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Chief James Ajibola Idowu Ige, popularly known as Bola Ige, was a distinguished Nigerian lawyer, politician, author, and statesman. Born on September 13, 1930, in Esa-Oke, Osun State (then part of Western Region), Ige was renowned for his eloquence, intellect, and strong advocacy for democracy, justice, and good governance in Nigeria.
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EARLY LIFE AND EDUCATION
Bola Ige began his early education at Ibadan Grammar School, one of the premier secondary schools in Nigeria, where he displayed exceptional brilliance. He later attended the University College, Ibadan (now the University of Ibadan), and proceeded to the University College London, where he studied law. Upon his return to Nigeria, he was called to the Bar and began a successful legal career.
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POLITICAL CAREER
Bola Ige’s political journey began in the 1950s when he joined the Action Group (AG), led by Chief Obafemi Awolowo. He was deeply committed to the progressive ideals of the Yoruba political movement, which emphasized education, social welfare, and regional autonomy.
In 1979, during Nigeria’s Second Republic, Ige was elected the Governor of Oyo State under the platform of the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN).
His administration focused on free education, rural development, and healthcare improvements, echoing Awolowo’s legacy of progressive governance.
However, his tenure ended in 1983 following the military coup that brought General Muhammadu Buhari to power.
During the Fourth Republic, Ige returned to active politics as a member of the Alliance for Democracy (AD), a party that championed the interests of the Yoruba people and the South-West region.
He was appointed Minister of Power and Steel in 1999 under President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration.
Later, he became the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, a position he held until his death in 2001.
In these roles, he worked to reform Nigeria’s legal system and advocated for the rule of law and anti-corruption measures.
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WRITINGS AND INTELLECTUAl CONTRIBUTIONS
Bola Ige was also an accomplished author and public intellectual. He wrote several books and articles on law, politics, and society, expressing his views on democracy, governance, and Nigerian unity. Some of his notable works include People, Politics, and Politicians of Nigeria (1940–1979) and Kaduna Boy (his autobiography). His writings reflect his deep patriotism and belief in social justice.
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ASSASSINATION AND LEGACY
Tragically, Bola Ige was assassinated on December 23, 2001, at his residence in Bodija, Ibadan, under mysterious circumstances. His murder shocked the nation and remains one of Nigeria’s most controversial unsolved political assassinations.
Despite his untimely death, Ige’s influence endures in Nigerian politics and law. He is remembered as a fearless advocate for democracy, a defender of truth, and a symbol of integrity in public service.
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PERSONAL LIFE
Bola Ige was married to Justice Atinuke Ige, a distinguished jurist and the first female judge in Oyo State. They had children and shared a lifelong commitment to public service and education.
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