Our Great Leader, Chief Obafemi Awólọ́wọ̀, the towering figure in Nigerian history, passed away on the 9th of May, 1987 at the age of 78.
Awólọ́wọ̀ sọ ẹrú di ọmọ…Awólọ́wọ̀ sọ wá di oge
His legacies continue to shape the political discourse and governance in Nigeria to this very day.
Awólọ́wọ̀ was the first Premier of the Western Region and a key architect of Nigeria’s independence movement.
His contributions to education, economic policies, and political ideology of the South-West in particular and of Nigeria in general, remain very contemporary and hugely influential.
Today is the 38th memorial of our Great Leader. It is yet again another momentous period in Nigeria’s journey to Nationhood, that gives cause to reflect on Chief Obafemi Awólọ́wọ̀’s visionary leadership style and the impact of his policies that are indeed second to none, which are of the transformational kind, needed to save Nigeria from plunging into the abyss in these very times of hopelessness and despair.
Chief Obafemi Awólọ́wọ̀’s legacies are still celebrated, and his name resonating in discussions about governance and development, the types that have remained elusive.
With the passing of Chief Ayo Adebanjo, the Awoist fold has lost the very last of the vestiges of divergence that typifies the Awólọ́wọ̀ Ethics and Ethoses — Dominant Faithfulness and Steadfastness, Awakened Intellection and Dedication to principles; Exalted Forthrightnes in the delivery of Integrity, Humanity, Equity, Opportunity and Justice!
Where again shall we be of Good Fortune have such trailblazers and deal-breakers in our midst? Who shall we look up to as viable and durable replacements…? Who!?
Where are we to find faithful advocates of true federalism, justice, and democracy, carrying forward the legacies of Chief Obafemi Awólọ́wọ̀? His voice was full of passion and conviction…. Where!?
Chief Obafemi Awólọ́wọ̀ as the moral and ethical compass in the Nigeria’s political landscape, is already established so much so, that all the leaders leader that have evolved after him have fallen grossly short.
His absence and his absence, even after 38 years, leaves a significant void and many groping to match his strides in abject futility.
Yet, history has shown that great leaders inspire new generations and one is now left to wonder and ponder upon why it has been so difficult to duplicate Chief Obafemi Awólọ́wọ̀.
The very reasons why the ideals he championed — equity, fairness, and good governance — must not be allowed to disappear from the political radar.
These ideals must be entrenched upon the political firmament. In schools, Awoism must be taught as a subject both. It is now up to for enlightenment and for the purpose of Civics-in-education.
To those who admire him still and follow him without reservation, there’s the need to carry forward his vision, ensuring that his life’s work continues to shape Nigeria’s!
To my esteemed readers, a question —Who do you think might emerge as a worthy successor to Chief Obafemi Awólọ́wọ̀ and Chief Ayo Adebanjo, in the preservation of their worthy legacies?
Or perhaps, do you feel that leadership today requires a different approach?
I’d certainly love to hear your responses….We should not, in search of Nous, find ourselves hung by the Noise!
•Mogaji Adejumo, the Gbọ̀ńkàá Ààrẹ Ọ̀nà Kakaǹfò of Yorùbáland, is a former National Publicity Secretary of the Afẹ́nifẹ́re, Chair, (South-West) Patriots Group’s Committee on Drafting A New Constitution for Nigeria and member, Steering Committee of The Eminent Elders’ Forum.
