Prominent speakers at the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Memorial Lecture and Colloquium held on Thursday have cautioned against the misattribution of the late Premier of the Western Region’s achievements, describing it as a deliberate attempt to undermine his legacy.
The event, which took place at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso, was attended by traditional rulers, top government officials, politicians, and other dignitaries.
In his address, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, the Soun of Ogbomosoland, expressed concern over the distortion of facts and misinformation about the late Akintola’s contributions. Despite such efforts, he noted that Akintola’s significant impact on the development of the Western Region and Nigeria remains undeniable.
“Chief Akintola was a true symbol of bravery and courage, values that Ogbomoso represents,” Oba Ghandi said, pledging to sustain the legacies of the late premier.
In a personal recount, the Soun revealed the deep bond between his late father, Prince Samuel Olaoye, and Chief Akintola. “It was Akintola who led people to seek my mother’s hand in marriage from his family in Abeokuta. When Akintola was tragically killed, it was my father, Surveyor Bamgbose, and Lekan Salami who retrieved his body from Adeoyo and ensured he was buried in Ogbomoso. This was because of the trust and love Akintola had for him,” he disclosed.
Oba Ghandi reaffirmed his commitment, stating, “I will continue to support anything that will promote and sustain the legacies of Baba Samuel Ladoke Akintola.”
Dr. Saka Balogun, an elder statesman, commended the Akintola family for their unity and efforts in preserving the sage’s legacy. He urged historians and writers to accurately attribute Akintola’s accomplishments and avoid misrepresentations that could erode his contributions to the nation.
Justice Ladiran Akintola, speaking on behalf of the family, highlighted conspiracies that plagued his father’s life and the misattributions of his achievements. “Despite the challenges Baba faced, his works speak for themselves. It is a shame that his life was cut short, but his legacy inspires us to strive for greatness,” he said. He also encouraged younger generations to persevere in the face of adversity.
Other speakers, including Senator Adeseun, Oloye Lekan Alabi, Professor Rotimi Animasahun, Ademola Babalola, and Mr. Remi Olalere, lamented the inadequate recognition given to Akintola’s immense contributions to the nation.
As part of the event, four individuals and a group were recognized for their contributions to Ogbomosoland. The honorees included Hon. Bimbo Wumi Oladeji, Hon. Olamiju Alao Akala, Hon. Sanjo Adedoyin, and the Ogbomoso Valiant Club.
Hon. Oladeji, praised for her selfless service to the community, dedicated her award to victims of abuse and called on the House of Assembly to amend laws to ensure stricter punishment for offenders.
The event highlighted the enduring impact of Chief Samuel Ladoke Akintola and the need to preserve the true history of his remarkable contributions to Nigeria.
