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Isaac B. Thomas and the Legacy of Segilola Eleyinju Ege

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The history of Nigerian literature and journalism cannot be told without mentioning Isaac Babalola Thomas (1888–1963), a pioneering journalist and cultural figure whose influence shaped early print media in Lagos. He is remembered not only for his groundbreaking work in journalism but also for authoring what is widely regarded as Nigeria’s first novel, Itan Igbesi Aiye Emi Segilola Eleyinju Ege (The Life Story of Me, Segilola).

Isaac B. Thomas: Journalist and Innovator

Born in Lagos in 1888, Isaac B. Thomas received his early education at Christ School. He rose to prominence as a journalist and publisher during the colonial era. In 1928, he founded the bilingual weekly newspaper Akede Eko, which published in both Yoruba and English, making news accessible to a wider audience in Lagos. A year later, in 1929, he made history again by launching The Nigerian Evening News, the first evening newspaper in West Africa.

Through these platforms, Thomas established himself as a bold voice in Nigerian journalism, addressing issues of colonial life, social morality, and urban politics in a city that was rapidly changing. His editorial style was direct and often sensational, capturing the attention of Lagosians eager for both news and entertainment.

The Story of Segilola Eleyinju Ege

Thomas is perhaps most famous for his serialized story, Itan Igbesi Aiye Emi Segilola Eleyinju Ege, which appeared in Akede Eko before being published as a book. Written in Yoruba, the story follows the life of Segilola, a beautiful but morally conflicted woman who was deeply entangled in Lagos’s nightlife. The narrative portrays her involvement in prostitution and crime, revealing both the allure and dangers of urban life in early 20th-century Lagos.

The book’s structure was based on a series of letters supposedly written by Segilola herself, giving it a personal and confessional style that drew readers in. Thomas’s use of moral lessons, social critique, and sensational storytelling made the book an instant success. It is widely regarded by scholars as the first full-length novel written in Yoruba and one of the earliest novels in Nigerian literature.

Cultural Impact and Controversy

The Segilola story was not without controversy. Its vivid depictions of immorality shocked conservative audiences, while its serialized format stirred widespread curiosity about the identity of the mysterious Segilola. Many readers debated whether she was a real person or a fictional creation of Thomas. Regardless, the novel opened up conversations about morality, gender, and modernity in Lagos society.

Today, Itan Igbesi Aiye Emi Segilola Eleyinju Ege is considered a landmark in Nigerian literary history. It represents the blending of oral storytelling traditions with modern print culture, while also highlighting the complexities of Lagos as a colonial city where tradition, religion, and modernity often clashed.

A Lasting Legacy

Isaac B. Thomas’s contribution to Nigerian media and literature is enduring. As the founder of influential newspapers and the author of Nigeria’s first recognized novel, he left a dual legacy as both a journalist and literary pioneer. His work with Segilola Eleyinju Ege not only entertained but also shaped the moral and cultural debates of his time.

Through his vision and daring, Thomas bridged the worlds of journalism, literature, and popular culture—cementing his place as a trailblazer in Nigeria’s intellectual history.

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Late Actress Rebecca Adebimpe Adekola a.k.a Ireti

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Rebecca Adebimpe Adekola a.k.a Ireti | was One of Nigerian Actress That Should Not Be Forgotten In The HISTORY Of Nollywood Film Industry. One of generation of actors who made home videos popular in the 1990s

Aunty Ireti was born in Abeokuta, Ogun State, where she also grew up. Aunty Ireti was a producer, film writer, director and an outstanding actress. Unknown to many, her younger relative, Opeyemi Adekola(Not Odunlade)is also an actor and was inspired to take to the thespian art because of his latè aunty. While speaking with Naijarchives, Mr. Opeyemi Ohiomare Adekola explained that the làte Ireti and his own dad were cousins. Mr. Adekola also revealed to us that while both Odunlade Adekola and their family are both from Oyo State, they hail from different parts: Ireti’s own are from Ogbomosho while Odunlade Adekola is from Otun Ekiti. I guess that lays to rest the popular rum0ur that Odunlade Adekola is Ireti’s younger brother. While an actress, the late Ireti was known for starring in many fl|cks alongside Taiwo Hassan aka Ogogo

Following her d£ath, there was a sp0ntaneous outpouring of grief across the nation. On the 30th September, 2002, her body in a glistening white c0ffin was on display for her last public appearance at the National Theatre, Iganmu Lagos before her ßurial. Ireti mentored many actress in her lifetime, grooming them to become stars in their own right, one of whom is Bisi-Ibidapo Obe aka Omo Logba Logba. Ireti was also the role model for Ibironke Ojo aka Ronke Oshodi-Oke.

HOW DID SHE GET THE NAME ‘IRETI’?

In 1993, Jide Kosoko released a movie titled Asiri Nla and in it, she acted the role of Ireti, and that was how the name stuck.

HER D£ATH

Rebecca Adebimpe Adekola di£d after a brief illn£ss due to some c0mplications susp£cted to be from typh0id f£ver. She gave up the gh0st at Unity Hospital, a private medical center in Surulere, Lagos State
This writeup(Caption) is from Ayeni Abayomi page

In October 2012, ten years after she di£d, the National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (NANTAP) decided to launch the Ireti Adekola Foundation (IAF) at the National Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos to imm0rtalize her name. The foundation was established to take care of single mothers and mentor upcoming and talented actors and actresses.

In the 1990s before the likes of Jenifa and the rest, Nigerian actress, Rebecca Adebimpe Adekola graced the screen of millions across the nation, especially lovers of Yoruba movies. Popularly known as Ireti, she dazzled many with her acting skills until her d£ath on Friday, 27th September, 2002.

Some of the movie She got starred in includes👇

-IKE OWO
-AGBA AKIN
-OLAONIRAN
-23/24 LORO ILE AYE
-AYE AWA OBINRIN (the last movie she appeared in before her d£mise)

Rest well Legend

You’re a screen g0ddess and one of the few most s0ught after relatively younger actresses who made Nollywood attractive in the late 1990s. You are part of the generation of actors who made home videos popular in the 1990s.

©️Ayeni Abayomi

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Toyin Adegbola: The Enduring Star of Yoruba Cinema

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From “Asewo to Re Mecca” to cultural icon – the remarkable journey of one of Nollywood’s most beloved actresses

Early Life and Family Background

Toyin Adegbola was born on December 28, 1961, in Osun State, Nigeria. She hails from a family with deep creative roots, being the cousin of the legendary actor and filmmaker Adeyemi Afolayan (Ade Love) and his children — among them Kunle Afolayan, Gabriel Afolayan, and Moji Afolayan, all prominent figures in Nigerian cinema.

Growing up in southwestern Nigeria, Toyin’s early exposure to Yoruba culture and storytelling inspired her passion for performance. Before venturing into acting, she worked briefly as a television broadcaster and teacher, experiences that shaped her confidence and communication skills.

Rise to Stardom

Toyin Adegbola began her acting career in 1984, marking her debut in the Yoruba-language sector of Nollywood. She gained national fame after starring in the classic Yoruba film Asewo to Re Mecca (translated as The Prostitute Who Went to Mecca), which earned her the enduring nickname “Toyin Asewo to Re Mecca.”

The film, released during a period when Yoruba cinema was expanding rapidly, portrayed themes of repentance, morality, and redemption, resonating deeply with audiences across Nigeria. Her ability to bring authenticity and emotional depth to complex characters quickly made her one of the most recognisable faces in the industry.

Over the years, she has featured in hundreds of Yoruba films, spanning genres from traditional folklore to contemporary drama. Some of her notable works include:

Deadly Affair (1995)

Irapada (2006)

Arojinle (2018)

Arinola, Alaanu Mi, and Temidire

Through these roles, Toyin Adegbola established herself as a versatile actress, capable of interpreting both comedic and deeply emotional characters.

Beyond Acting: Producer, Director, and Cultural Ambassador

In addition to her acting career, Toyin Adegbola has worked as a producer and director, contributing to the growth of Yoruba-language cinema and mentoring younger filmmakers. Her deep understanding of cultural nuances allows her to bring authenticity to her productions, preserving Yoruba values and traditions through storytelling.

In 2016, she was conferred with the chieftaincy title of Yeye Amuludun of Osogboland by the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Olanipekun Larooye II. The title, meaning “Mother of Entertainment”, recognised her outstanding contributions to Nigeria’s entertainment industry and her role in promoting Yoruba culture globally.

Legacy and Influence

Toyin Adegbola’s influence extends far beyond the screen. She represents a generation of Nigerian actresses who helped shape the identity of Yoruba cinema before the digital boom of Nollywood. Her continued presence in film and television demonstrates resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to artistic excellence.

She has also served in various capacities within industry associations, advocating for the welfare of actors and supporting emerging talents. In interviews, she has often spoken about the importance of discipline, humility, and cultural pride for those aspiring to build lasting careers in the entertainment sector.

Personal Life

Toyin Adegbola is a mother and grandmother, often described as warm and deeply spiritual. She balances her creative pursuits with community involvement and philanthropic activities, particularly in Osun State. Despite facing personal and professional challenges, she remains one of the most respected figures in Nigerian entertainment.

References

Vanguard Nigeria. (2016). Toyin Adegbola Bags Chieftaincy Title in Osogbo.

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Patricia Olubunmi Etteh: Nigeria’s First Female Speaker of the House of Representatives

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A trailblazer in Nigerian politics and the first woman to lead the country’s House of Representatives

Patricia Olubunmi Etteh remains one of the most notable figures in Nigeria’s democratic history, recognised as the first woman to serve as Speaker of the House of Representatives. Her appointment in June 2007 marked a significant moment for women’s representation in Nigerian politics — a symbolic breakthrough that inspired many across the nation.

Born on August 17, 1953, in Ikire, Osun State, Patricia Etteh trained and worked as a beauty therapist before venturing into politics. She attended the University of Abuja, where she earned a Law degree, demonstrating her commitment to self-development and governance.

Etteh began her political journey as a member of the Alliance for Democracy (AD) and was elected to the House of Representatives in 1999, representing Ayedaade/Isokan/Irewole Federal Constituency of Osun State. Her charisma, grassroots appeal, and advocacy for women’s inclusion in leadership quickly made her a respected voice in the legislature.

In June 2007, she made history when she was elected Speaker of the 6th House of Representatives, becoming the first and only woman to occupy that position in Nigeria’s history. Her emergence was seen as a victory for gender equality and a testament to her political influence within the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

However, her tenure was short-lived. In October 2007, Etteh faced allegations of financial misconduct related to the renovation of her official residence and the purchase of vehicles for the National Assembly. Though she denied any wrongdoing and maintained that all processes were duly approved, public and political pressure led to her resignation after just five months in office.

Despite the controversy, Patricia Etteh’s impact on Nigerian politics cannot be dismissed. Her rise to the position of Speaker shattered long-standing gender barriers, paving the way for more women to aspire to top political offices. Over the years, she has remained active in political and social advocacy, supporting initiatives that promote women’s empowerment and participation in governance.

Etteh’s story is not merely one of power and controversy — it is a narrative of courage, ambition, and the pursuit of equality in a male-dominated political landscape. As a Yoruba woman from Osun State, her achievement continues to resonate as a source of pride in Nigeria’s democratic history.

Her portrait — often used in educational and historical references — serves as a reminder of the progress made and the journey yet to come for Nigerian women in politics.

References:

National Assembly of Nigeria archives

Daily Trust historical profiles (2007)

Premium Times Nigeria political retrospectives

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