The descendants of the late Herbert Macaulay have expressed their gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for bestowing a state pardon upon the revered nationalist. Nonetheless, they argue that Macaulay’s immense role in fostering national lagos-govt-reopens-oko-oba-abattoir/” title=”… govt reopens Oko-Oba Abattoir”>unity and securing Nigeria’s independence warrants far greater recognition and prestigious national honors beyond a mere pardon.
Speaking to the media in Lagos on Thursday, Chief Olabode George, former deputy national chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), represented the family alongside Erelu Adeola Macaulay, Mr. Lanre Oshodi, Ms. Mayokun Thomas, Miss Kofoworola Macaulay, Miss Adeyinka Macaulay, Mr. Ayo Ogunlana, and Miss Turi Akerele. He emphasized that Macaulay’s pivotal contributions to Nigeria’s unity must not be underestimated.
While the family appreciates the state pardon, Chief George expressed disappointment that Macaulay’s name was grouped with individuals of questionable repute, such as drug traffickers and criminals. He insisted that Macaulay deserved to be distinctly honored and celebrated for his exemplary legacy.
He recalled how Macaulay endured relentless persecution and humiliation from the British colonial authorities due to his unwavering resistance and advocacy for Nigerian self-governance, asserting that Nigerians were fully capable of managing their own affairs.
“Herbert Macaulay grasped a vital truth – political independence is hollow without social justice. He championed the rights of laborers, market traders, craftsmen, and the marginalized,” Chief George remarked.
“Serving as a vital link between the educated elite and everyday Nigerians, Macaulay believed leadership should be driven by service rather than privilege. Despite facing imprisonment twice under colonial rule, he remained steadfast in his mission.”
“He revolutionized politics by shifting it from the exclusive circles of colonial administrators to the bustling streets and marketplaces of Lagos Island, making it accessible to the common people. This earned him the enduring title – the Father of Nigerian Nationalism.”
Chief George proposed a more fitting tribute to Macaulay would be the restoration of his demolished residence, which was razed by the British, and the construction of a national monument such as the General Post Office on that site.
“Herbert Macaulay’s influence transcends history books and statues. His vision continues to inspire ongoing discussions about governance, fairness, and national identity in Nigeria today,” he concluded.
