is not to say they don’t kill. When I was at Ipetu-Ijesa as the school Principal, I tried as much as possible to avoid them. They were all over the place and people feared them because they are belived to have the power to terminate people’s lives at will. I took precaution not to dine or wine with any known member of a cult, so that I would not fall prey to their tricks. Students in those days were not really into these cult activities. The only experience I witnessed was a case of one of our form one students who fought with my teacher, Onawumi. The student boasted and threatened he would deal with the teacher. He did this because he was a son of a known cult member in the town. The situation was immediately arrested as I stepped in. Onawumi was almost shivering but I bade him peace and asked the student to ‘vote for palm tree’ meaning to uproot a palm tree.

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As soon as higher institutions were being established in the country, students began to get involved in cultism. It was popularly held that Wole Soyinka introduced cultism into University system through the Pirates confraternity. The cult he introduced according to him was a sort of study group, more of social than cultural and it was not intended to instigate murder or brutalize fellow students. The important thing to note is that university is the extension of the society and so it is part of the society. The society could not, but extend to the University because of the worldly pursuit for worldly values like power, women or girls as in case of students and money. Those who joined cults do so because of these factors and they believe that they could obtain and maintain all these in a cultist atmosphere. The cult members could take girl friends of any person, who is not a member of his cult, believing that nothing could happen. But a non-member dare not do so; else he would face the wrath of the cult members. And with the proliferation of cults in schools, a member of a cult who mistakenly or knowingly offends any person who belongs to another cult brings the two cults to war.

Only God knows what the outcome of that war would be. What have we to say? The whole African Society has been polluted with activities of cultists. Children learn by imitation. If you, as a father, are occultic, definitely your child will attempt to take after you. So many parents belong to cults. Before a member of a secret society dies, for instance he must, as a matter of necessity replace himself with one of his children. That was how the whole

238 THE PART TO PLAY thing spread all over the place. Nowadays, there is a mad rush to join any of these numerous groups. There are so many of them now. People are joining them in order to make money or get power in order to get to the top. Definitely, as the number is increasing in the society, the same is applicable to the institutions. The summary of it all therefore is that if the society itself could check the influx of its members into these cults, students’ cultism too will be checked otherwise, we should forget it.

That reminds me of the effort of General Olusegun Obasanjo, through promulgation of a decree, banning government officials, from cultism. This was a good attempt and it somehow checked the rate of cultism in the country during his regime as a military Head of State. But I could not really feel the effect now. We should not relent in our efforts to fight cultism in the schools. This is better done when the students are still in the schools, than when they pass out. The freedom given to them is too much in the secondary schools where it is easier to control because the teachers could locate the parents of these students are still living under the roof of their parents. There is no way they could keep any dangerous item or their cultist material without being spotted by their parents. In the higher institutions, where students are living in hostels, random checking of the students’ rooms should be done from time to time to fish out dangerous weapons of cultism. Students should also be encouraged to learn and study hard to pass examinations rather than looking for short cuts.

DISCRIMINATION IN SERVICE

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When I was moving in to Ibadan Divisional Council in 1955, I attended the interview with twenty-seven other applicants, most of whom were Ibadan indigenes who were also qualified to take the post of Chief Education Officer. I was considered most suitable for this post because of my additional status as teacher of teachers. In other words, I got the appointment by merit. Some of my mates and co-applicants were later to work under my supervision as travelling teachers. What am I enunciating? If it were these days, there is no way I could be offered that appointment. It was not I alone, the then Chairman of IDC (Ibadan Division Council) Mr. J. M. Johnson, was not a native of Ibadan. He himself was a Lagosian. That shows what obtained in the old Western Region. We saw ourselves as one indivisible entity. That was the reason why the Action Group Party took good control of the whole West.

It could be noted also that Chief Obafemi Awolowo, who was an Ijebuman and the premier of the Region, did not say, because he was an Ijebuman, he would build the Liberty Stadium in Ikenne, or the WNBS/WNTV in Ijebu- Ode, Remo or even in Ikenne. We were all working as one, not minding our real source. Little wonder the progress recorded then was tremendous. Thank God for the West in those days. In Ibadan too, the Ijebus won elections as councilors. The Ibadans in those days did not discriminate. I worked without molestation, fear or attack. I enjoyed my normal salaries and allowances. But in recent times, things have changed. Even in 1976, when Ogun and Ondo States were carved out of Western State, people were not forced to go to their own States. In 1991, Ibrahim Babangida created more States and

240 THE PART TO PLAY the old Oyo State now broke into Oyo and Osun States. Since then we have been experiencing unprecedented acts of discrimination even among Yoruba-speaking States. In those days, the Ibadans still had some soft spot for the Osun people, as they were less dominant in the civil service. The situation changed much later when Ijesha people, because of their numerical strength were great taunted by their colleagues in the public service of the old Oyo State.

POLITICAL PARTICIPATION This hard earned democracy would endure and sustain, but with due consideration of the fact that the success of any system depends largely on the principal actors. Actions are products of an actor. The status of people who lead this country, may be in the Legislature or the Executive would dictate the level of growth and development the country would record. Flash back to the old Western Region reveals the stuff with which the government was made. It is not a matter of blowing one’s trumpet. Western- Region made remarkable progress due to the fact that round pegs were put in right holes. The best came out of the constituencies, all over the West. I have mentioned my friend, Chief Samuel Lana who won an election under the platform of Northern Peoples Party in the West. He represented Igbo-Elerin Federal Constituency.

By then, Action Group Party was prevalent all over the West. People knew his stuff and voted for him. He rose up there and proved his mettle and was appointed a Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister. Not that alone, the excellent spirit in him

241 THE PART TO PLAY made him the Federal Representative at the Commonwealth Parliamentary meeting in 1965. All these are attributable to his personality. In the same vein, most of us who represented our constituencies were good materials. But one thing I noticed was that majority of us had our primary assignments perhaps as civil servants, big entrepreneurs, produce merchants and so on. Pa Alayande was a retired school principal, Canon Akinyemi, erstwhile Principal of St. Andrews College was also Principal Ilesa Grammar School. I was a School Principal, C. O. Komolafe, a School Principal Ayo Ajibola was Education Officer and Proprietor of a Secondary School, we have others like J. A. O. Odebiyi was a School Principal, Oba C. D. Akran the Oba of Badagry, D. L. Ajayi of Ibokun, Dele Ige, a prominent Lawyer Babatunji Olowofoyeku another prominent lawyer, Dr. Lawrence Omole the great industrialist and produce merchant to mention but just a few

The important thing about all those people was that we did not depend on politics for a living. We had sources of livelihood and because of this, we had our names to protect. We knew that by the time we complete our political assignments, we would still go back to our primary places of work. For instance I partially retired from Politics in 1965 but I was still a School Principal until 1977. I want to say therefore that we should take politics off the hands of irresponsible and immature elements who have nothing to offer rather than to amass wealth for themselves. Let those who are presently serving in the public service who have had reasonable experience and have been tested and trusted, participate in politics. Good materials should be fielded by communities if

242 THE PART TO PLAY indeed people want development. In other words politics should be taken as part-time and be acted thus. Although some may argue that the system was only possible in a parliamentary system, it is not the system of government that really matters.

It is the participants or actors that really matter. Presidential system is not rough but some of the participants are rough. We still have some good elements among them. The military that took over from us in 1966 knew this reality and they continued to be mindful of the fact that we could not be thrown off just like that. They only took over the government, but the bulk of the responsibility of governance rested on the shoulders of politicians. We were still referred to as Leaders of Thoughts. This idea started in 1966 and lasted up to 1984 during which Chief Obafemi Awolowo was made the leader of the Yorubas. Subsequent governments in the old Western State recognized me as one of the leaders of thought. It was not surprising therefore that in 1973; I was appointed one of the 23 members, Ijesa North Management committee. I was the Vice Chairman of the committee. I was also the Vice Chairman of the 8 member, standing Committee Ijesa North Local Government Council. Pa J. O. Lawanson of Ere-Ijesha, one of those convicted on treasonable felony charges in 1963 was Chairman.

IJESA NORTHERN LOCAL GOVERNMENT MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE SEPTEMBER 1973 1. Mr. J. O. Lawanson -- retired Journalist -- Chairman 2. Chief S. T. Adelegan, School Principal Vice-Chairman 3. Chief S. T. Oguntimilehin, Accountant - Member

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4. Mr. J. O. Ogunjulugbe retired School Master - Member 5. Mr. D. O. Afowowe, Produce Buyer - Member 6. Mr. O. Akinyele, School Principal - Member 7. R. A. Bankole, St. Andrews College, Oyo - Member 8. Chief G. O. Onibonoje, Publisher, Onibonoje Press - Member 9. Chief J. O. Onibokun, former President, Customary court- Member 10. Mr. V. A. Fatiregun, School Principal - Member 11. Chief D. L. Ajayi, Licensed Buyer Agent - Member 12. Mr. F. Tanimomo, Produce Buyer - Member 13. Mr. Joel Odeniran, Produce Buyer - Member 14. Mr. T. A. Ogunfolabi, School Principal - Member 15. Chief O. O. Osunloye, School Principal - Member 16. Mr. J. O. Famakinwa, Accountant, U. I. - Member 17. Mr. J. O. Fagbeja, School Principal - Member 18. Mr. J. M. O. Fasehun, School Proprietor - Member 19. Mr. S. O. Obisakin, Textile dealer - Member 20. Mr. S. O. Ige, Legal Practitioner - Member 21. Mr. M. O. Ogunyemi, Grade I Teacher - Member 22. Mr. J. M. Akinfenwa, School Principal - Member 23. Mr. Olu Siyanbola, School Principal - Member

IJESA NORTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT COUNCIL -- STANDING COMMITTEE 1. Mr. J. O. Lawanson - Chairman 2. Chief S. T. Adelegan - Vice-Chairman 3. Chief G. O. Onibonoje - Member 4. Chief D. L. Ajayi - Member 5. Mr. S. Oladele Ige - Member 6. Mr. Olu Siyanbola - Member 7. Divisional Officer - Ex-Officio 8. Council Manager - Secretary

If one looks at the composition of the Management Committee, what I have been saying so far will be clear. Most of us were school principals. This tells of the highest esteem people held the

244 THE PART TO PLAY school principals then. They greatly helped to mould the society. The fear that even your teacher is coming to a student, not to talk of your principal brought a recalcitrant student to his senses. Even up to 1984, I still enjoyed that goodwill and recognition. I was also member of Education Board of Obokun Local Government, the new name given to Ijesa North Local Government. By this time, we were in the old Oyo State and no more Western State. I want to say also that our services during all this time were not remunerated. But we were dedicated to the service of our dear land.

In 1973, when I was made Vice Chairman of Ijesa North Council we fought a good fight to retain the dignity of our council. J. O. Lawanson was the Chairman. But he knew little about the Ipetu axis of the council, particularly the history of the forest reserve. There was another attempt at encroaching on the land that belongs to us. This had started in the middle of 1950’s when the then Oba of Ipetu Ijesa, the late Agunbiade II, gave out lands to some visitors. Lawaye was one of them. He was a Police Officer in Ilesa and a native of Erinjiyan in Ekitiland. With just one bottle of schnapps, the traditional ruler gave out land to him without proper delimitation. There is a village in that area named after him and was called Lawaye. Lawaye went ahead to invite people from Ilesa to come and receive similar gesture. They were also given. But the bad thing about this was that they did not directly occupy the land, instead, they sublet them to a group of settlers referred to as Oyo as tenants. They in turn paid royalties, not to the traditional ruler, but to the strangers. They now formed Association of landowners.

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The Divisional Council, under J. O. Fadahunsi too came under the pretext of government to annex further part of Ipetuland. First, some of the area was forested and part later deforested, with the possibility of turning the area into a personal property. Their plan was to link Ijesa South with Owena, via the village called Sokoto and other neighbouring villages such as Fadahunsi, S. B. Lawaye, Hezekiah and others. We stopped this extension. We met at Momodu’s house, in Owena where it was reasonably argued that although their landlords, so to say, were natives of Ilesa in Ijesa South that did not make the land to be Ijesa South. The fact still remains that the land belongs to Ijesa North, precisely, Ipetu-Ijesa. We showed them the plans of the roads we constructed and the dispensaries/maternity centres which we built in these villages.

The tenants claimed they belong to Ijesa South because of their landlord but they could not present anything to show that Ijesa South Local Government did anything there. They soon got convinced that they were truly Ijesa North. But in 1976, we lost some of the villages to Ijesa South Local Government. That was rather unfortunate. People at the council then knew virtually nothing about what we had gained for the council on this issue of lands that belong to Ijesha North Divisional council. Perhaps this might not have happened if the administration of Chief S. L. Akintola was not overthrown. He had promised me that he would help us divide the remaining land that belongs to Ipetu Ijesa to five according to the 5-quarter heads we have in Ipetu

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Ijesa. This would allow us to have a proper occupation of the land. The fear was that if something important was not done, the whole thing could turn into a communal feud.

But then, our people are not really available to make good use of the land if ceded to them. Our children nowadays are not too enthusiastic about going home. Some of them do not know their family land. They should come home so that they don’t loose their inheritance. I remember that despite the huge task of breaking the monopoly of the NCNC in my area, as the General Secretary of Action Group Party in Ijesa Division, we never had it so rough to the extent of loosing any member. What characterized the political play then was campaigning with the use of drums - talking drum, in a band with the gong. The drummer beats the drum sensationally to produce a lyric outpour of praises for the political leader and in a case when the drummer wanted to use it to abuse political opponent, so the drum talked. The NCNC, under Fadahunsi, moved about the whole division in this manner, spurred on by Women who sang and danced with the chants – “Lawanson mo tun de o, Eru Omole, abagbon gbongbo’. Lawanson was our organizing Secretary. He had posed a big threat to the NCNC members, even before I came down home. Himself and Dr. Lawrence Omole were big forces that had been working to see that Action Group Party see light in that area. Lawrence Omole fought successfully and became a councilor. But it was in 1957 that the party truly became a strong force with the likes of Canon Akinyemi, Olamijulo and myself. We could now come out with our own drums with our women singing: “Sango Pa’ya Amokeodo a fi a wode”. Amokeodo was to Fadahunsi as

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Lawanson was to Dr. Lawrence Omole. That was the picture of what obtained all over the West. So it was not true as some young people usually claimed that we were violent during our political campaigns in the early days. Each of the groups had its own band that sang all over the streets peacefully.

The only bad thing about the system was that political opponents always rejoiced at calamities that befell their opponents, instead of sympathizing. The cases of Olufatuyi and I, were good examples. Olufatuyi was organizing secretary of Ipetu ward. When part of his house roof was blown off by storms, they sang, rejoicingly, “Oyi gbe ile alaigboran, Oganaisin Sekitiri”, meaning ‘the roof of the disobedient’s house has been blown off by storms, organizing secretary). And in my own case too, as I said before now, opponents came dancing round my house when I lost my daughter. So, political campaign in those days took the form as of a preacher bringing revival to a place making use of drums and then delivering the message. It was only in 1965 that we experienced serious violence that led to killings, arson and wanton destruction of lives and properties. Better still, the political violence of 1965 could not compare with that of 1983.

The economic loss that Ijesa recorded in 1983 in terms of houses burnt, properties destroyed and lives lost, was so severe that Ijesa would never forget. While in 1965, for instance, no house was burnt in Ipetu Ijesa, in 1983, so many houses were burnt. Another prevailing political characteristic all over the place then was victimization of political opponents. That was my first experience when I got myself involved in politics in 1957. Not

248 THE PART TO PLAY quite three months when I got home, I received a summons by an Ilesa Customary Court presided over by the Owa of Ijesaland, Oba Agunlejika II. I was charged for tax defaulting. They charged my wife too. I wondered what concerned women with tax? Both of us were fined. That shows the extent at which party pettiness was introduced into politics. My wife was headmistress of St. Mary’s School, Oke-Owa, Ipetu-Ijesa.

The Pay as you Earn (PAYE) tax system had not been introduced then. That was the type of politics then. But, we did not experience serious political victimization in my own town, Ipetu Ijesa. This was due to the influence of YMCA of which Chief. C. O. Komolafe and I were members. YMCA was a unifying force in Ijesaland. The only intimidation we received was internal. The church elders summoned us that we were too forward or too fast for them. Their lead, later joined the YMCA and became our President. A Saul becoming Paul; he soon became the Baba Ijo of St. Paul’s Church, Ipetu.

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CHAPTER FIFTEEN TRIBUTES AND TESTIMONIES BASORUN S. T. ADELEGAN – A Rare Gem Oba Adekunle Baderin, Ajalaye of Ipetu-Ijesa hief S. T. Adelegan is an eminent indigene of Ipetu-Ijesa. He is one of the foremost educationists and easily one of Cthe astute frontline politicians ever produced in this part of Nigeria. In the esteemed civil service of the old Western Region of Nigeria, Chief Adelegan, after graduation, worked as Education Officer in the Ministry of Education.

In 1957, when the Ipetu-Ijesa Community founded its first Secondary School (the Ipetu-Ijesa Grammar School), the community decided that the first Principal of the School should be an indigene of the town. The search for a suitable candidate for this position led to the choice of Chief (then Mr.) S. T. Adelegan who was then a senior civil servant in the Regional Ministry of Education. To the delight of every member of the Ipetu-Ijesa Community, Chief Adelegan accepted to sacrifice his promising civil service career for the growth of his place of birth. He opted out of the Ministry of Education to take up the mantle of office as the pioneer Principal of Ipetu-Ijesa Grammar School. He served meritoriously in this position for many years.

During that period, he laid a solid foundation of moral and academic excellence for the school, which today is the alma mater of many prominent scholars, professionals and

250 THE PART TO PLAY technocrats in several sectors of the Nigerian economy. Chief S. T. Adelegan is an active member of the Ipetu-Ijesa Improvement Union, a socio-economic organization. He has consistently teamed up with other progressive members of the Union to foster socio-economic and cultural awareness of the Ipetu-Ijesa people towards the accelerated growth of the town in all facets of human endeavour. For instance, he was the brain behind the Government approval of the Ipetu-Ijesa Water Scheme in 1958.

As a frontline politician in the days of the Action Group, Chief Adelegan rose to the position of Deputy Speaker of the old Western House of Assembly. He meticulously utilized this platform to contribute his own quota to the political growth and stability of the Western Region in particular and Nigeria in general. He became a political role model for many aspiring young men and women in this part of the country at that time. An adherent of the Anglican Communion, Chief Adelegan is a member of Young Men Christian Association (YMCA) of St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Ipetu-Ijesa.

Above all, Chief S. T. Adelegan is a man of transparent honesty, irrepressible personality and impeccable character. He is a social elite and a community mobilizer whose contributions to the all- round development of Ipetu-Ijesa Community cannot be easily quantified. It was in recognition of these sterling qualities and selfless star contributions that he was honoured with the prestigious chieftaincy title of BASORUN OF IPETU-IJESA in 1994.

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“HE CAME HOME AT THE APPROPRIATE TIME THE COMMUNITY NEEDED HIM” The Hon. Justice Ekundayo Kolawole (Rtd) I have known Chief S. T. Adelegan, for more than fifty years and hold him in high esteem. I knew him as a graduate tutor at St. Luke’s Teacher Training College, as Ibadan Divisional Education Secretary and as Ijesha Divisional Secretary of the Action Group, as Deputy-Speaker of the Western Region House of Assembly, but it is not for any of these that I hold him in high esteem.

I hold Chief Adelegan in high esteem for the love of Ipetu-Ijesa, which he demonstrated by agreeing to come to Ipetu-Ijesa to be the founding Principal of Ipetu-Ijesa Grammar School at a period that tried men’s souls. A non- native of Ipetu-Ijesa had agreed to be the founding Principal and his name had been forwarded to the Government but at a critical stage in the process of obtaining approval from the Government, the man reneged, refused to come and vanished into thin air.

A replacement was needed and the searchlight turned on Chief Adelegan. He was approached and as a true patriot, he left the more lucrative job of Ibadan Divisional Education Secretary to take up the job of Principal of Ipetu-Ijesa Grammar School. If he had not come at that time, the opening of the school would have been delayed for one year. By this singular act, he endeared himself to me and I am sure to many others.

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I was a member of the Board of Governors of the school from 1957-1962 and therefore worked closely with Chief Adelegan in the formative years of the school. I can testify to the fact that Chief Adelegan worked assiduously during those years to develop the school physically and academically such that the school held its head high amongst schools of comparable age at the time.

For as long as the Ipetu-Ijesa Grammar School exists, the name of Chief S. Titus Adelegan will be written in letters of gold. Floreat Adelegan! Floreat Ipetu-Ijesa Grammar School!

AN EDUCATIONAL HERO - MOlu Oladunjoye (Retired School Principal) I have the greatest pleasure in writing this tribute on Chief S. T. Adelegan, B. A. (London) 1951, the Basorun of Ipetu-Ijesa, because I regard him as my educational hero. For over sixty years, I have been associated with this prodigy of erudition. As far back as January 1943, when I myself started schooling in Class One C Infant at St. Paul’s Central School, Ipetu-Ijesa, I have been hearing of the academic prowess of Pa Adelegan – always coming FIRST in the Primary School Examinations in the mid and late 1930’s. Such was the fame of Chief Adelegan that his name, “S. T. Ade” became a household word in academics in Ipetu-Ijesa and its environs.

It was no wonder that he was one of the four scholars in Ijesaland who gained admission to the famous St. Andrew’s College, Oyo in 1941. One of his colleagues, late Stephen Ayo Akinyemi recalled an occasion, which he told me of when it was only Chief

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Adelegan out of the whole class who could answer a difficult question on English asked by the teacher and their teacher prophetically said he was a future university material. This was in 1943. Just a year or two after obtaining his Higher Elementary (Grade 2) certificate in 1944, he passed the difficult but prestigious London Matriculation (LM) Examination and the Inter B. A. (London) Examination both at home by private study – a self-made man of letters. Indeed, an academic genius.

When the University College, Ibadan was founded in 1948/49, he was one of the pioneer students admitted thereto by DIRECT ENTRY. He spent two years there to complete his B. A. General degree Course in June, 1951. It is very interesting to note that his name, Shadrack Titus Adelegan appears first on the UCI Graduating Students list of 1951. Cheers galore! That year 1951 was remarkable because it was on 19th January, 1951 that I myself entered the also prestigious Government College, Ibadan from St. Paul’s Central School, Ipetu-Ijesa and, therefore, I had the opportunity to move near and know more of Chief Adelegan.

I recall with joy a day in March, 1951 when I went to greet/visit him at Eleiyele, the old Army Barracks, then, (that was the original site of Nigeria’s Premier University) popularly called ‘ILE PAKO’ (wooden house) where one electric bulb was serving two wooden rooms! I met him, perched on a chair, bent over his books. I admired him greatly. Thanks to late Pa S. T. Akerele, the London trained tailor 1948 of blessed memory, Pa Adelegan’s mentor for many years and my own guardian too between 1951 and 1954 when I was at Government College, Ibadan and the

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University College, Ibadan.

After his University education, B. A. (London) 1951, Chief Adelegan worked as a tutor at St. Luke’s College, Ibadan 1951 – 1954, later as Chief Education Officer for Ibadan Division 1955 – 57 – a post equivalent to Secretary to a State Government or Head of Service nowadays. At this juncture, I am happy to say that it was I who disclosed a confidential information got from a reliable source to late Pa S. T. Akerele, the Master Tailor of Ekotedo area of Ibadan fame, that Mr. F. K. Butler, a man of mighty fame, the Director of Education Western Region of Nigeria then had minuted in late 1956 in the temporary file of the proposed Ipetu-Ijesa Grammar School that unless a pioneer Principal was prepared to spend at least FOUR years at the inception of the new school, the school should NOT be opened in January, 1957 as contemplated by the entire Ipetu-Ijesa Community!

The Ministry of Education, Ibadan Western Region gave that finality note after TWO would-be pioneer principals disappointed the town at the last minute. I then ran to inform late Pa Akerele of that development. For one anxious hour, he reflected in utter solitude. The solution flashed in his mind. He approached Chief Adelegan, our own son in his exalted office at Ibadan and pleaded with him to come over to Ipetu (not Macedonia) and help us. To that historic appeal, Chief Adelegan yielded, abandoned his high office at Ibadan and came down to be the pioneer Principal of the now 47 years old Ipetu Grams which he opened on 27th February, 1957 with 31 students-boys only.

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It must be mentioned that by way of salary and allowances, Pa Adelegan lost about ₤1200 pounds per annum at that time. You can realize how much the sacrifice he made was when you are made to know that a B. A. graduate then in 1957 was earning only about ₤600 per annum!!! Pa S. T. Adelegan is a man to be thanked and praised forever by the Ipetu-Ijesa Community for volunteering to come home from Ibadan to begin the tidious pioneering work. Pa S. T. Adelegan started the school with 33 boys using inside St. Mary’s Church, Iloro as the one-classroom.

Among the pioneer teachers of the first four years were J. M. Akinfenwa, now Senator, Oluwole Onawumi, now Medical Doctor, Mr. Olu Oladunjoye Principal of the School, Ojo Arewa, later a Professor, Mr. Debo Adeleye, Chief Akin Olagbemi, later Principal, Lase Ladimeji now a lawyer and Mr. A. A. Akande, who was the Vice Principal for a few years. Under the able leadership of Pa S. T. Adelegan, and his team of hardworking teachers, the school progressed well with the yearly intakes of about 35 to 40 students.

In 1960 the school moved to its present site from the one- classroom block now occupied by Aro-Odo High School, Ipetu- Ijesa. In that same year, those first two bocks facing the old main road were built and opened or commissioned for use. During that 4th year of the School’s existence, the school was then ripe for the Ministry of Education, Ibadan’s recognition after a vigorous inspection. The school passed the inspection well, thus it became officially added to the government list of grant-aided schools on

256 THE PART TO PLAY a point of humour, the staff celebrated this great milestone in 1960 by killing an eating a big goat bought for about one pound only.

In December 1962, the first set of students passed out with many students getting many distinctions in many subjects notably Mathematics and Latin taught by Chief Adelegan, the energetic Principal. He combined efficient administration with excellent teaching. Chief Adelegan laid the solid foundation for the school in his 16 years as Principal 1957-1972. Today, very many of his former students are graduates of all disciplines and they cluster around him to celebrate any joyful occasion. Bravo! Chief Adelegan. I had the opportunity of teaching under him for a total of eight years and I can confidently say that he was a good teacher of Latin, English Literature, History and Mathematics as well as a competent administrator. He happily retired from service in December, 1977.

On the political scene, he was a good leader of his people. In the 1960s he was elected the Deputy Speaker of the Western House of Assembly at Ibadan under the aegis of the old Action Group Party led by that political genius of Late Pa Obafemi Awolowo. Till today, I believe that Pa Adelegan has the rare luck or MAGIC of not being around whenever trouble was imminent. Instances of that happened on Monday 18th October 1965 (a week after the notorious 11th October, 1965 Elections) in the Ipetu-Ijesha Grammar School and on the floor of the Western Legislature, Ibadan in 1965 also when chairs were freely used to barter each other’s head a few minutes after he took permission to go to toilet.

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Hon. Kensington Momoh could tell the story better.

Like any other Nigerian politician, Pa Adelegan could very occasionally commit political blunders by not sharing his opponents’ views, and if possible, attempting to incarcerate them. I was affected in the political upheaval led by students at Ipetu-Ijesa on Monday 18th Oct. and Tuesday 19th Oct. 1965. I say no more about that terrible episode, because, “Let by-gone be by-gone,” they say. As a politician, Chief Adelegan struggled to get social amenities for his constituency, Ipetu-Ijesa and its environs. It was through his efforts that Late Commissioner S. A. Yerokun commissioned the Ipetu-Ikeji-Ile Water Scheme on Friday 6th March, 1970. Also, the electricity now being enjoyed by Ipetu people may not have been possible without his active participation in the struggle to have it. He has tried greatly.

On the whole, as a patriot, Chief Adelegan has done well and, it was in recognition of his academic genius, his leadership qualities, his political sagacity and adroitness, his personnel charisma, his sustained dignity at home and authority abroad that His Highness Oba Adekunle Baderin, the Ajalaye of Ipetu-Ijesa and his council of Chiefs, decided to honour him with the most deserved Chieftaincy title of Basorun of Ipetu-Ijesa on 5th March, 1994 amid cheers and thunderous roars of applause. A worthy tribute; a deserved compensation indeed. *Chief Olu Oladunjoye was a pioneer teacher and former Principal of Ipetu-Ijesa Grammar School, former Principal Holy Trinity Grammar School, Ibadan, Comprehensive High School, Oke-Bola, Ibadan; and Ibadan Grammar School, Ibadan.

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“HE IS SIMPLY A GENIUS, WORTHY OF EMULATION” - Senator Mojisoluwa Akinfenwa

I met Pa S. T. Adelegan in 1958, I heard about him, what people particularly young elements in our area used to say about him. Young people saw him as a genius and wished to emulate him. When I learnt that he built himself up educationally, I developed great respect for him. I had greater respect for him when I leant that he studied Latin and spoke it. In those days, we believed that anyone who was knowledgeable in Latin, had command of English language.

I went to him with that impression and he confirmed it in his speech, as I was watching the way he spoke and was highly impressed with his command of English. I particularly watched his intonation and phonetics and I admired his sonorous voice when he spoke English. I wrote an application to teach in his school, Ipetu-Ijesa Grammar School. That time, I was a Grade II teacher with GCE ordinary level and 3 advanced Level papers. He invited me for an interview and was quite impressed by my performance and credentials. He gave me an appointment to teach in Ipe Gramms.

He soon discovered my interest in sports and ability to manage young students. He immediately made me House master and Sport Master, I was soon encouraged by his tremendous interest in sport and he cooperated with me in this area. Because of the

259 THE PART TO PLAY love he had for young folks in this area, I was determined to help him to build the school. We had no football field in the compound. I met with him and told him we should have a sport field. He agreed with me and we looked for a suitable place. The principal, myself, together with the students, felled trees, uprooted storms and prepared a good ground for a football field.

The principal devoted all his life to the development of the school. From morning till evening, we were in the school, doing one thing and the other especially giving students extra time on their studies and going out to the field to prepare the compound. We soon had a beautiful compound which many people who came there became envious of. The school soon became a household name in the field of sports. Our school team became famous in Ijesaland defeating many older schools. We had great sport footballers in persons of Omoworare popularly called Iron Bar, Bobo Doherty, Falode Lawal, Obaraye and many others who made a formidable team that was a terror to many schools not only in Ijesaland but the whole of Western Region. The school played in Tamourgine competition, several times and got almost to the Regional final.

One spectacular game we played was with the Western Region’s champion Ife Grammar School that came to play on our school field. Weeks before the time, our Principal was talking about the match, not only to the players but also to all students. He encouraged us all. Eventually, the match was played and the Ife boys defeated us by 7 goals to nothing. S. T. Adelegan was never discouraged or dismayed. He was jovial about the whole thing

260 THE PART TO PLAY and encouraged us to try harder, in the subsequent matches. This, we did until we reached the semi final of the football competition.

He also encouraged me to introduce netball when the school became a mixed school and we soon have a very formidable netball team which was a leading netball team in Ijesaland. Only St. Margaret School Ilesa could match our standard. Pa S. T. Adelegan loved both students and teachers and was known to be like one of them. He behaved as if he was our colleague. We were very fond of him and we respected him a lot. He was very understanding and he cared for us.

The school had regular morning devotions where we sang, read from the scriptures and prayed. Our principal conducted some of the early morning devotions where he addressed the students about his aims and aspirations to make our school a model in Ijesaland. Because of his love for young students, he maintained a very comfortable boarding house, even though it was a rented apartment not far from the school. He encouraged me to maintain a high standard of discipline among students and he provided as much as possible all the needs of the boarders.

One interesting feature in the boarding house was the weekend social where dancing competition among students featured prominently and the first three good performances were given presents. One student Roland Olapade Agoro singled himself out in this area. He was a beautiful dancer and an activist. He is now a popular religious leader in Ibadan. I became passionately

261 THE PART TO PLAY attached to S. T. Adelegan, when he recommended me to the board of governors for sponsorship at the University of Ibadan when I gained admission. He treated me not as a teacher under him but as a friend; even though he was much older.

Throughout my stay in the University, he encouraged me to work hard to have my degree so that I may come back to the school, to render greater service. And true to his wish, I returned to school to take the same positions as games Master and housemaster. He later made me a senior tutor and encouraged many young graduates to work in the school. Among them was late John Olatunji Olowe, graduate of Classics, who taught Latin and English in the school. He was an amiable character, humble, jovial and warm, Olu Oladunjoye, popularly known as Olu Olad, a young versatile graduate of Classics. He taught Geography. He was jovial too and friendly with staff and students.

Commander Rufus Oke was a first class graduate of Mathematics (B.Sc. Maths), Olu Ogunyemi taught in the Arts Department, Dapo Fafowora, who later became an Ambassador, was a simple but brilliant chap, no wonder he later held Ph.D. degree in International relations. We soon had Mozia as our Vice Principal. He too was good and also worked with the team. Many students feared Mozia. They thought he was a wicked man because of his high discipline, but all the members of staff loved and respected him. Our principal loved all and encouraged us to work hard. He was such a humble and good character, a father figure, honest and caring. *Senator Mojisoluwa Akinfenwa was a pioneer teacher of Ipetu-Ijesa Grammar School, later

262 THE PART TO PLAY founding Principal, Hope Grammar School, Ilesa, Commissioner for Education in the old Oyo State (1979-1983); Senator, representing Ife-Ijesa Senatorial District at the National Assembly from 1999 to 2003 and Chairman, Alliance for Democracy. SIMPLE, HUMANE AND GENEROUS - Tunji Oluwatayo (Old Student & retired Permanent Secretary) My late father who was a farmer and later trader in his latter years had always had in his mind that I would be a teacher. He traded at Majeroku near Ikire until 1949 when he moved to the mid-West and in 1951, he finally settled at Abudu, a town between Benin- City and Agbor. There used to be one Provincial Teachers College in that town of which my father was very fond. My father was fond of its products too; and so he thought his own son: Tunji, would also be a teacher.

Pursuant to this, when I left the primary school in 1956, my father wanted me to enter secondary modern school as a prelude to entering the Teacher Training College. But I have a cousin, Adesoji Faro who left Offa Grammar School in 1954, who thought otherwise and felt I should attend a Secondary Grammar School instead of a modern school. But then, I did not take any common entrance examination to a secondary school. I had to follow him to Ibadan where he was working as a clerk at Bank of British West Africa (BBWA) later called Standard Bank and now called First Bank. It was at Ibadan that I heard about the new school, Ipetu- Ijesa Grammar School, which took off in 1957. I immediately took the form and eventually got admitted in January 1958, as one of the second set of students.

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That was how I got in contact with the man I would ever be grateful to, my amiable principal, Pa S. T. Adelegan. I feel so highly humbled being nominated by my principal as one of those chosen to write about his humble self. Actually, when we want to talk about our Principal, we usually do so with emotion, especially when we remember our days in the school. At that time the school was very young. I remember all of us were treated as if we were his biological children. We were put under his direct control and fatherly care, ‘pater familia’. Our Principal had special interest in Latin and took special interest in students knowing it. Infact he would prefer that every one of us chose it.

Naturally, Latin is pillar of English language because many English words derived from Latin. A good number of us actually offered it and we did well. That was a major influence of our Principal. As far as he was concerned too, you should offer English literature. Even though he did not force us to do Latin, he made it compulsory for us to read English Literature and we were well taught. I remember one of our textbooks then, Julius CAESAR. Our Principal knew virtually all the lines in the book off hand and he encouraged us to memorize the important part of it. When one looks at contemporary events and behaviour of men, there is virtually nothing you could not find in that novel.

Nobility, for instance is one virtue, which embraces honesty and integrity. Our principal inculcated this in us in those days. He taught us that money is not everything, but honesty and integrity is the major thing. He encouraged us to imbibe this virtue in whatever position of responsibility we find ourselves. Treachery

264 THE PART TO PLAY is another character in that book which our principal always warned us against. Calcius latched treachery in conspiracy with Brutus against Caesar. Unfortunately, Brutus happened to be the best friend of Caesar. They acted so treacherously so as to cut short his ambition to be king.

Our principal taught us all the characters in that book in relation to the realities of this world. All these helped many of us to live successfully within our neighbourhood and places of work. For instance during my year of service I was always on guide at all times, not relying or leaning too much on human beings. Caesar was so disappointed when he found that the person he trusted so much and relied on completely collaborated with other conspirators. When I was a civil servant, I had wide-awake attitude. Not that I did not trust others, but I did not trust absolutely at the expense of my own self. Though I may trust, but I kept an eye open when I close the other. Apart from the virtues I learnt through him, our principal was very helpful to us especially those whose parents could not afford to pay their school fees. As a matter of fact, but for his understanding, many of us could not have passed through secondary education, talk less of achieving what we have been in life. Rather than sending us out completely, he used threat as a weapon. He would always tell us, when I see your fathers I would tell them, they are owing us.

This was unlike other scholars. Many of us, who used to be chronic debtors still talked about our Principal’s generosity and simplicity. We always say that, were it not because of our principal’s generosity and simplicity, we would not have

265 THE PART TO PLAY completed our secondary education. In my own case, when I got to Class three, our principal gave other and me five students scholarship to complete our education at Ipetu-Ijesa Grammar School. He simply called it school scholarship to encourage brilliant but indigent students of Ipetu Origin. I enjoyed this up to my class six. For this singular action alone, my thanks know no bound and I would ever be grateful to him.

Though a principal, he would enter into any class, when he found that the teacher was not there, he would simply ask the students, where their teacher stopped or what he taught last. From there, our principal went ahead with the teaching, it did not matter what the subject was. That was very brilliant. He was loving, caring and very humane. He took us as his own children. He was a lover of sports who together with our sports master, J. M. Akinfenwa, built a very strong football team, dynamic enough to beat many older schools in the old Western region. I still remember the virile line up. Bobo Doherty who later in life was a socialite, the proprietor of ‘Mama Koko’ hotels in Surulere, Lagos, appeared ‘Gulder Man’.

Unfortunately he lost his life during the coronation of the Ooni of Ife in 1980. He was my good friend and until his death, the Ipetu- Ijesa Grammar School old students held its meeting at his hotel in Surulere. We have others like Joe Mensah Osagie, Bamidele whose nickname was Neslie Courtier, Kazeem Lawal Omoworare (Captain) Ajao, an Egba boy, who played no. 3, Amusa played left half back, Bamidele ‘Broken Bottle’ and Sahara who played centre half back. The motto of our school,

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Audere et Pati is another thing that greatly influenced me in life. This influence could be explicated in the patriotic call to which I yielded in 1992.

I had just left the Lagos State Civil Service as Permanent Secretary, when the Oba of our town, His Royal Highness, Oba Adekunle Baderin, Ajalaye of Ipetu-Ijesa, called me to organize the first Ipetu-Ijesa day. According to him, he was bothered by the fact that, he had been attending ‘Days’ in some other towns, yet it has always been impossible to invite these towns to his own town, Ipetu, for a similar event. He said further that those who tried to organize such event were never met with success in their bid may be because they did not have the experience or they were not really acceptable to our people. The fear was there that the money realized from such event could not be entrusted in such hands, so it was as if Ipetu was at cross roads as they have raised money in the past which could not be accounted for.

Ajalaye told me that he has observed me for sometime now and has had discussions with his lieutenant in respect of my personality and found out that I would be acceptable to the generality of the people, as the leader of the group who would successfully organize Ipetu Day. By that time, I was only thinking and planning about what to do next after retirement. I was working on a consultancy business. But then I saw what Ajalaye said, as a Royal burden entrusted on my shoulder by a Royal directive given by an Oba I so much rever. It was as if I wanted to start a new career and a burden I cannot resist.

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Even though in the short run, one suffers, the sacrifice was worth it because it was “pro bono publico’’, that is for public interest. It was a patriotic call, which I answered. I lost by it because of the work that should have taken place, but the satisfaction I received in serving my people paid for it. This was another influence I derived from my school, Ipetu Grams. The influence and teachings I received from my principal, S. T. Adelegan really made me what I am today, though I suffered so many things when I was serving. Those who were less paid than I did went about building houses and buying chains of cars, when I could scarcely build one. I was less bothered. I had the opportunities, even to own estates, but I prefer good name, honour and integrity. This is what my principal taught me. I always believed his words that money is not everything in life. So I was always conscious of my background and highly guided by my youthful disposition.

I must not fail to add that the virtues I learnt in the secondary school such as patience, resilience, strength of character, honesty and integrity helped me to retain my service up to December 1991, when I retired. It is very important to add this, because out of all of us, 18 in number who were employed by Lagos State Civil Service in 1979, only two of us, myself and Mrs. Adefemi Abeke Taire served up to 1991. Most of them who were indigenes of Lagos fell along the way. I thank God that even though I am not an indigene, yet I lasted so long. I was Permanent Secretary for a period of 12 ½ years, during which period I was privileged to act as Secretary to the State Government/Head of Service, apart from the fact that I was

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Chairman of so many Committees and Boards, too numerous to count here.

I owed my success to the discipline I received when I was a student of Ipetu-Ijesa Grammar School. In spite of our Principal’s love for his students, he was not really relaxed about students. He was a disciplinarian, his background as an Andrian could not allow students decadence. He disciplined us whenever the need arose. *Chief Tunji Oluwatayo was a second set student of Ipetu- Ijesa Grammar School (1958-1963). He retired as Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Civil Service.

‘HE IS A FATHER FIGURE -- Tayo Kunle Adelegan – Former Director, Osun State Public Service Writing about one’s interactions with Chief S. T. Adelegan gives one a nostalgic feeling, particularly as related to one’s escapades while in School. To all intents and purposes, Chief S. T. Adelegan was seen and regarded in those days while we were at Ipetu- Ijesa Grammar School as a father figure. Sometimes early in 1963, my child- hood friend, Mr. Tuyi Olatunde, persuaded me to change schools from my previous school to Ipetu-Ijesa Grammar School where he was a clerk. I took to this advice because of my friend’s persuasion that I would be privileged to under-take science subjects at Ipetu-Ijesa whereas I would not have the same privilege in my former school.

But on getting to Ipetu-Ijesa, the Vice Principal, Pa Paul Mozia, took me up on the need to submit my Transfer Certificate. When

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I got back to my previous school to demand for the Transfer Certificate, my former Principal insisted that he would not issue any Transfer Certificate to me because, as one of the prominent and promising students in the school, he could not issue me with any Transfer Certificate. Rather, he advised me to retrace my steps back to his school. For several times that I was driven to go and demand for the Transfer Certificate, the Principal, the late Mr. Yoloye, had insisted that I either returned to his school or forget about the Transfer Certificate. And on each occasion, on my return to Ipetu-Ijesa, hell would be let loose on me by Pa Mozia who would insist that I should go for the Transfer Certificate by all means or else, he would ensure my being expelled from Ipetu- Ijesa.

Things almost got out of hand for me until our saviour then, Chief Adelegan, came to my rescue by appealing to Pa Mozia to allow sleeping dog to lie. In the second instance, I was involved in a frolicking visit to town from the boarding house with one of my bosom friends, the late Layiwola Adekanbi aka Akimo Tanko. We deliberately dressed like farmers returning home from their farms in the evening. But some few metres to the only bridge on the way to town, we saw the Principal’s car. Being twilight, we felt that the Principal would be too busy to notice two farmers coming from their farms at that hour of the day. But to our utmost surprise, just as we stepped on the bridge, we just saw the car’s lights on our heels. We could neither run nor jump into the swampy waters under the bridge; and so became easy targets for the ever – alert Principal.

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Of course, we were naturally reprimanded and ordered to go back to the boarding house to report our escapade to the Boarding House Master. A few hours later the principal himself turned up at the House Master’s residence to drive home his order of our being summarily expelled from the school. It was a tense moment for the two of us. And even though Lai was well known to the Principal, being a nephew to one of his compatriots, Chief Bola Ige, I was not sure the Principal knew much about me, even though we bore the same name. Thus, having being so sentenced and with the House Master on our heels, there was no sleep for me that night. Lai on his part had been a regular customer of the school’s authority.

However, as early as it was 6.00 a.m. the following morning, we crawled to the Principal’s residence and as soon as he saw us in the early morning dew, he must have taken compassion on us, for he merely said we should go and wait for him in his office, but not to our houses again, as he had ordered the previous evening. When the Principal eventually showed up in his office, he sent for the Boarding House master and informed him that he had changed his mind and would no longer expel us from the School. However, he gave us six lashes each after upbraiding us thoroughly. He warned us to turn a new leaf lest we would be expelled from the school. Later, we regarded the punishment meted to us by the Principal as being not only mild, but kind and fatherly as well.

Thus, from the two accounts rendered above, you will agree with me that Chief S. T. Adelegan was more of a father to us at Ipetu-

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Ijesa Grammar School than a functionary Principal of the School. He was always ready to listen to everybody’s complaints and would always temper justice with mercy. Indeed, he also carried this unique temperament into his teaching methods. Although he would not always be available in the school because of some other public assignments, which often took him away from us; whenever he had the chance of coming into the classroom to teach, we were sure that the facts would be clearly elucidated to us.

To us in those days, S. T. was a genius and almost a god that inspired awe and respect in our little minds. No wonder, he still remains a beloved and adored father figure to most of us today. I, in particular, can still not explain today, why I always find it difficult to feel at ease in the presence of Papa in spite of his glaring doting preference for me. I sincerely wish him long life, peace and prosperity. Tayo Kunle Adelegan, former student 1962–1966 set, Ipetu Ijesa Grammar School was Director in the Osun State Ministry of Justice, Osogbo.

‘BROTHER IS SOMEBODY WHO CANNOT HURT A FLY’ - Hon. T. O. Asaju (Chairman, Oriade Local Government) I feel much honoured to write about Chief S. T. Adelegan, who I fondly call brother. That shows the extent of relationship I have with him. This is not far from the fact that we grew up in the same compound even though he was much older than me. By the time he was home, I was very junior to him, but he took good care of me when the need arose. He was my first cousin. His mother was

272 THE PART TO PLAY the junior sister to my father’s mother, Mrs. Hannah Alase of blessed memory. Apart from being my first cousin, he stayed with my late father in Ipetu for some time.

In those days, our extended family was somehow knit together as a nuclear form, and mostly lived together in a large compound. It was later on that each family left the compound, having built its own house outside the old extended family compound. Until then, we lived together. His father and my grandfather were farming together while his mother and my father’s mother had raffia farm very close to each other. Brother is a humble man, somebody who cannot hurt a fly. He is very simple and loving. He is always ready to help. I remember when he was the Principal of Fiditi Grammar School, Yemisi, one of my daughters, was staying with him. Yemisi was a student at Fiditi Grammar School, my brother was a father to the girl and he acted accordingly, making sure that Yemisi excelled in her academic endeavours, and grew up morally well.

To say the truth, he was one of those who developed our town to what it is today; economically, socially and educationally. He and Chief C. O. Komolafe were the first prominent politicians in Ipetu. S. T. Adelegan was a strong member and leader of Action Group Party while C. O. Komolafe was leader of NCNC. The two played politics without bitterness. They both used their connections to bring glory to the town. They were not self-centred. That was why up till today, we cherish them. We are looking to a day when my brother would come down home. He contributed immensely to the church development, a strong member and later patron of

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YMCA. This Association spearheaded the building and completion of the new St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Ipetu.

His life style is worth emulating and we will never forget it. He has developed a lot of youths who have grown up to be great all over the country. We will always live to cherish him. His political style is worth emulating, if young politician could follow his political character, there would not be rancour or bitterness. He is very plain and was never offended. He is a peace loving person, who during the popular civil unrest in 1965, used his influence to prevail on the people not to burn houses as was the order of the day all-over Western Region. He did not allow the youth to be violent or go on rampage. It’s good if we could emulate him. *Dr. T. O. Asaju is Chairman, Oriade Local Government. He is a retired Superintendent of Police.

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CHAPTER SIXTEEN GOING FORWARD - A GOOD OPTION hakespeare, in ‘As You Like It’ compared this world to a theatre, where each man and woman is an actor or Sactress, each one playing many parts. But the part to play should be played well. That is where the honour lies. The motivation for our going home to serve was to make people. This goes along with the popular saying that if you want to be remembered for ten years plant a tree, but if you want to be remembered for a century or more, make people.

This is true with head teachers, school principals, bishops, pastors and community leaders who take exceptional interests in the development of their societies and invested in people. I asked myself whether I have succeeded in my endeavour to make people. Posterity would answer. But the steps I took in life were because of Ipetu-Ijesha Grammar School and hundreds of our children in Ijeshaland who had no access to secondary education. Those who passed through the school are in the best position to judge.

During the First Republic, remuneration of political office holders was not as fantastic as we have today. It was good that way. We were patriotic enough to see our remuneration as a sacrifice we needed to offer in order to make the nation progress. We had just attained independence and we just had to make our

275 THE PART TO PLAY independence meaningful and worthwhile. I remember the salary of a Hon. Minister was about the same as that of Permanent Secretaries. A Minister earned Three Thousand pounds (£3,000) per annum. The junior Minister or Parliamentary Secretary earned One Thousand and Five Hundred Pounds (£1,500) per annum. The Hon. Speaker’s remuneration was equated to that of a Minister while the Deputy-Speaker earned same salary as a junior Minister.

As Deputy-Speaker, I never received any other allowance and I was not allocated an official car or residence. I didn’t even know that I was entitled to any other allowance until very close to the time I was leaving. That shows we were always contented with what we had then. The good thing about this was that, we had no business with contracts or kickback before we did our duties as legislators. What helped us was that all of us had our own primary places of work. Some of us were lawyers, some were school principals, some were produce merchants and so on. The work of the house did not stop us from continuing with our own businesses. I remember I had to be in the school to attend to urgent and important issues such as students’ welfare and teachers’ performances regularly.

The foregoing applied to other members too, who attended to their businesses. I must say that this did not in any way affect the number of days we had to sit in the House and the business of the House did not suffer. We, at the Western Region House of Assembly had the best House I have ever seen or heard of. You need to sit at the gallery to listen to the qualities of the debates

276 THE PART TO PLAY on the floor of the House. You would always love to do so time and time again. One other thing to note is that the fact that one has been a Honourable member of the House or even the Deputy Speaker, did not stop that person from occupying a lesser position or accepting a lower appointment even after that person might have vacated with the higher office.

Even though I had been Deputy Speaker, I later served in the local Council as Councillor and Vice Chairman of the Ijesa Northern District Council. Pa J.O. Lawanson of Ere-Ijesha was my Chairman. He was one of those politicians charged with treasonable felony but escaped being jailed. We were appointed on the recommendation of Canon Josiah Akinyemi who was then Commissioner for Local Government in a military regime. All of us had our primary vocations or businesses and never looked forwarded to serving to collect salaries. We saw it as a clarion call to serve the people and people did respect us a lot. The people knew we were serving and they saw it as an act of patriotism.

Not that alone, all of us that served as Councillors were well educated. I was school Principal then. Even those who served before us too were people of high integrity. Dr. Lawrence Omole served as Councilor, same with Chief Odeleye Fadahunsi who also served as Chairman. All of us were men of substance, well established in the society. When one compares occurrences of the past with the present on the political scene, one observes that things have completely changed. Nowadays majority of the councilors have no means of livelihood. Politics is now practically

277 THE PART TO PLAY left in the hands of those who have nothing to offer. Good people are not eager to be in politics.

They call politics a dirty game. Politics is not dirty. Only those who are playing it could be dirty, if they pursue that path. We should cultivate the culture of serving our people as there is great joy in seeing what God has used you to do in the lives of others. All of us, the educated, businessmen, scholars, teachers, lawyers etc One huge contributory factor to the high level corruption and insincerity of political office holders is the lust for office and monetization that has made politics the most lucrative business or vocation in Nigeria today. All hope is not lost. The revailing situation could be better if we go back to the Parliamentary system that allows parliamentarians to serve part-time.

The basis for decision-making in this country too should be revisisted. Nowadays, there are too many political parties. The whole thing is confusing. The frivolous and tribal reasons for membership of a particular party should also be discouraged. I remember the poltical dispensation after the demise of the first Republic. When the Unity Party of Nigeria was being formed, people were waiting for Chief Obafemi Awolowo to come out with the party. In the East, people looked up to Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe while in the North, the influence of late Ahmadu Bello and Tafawa Balewa permeated the political landscape. This trend promotes tribalism. We should try and break off from this trend if we truly want a united nation. The basis for joining a party should be ideological and followership should be treated thus.

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I think the society should take preemptory steps to ensure that moneybags and godfathers do not hijack political parties. If we truly want to run a democracy, then the felings of everyone must count from the ward to the national levels. I am of the firm conviction that a two party system that also allows for independent candidacy would suit Nigeria. The current Olubadan, Oba Odulana Odugade for instance won election as an independent candidate. We cannot do without opposition, so we must be very tolerant of criticisms, especially those made in good faith. I knew the work of the opposition Party while we were in the House. They were so constructive and progress minded. So, we need a strong opposition for our democracy to be meaningful. Theire is also the need to run inclusive administrations down the line.

From my reckoning, it looks like Nigeria’s democracy still has a long way to go for the nation to move to the front row in the comity of nations. I think we should tread cautiously and prayerfully so that the dreams of our founding fathers may be realized such that we would be able to bequeath a lasting legacy of peace, progress and development to generations yet unborn.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Chief Shadrach Titus Adelegan was born in Ipetu-Ijesha, Osun State Nigeria on May 19, 1921 to the family of Pa Joseph and Mama Esther Fatusa.

Adelegan, a 1951 graduate of the University College, Ibadan, the first set of Nigeria’s Premier University has served variously as Headmaster, St. Stephen’s School, Modakeke, (1946-1949), Tutor, St. Luke’s Teachers Training College, Ibadan (1951- 1954), Ibadan Divisional Education Secretary (1954-1957), Ijesha Divisional Secretary of the defunct Action Group Party (1957-1960), Deputy-Speaker, Western Region House of Assembly, (1960-1965), School Principal (1957-1977) and Vice Chairman, defunct Ijesha North District Council.

A humanist of note, Adelegan has made noble contributions to the development of Nigeria and humanity at large as an educator, politician and community leader.

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