The brilliant politician who changed Nigeria: The story of Chief Obafemi Awolowo

Emmanuel Udoh
@emmanueludoh589618
10 months ago

Chief Obafemi Awolowo. Born in 1909, he was raised in modest circumstances in Ikenne, Nigeria. His father was a farmer, and his mother was a trader. Despite his humble beginnings, Awolowo was determined to get an education and make something of himself. He attended CMS Grammar School in Lagos, and then went on to study at the University College, Ibadan. After graduation, he became a teacher, but his ambition led him to become a politician. Okay, great! Chief Awolowo quickly rose to prominence in the Nigerian political scene. He became the general secretary of the Action Group, a prominent political party in the Western region of Nigeria. He was instrumental in leading the struggle for independence from British rule, and he played a key role in the formation of the Nigerian constitution. After independence, he served as the finance minister and then the premier of the Western region. But he was also a controversial figure, and he was imprisoned several times for his political activities. He died in 1987, but his legacy continues to influence Nigeria to this day.