Oba Sir Olateru Olagbegi II
(August 1910 – October 1998)
Oba Sir Olateru Olagbegi II was the traditional ruler (Olowo) of Owo, an ancient city in Ondo State, southwestern Nigeria. He was a prominent figure in Yoruba history and politics and played a significant role in the regional political affairs of the Western Region during Nigeria’s First Republic.
Early Life and Reign
Born in August 1910, Olateru Olagbegi ascended the throne of Owo in 1941, succeeding Ajike Ogunoye. He was the paramount ruler of Owo Kingdom and ruled until 1966, when he was deposed following political unrest. His reign lasted 25 years before he was exiled, and he was eventually reinstated in 1993, reigning until his death in October 1998.
Political Involvement and Deposition
- In 1951, with the dawn of elective politics in Nigeria’s Western Region, Oba Olagbegi supported the Action Group political party, which was publicly launched at his palace.
- By 1962, a schism had developed within the Action Group, resulting in factions loyal to Obafemi Awolowo and Samuel Ladoke Akintola.
- Oba Olagbegi chose to align with Akintola, a decision that created tension with his former ally, Michael Ajasin, and much of the Owo community, who supported Awolowo.
- His actions, including use of police forces to assert authority in neighboring towns, intensified the unrest.
- In 1966, following the military coup that ended Nigeria’s First Republic, a public revolt ensued in Owo. The military governor, Lt. Col. Adekunle Fajuyi, suspended the Olowo.
- He went into exile in Ibadan, briefly returned in 1968, but faced strong resistance, leading to another exile.
- In 1969, Governor Adeyinka Adebayo officially removed him from office.
Reinstatement and Final Years
- After 25 years in exile, Oba Olagbegi was reinstated in 1993 following the death of the reigning Olowo.
- He ruled until his death in October 1998.
- He was succeeded by his son, Oba Folagbade Olateru Olagbegi III.
Honors
- He was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in the 1960 Queen’s Birthday Honours.
Personal Life
- Oba Olateru Olagbegi II was noted for having 300 wives.
See Also
- Owo Kingdom(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Owo)
- Oba Folagbade Olateru Olagbegi III(https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FolagbadeOlateruOlagbegi_III)
References
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