1962Eventinferred
Obafemi Awolowo
First Premier of Western Region; found culpable by Coker Commission 1962 for Western Region Marketing Board mismanagement; un-repaid loans of millions of pounds
Hall of FameFirst Republic
1962
Obafemi Awolowo
First Premier of Western Region; found culpable by Coker Commission 1962 for Western Region Marketing Board mismanagement; un-repaid loans of millions of pounds
What happened
In 1962, the Coker Commission of Inquiry delivered a damaging report on financial irregularities in the Western Region Marketing Board under Premier Obafemi Awolowo's administration. The commission, led by Justice G.B.A. Coker, found evidence of mismanagement involving millions of pounds in unpaid loans and questionable financial practices. Awolowo, who had served as the region's first premier since 1954, was held responsible for the board's operations during this period.
The investigation arose amid growing political tensions in the Western Region and broader concerns about the management of Nigeria's lucrative agricultural marketing boards. These boards controlled the export of cash crops like cocoa and palm oil, generating substantial revenue that funded regional development projects. Political rivalries within Awolowo's Action Group party and accusations from federal authorities had created pressure for greater scrutiny of regional finances, leading to the establishment of the commission in 1961.