Awolowo-Akintola Political Crisis: Enemies at Play?

The political crisis between Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Chief Samuel Akintola is explored, with suggestions that it may have been instigated by their enemies. Awolowo, a prominent leader opposing northern interests, faced a leadership crisis attributed to his anti-northern stance, as noted by political scientists Professor Bill Dudley and Professor Eghosa Osaghae in a 1998 book.

Akintola, who had disagreements with Awolowo, was reported to have favored cooperation with the Northern Peoples Congress. The rivalry intensified with the formation of factions such as Egb Omo Oduduwa and Egb Omo Yoruba, which aimed to consolidate political power against Awolowo.

Akintola's faction issued a press release on January 3, 1964, criticizing Awolowo, marking a significant shift in the political landscape of the Western Region. The article also references Awolowo's imprisonment and the changing allegiances among political leaders during this tumultuous period.