Aregbesola, Ajimobi Mourn Civil War Hero, Benjamin Adekunle
The Oyo State Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi has commiserated with the family, friends and associates of the late Brigadier-General Benjamin Adekunle (rtd.), describing the passing away of the civil war hero as a monumental loss to the country.
The governor stated this in a statement issued in Ibadan on Saturday by his Special Adviser on Media, Dr. Festus Adedayo.
Governor Abiola Ajimobi said that he was extremely saddened by the news of the death of Gen. Adekunle, popularly known as Black Scorpion.
“Although Gen. Adekunle had for some time now been facing some health challenges, his death at this material time when the country is passing through difficult times, in terms of security and national cohesion, is tragic and shocking,’’ he said.
The governor described the late general as a fine officer-gentleman, a nationalist and patriotic Nigerian who exploited his military expertise to rescue Nigeria from the brink of precipice and ensured that the country remained one indivisible entity.
“Gen. Adekunle served the Nigerian Army with all his might and he was equally celebrated but never compromised on the need to end the agonizing civil war and bring peace back to the country.
“Since death is an inevitable end for all mortals, the late Gen. Adekunle should, therefore, be celebrated for his nationalistic posturing rather than being mourned. That Nigeria still remains one today is a pointer to the fact that Black Scorpion lived a fulfilled life,’’ he said.
Governor Ajimobi prayed the Almighty God to grant the soul of the deceased eternal rest and the family to bear the irreparable loss.
The Governor of Osun, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, has also joined well-meaning Nigerians in commiserating with the family of the Retired General Benjamin Adekunle, popularly known as ‘Black Scorpion’ who passed on to glory on Saturday.
The Governor, in a statement by the Director, Bureau of Communication and Strategy, Mr. Semiu Okanlawon, said the death of Benjamin Adekunle has closed a long chapter in the history of the nation as it relates to the Nigerian Civil war.
Aregbesola said Adekunle played a crucial role in the civil war that almost liquidated the Nigerian nationhood.
The governor noted that irrespective of what some people might believe or not believe about the deceased, Adekunle played a vital role in making sure Nigeria remained a united country.
“We receive with heavy heart the death of one of Nigeria’s finest soldiers, who fought for the unity of his country.
“No doubt, he was a soldier of soldiers and commander of men. He distinguished himself in his chosen profession both at home and abroad.
“Adekunle led the Third Marine Commando Division during the Civil war with such great courage and determination.
“Up till today, his war exploit in the command of the Third Marine remains subject of discussion across Nigeria and beyond.
“The history of post-independence Nigeria and the crises that threatened the young nation’s existence will be incomplete without a chapter for this courageous soldier.
“We, Government and people of Osun, convey our heartfelt condolences to the immediate and extended families of Adekunle, and the Government and people of Oyo State.
“We pray that God repose his gentle soul in paradise,” Aregbesola said.