Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti was not just the first woman to drive a car in Nigeria—she was a fearless activist, educator, and political leader who played a pivotal role in shaping the country’s history.
A teacher, women’s rights advocate, and traditional aristocrat, she was the only woman among the men who fought against colonial rule. She was also the sole female delegate in the NCNC’s 1947 delegation to London, where they negotiated for Nigeria’s independence.
Beyond politics, she was the mother of Afrobeat pioneer, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, and Beko Ransome-Kuti, a respected doctor and activist. She was also the grandmother of Femi Kuti and Seun Kuti, continuing a legacy of activism and music.
One of her most historic moments came in 1948, when she led the Abeokuta Women’s Union in a successful revolt against the Alake of Egbaland, forcing him into exile. In one of her most famous statements, she boldly declared:
“Alake, for a long time, you have used your penis as a mark of authority that you are our husband. Today, we shall reverse the order and use our vaginas to play the role of a husband.”
She later met Nigeria’s first and only Prime Minister, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, in 1959, continuing her fight for women’s rights and national progress.
Tragically, in 1978, at the age of 77, she died from injuries sustained in a military raid on her family’s home. However, her legacy of resistance and empowerment continues to inspire generations of Nigerians.
