Olabisi Onabanjo biography – Learn about the first civilian governor of Ogun State, his journalism career, “Aiyekooto” column, imprisonment, and legacy through Olabisi Onabanjo University.
Who is Olabisi Onabanjo?
Chief Victor Olabisi Onabanjo remains one of Nigeria’s most principled politicians and truth-telling journalists whose legacy continues to shape Ogun State decades after his death. Born on February 12, 1927, in Lagos, he became the first civilian governor of Ogun State, serving from October 1979 to December 1983 during Nigeria’s Second Republic.
Onabanjo’s life epitomized courage, integrity, and unwavering commitment to speaking truth to power. His legendary newspaper column “Aiyekooto” (meaning “parrot” in Yoruba—a creature known for telling the plain truth) made him a household name across Nigeria. Through this column, which appeared in the Daily Service and Daily Express newspapers between 1954 and 1962, he established himself as a fearless voice against injustice and corruption.
Of Ijebu extraction, Onabanjo’s governorship of Ogun State was marked by significant developmental achievements including the establishment of Ogun Television and the founding of Ogun State University (later renamed Olabisi Onabanjo University in his honor). His administration was widely regarded as exemplary, setting standards for public service and grassroots development.
However, his political career took a tragic turn when the military coup of December 1983 brought General Muhammadu Buhari to power. Onabanjo was imprisoned on corruption charges and sentenced to 22 years. After his eventual release, he returned to journalism before passing away on April 14, 1990, leaving behind a legacy of honesty, courage, and dedication to public service.
Quick Facts About Olabisi Onabanjo
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Chief Victor Olabisi Onabanjo |
| Date of Birth | February 12, 1927 |
| Place of Birth | Lagos, Nigeria |
| Date of Death | April 14, 1990 |
| Age at Death | 63 years |
| State of Origin | Ogun State (Ijebu extraction) |
| Occupation | Journalist, Politician, Governor |
| Famous Column | “Aiyekooto” (The Parrot) |
| Political Party | Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) |
| Governorship Period | October 1979 – December 1983 |
| Major Achievement | First civilian governor of Ogun State |
| University Legacy | Olabisi Onabanjo University named after him |
| Mentor | Chief Obafemi Awolowo |
| Prison Sentence | 22 years (under Buhari regime) |
Early Life and Educational Foundation
Chief Victor Olabisi Onabanjo was born in 1927 in Lagos, Nigeria, into a family that valued education and moral uprightness. Growing up in colonial Lagos exposed him to the political and social dynamics that would later shape his journalism and political career.
His early education took place at Baptist Academy in Lagos, one of the premier missionary schools that produced many of Nigeria’s early nationalist leaders. The Baptist Academy instilled in him strong Christian values, discipline, and intellectual rigor that would characterize his later work as a journalist and political leader.
After completing his education in Nigeria, Onabanjo travelled to the United Kingdom for further studies. Between 1950 and 1951, he attended the Regent Street Polytechnic in London, where he studied journalism. This British training in journalism during the post-World War II era exposed him to professional standards in media practice and the role of press in democratic societies.
His time in Britain coincided with Nigeria’s intensifying struggle for independence, providing him with perspectives on colonial governance and nationalist movements. These experiences would later inform his fearless journalism and his commitment to accountable governance when he entered politics.
Journalism Career: The Voice of Truth
Onabanjo’s journalism career spanned several decades and established him as one of Nigeria’s most respected and fearless media practitioners. Upon returning from his studies in the United Kingdom, he worked for several newspapers, gradually building his reputation as a columnist who refused to compromise truth for comfort.
His most famous work was the “Aiyekooto” column, which appeared in the Daily Service and Daily Express newspapers between 1954 and 1962. The column’s name—meaning “parrot” in Yoruba—was deliberately chosen because parrots in Yoruba mythology are known for telling the plain truth without fear. Through this column, Onabanjo fearlessly criticized government policies, exposed corruption, and advocated for the common people.
He had edited the Nigerian Citizen and the Daily Service in the 1950s, honing his editorial skills and understanding of media management. However, it was his stint as editorial director of the Daily Express that led to his widespread popularity across Nigeria. His straightforward writing style and refusal to sugarcoat uncomfortable truths made him both admired and feared by those in power.
The “Aiyekooto” column became required reading for politically conscious Nigerians who valued honest commentary on national affairs. Onabanjo’s journalism was characterized by clear analysis, sharp wit, and unwavering moral conviction. He wrote in accessible language that ordinary citizens could understand, avoiding the pompous style that characterized much political writing of that era.
Political Journey: From Local Government to Governorship
Entry into Politics
Onabanjo’s entry into politics came relatively late in his life, after he had already established himself as a prominent journalist. In 1977, at the age of 50, he was elected chairman of the Ijebu Ode Local Government Area. This appointment came under the tutelage of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, the legendary Nigerian nationalist and politician whom Onabanjo greatly admired.
His work as local government chairman demonstrated his capacity for grassroots administration and his commitment to improving the lives of ordinary people. This experience prepared him for higher political responsibilities and brought him to the attention of the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) leadership.
1979 Gubernatorial Election
In October 1979, as Nigeria transitioned from military to civilian rule, Onabanjo was elected governor of Ogun State on the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) platform. His election represented the people’s confidence in his integrity and his track record of speaking truth to power through his journalism.
As governor, Onabanjo brought the same straightforwardness and plain-speaking nature that characterized his journalism. He refused to engage in the typical political doublespeak, preferring instead to communicate directly with the people about both achievements and challenges facing the state.
Governorship Achievements (1979-1983)
Ogun Television (1982)
On May 13, 1982, Governor Onabanjo commissioned Ogun Television, marking a significant milestone in the state’s communication infrastructure. This was one of the earliest state-owned television stations in Nigeria, demonstrating his commitment to mass communication and information dissemination.
The establishment of Ogun Television reflected Onabanjo’s understanding of media’s role in development, likely informed by his extensive journalism background. The station became a platform for educating the populace, promoting local culture, and ensuring government accountability through coverage of state activities.
Ogun State University (1982)
On July 7, 1982, following legislative approval, Governor Onabanjo signed into law the bill establishing Ogun State University. The university, founded through careful planning led by renowned Professor Akinlawon Ladipo Mabogunje, represented Onabanjo’s commitment to higher education and human capital development.
The institution began operations in October 1982 with the inauguration of its Provisional Council. The university would later be renamed Olabisi Onabanjo University on May 29, 2001, in recognition of his contributions to education and development in Ogun State.
Abraham Adesanya Polytechnic
Governor Onabanjo also established the Abraham Adesanya Polytechnic, expanding technical and vocational education opportunities in the state. However, this institution faced challenges when General Oladipo Diya, who became military governor in 1984, closed it down. The polytechnic remained closed until Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999.
Governance Philosophy
Onabanjo’s administration was characterized by his plain-speaking nature and commitment to accountability. He maintained the same principled approach to governance that had defined his journalism, refusing to compromise his values even when politically expedient. His tenure was widely considered exemplary, setting benchmarks for subsequent administrations.
Imprisonment and Persecution
The 1983 Military Coup
When General Muhammadu Buhari took power in a military coup on December 31, 1983, Onabanjo’s life took a dramatic turn. Like many other civilian politicians from the Second Republic, he was arrested and charged with corruption.
The charges against Onabanjo appeared politically motivated to many observers, given his reputation for integrity and straightforwardness. His imprisonment seemed designed to silence one of Nigeria’s most vocal advocates for accountability and good governance.
22-Year Sentence
General Omu’s tribunal sentenced Onabanjo to 22 years imprisonment, an extraordinarily harsh sentence that shocked many Nigerians who knew his character. The severity of the sentence suggested it was meant to make an example of him and deter other politicians from opposing military rule.
During his imprisonment, Onabanjo endured significant hardship but reportedly maintained his dignity and principles. His time in prison became another testament to his courage and unwavering commitment to his values.
Release and Return to Journalism
After several years in prison, Onabanjo was eventually released. Rather than becoming bitter or retreating from public life, he returned to what he loved most—journalism. From 1987 to 1989, he resumed writing his famous “Aiyekooto” column, this time for the Nigerian Tribune newspaper.
His post-prison journalism demonstrated that imprisonment had not broken his spirit or silenced his voice. He continued to speak truth to power, commenting on national affairs with the same fearlessness that had characterized his earlier work.
Death and Posthumous Recognition
Chief Olabisi Onabanjo passed away on April 14, 1990, at the age of 63. His death came just a few years after his release from prison and during Nigeria’s continued military rule under General Ibrahim Babangida.
Following his death in 1991, selected articles from his “Aiyekooto” column were compiled and published in book form, edited by Felix A. Adenaike. This publication ensured that future generations could access his wisdom and fearless commentary on Nigerian affairs.
The most significant posthumous recognition came on May 29, 2001, when Ogun State University was officially renamed Olabisi Onabanjo University. This honor, bestowed 11 years after his death, recognized his pivotal role in establishing the institution and his broader contributions to education and development in Ogun State.
Today, Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) stands in Ago-Iwoye as a lasting monument to his legacy, educating thousands of students and contributing to research and development in Nigeria. The university includes the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital (OOUTH) in Sagamu, which provides healthcare services while training medical professionals.
Legacy and Impact
Olabisi Onabanjo’s legacy transcends his governorship and journalism. He represented a generation of Nigerian leaders who believed in service above self-interest, truth over comfort, and principle over expediency.
His “Aiyekooto” column established standards for fearless journalism in Nigeria, inspiring subsequent generations of journalists to speak truth to power. His willingness to face imprisonment rather than compromise his values provided moral example for politicians and citizens alike.
The renaming of Ogun State University in his honor ensures that every graduate of the institution carries forward his name and hopefully his values of integrity, courage, and commitment to excellence. The university has grown into one of Nigeria’s respected state universities, producing graduates who contribute to various sectors of the economy.
Onabanjo’s life also serves as a reminder of the price that principled leadership sometimes demands. His imprisonment and persecution by military governments illustrate the dangers faced by those who dare to challenge authoritarianism and demand accountability.
For Ogun State specifically, Onabanjo’s governorship set benchmarks that subsequent administrators are measured against. His developmental projects and commitment to education continue to benefit the state decades after his tenure.
FAQs About Olabisi Onabanjo
1. When was Olabisi Onabanjo born and when did he die?
Chief Victor Olabisi Onabanjo was born on February 12, 1927, in Lagos, Nigeria, and died on April 14, 1990, at the age of 63 years.
2. What was the “Aiyekooto” column?
“Aiyekooto” (meaning “parrot” in Yoruba) was Onabanjo’s famous newspaper column where he fearlessly criticized government policies and exposed corruption; it appeared in the Daily Service and Daily Express (1954-1962) and later in the Nigerian Tribune (1987-1989).
3. How long did Olabisi Onabanjo serve as Ogun State governor?
He served as the first civilian governor of Ogun State from October 1979 to December 1983 (four years) under the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) platform before being ousted by the military coup.
4. Why was Olabisi Onabanjo imprisoned?
After the 1983 military coup that brought General Muhammadu Buhari to power, Onabanjo was arrested on corruption charges and sentenced to 22 years by General Omu’s tribunal, though many viewed the charges as politically motivated.
5. What is Olabisi Onabanjo University?
Ogun State University, which Onabanjo founded on July 7, 1982, was renamed Olabisi Onabanjo University on May 29, 2001, in his honor; it is located in Ago-Iwoye with a teaching hospital in Sagamu.
6. What were Olabisi Onabanjo’s major achievements as governor?
His major achievements include establishing Ogun Television (commissioned May 13, 1982), founding Ogun State University (now OOU), creating Abraham Adesanya Polytechnic, and running an exemplary administration known for integrity and grassroots development.
