Owo, an ancient and historically rich town in Ondo State, has long held a distinguished position in Nigeria’s political development. Known as a cradle of progressive political ideology, Owo served as the birthplace of the Action Group party, one of the earliest and most influential political movements in the nation’s post-colonial history. It was also the launchpad for free primary education in the Western Region—an innovation that forever transformed Nigeria’s educational landscape.

Yet, amid Owo’s celebrated political milestones, one towering figure stands out: Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin. As the first elected governor of Ondo State, a revered nationalist, and the chairman of the pro-democracy coalition NADECO during the dark years of military dictatorship, Ajasin was more than just a political figure—he was a symbol of courage, vision, and selfless service to the Nigerian nation.

In light of this immense legacy, the omission of Chief Ajasin’s name from President Bola Tinubu’s 2025 list of posthumous national honours is deeply troubling and raises critical questions about Nigeria’s commitment to recognising those who shaped its democratic journey.

Ajasin’s Role in Securing Nigerian Independence

Chief Ajasin’s contribution to Nigeria’s independence movement remains undeniable. As a committed nationalist, he worked closely with other legendary leaders such as Alhaji Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, and Chief Anthony Enahoro. These men, despite their diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds, united under a shared vision to free Nigeria from colonial rule—a mission that culminated in the country’s independence in 1960.

As an advocate of education and political enlightenment, Ajasin brought a scholarly yet principled voice to the nationalist movement. His progressive ideals and emphasis on human development set him apart as one of Nigeria’s most forward-thinking leaders of that era. That Nigeria’s independence was achieved through largely nonviolent means is due in part to leaders like Ajasin, who believed in diplomacy, consensus, and civic mobilisation.

First Elected Governor of Ondo State and Architect of Social Progress

After independence, Chief Ajasin’s leadership trajectory continued on a path of impact and reform. When Ondo State was created in 1976, Ajasin emerged as its first elected governor in the Second Republic under the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN). During his tenure from 1979 to 1983, he implemented sweeping policies in education, healthcare, and rural development.

Most notably, he established a free and compulsory primary education program in the state, mirroring similar policies in the old Western Region. This initiative expanded access to schooling for thousands of children and laid the foundation for human capital development in Ondo State. Ajasin also invested in teacher training, built new schools, and ensured teachers received timely salaries—further proving his unwavering commitment to social equity.

Champion of Democracy and NADECO Leadership

Perhaps Chief Ajasin’s most significant legacy lies in his unwavering stand for democracy during Nigeria’s most perilous political era. After the annulment of the 1993 presidential election—a poll widely regarded as the freest and fairest in Nigerian history—Ajasin became the chairman of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), a group that boldly challenged General Sani Abacha’s authoritarian rule.

Under Ajasin’s leadership, NADECO mobilised civil society, diaspora activists, and exiled politicians to sustain the pressure for democratic restoration. He became the spiritual and strategic leader of a movement that gave voice to millions of Nigerians yearning for freedom. While younger opposition figures like Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the current president, went into exile in the United States, Ajasin remained steadfast at home, holding the fort and leading the resistance despite threats and persecution.

His presence at the helm of NADECO gave legitimacy and moral strength to the pro-democracy movement. It is no exaggeration to say that the democracy Nigeria practices today owes a great deal to the sacrifices made by Chief Ajasin and the NADECO leadership.

The Omission That Undermines History

Against the backdrop of Ajasin’s achievements—both as a nationalist and as a democratic icon—the absence of his name from the 2025 national honours list is a glaring oversight. It reflects not only a lack of historical awareness but also a troubling disregard for the men and women whose courage and conviction made Nigeria’s democratic experiment possible.

President Bola Tinubu, himself a product of the NADECO struggle and one who benefited from the sanctuary offered by international exile during the Abacha years, should be the first to recognise the importance of honouring Chief Ajasin. To neglect Ajasin in this regard is to diminish the memory of NADECO’s struggle and to erase the sacrifices of a man who chose to stand his ground rather than flee.

The principles of justice, fairness, and historical integrity demand that this error be corrected. Including Chief Adekunle Ajasin in the national honours list is not only a tribute to his legacy but also a reaffirmation of Nigeria’s commitment to acknowledging the architects of its democracy.

A Call for Redress and National Recognition

Nigeria must not allow the contributions of heroes like Chief Ajasin to fade into obscurity. Political leadership must demonstrate its moral compass by acknowledging those whose lives helped shape the nation’s values and freedoms.

The president should take immediate steps to review and amend the 2025 list of national honourees. Restoring Ajasin’s name would send a powerful message—that Nigeria values courage, service, and historical truth.

As Nigeria continues to navigate its democratic journey, the country must build upon the legacy of its past heroes. The names and deeds of leaders like Chief Ajasin should be enshrined in national memory—not forgotten or sidelined.

In the words of the late sage himself, “A nation that forgets its heroes risks losing the soul of its identity.” It is time to remember, honour, and celebrate Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin—not just as a political figure from Owo, but as a cornerstone in the foundation of Nigeria’s democracy.