Some Notable Ijeshas #yorubasubgroups #yoruba
1. Chief James Ajibola Ige (Popularly known as Bola Ige)
Chief Ige was one of Nigeria's leading legal luminaries and non-corrupt politician. The London-trained lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria and alumnus of the prestigious University of Ibadan, also served as the Governor of the Old Oyo State in the Second Republic.
An ally of the late Yoruba leader, Chief Obafemi Awolowo. He was known for his oratory prowess, love for art and his work on civil rights and democracy. He was honored by his people with the title of Asiwaju of Esa-oke. He also wrote several books and articles.
He fought endless to repel the implementation of Sharia lwa in Northern Nigeria. He served as the Nigerian Federal Minister of Justice until he was assassinated in December 2001.
2. Chief Isaiah Kehinde Dairo MBE.
Popularly known as I.K. Dairo, and father of one of Nigeria's early pop star, Paul Play Dairo, is the undisputed father of modern Juju. Dairo was Nigeria’s first Juju superstar and an overwhelming influence on two generations of musicians, including King Sunny Ade and Chief Ebenezer Obey.
An instrumentalist, known for his mastery of the accordion, the Ijebu-Ijesha native, forged a modern pop style of sweeping rhythms and hook-filled melodies from Juju’s folksy Yoruba origins, introducing the talking drum and accordion and making the guitar the staple of his new musical hybrid.
His band, the Blue Spots was heard all over Nigeria. They experimented and played with musical styles originating from different Yoruba areas and also used the Edo, Urhobo, Itsekiri and Hausa language in some of their lyrics.
He set the pace for the emergence of Chief Ebenezer Obey and later King Sunny Ade. In appreciation of his exceptional gift, he was rewarded with the prestigious Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE).
3. Dr. Christopher Kolade
A renowned Nigerian diplomat, administrator, and academic. He has held several significant positions both in Nigeria and internationally.
Dr. Kolade served as the Director-General of the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) in the 1970s, where he played a role in shaping Nigeria's media landscape. He also worked in the corporate world, serving as the CEO and later Chairman of Cadbury Nigeria Plc.
As a former Nigeria's High Commissioner to the United Kingdom he represented Nigeria's interests in one of its most important diplomatic postings.
He is widely respected for his leadership in various educational and ethical spheres. He is an advisory board member of the Lagos Business School.
The Erin-Oke native is a strong advocate for ethical governance and transparency, he frequently spoke out on national and international issues, particularly in the areas of leadership and corporate governance through the Nigerian Economic Summit Group.
4. Pastor Enoch Adeboye
He is the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG),one of the largest and most influential Christian denominations in Nigeria and worldwide. Often referred to as "Daddy G.O." by his followers. Pastor Adeboye is known for his deep spirituality, humility, and dedication to evangelism and church planting.
The Ifewara native started as an academia. before joining the RCCG, which at the time was a small church founded and led by Pastor Josiah Akindayomi. Upon Akindayomi's death, Pastor Adeboye succeeded him as General Overseer.
Under his leadership, the church has grown exponentially, with thousands of branches worldwide and a strong emphasis on prayer, holiness, and soul-winning. He is known for his annual Holy Ghost Congress, which attracts millions of people, and for his influence in the global Pentecostal movement.
He is a highly respected figure in both religious and social circles in Nigeria and beyond.
5. Justice Obakayode Eso
The legal jurist, popular known as Kayode Eso prominent Nigerian jurist and a former Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria. He is widely regarded for his contributions to the development of the Nigerian legal system and for his integrity, scholarship, and firm stance on upholding the rule of law.
Justice Eso was known for his unwavering commitment to justice and the independence of the judiciary. He consistently upheld the principle that the judiciary must be free from political interference.
His legacy is that of a legal titan who contributed significantly to the evolution of Nigerian law. His work continues to inspire generations of Nigerian jurists and legal practitioners.
6. Professor Bolanle Awe
She is a renowned Nigerian historian, educator, and feminist that has made significant contributions to African history, gender studies, and women's rights advocacy.
Prof. Awe is well-known for her work on the history of women in Nigeria and for being one of the pioneering voices in Nigerian academia.
She was a professor of history at the University of Ibadan, where she taught for many years. Her research interests were focused on social and cultural history, particularly on the roles of women in African societies.
Beyond her academic career, Professor Awe also served in public roles, including as a Commissioner of Education in Oyo State, Nigeria. She was deeply involved in efforts to promote women's education and empowerment.
Professor Awe has received numerous honors for her work in education, history, and gender advocacy. Her pioneering efforts continue to inspire many in the fields of academia and activism.
7. Timothy Mofolorunsho Aluko
T.M Aluko has he was fondly called, was a prominent Nigerian author and civil engineer, known for his satirical novels that critiqued the social and political conditions of post-colonial Nigeria. The Ilesa-born author, was one of the notable literary figures of his time.
Aluko's works often dealt with the complexities of Nigerian society, especially during the country's transition from colonial rule to independence. Some of his most famous novels include One Man, One Wife, which explored the dynamics of polygamy and traditional customs, and Chief the Honourable Minister, which satirized the political corruption and incompetence of Nigeria's new ruling class.
In addition to his literary career, Aluko had a distinguished career as a civil engineer and public servant, having been educated at the University of Lagos and the University of London. He balanced both professions throughout much of his life.
8. Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola
Aregbesola is a former Governor of Osun State and the former Federal Minister of Interior. His governance in Osun State earned him recognition for education reforms and infrastructure development.
Other notable Ijeshas include Ajagbemokeferi, a renowned Islamic scholar, Prophet T. Obadare of the World Soul Evangelistic Ministry, Prophet Fakeye of Cherubim and Seraphim Church, Ayo Ni O, all of blessed memory, and the General Overseer of Redeem Christian Church, Pastor W. F. Kumuyi of Deeper Life Church, Pastor S. K. Abiara, Gen. Evangelist of Christ Apostolic Church Worldwide, to mention but few.
Photo Credits: The Cable Nigeria
