Alimotu Pelewura rose from the bustling markets of Lagos to become the voice of thousands of women who relied on trade for survival. A fish trader of immense influence, she was honoured with a chieftaincy title by Oba Eshugbayi Eleko in 1910, a recognition that would mark the beginning of a lifetime of advocacy.

As colonial authorities tightened their grip on commerce, she co-founded the Lagos Market Women’s Association, transforming it into a powerful force against unjust policies. When the government proposed taxing women in 1932, she led a bold delegation to challenge the decision. Her defiance earned her a place on the Ilu Committee, where she fought for traders’ interests. Even when authorities tried to dismantle the markets, she stood her ground, enduring brief imprisonment. Through every battle, Pelewura remained a fierce defender of the women who kept Lagos fed.

During World War II, as price controls threatened livelihoods, she rallied traders in protest, refusing to accept policies that would push them into hardship. Her influence extended beyond the markets when she joined the Nigerian Union of Young Democrats (NUYD), speaking at political rallies long before all Nigerian women had the right to vote.