Insa Nolte examines the evolution of a distinctive Yoruba community, Remo, and the central role of the Remo-born Nationalist and Yoruba leader, Obafemi Awolowo (1909-1987). Beginning in the nineteenth century, public participation played an important role in challenging or confirming local hierarchies in Remo, and this historical dynamic had a significant impact on Awolowo's vision both for Yoruba and for Nigerian politics. When he ascended to the national stage in the 1950s, Awolowo seized the opportunity to reshape Remo's political identity, proving that the leader was both a product and a producer of Remo politics. Based on a subtle analysis of local-level politics, this book argues that traditional and modern structures of participation are integral in Yoruba politics and in the African postcolonial state. At the same time, the volume's focus on Awolowo constitutes an important contribution to the debate over one of Nigeria's most influential politicians.

Insa Nolte examines the evolution of a distinctive Yoruba community, Remo, and the central role of the Remo-born Nationalist and Yoruba leader, Obafemi Awolowo (1909-1987). Beginning in the nineteenth century, public participation played an important role in challenging or confirming local hierarchies in Remo, and this historical dynamic had a significant impact on Awolowo's vision both for Yoruba and for Nigerian politics. When he ascended to the national stage in the 1950s, Awolowo seized the opportunity to reshape Remo's political identity, proving that the leader was both a product and a producer of Remo politics. Based on a subtle analysis of local-level politics, this book argues that traditional and modern structures of participation are integral in Yoruba politics and in the African postcolonial state. At the same time, the volume's focus on Awolowo constitutes an important contribution to the debate over one of Nigeria's most influential politicians.