He didn't live to see the creation of Ondo State, but Oba Ademuwagun Adesida II, the Deji of Akure (1957–1973), reportedly refused to contest for governor of the state. Here's how it happened:
In the early 1970s, two things became sure - Nigeria would return to civilian rule and Ondo State will be created.
Oba Adesida was seen as a respected, educated, and influential traditional ruler. He was one of the most educated and politically aware Yoruba monarchs of his generation. He had served in the civil service before becoming king, and he was active in community development and modernisation efforts in Akure, which was an influential centre in Yorubaland at that period.
Thus, ahead of the possible creation of the state therefore, some political figures in that area including those with connections to the Action Group and later the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) networks, wanted someone who could garner enough support. Among thes men were Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin, Chief Fagbamigbe and Chief Olukoya. They zeroed in on Oba Adesida believing that the Deji’s popularity could help Akure produce the first governor of the proposed Ondo State.
They were wrong. The Deji firmly declined. “A king must not descend into the arena of politics. Once he does, he loses the loyalty of his people,” he reportedly told them. To him, partisan politics is beneath the dignity of a reigning monarch to enter partisan politics. He, thus, preferred to maintain his traditional and unifying role rather than divide his people politically.
The Result:
This refusal enhanced his reputation for integrity and wisdom. He was widely respected both within Akure and across Yorubaland for keeping the throne above politics. Ironically, his stance contrasted with later monarchs in Nigeria who openly supported or joined political causes.
However, the monarch joined his ancestors in 1973. Ondo was created three years later on February 3, 1976 from the defunct Western Region of Nigeria with its administrative capital in Akure.
And, in 1979, Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin became the State’s first civilian governor (1979–1983).
Photo: Oba Adesida poses for a photo within his palace
Source: Ethnic African Stories
