Egba Uprising; 1918: The Year Western Nigeria Roared Against Colonial Taxes

The tapestry of Nigerian history is rich with threads of resilience and resistance, woven by individuals who dared to challenge the status quo. One such figure, largely overshadowed by his contemporaries but deserving of recognition, is Leonard Onaolapo Osunyikanmi. While his name might not be as instantly recognizable as some other figures from Nigeria’s pre-independence era, his story encapsulates the spirit of defiance and the yearning for self-determination that characterized the Egba Uprising of 1918.

This remarkable event stemmed from a confluence of factors - rising economic hardship exacerbated by stringent colonial tax policies, a growing sense of cultural alienation amongst the Yoruba people, and the simmering resentment towards what many perceived as exploitative British rule. Leonard Osunyikanmi, a fervent advocate for his community’s rights and well-being, emerged as a leader during these tumultuous times.

Born in 1887 in Abeokuta, Osunyikanmi was a man of diverse talents – a skilled teacher, an adept writer, and a passionate orator. He possessed a deep understanding of both Yoruba tradition and the complexities of colonial administration, which made him uniquely positioned to articulate the grievances of his people. As discontent grew amongst the Egba population, Osunyikanmi became instrumental in galvanizing support for resistance against the imposed taxes.

The catalyst for the uprising was a particularly oppressive tax levied on cocoa farmers in 1918. Cocoa, the mainstay of the Egba economy, was subject to exorbitant levies by the colonial government, leading to widespread poverty and hardship. Osunyikanmi recognized this as a critical turning point. He eloquently argued that the tax burden was unjust and unsustainable, crippling the local economy and undermining the livelihood of farmers. His powerful speeches resonated deeply with his community, igniting a spark of rebellion against perceived injustices.

The Egba Uprising unfolded in stages. Initially, peaceful protests were organized, demanding the repeal of the oppressive tax laws. However, when their pleas were met with indifference by the colonial authorities, the movement took on a more militant tone. Led by Osunyikanmi and other prominent Egba figures like Adehun and Sijuade, local communities mobilized and engaged in acts of defiance against British rule.

This resistance manifested in various forms. Roads were blocked, government buildings were boycotted, and taxes were refused. The uprising reached its zenith in July 1918 when a significant contingent of Egba warriors clashed with British troops in Abeokuta. While the colonial forces ultimately prevailed, the Egba Uprising left an indelible mark on Nigerian history.

The event showcased the strength of communal solidarity and highlighted the deep-seated frustration with colonial policies. Osunyikanmi’s leadership during this period cemented his status as a national hero, remembered for his unwavering courage in standing up against oppression.

Impact of the Egba Uprising:

Following the uprising, Osunyikanmi continued his activism, advocating for educational reform and greater political representation for Nigerians. He also played a key role in establishing local newspapers and literary societies, further contributing to the intellectual awakening within the Egba community. Although his life was tragically cut short in 1937, Leonard Osunyikanmi’s legacy endures as a testament to the power of individual courage in challenging injustice. His story serves as a reminder that even in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles, the human spirit can prevail.

The Egba Uprising stands as a pivotal moment in Nigerian history – a time when ordinary people, led by extraordinary figures like Leonard Osunyikanmi, dared to challenge the colonial order and demand their rightful place in society. It is a story that deserves to be told and retold, for it reminds us of the enduring fight for freedom and self-determination.