The family of the late nationalist, Herbert Macaulay, has objected to his inclusion in the federal government’s list of individuals granted a presidential pardon.
The family commended President Bola Tinubu for recognising Macaulay’s role in Nigeria’s history, but condemned the inclusion of his name on a list alongside individuals with questionable character.
The family argued that Macaulay served Nigeria faithfully, died as a hero and patriot, not a criminal who needs to be forgiven.
The position of the family was made known during a press conference in Lagos State on Thursday.
Speaking on behalf of the family, elder statesman, Chief Olabode George, said while they appreciated the president’s gesture in recognising Macaulay’s role in Nigeria’s history, it was wrong and demeaning to “lump” him with individuals of questionable character.
Other members of the family at the briefing were Erelu Adeola Macaulay, Mr. Lanre Oshodi, Ms. Mayokun Thomas, Miss Kofoworola Macaulay, Miss Adeyinka Macaulay, Mr. Ayo Ogunlana, and Miss Turi Akerele, among others.
“If Papa is to be honoured, he must be honoured independently,” George noted.
“Herbert Macaulay was not a criminal; he was a patriot, a visionary, and grandson of the first African Anglican Bishop. He deserves isolation for national honour, not inclusion in a list of convicts,” he added,
In his speech titled “Herbert Macaulay: The Father of Nigerian Nationalism,” George highlighted Macaulay’s activism through the Lagos Daily News, his defence of Oba Eshugbayi Eleko against colonial authorities, and the founding of the Nigerian National Democratic Party (NNDP) in 1923, Nigeria’s first political party.
He noted that Maclaulay laid the foundations of modern Nigerian political consciousness and deserves better treatment.
“Herbert Macaulay was born in 1864 to a lineage of education, faith, and service. He could have chosen comfort within the colonial system, but instead, he stood against injustice and spoke truth to power.
“Macaulay’s politics was not about privilege but purpose. He transformed politics from the parlour rooms of colonial officials to the streets and markets of Lagos Island.
“Herbert Macaulay died in 1946 while on a campaign for national unity. He was a patriot to his final breath — not a felon to be pardoned,” George said.
He also called on the current crop of leaders and politicians in Nigeria to learn from the lifestyle and activities of the late activist and statesman.
“If we truly seek to honour Herbert Macaulay today, we must not do so with mere words or statues. We must embody his principles in our politics — integrity, accountability, and service to the people,” George said.
It would be recalled that Macaulay was among the 175 individuals recently pardoned by the administration of President Tinubu under the prerogative of mercy, approved by the Council of State.
