Few expressions have endured in Lagos as long as “Kí tó yẹn, Ajasa Kitoye!” The popular Yoruba phrase is commonly used to express disbelief, surprise, or skepticism whenever someone tells a story that sounds too extraordinary to believe. Over the decades, it has become deeply woven into the cultural identity of Lagos, even though many who say it know little about the man behind the famous name.
Sir Kitoye Ajasa was one of colonial Nigeria’s most influential lawyers, politicians, newspaper proprietors, and public figures. His achievements helped shape the legal, political, and intellectual landscape of his time, ensuring that his name would remain part of Nigerian history.
Who Was Sir Kitoye Ajasa?
Sir Kitoye Ajasa was born Edmund Macaulay on 10 August 1866 in Lagos. He belonged to the Saro community, descendants of formerly enslaved Africans who had resettled in Sierra Leone before many families later returned to different parts of West Africa. His family’s ancestral roots traced back to Ajase in present day Benin Republic.
He received his early education at CMS Grammar School in Lagos before travelling to England to continue his studies. There, he attended Dulwich College and later studied law at the Inner Temple.
In 1893, he was called to the Bar, making him one of the relatively few professionally trained Nigerian lawyers of his generation. Upon returning to Lagos, he adopted the name Kitoye Ajasa, the name by which history remembers him today.
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A Distinguished Career in Law and Politics
Sir Kitoye Ajasa quickly established himself as one of colonial Nigeria’s leading legal practitioners and public figures.
From 1906 until 1933, he served as an unofficial member of the Colonial Legislative Council. Throughout his political career, he advocated constitutional reforms and believed that political progress could be achieved through cooperation with the British colonial administration.
His political philosophy differed from that of many emerging nationalists of the period, who called for more rapid political change and greater self government. Despite these differences, Ajasa remained an influential voice in shaping discussions about Nigeria’s political future.
Founder of One of Nigeria’s Earliest Newspapers
Beyond the courtroom and politics, Sir Kitoye Ajasa made significant contributions to journalism.
He founded The Nigerian Pioneer, one of Nigeria’s earliest newspapers. Through the publication, he promoted his political ideals, commented on public affairs, and contributed to national debates during an important period in Nigeria’s colonial history.
The newspaper became one of the country’s most influential publications during the early twentieth century.
The First Nigerian to Receive a British Knighthood
In 1929, Sir Kitoye Ajasa achieved another historic milestone when he became the first Nigerian to receive a British knighthood.
The honour recognised his contributions to public service, law, and governance, making him one of the most prominent African figures within the colonial administration of his era.
Godstone House, One of Colonial Lagos’ Most Famous Residences
The elegant colonial mansion was widely regarded as one of the city’s most recognisable private homes. In 1959, it was demolished to make way for Nigeria’s National Assembly building, bringing an end to one of colonial Lagos’ architectural landmarks.
His Influence Beyond Public Service
Sir Kitoye Ajasa also held a prominent position within Freemasonry, rising to one of the highest levels of influence in the fraternity during the colonial period.
His involvement reflected his standing among the educated elite of Lagos and further strengthened his influence within public life.
The Legacy Behind “Kí Tó Yẹn, Ajasa Kitoye!”
Although Sir Kitoye Ajasa is remembered for his accomplishments in law, politics, journalism, and public service, his name continues to live on through one of Lagos’ most familiar expressions.
The saying “Kí tó yẹn, Ajasa Kitoye!” remains widely used to express disbelief or doubt whenever someone narrates an unbelievable story. Over time, the phrase has become an enduring part of Lagos folklore and Yoruba popular culture, ensuring that the name of Sir Kitoye Ajasa continues to be remembered across generations.
Sir Kitoye Ajasa occupies a unique place in Nigerian history. As a lawyer, politician, newspaper founder, public servant, and the first Nigerian to be knighted by the British Crown, he helped shape important aspects of colonial Nigeria’s development.
His contributions to law, governance, journalism, and public discourse remain significant, while the enduring popularity of “Kí tó yẹn, Ajasa Kitoye!” ensures that his legacy extends beyond history books into everyday conversation.
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Author’s Note
Sir Kitoye Ajasa’s legacy extends far beyond the courtroom and the political arena. His pioneering achievements in law, journalism, governance, and public service made him one of the defining figures of colonial Nigeria. Today, his name continues to resonate through one of Lagos’ most enduring expressions, reflecting how history and culture can preserve the memory of an individual across generations.
References
The National Archives of Nigeria
CMS Grammar School Historical Records
Inner Temple Archives
Nigerian History Publications on Colonial Lagos
