Janet Okala

Janet Okala was born in Onitsha in 1894 as the third child and first daughter of Odukwe Odili.^[1] She later became a resident of Owerrinta where she became known for her political activism.^[2] Her alias was "Mama Bread" as she also owned a bakery.^[2]

In 1929, Okala led protesting women in the Owerrinta region during the Aba Women's War.^[2] According to historian Nina Emma Mba, Okala had previously provided leadership and counseling to local women but rose to particular prominence during the war.^[3]

In 1945, Okala formed the Enugu Women's Association and was elected one of its vice presidents.^[4] Following a 1949 visit from educator and campaigner Funmilayo Ransome Kuti (FRK), the group changed its name to the Enugu branch of the Nigerian Women's Union.^[5] In describing FRK's visit, Okala wrote that "Before that time women at Enugu had no right to probe into the affairs of their country. Mrs. Kuti on her arrival educated us."^[4] Local newspapers such as the West African Pilot and the Daily Times celebrated the group's name change as a symbol of nationalist solidarity among Nigerian women.^[4]