The guest lecturer at the special edition of the Yoruba Historical Conversation marking Cocoa House at 60, Professor Adetunji Ogunyemi, an Economic Historian from the Department of History, Obafemi Awolowo University, has lauded the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo for his exceptional ability to unite the Yoruba people without compromising his political ideals.
Speaking at the event, held on Thursday at Carlton Gate Xclusive Hotel, Total Garden, Agodi Gate, Ibadan, Prof Ogunyemi described Awolowo’s leadership style as a driving force behind the landmark Cocoa House project in Ibadan. He recalled that although construction was completed in 1964, the official commissioning did not take place until 1965 under then Premier Samuel Ladoke Akintola, due to delays caused by the national census and general elections.
The scholar stressed the importance of pursuing enduring achievements rather than short-term political wins. He cited the Cocoa House, University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), Liberty Stadium, and Western Nigeria Television as shining examples of visionary projects delivered by past leaders. By contrast, he criticised the current political class for being more focused on personal fame and lavish lifestyles than on developmental legacies.
“Awolowo and his contemporaries demonstrated the power of planning, mental magnitude, and foresight to deliver iconic landmarks,” Prof Ogunyemi said. He emphasised that political party structure, effective leadership, equitable power distribution, transparency, accountability, and sound budgeting are non-negotiable tools for transforming today’s resources into tomorrow’s legacy.
Reflecting on the principles behind the Cocoa House project, he said it was founded on the values of freedom and democracy with three core objectives: improving the welfare of the people; creating an equitable social and economic order; and increasing income, productivity, and living standards. He noted the tangible impact of these policies, including a significant rise in the minimum wage from £1 10s for federal workers and £3 6s for Western region workers to £5 in the West.
In closing, Prof Ogunyemi corrected a widespread misconception about the founding date of Obafemi Awolowo University. While many believe it was established in 1962, he clarified that the institution was legally founded on June 8, 1961, and began admitting students in 1962.
