When Nigeria gained independence in 1960, the Western Region stood out as one of the most politically organised and socially ambitious regions in the new federation. With a strong tradition of political activism and a growing educated elite, the region quickly became a centre of ideological debate, policy innovation, and intense party competition. Western Nigeria’s political life during the early 1960s reflected both the promise of democratic governance and the risks of unresolved internal divisions.
Under the leadership of the Action Group, the region pursued policies that prioritised education, regional development, and administrative efficiency. These ambitions helped position the Western Region as a model of progressive governance. At the same time, internal tensions within the ruling political class gradually intensified, setting the stage for one of the most consequential political crises in Nigeria’s early history.
Chief Samuel Ladoke Akintola and the Premiership
At the centre of Western Region politics during this period was Chief Samuel Ladoke Akintola, who served as Premier from 1960 until January 1966. A seasoned nationalist politician and gifted orator, Akintola had been active in Nigerian politics long before independence. His rise to the premiership followed a period of ideological disagreement within the Action Group, which altered the political balance of the region.
Akintola’s tenure was marked by deep political rivalry and sustained instability. The split within the Action Group fractured legislative unity and created prolonged tension within the Western House of Assembly. Despite these challenges, his administration continued to function, overseeing regional governance, infrastructure initiatives, and economic engagement with other parts of the federation. His leadership came to an abrupt end during the military coup of January 1966, in which he was killed.
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Party Crisis and the Breakdown of Order
The political crisis that engulfed the Western Region in the early 1960s remains one of the defining moments of Nigeria’s First Republic. Ideological disagreements, leadership struggles, and competing visions of federal alignment escalated into open confrontation. Legislative paralysis, defections, and emergency measures weakened public trust in civilian governance.
By 1965, tensions reached a breaking point following disputed regional elections. Violence spread across parts of the region, with arson, intimidation, and administrative breakdown becoming widespread. This period, often remembered as the “Wild West” crisis, severely damaged the credibility of democratic institutions and deepened national anxiety about political stability.
Chief Remi Fani Kayode and Political Advocacy
Chief Remi Fani Kayode was among the prominent political voices active within the Western Region during the First Republic. A trained lawyer and committed member of the Action Group, he was known for his assertive presence in political debates and his strong ideological convictions. His influence arose from party activism, parliamentary participation, and legal advocacy rather than from executive authority.
Figures such as Fani Kayode illustrate how Western Region politics was shaped not only by those who held formal office but also by outspoken party actors who influenced opinion, strategy, and internal party direction during a turbulent period.
Education as a Regional Legacy
Education stood at the heart of Western Region policy throughout the late 1950s and early 1960s. The region gained national recognition for its commitment to expanding access to primary and secondary education. Investments in school construction, teacher training, and curriculum development formed the backbone of regional planning.
As Nigeria’s regional and international context evolved, attention turned toward broader educational goals. Foreign language instruction, including French, gained importance as policymakers considered Nigeria’s position within West Africa. The gradual inclusion of French language studies reflected a wider effort to prepare students for diplomacy, trade, and regional cooperation rather than a single political initiative.
Richard Akinjide and the Legal Generation
Chief Richard Akinjide belonged to a generation of Western Nigerian professionals whose political consciousness developed during the First Republic. In the early 1960s, he was active primarily as a legal practitioner and parliamentarian. His early career was shaped by debates on governance, constitutional order, and national cohesion.
Akinjide later rose to national prominence during the Second Republic when he served as Attorney General and Minister of Justice. His long public career reflects the enduring influence of Western Nigeria’s political culture beyond the immediate years of the First Republic.
Regional Legislators and Local Representation
Western Region politics extended beyond nationally recognised figures and depended heavily on local legislators who represented diverse constituencies. Members of the Western House of Assembly played important roles in shaping policy debates, constituency advocacy, and regional identity.
Among these legislators was D. K. Olumofin, associated with Ikare Akoko. Like many regional lawmakers of the era, his contributions reflected the importance of local representation in sustaining regional governance. The political life of the Western Region was built on the participation of both prominent leaders and community level representatives.
Federal Relations and the Road to 1966
Relations between the Western Region and the federal government were a persistent source of tension throughout the early 1960s. Political actors operated within a complex environment shaped by constitutional limits, party alliances, and federal interventions. As instability persisted in the region, confidence in civilian leadership declined nationwide.
The military coup of January 1966 ended the First Republic and marked a turning point in Nigeria’s political history. While the coup resulted from multiple national factors, the prolonged unrest in the Western Region formed a critical part of the broader context that led to military intervention.
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An Enduring Political Legacy
Despite its turbulent conclusion, the Western Region of the early 1960s left a lasting imprint on Nigerian political culture. Its emphasis on education, regional administration, and political participation influenced future generations. At the same time, the region’s experience offered enduring lessons about the consequences of political division and unchecked rivalry.
The legacy of this era continues through institutions, public policy traditions, and families whose influence remains visible in contemporary Nigerian society. The Western Region’s story remains essential to understanding Nigeria’s early democratic journey and its lasting impact.
Author’s Note
The story of the Western Region before 1966 is one of ambition, conflict, and lasting influence. It shows how bold leadership and visionary policies can coexist with deep political struggle. The era reminds us that progress and instability often walk side by side, and that the choices made in moments of tension can shape a nation for generations.
References
Coleman, James S., Nigeria, Background to Nationalism, University of California Press, 1963.
Sklar, Richard, Nigerian Political Parties, Power in an Emergent African Nation, Africa World Press, 2004.
Akintoye, S. A., A History of the Yoruba People, Amalion Publishing, 2010.
