Born: 1900 (Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria)
Died: 1978
Biography:
Chief Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, MON ( /ˌfʊnmiˈlaɪjoʊ ˈrænsəm ˈkuːti/; born Frances Abigail Olufunmilayo Thomas; 25 October 1900 – 13 April 1978), also known as Funmilayo Anikulapo-Kuti, was a Nigerian educator, political campaigner, suffragist, and women’s rights activist.
Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti was born on October 25, 1900, in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria. She was the first female student to attend the Abeokuta Grammar School. Growing up in a prominent family, her father, Chief Daniel Olumeyuwa Thomas, was a member of the aristocratic Jibolu-Taiwo family, and her mother, Lucretia Phyllis Omoyeni Adeosolu, worked as a dressmaker.
After completing her education, Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti became a teacher. She played a significant role in organizing some of the first preschool classes in Nigeria and also arranged literacy classes for lower-income women. Recognizing the importance of education in empowering women, she devoted herself to improving access to education for women and girls.
In the 1940s, Ransome-Kuti founded the Abeokuta Women’s Union, an organization that fought for women’s rights and gender equality. As a courageous leader, she led marches and protests, often with thousands of women. One of her notable achievements was forcing the ruling Alake to temporarily abdicate in 1949 through the collective efforts of the women she mobilized. Her bravery and determination earned her the nickname Lioness of Lisabi.
Ransome-Kuti’s political influence extended beyond women’s rights. She actively participated in the Nigerian independence movement, attending conferences and joining overseas delegations to discuss proposed national constitutions. She played a key role in the formation of the Nigerian Women’s Union and the Federation of Nigerian Women’s Societies, advocating for the right of Nigerian women to vote and creating platforms to address women’s issues.
Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti’s efforts were recognized both nationally and internationally. She received the Lenin Peace Prize for her outstanding commitment to peace and justice. Additionally, she was awarded membership in the Order of the Niger, a prestigious honor in Nigeria, for her significant contributions to the advancement of women’s rights.
In her later years, Ransome-Kuti continued to support her sons’ criticisms of Nigeria’s military governments. Tragically, she lost her life at the age of 77, succumbing to injuries sustained during a military raid on her family property.
Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti’s legacy as a pioneer in Nigerian feminism and a champion for women’s rights lives on. Through her unwavering dedication and fearless actions, she paved the way for future generations of women to fight for equality, justice, and the recognition of their rights.
Awards:
– Lenin Peace Prize
– Membership in the Order of the Niger