Adekunle: Obasanjo pays tribute to an estranged colleague

Adekunle: Obasanjo pays tribute to an estranged colleague

Sunday, September 14, 2014 12:04 am


Former President Olusegun Obasanjo said the nation lost a rare gem with the death of retired Brig.-Gen. Benjamin Adekunle on Saturday in Lagos at the age of 78.

Obasanjo stated this in a statement issued in Abeokuta.

The statement recalled Adekunle’s role during Nigeria’s civil war of 1967 to 1970, adding that Adekunle’s contributions in ending the war would forever be remembered.

Obasanjo: pays tribute to Benjamin Adekunle

Obasanjo: pays tribute to Benjamin Adekunle

“I received with shock the news of the death of my colleague, friend and course mate, Benjamin Adekunle.

“Today, I can recall with fond memories our relationship as course mates and what he was able to achieve at Teshi in Accra, Ghana.

“I also recall that he made no mean contributions in ending the Nigeria civil war. His efforts will forever be remembered and I pray for the repose of his soul.

“I am very shocked by this news today’’, the statement said.

In it, Obasanjo, who condoled with the family of the deceased, prayed that God would grant them the fortitude to bear the loss.

Relationship between Obasanjo and Adekunle was strained post the civil war that ended in 1970. Obasanjo was said to have claimed the glory of ending the war, whereas many believed that Adekunle through his 3rd Marine Commando had all but ended the war before Obasanjo was posted to replace him.


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