Ogun @50: How Abeokuta was chosen to be state capital
The article discusses the historical context and personal reflections regarding the selection of Abeokuta as the capital of Ogun State in Nigeria, highlighting personal identity and political involvement.
The article reflects on the historical selection of Abeokuta as the capital of Ogun State, emphasizing the personal journey of the author, who became a state commissioner in the early 1970s. The author recalls how their identity as an Egbado person was shaped by social connections with the Egba community and how this recognition led to increased personal involvement in regional governance and advocacy.
The piece provides insight into the political atmosphere of the time, particularly in the context of the reorganization of states in Nigeria during the 1970s. The federal government mandated state governors to consult socio-economic leaders in creating new states, illustrating the complex interplay of regional identity, governance, and representation in Nigerian politics. The author reflects on how such consultations may have influenced the eventual designation of Abeokuta as the state capital, linking it to broader themes of local governance and identity politics.
Furthermore, the narrative highlights the importance of regional identity in political decision-making and the implications of such identity on leadership roles within the state. By revisiting past events through a personal lens, the article connects historical developments with present reflections on ethnicity and governance in Nigeria, marking significant moments in the journey towards statehood and local representation.