The MAJOR actors in the Action Group crisis of 1962 were ..... and

1. Analyze the question You are asked to identify the two MAJOR figures in the Action Group (AG) crisis of 1962, which split the Western Region of Nigeria.

2. Explain the concept The Action Group was the ruling party in the Western Region. It was led by Chief Obafemi Awolowo, who was also the Leader of the Opposition in the federal parliament. Ladoke Akintola was the Premier of the Western Region and the deputy leader of the party.

The crisis began because of disagreements over:

• The party's direction: Awolowo favoured democratic socialism and a strong opposition role, while Akintola favoured cooperation with the NPC-led federal government.
• Who controlled the party and the region's government.

3. Step-by-step events

1. In 1962, the Awolowo-led faction removed Akintola as Premier.
2. Akintola's supporters resisted, and there was chaos in the Western House of Assembly.
3. The federal government declared a state of emergency in the Western Region.
4. Dr. Moses Majekodunmi was appointed Administrator.
5. Awolowo and others were later tried and jailed for treasonable felony.
6. Akintola later formed the UPP (United Progressive Party) and then the NNDP.

4. Evaluate the options

• A. Ademola was Chief Justice and Fani-Kayode was a politician. Neither was the main actor. ❌
• B. Enahoro and Bode Thomas were not the principal contestants. Thomas had died in 1953. ❌
• C. Adegbenro was installed as Premier by the Awolowo faction, and Aderemi was the Ooni of Ife and Governor. Both were secondary figures. ❌
• D. Awolowo and Akintola were the two principal rivals. ✅
• E. Akinjide and Ogunsanya were minor figures here. ❌

5. Answer The correct option is D. Obafemi Awolowo, Ladoke Akintola.

💡 Tip: Remember the crisis as "Awo vs. Akintola": the party leader versus the Premier. Adegbenro was only the replacement Premier, so don't let him distract you in exam options.