S.A. Ajayi: Recognizing Okun People’s Contributions to Nigeria’s Independence – Elevating College of Agriculture, Kabba to University status

OPEN LETTER TO THE PRESIDENT OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA, H.E ASIWAJU BOLA AHMED TINUBU.

The President, Federal Republic of Nigeria

State House, Abuja

SUBJECT: RECOGNIZING OKUN PEOPLE’S CONTRIBUTIONS TO NIGERIA’S INDEPENDENCE: ELEVATING COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE, KABBA TO UNIVERSITY STATUS.

Dear Honorable President

We write to bring to your attention the remarkable contributions of the Okun people (Kabba, Ijumu, Bunu,Yagba) led by H.E Chief S.A. Ajayi OFR, to Nigeria’s independence struggle.

As a delegate to the London Constitution Conferences of 1957 and 1958, Chief Ajayi played a pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s future.

Chief Ajayi was a polyglot whose exceptional language skill, speaking multiple Nigerian languages fluently demonstrated his deep understanding of the country’s diverse cultures. This talent proved crucial when addressing the majority-minority issue, a significant hurdle to Nigeria’s independence.

At the Lancaster Constitution Conference, Chief Ajayi eloquently articulated the aspirations of delegates and advisers, alleviating the British government’s concerns about minority groups.

He adeptly navigated the complex issues surrounding majority and minority concerns that had plagued Nigeria’s independence movement since the early 1950s. Ajayi’s remarkable linguistic abilities and deep understanding of Nigeria’s diverse cultures highlighted a vital truth: Nigerians are not inherently hostile. Fluent in over 14 Nigerian languages, he effectively communicated and translated his submissions into several Nigerian languages, which resonated deeply with British delegates and government representatives.

“He maintained that a country rooted in truth, justice, and unity can be built. Speaking as a minority representative, Ajayi championed the inclusion of strong protections for minority rights in the constitution.”

“A key part of his impactful submission to the conference was the statement:” “I lived and worked in these regions with no generic hostility. Disagreement is a human trait, not the exclusive domain of any race, region, or people. The ‘Notting Hill riots’ in London serve as an example of the concerns of minority Caribbeans.
IT’S TIME TO LET US GO so we can better understand ourselves AND FIND INDIGENOUS SOLUTIONS to our challenges as a people.

Chief Ajayi’s efforts helped pave the way for Nigeria’s independence. His legacy serves as a testament to the Okun people’s dedication to nation-building.

Mr. president sir, we respectfully request that the government considers upgrading the Kabba College of Agriculture to a full-fledged federal university, reflecting Okun people’s sacrifices in nation-building.

Chief Ajayi was a Legislator and member of the executive Council who fought relentlessly for the establishment of College of Agriculture in Kabba province in 1960.

Mr. President sir, elevating the College of Agriculture, Kabba to a university would bring numerous benefits to the institution, students, Okun community, Kogi State and Nigeria at large.

Thank you Mr President for considering this request.

Femi Ajayi

Secretary, The S.A Ajayi Foundation