REMINISCENCES: HOW DR. NNAMDI AZIKIWE PENETRATED THE WESTERN REGION OF NIGERIA

Spread the loveOne striking occurrence in the society in modern times is the lack of knowledge of the contributions of eminent Nigerians to national development, as well as the evolution of an independent Nigeria. Several decades ago, such subjects as Civics and History were taught, even in elementary schools. Secondary school students of those days had knowledge of occurrences all over the world, as they were informed about developments like going on the moon, and technological advancements. What happens today? The younger ones are largely unaware of historical developments, particularly political activities that could shape their knowledge of how they could be useful citizens in the quest to build a greater Nigeria. In this account, TERRIFIC HEADLINES treats two issue of discriminatory, that was practically nonexistent, even ups until the demise of the Second Republic in 1983. AWOLOWO’S EGBE OMO ODUDUWA I had, by 1947 become the Secretary of the Nigerian Union of Teachers, Ile Ife branch, and I had passed my London Matriculation. So, the Lord has been so nice to me. I had bought my Raleigh Bicycle, which I rode through the streets of Ile-Ife amidst cheers and admiration of the people with the shout L.M., L.M. (London Matriculation). The qualification placed holder at a vantage position to proceed to higher institutions of learning. I was in this enviable position when Chief Obafemi Awolowo came to Ile Ife, to launch the Socio-Cultural group called Egbe Omo Oduduwa, in 1948. He seemed to be appealing to the sensibilities of the Yorubas, as children of the same cultural origin who had so much to gain if they came together. I refused to join them, as I felt so much cosmopolitan. I thought the group would likely end up parochial and localized; and so, I did not show interest. Besides, their