Before Google, there was Avoseh, the Pioneer Historian of the Ogu and Awori.

If you’ve ever picked up a book about the history of the First Storey Building, the fishing industry in Badagry, or the origins of our various communities, you owe a debt of gratitude to one man: Chief Theophilus Olabode #Avoseh (1908–1999).

Just like every historic community, there are individuals who refuse to let memory fade. In Badagry, one such figure was Chief Theophilus Olabode Avoseh, widely known as T. Ola Avoseh—a man whose pen preserved the soul of a people.

Born on March 21, 1908, Avoseh emerged at a time when much of Badagry’s history existed only in oral tradition. Through discipline, curiosity, and unwavering commitment, he transformed stories passed down by elders into written records that continue to shape how Badagry is understood today.

A Son of Two Worlds: Ogu and Awori Heritage

Avoseh’s identity reflected the diversity of Badagry itself. Born to an #Ogu father and an #Awori mother, he was raised in Ajara Vetho, a community known for its deep cultural roots. This dual heritage would later influence his balanced approach to documenting history—one that respected both language and tradition.

He began his education at St. Thomas’ Primary School in 1912 and was baptised at St. Thomas’ Anglican Church in 1916. His early years were marked by health challenges and academic interruptions, yet perseverance defined his path. In 1929, he passed the Standard VI examinations as a private candidate—an achievement that spoke to his resilience.

Life As a Teacher, Civil Servant, and Community Builder

Though illness prevented him from attending St. Andrew’s College, Oyo, Avoseh returned to St. Thomas’ as a teacher, dedicating 14 years to educating young minds in Badagry. After his dismissal in 1941, he transitioned into public service, working with the #Egun Awori Native Authority until 1955.

His service to society expanded further when he established private primary schools in #Ajegunle and Apapa in 1957. He later joined the Federal Ministry of Information and Home Affairs, serving as a Cinema Commentator, a role that took him across towns such as Ibadan, Epe, Ijebu-Ode, and Badagry. He retired from government service in 1968 at the age of 60.

Even in retirement, Avoseh remained active—helping to manage schools and local councils throughout Badagry during the 1960s and 1970s.

Faith, Politics, and Cultural Advocacy

Avoseh’s life was deeply anchored in service. Within the Anglican Church, he served as a Lay Reader from 1932, later becoming Secretary to the Parochial Committee and Chairman of the Lay Readers Association at St. Thomas’ Church.

Politically and socially, he was equally engaged. Between 1939 and 1941, he served as General Secretary of the Badagry branch of the Nigerian Youth Movement, a platform for political awareness during the colonial era. In 1968, he founded the Egun Awori Improvement Union, promoting unity, development, and cultural pride among the people.

Writing Badagry for Generations Yet Unborn

What truly set T. Ola Avoseh apart was his commitment to documenting history. At a time when few Nigerians were writing local histories, he produced works in both English and Yoruba, ensuring accessibility for scholars and community members alike.

His books remain foundational texts on Badagry and Epe, including:
• A Short History of Badagry - 1938
• A Short History of Epe - 1960
• The History of St. Thomas’s Church, Badagry, 1842–1970
• Ajara Dabi Eko - 1983
• Important Historical Places to be Visited in Badagry by the Tourist - 1984
• First Storey Building in Nigeria - 1984
• The First Christmas Day in Badagry - 1984
• Notes on the Fishing Industry in Badagry - 1993

These works are still referenced by historians, students, cultural institutions, and tourism researchers. For Badagry, they serve as written memory—protecting landmarks, events, and traditions from disappearance.

Honoured by C.D. #Akran: A Chieftaincy Honour Earned by Service

In January 1974, his lifelong dedication was formally recognised when His Majesty King Aholu C. D. Akran conferred on him the chieftaincy title of Gbesiewu of Badagry—an honour reserved for those who serve the community with distinction.

Deep Dive: What does "Gbesiewu" actually mean?

In the context of Badagry and the Ogu (Egun) culture, Gbesiewu is a chieftaincy title that essentially means "The one who cleanses or preserves the character/name of the town."
Here is a breakdown of the meaning:

Etymology
The name is derived from the Ogu (Egun) language, which is the primary indigenous language of Badagry:

• Gbese: Often refers to "cleansing," "vindicating," or "restoring."
• Wu: In this context, it refers to the "character," "reputation," or "existence" of a community or person.

Combined, Gbesiewu translates to "The one who preserves the reputation of the town." It was the perfect title for Chief Avoseh. By writing down our history when no one else would, he "cleansed" our stories from being forgotten and ensured that the world would always know the true, dignified history of Badagry. He didn't just live in Badagry; he protected its soul through his pen.

Avoseh's Legacy That Still Speaks

Chief T. Ola Avoseh passed on April 12, 1999, but his voice remains alive in libraries, classrooms, churches, and community discussions. Long after many physical structures have changed, his writings continue to guide how Badagry remembers itself.

In preserving Badagry’s past, Avoseh secured its future.