October 08, 2024
By Samuel Ogunsona
General Benjamin Adekunle, a renowned hero of the 1967-1969 Nigerian Civil War, was recently honored at the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology in Ogbomoso.
During the inaugural lecture, fellow civil war veteran Brigadier General Godwin Alabi-Isama (rtd) shed light on a shocking plot against Adekunle’s life. Alabi-Isama revealed that envious soldiers, jealous of Adekunle’s exceptional leadership and brilliance, conspired against him.
Adekunle, who played a crucial role in ending the civil war, was commander of the 3rd Marine Commando, where Alabi-Isama served as his Chief of Staff. Despite his remarkable contributions, Adekunle’s legacy has been largely overlooked by successive Nigerian administrations.
Alabi-Isama expressed disappointment that Adekunle was denied the recognition he deserved, while Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, a key figure who sparked the war, received a full military burial. This stark contrast highlights the ingratitude shown to Adekunle, who brought the devastating conflict to an end.
The speech, titled “A man who came to fulfill destiny,” served as a tribute to Adekunle’s selfless service and bravery. Alabi-Isama’s words underscored the importance of honoring Nigeria’s heroes and acknowledging their sacrifices.
According to him, “They discredited us for their own glory, they lied against him, Adekunle never stole money as they claimed, he lived in a tent during the war, we had no furniture, no officer’s mess as claimed by his successor.
“Having worked under Brig-Gen Adekunle’s dynamic leadership as his Chief of Staff during the most challenging period of Nigeria’s civil war years (I967-69) when he was the Commander of the Third Marine Commando Division, I am therefore speaking from a vantage and authoritative position and can attest to his patriotism, sharp mind, and engaging knowledgeable expertise in military matters.”
“He was just a brilliant person, and they were too jealous of him, and that was why they lied against him.” Adekunle was a professional soldier who was not involved in any coup plotting against constituted authority; he did not participate in the Nzeogwu coup of Jan 5th, I966; he was also not part of the counter-coup of July, I966.
“He was never known to participate in any coup until he retired from the Army in the year I974. Adekunle, the distinguished Asipa of Ogbomosho, was a professional soldier’s soldier and a true patriot who respected the Nigerian flag until his last breath.”
“My final word is for you, sons and daughters of Ogbomosho, nay Yoruba Nation, to get your acts together and recognise your heroes; do not expect anyone to do it for you. Go get your son, the hero of our time, Gen Adekunle, out of Ikoyi cemetery back home to Ogbomosho for a befitting hero’s burial in a newly created Hero’s Park, and leave the rest to God.”
“Adekunle does not need any more adjectives to describe his efforts at keeping Nigeria one during the trying history of our country.” he concluded.
At the lecture honoring Late Brigadier General Benjamin Adekunle, Retired Rear Admiral Jacob Ajani praised Adekunle’s military prowess, inspiring many Ogbomoso people to join the military. He highlighted essential leadership qualities: loyalty, integrity, responsibility, knowledge, courage, initiative, and decisiveness.
Professors Omotoye Olorode and Olayinka Ogungbile discussed Adekunle’s role in unity and his denied honor. Distinguished guests, including Justice Afolabi Adeniran and Professor Sola Adepoju, pledged to support General Alabi Isama’s request for proper recognition.
Barrister Segun Adekunle thanked the attendees and revealed Senator George Akume’s promise to address the family’s concerns and honor Adekunle.
The event sparked renewed calls for recognition of Adekunle’s contributions to Nigerian history. As the country continues to grapple with its past, acknowledging the roles of pivotal figures like Adekunle is essential for national healing and reconciliation.
