ICONS
late Chief Gani Fawehinmi:
A Fearless Advocate for Justice and Human Rights
Late Chief Abdul-Ganiyu “Gani” Oyesola Fawehinmi was a remarkable figure who emerged from the illustrious Ondo Kingdom, leaving an indelible mark both nationally and internationally. His contributions as a Nigerian author, publisher, philanthropist, social critic, human and civil rights lawyer, and politician have earned him a place among the iconic figures nurtured by Ondo Kingdom.
Born into the esteemed family of Saheed and Munirat Fawehinmi in Ondo, Ondo State, Gani was raised in an environment steeped in activism and intellectual pursuits. His father, Chief Saheed Tugbobo Fawehinmi, a respected philanthropist and civic activist, instilled in him a strong sense of justice and a commitment to serving the people. Gani’s grandfather, Chief Lisa Alujanu Fawehinmi, was a legendary Ondo warrior known for championing the cause of the Ondo people. These influential family ties helped shape Gani’s character and fueled his lifelong dedication to fighting for justice.
Gani received his early education at Ansar-Ud-Deen Primary School in Iyemaja, Ondo State, where he displayed a passion for national, legal, and political affairs. He continued his education at Victory College Ikare, a Christian school, where he excelled academically. Inspired by his love for the nation and his voracious reading of newspapers, Gani embarked on a journey to study law at the Holborn College of Law, University of London. Despite facing financial challenges, he persevered, working various menial jobs to support himself.
Returning to Nigeria in 1964, Gani was called to the bar the following year, marking the beginning of a prolific legal career. He gained prominence by fearlessly taking on high-profile cases that exposed corruption and abuse of power. Notably, his defense of Bala Abashe, a factory worker who challenged a government official in court, elevated his profile and showcased his unwavering commitment to justice.
Throughout his career, Gani fearlessly confronted unethical practices within the legal profession itself. He challenged disciplinary committees and fought for the principles of fair hearing, leading to significant legal reforms and amendments that protected the rights of legal practitioners.
Beyond his legal advocacy, Gani actively participated in politics and founded the National Conscience Party of Nigeria in 1994. He ran for the presidential election in 2003, using the platform to amplify the voices of the marginalized and advocate for social justice.
Gani Fawehinmi's contributions did not go unnoticed. In 2001, he was honored with the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), the highest legal title in the country. His relentless pursuit of justice and unwavering dedication to the Nigerian people earned him the admiration and respect of countless individuals, both at home and abroad.
Sadly, Gani Fawehinmi succumbed to lung cancer on 5 September 2009. He was laid to rest in his hometown of Ondo City, Nigeria, where he had tirelessly fought for justice throughout his life. Even in his final moments, he remained steadfast in his principles, declining the highest honor offered to him by his country due to his disappointment with the state of the nation.
Gani Fawehinmi's legacy lives on as the "people's lawyer" and the "Senior Advocate of the Masses." His unwavering commitment to justice, human rights, and democracy continues to inspire generations. Through his fearless advocacy, he challenged tyranny, corruption, and illegitimate power, leaving an indelible impact on Nigeria's legal landscape and the fight for justice worldwide. His posthumous awards and accolades, including the Order of the Niger, serve as a testament to the enduring influence of his life's work.
Dr. Olusegun Mimiko: A proud son of the soil
The renowned former governor of Ondo State, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, is one of the extraordinary people that Ondo Kingdom has produced. Mimiko, popularly known as Iroko, was born on October 3, 1954, in Ondo Town, Ondo State, Nigeria. He comes from a family with strong ties to the Ondo Kingdom’s long history. Atiku Bamidele Mimiko, his father, was a well-known businessman, farmer on a cocoa plantation, social critic, and philanthropist. His mother Muinat Mimiko worked hard as a dealer before eventually retiring. Mimiko married Olukemi Adeniyi, a student of French at Obafemi Awolowo University in Ile Ife, in 1990. The couple has four children together.
Mimiko spent his formative years in Ondo Town, where he also discovered his love of politics while pursuing a medical degree at the University of Ife (now known as Obafemi Awolowo University). The groundwork for his future political career was built by his early involvement in student government while working as the International Students’ Association’s public relations officer. He attended St. Joseph’s Primary School in Aponmu and St. Patrick Primary School in Yaba, Ondo, before moving on to further education. Later, he got his Higher School Certificate (HSC) at Gboluji Grammar School in Ile-Oluji after completing his secondary school at St. Joseph’s College in Ondo.
Mimiko enrolled in the medical program at the University of Ife in 1972. While there, he showed leadership qualities by participating in groups such as the International Students Association and the Student Representative Council. In 1976, he received a B.Sc. in health sciences, and in 1980, he obtained a Bachelor of Medicine and a Bachelor of Surgery. He later registered as a doctor with the Nigerian Medical and Dental Council.
Mimiko started a medical practice after earning his university degree and completing his National Youth Service Corps training. He established the MONA MEDICLINIC in Ondo Town in 1985, a medical center devoted to assisting the neighborhood and offering philanthropic services. When he was chosen to serve as the Commissioner of Health and Social Services in Ondo State from 1992 to 1993, Mimiko made his first step into politics. Unfortunately, a military coup that overthrew the democratic Third Nigerian Republic ended his mandate. Mimiko served as the Commissioner of Health in Ondo State from 1999 to 2002 before leaving after Nigeria’s return to democratic rule.
He began serving as the Ondo State Government’s (SSG) Secretary in 2003, and he retained that post until July 2005, when he was appointed as the country’s minister of housing and urban development. But his desire to support his home state inspired him to leave the federal government and run in the 2007 elections against Olusegun Agagu for the position of governor of Ondo State. The Independent National Electoral Commission controversially pronounced Agagu the winner under the influence of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, despite the fact that Mimiko won the hotly contested election. In an effort to protect justice, Mimiko filed a judicial challenge of the election results, beginning a two-year legal fight that finally led to the Tribunal Court and the Court of Appeal recognizing him as the legitimate victor of the 2009 governorship election. He shown resiliency by defeating Olusola Oke of the People’s Democratic Party to win reelection in 2012. After leaving office as governor, Mimiko spent a year speaking in public and promoting access to healthcare and good governance.
THE AWOSIKA FAMILY
The Ondo Kingdom is renowned for its rich traditions and esteemed families who have played a vital role in promoting our heritage and contributing to the growth of our society and the world at large. Among these families, the Awosika family stands as a prominent example. Originating from Ondo City, Nigeria, the Awosika family is not only one of the largest families in Nigeria but also in Africa. Its historical roots can be traced back to Ayotilerewa, the first Sasere of Ondo, who lived from 1819 to 1909. Ayotilerewa was a revered member of the kingdom who brought an end to internal and external conflicts, fostering peace within the Ekimogun community. Throughout his existence, peace reigned in Ekimogun, and Ayotilerewa’s significant contributions led to his well-deserved recognition as the Sasere of Ondo Kingdom. Even though he passed away many years ago, his memory remains cherished, and he is revered as one of the notable figures to have graced the soil of Ekimogun.
However, the Awosika dynasty did not come to a halt with Ayotilerewa’s passing. What began with him and his family has evolved into a legacy that spans generations. To this day, the Awosika family continues to hold significance and receive honor within the kingdom. The influence of the Awosika family has extended beyond the boundaries of Ondo. Its members have spread across the globe, with many residing in foreign nations. The name “Awosika” is increasingly becoming a symbol, both nationally and internationally.
Notable individuals of Awosika descent include Chief Festus Olawoyin Awosika, a former Minister of Works in Nigeria. Chief Awosika embarked on his political journey in the old-fashioned way, starting from local politics and gradually ascending to become a major player in the field. Throughout his career, he remained devoted to his family, Ondo town, and Nigeria, tirelessly working towards the ideals that would make Nigeria a great nation.
Engr Oladehinde Awosika, another member of the family, founded the first Celestial Church of Christ in Ondo Kingdom and its environs. The church, located on Omolore Street in Yaba, Ondo, stands as a testament to his legacy, with a dedicated hall commemorating 50 years since his passing. Other notable members include Chief Benson Awosika, the current Losare of Ondo Kingdom, Prof Larry Awosika, and Mr. Valentine Awosika, Chief Lomofe Victor Akinfolami Awosika among others.
The Awosika family has actively participated in religious, traditional, and educational endeavors within Ondo Kingdom. They played a significant role in introducing the Cherubim and Seraphim church, Celestial Church of Christ, and Islam to the region. Additionally, the family’s involvement in promoting education is evident through the presence of the Celestial Church of Christ and Awosika Primary School located side by side on Omolore Street in Yaba, Ondo. In 2021, the Awosika family, both at home and abroad, embarked on the renovation of the old Awosika house in Ondo. Located at the roundabout on Odotu Street, Ondo City, the house holds great historical significance as the main Awosika family residence, where Ayotilerewa Awosika, the first Awosika, lived with his wives and children until his passing in 1909.
The restoration of the building, which has stood for over 160 years, was made possible through contributions from Awosika family members and friends worldwide. Today, it stands as the Awosika Family Museum and Hall of Fame, having undergone professional restoration to ensure its stability while preserving the original spaces and incorporating modern lighting, ventilation, and conveniences. The restoration project also extended to the mosque built by the Awosika family for the Muslim community in Odotu area between 1890 and 1910.
The efforts of the Awosika family in restoring the old house were commended by Dr. Victor Adesimbo Kiladejo, the Osemawe and Paramount Ruler of Ondo, who expressed his gratitude and emphasized how it would enhance tourism in the area. He called upon other families in the community to follow the Awosika family’s example and contribute to the beautification of the adjacent areas, such as the reconstruction of the historical Odotu Lane. Chief Benson Awosika, the Chairman of the Museum Board of Trustees, announced that the museum had been officially registered as a non-profit organization with free public access. Prof. Larry Awosika, the Secretary of the Museum’s Board of Trustees, invited the public and the diaspora to visit the museum between 10:00 am and 5:00 pm, Monday to Saturday.
The inauguration of the museum also served as an occasion to induct one living and twelve deceased members of the Awosika family into the Hall of Fame, recognizing their significant contributions to the progress of Ondo, the Awosika family, and Nigeria as a whole. The induction ceremony was a poignant moment, honoring the exemplary individuals from the Awosika family who had left a lasting impact on their community and the nation. It was a testament to the family’s commitment to excellence and their dedication to the betterment of Ondo and Nigeria. The newly inaugurated Awosika Family Museum and Hall of Fame opened its doors to the public, inviting visitors to delve into the rich history and heritage of the family. As people stepped inside, they were greeted by a treasure trove of artifacts, photographs, and documents that recounted the remarkable journey of the Awosika family and their contributions across various fields. The museum provided a space for reflection, education, and inspiration. It served as a hub for cultural exchange, where visitors could explore the family’s religious, traditional, and educational involvement. Through interactive displays and exhibits, the museum painted a vivid picture of the Awosika family’s enduring legacy. As news of the museum spread, both locals and tourists flocked to witness this remarkable testament to the Awosika family’s heritage. The restored Awosika house, standing tall as a symbol of resilience and historical significance, became a beacon of pride for the community. Visitors marveled at the careful preservation of the building’s architectural integrity, admiring the harmonious blend of the past and present.
The Awosika family, united in their vision, had succeeded in creating a space that honored their ancestors, celebrated their achievements, and inspired future generations. The museum became a center for cultural exchange and dialogue, fostering a deep sense of pride and identity among the people of Ondo and beyond. Recognizing the impact of their endeavors, the Awosika family extended an open invitation to the public, urging both local residents and those living abroad to visit the museum. They understood the importance of connecting with their roots, encouraging visitors to explore the exhibits, learn about their heritage, and gain a deeper appreciation for the Awosika family’s significant contributions. In the years to come, the Awosika Family Museum and Hall of Fame would continue to serve as a testament to the indomitable spirit of the Awosika family. It would stand as a reminder of the enduring power of tradition, the importance of education, and the profound impact that a united family can have on society. The legacy of the Awosika family would forever be etched in the annals of Ondo’s history, inspiring generations to come. Their contributions to the community, the nation, and the world at large would continue to be celebrated and cherished, ensuring that their story lives on for centuries to come.
- Brigadier Samuel Ademulegun, first Brigadier of the Nigeria Army. He was killed in the 1966 Nigeria coup d'etat. His statue stands at the ife Roundabout, overlooking brigadier Ademulegun Road, named after him, in Ondo Town
- King Sunny Ade also known as King of Juju music, Nigerian musician, singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and a pioneer of modern world music been classed as one of the most influential musicians of all time
- Adewale Akinnuoye Agbaje (born 1967), British actor and former fashion model; born in Islington London to Nigerian parents of Yoruba, Ondo Town origin; he is fluent in several languages including Yoruba, Italian, and Swahili
- Chinwe Chukwuogo-Ray MBE (born 1952), royal portrait painter; born in Ondo Town; in 2001 she painted the official portrait of Queen Elizabeth II for her Golden Jubilee.
- Abudu. Nigerian Media Mogul, media personality, philanthropist, and former human resources management consultant.
- Omotola Jalade Ekeinde actress, singer, philanthropist and former model of Ondo Town descent from Lagos; since her Nollywood film debut in 1995, she was honoured in Time's magazine's list of the 100 most influential people in the world alongside Michelle Obama, Beyonce and Kate Middleton
- Frederick Fasehun (born 1938), medical doctor, hotel owner, and leader of the Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC); born in Ondo Town
- Olu Maintain born Olumide Edwards Adegbulu; rose to prominence in 2007 with the release of the hit song "yahooze" from his debut studio album Yahooze, the song won the Nigerian Entertainment Award in 2008 for Hottest Single of the Year in 2008, he performed "Yahooze at the Royal Albert Hall London and brought on stage Collin Powell the former United State Secretary Of State.
- Godfrey oboabona (born 1990), international footballer, as a defender; born defender Ondo
- Ifedayo Oladapo, CON, NNOM (1932-2010), academic and professor of civil engineering at the University Of Lagos
- Archbishop Timothy Olufosoye (c. 1907-1992) was the first African Primate of the Church Of Nigeria
- Wale (born 1984), American Rapper of Maybach Music Group born Olubowale Victor Akintimehin in North West, Washington, DC, his parents are of the Yoruba Ondo Town ethnic group of south-western Nigeria and came to the US from Austria in 1979
- Bimbo Oshin, Nollywood thespian
- Yemi Blaq, Nollywood actor
- Teniola Apata musician
- Niniola, musician