Description
About the Book
The Broken Compass is a compelling historical and political analysis that examines one of the most defining turning points in Nigeria’s post-independence history. Through meticulous research and thoughtful reflection, the book explores how a region once celebrated as Africa’s model of progress gradually lost its direction, offering powerful lessons that remain relevant to contemporary leadership and nation-building.
Set against the remarkable rise of Nigeria’s Western Region during the early years of independence, the book revisits an era when visionary governance transformed the Yoruba nation into a symbol of educational excellence, economic prosperity, and political innovation. Under principled leadership, the region became a beacon of hope, inspiring not only Nigeria but much of the African continent.
At the heart of The Broken Compass lies the dramatic political and ideological conflict between two of Nigeria’s most influential statesmen—Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Chief Ladoke Akintola. Their once-powerful partnership represented unity, ambition, and shared national purpose. However, personal differences, political rivalry, and competing visions for the future ultimately fractured that alliance, setting in motion events that reshaped Yoruba politics and altered the trajectory of Nigeria’s development.
Rather than presenting history as a series of isolated events, the author examines the deeper causes behind political decline, institutional weakness, and societal division. The book argues that the erosion of unity and ethical leadership had consequences that extended far beyond regional politics, affecting Nigeria’s democratic evolution and long-term national progress.
Written in an engaging and accessible style, The Broken Compass combines historical analysis with timeless leadership principles. It encourages readers to reflect on the importance of integrity, collective purpose, cultural identity, and responsible governance while highlighting the enduring value of reconciliation and unity in overcoming political and social challenges.
Ideal for students of African history, political science, governance, leadership studies, and Nigerian affairs, this book also appeals to policymakers, researchers, educators, and general readers interested in understanding the historical foundations of modern Nigeria. More than a historical account, The Broken Compass is a thoughtful call for renewal, reminding readers that although history cannot be rewritten, its lessons can illuminate the path toward a stronger and more united future.
Whether you are passionate about Nigerian history, Yoruba political history, African leadership, governance, or nation-building, The Broken Compass offers valuable insights into how visionary leadership can inspire progress—and how division can alter the destiny of a nation.
About the Author
The Broken Compass is the result of a remarkable collaboration between three accomplished professionals whose diverse expertise in governance, history, science, law, public policy, and social development brings exceptional depth and credibility to this important work. Together, Dr. Olusegun B. Abejide, Dr. Adesina Ayodele Fagbenro-Byron (SFB), and Dr. David Adebayo Aremu present a thoughtful examination of Yoruba history, leadership, and Nigeria’s political evolution while offering a compelling vision for renewal.
Dr. Olusegun B. Abejide is an internationally recognized scholar, distinguished author, geopolitical analyst, and member of the American Association of Healthcare Administrative Management (AAHAM). With academic qualifications spanning multiple disciplines and professional experience in counterterrorism, homeland security, and leadership studies, he has dedicated his writing career to exploring the moral and social challenges confronting contemporary society. Through both fiction and non-fiction, Dr. Abejide advocates ethical leadership, cultural values, and national transformation. His extensive bibliography—including Voice for the Voiceless, The Heartbeat of Global Youth, The COVID-19 Fiasco, The Third World Wars Conspiracy, and numerous other publications—reflects his enduring commitment to truth, justice, and meaningful societal change. As an Afro-optimist, he believes the future of Africa lies in principled leadership, unity, and the enduring values of the Omoluwabi philosophy.
Dr. Adesina Ayodele Fagbenro-Byron (SFB) brings more than three decades of experience at the intersection of law, economics, governance, business consulting, and public service. A respected lawyer, governance adviser, and organizational development specialist, he has advised governments, international development agencies, and private institutions on institutional reform and sustainable governance. His professional affiliations include collaborations with organizations such as the World Bank and international trade institutions. Beyond his legal and governance work, SFB is also an accomplished Afro-jazz musician and songwriter performing under the name “Byron,” using music as another platform to promote peace, unity, and social progress. His diverse career reflects a lifelong commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and improving lives through practical leadership.
Dr. David Adebayo Aremu is a multidisciplinary scientist, researcher, and internationally certified toxicologist whose academic and professional career spans Africa, Asia, and North America. Holding the prestigious European Registered Toxicologist (ERT) credential, he has contributed significantly to research on environmental health, toxicology, and neurodegenerative diseases while maintaining active membership in leading international scientific organizations. Alongside his scientific achievements, Dr. Aremu is a passionate advocate for Yoruba development, justice, and responsible governance. Applying the same analytical rigor that defines his scientific research, he examines the historical, political, and social forces shaping the Yoruba nation and proposes thoughtful pathways toward unity, resilience, and sustainable progress.
United by a shared commitment to historical truth, ethical leadership, and Africa’s future, these three distinguished authors combine their unique perspectives to produce The Broken Compass—a timely and insightful work that encourages readers to reflect on the lessons of history while inspiring a renewed vision for leadership, unity, and national transformation.
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