In a powerful address that resonated with emotions of pride and indignation, retired Brigadier General Godwin Alabi-Isama delivered a poignant tribute to his late commander, Brigadier General Benjamin Adesanya Maja Adekunle, also known as Black Scorpion.
During an inaugural Benjamin Adekunle Memorial Lecture at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology in Ogbomoso, Alabi-Isama passionately argued that the vilification of Adekunle stemmed from envy over his exceptional capabilities and commitment to Nigeria during the civil war.
Alabi-Isama, who served as Chief of Staff to Adekunle during some of the most turbulent years in Nigeria's history (1967-69), expressed his disappointment with the way Adekunle was treated both during and after the war. He lamented the disparity between how Adekunle and other military figures were honored posthumously, particularly in light of the fact that Odumegwu Ojukwu—the leader of the secessionist Biafran forces—received a grand military funeral while Adekunle, the man credited with leading the fight that ultimately preserved Nigeria's unity, was largely overlooked. “It is profoundly sad that Ojukwu, who played a central role in instigating a conflict that claimed over two million lives, was buried with full military honors. Meanwhile, Adekunle, the man who helped bring that war to an end, was deprived of his rightful recognition,” he remarked, his voice thick with emotion.
●Gen. Alabi Isama
In his speech titled “A Man Who Came to Fulfill Destiny,” Alabi-Isama recounted the threats and lies fabricated against Adekunle, emphasizing that these falsehoods were driven by jealousy. “They discredited us for their own glory; they lied against him,” he stated emphatically, asserting that Adekunle never embezzled funds as was alleged by his detractors. Instead, he highlighted that the late general lived in a tent during the war, lacking even basic amenities such as furniture and an officer’s mess, which his successors falsely claimed he had. “He truly embodied the spirit of a soldier, dedicated and selfless,” Alabi-Isama asserted.
Having served under Adekunle’s dynamic leadership, Alabi-Isama spoke from personal experience of the late general’s exceptional patriotism and tactical brilliance. “Adekunle was a professional soldier who never participated in any coup plot against the state. He was not involved in the Nzeogwu coup of January 15, 1966, nor was he part of the counter coup of July 1966,” he stated, positioning Adekunle as a steadfast defender of the Nigerian state until his retirement in 1974. “He was a true patriot who respected the Nigerian flag until his last breath,” Alabi-Isama added.
In a passionate call to action, he urged the people of Ogbomoso and the Yoruba nation at large to recognize their heroes. “Get your acts together; do not wait for others to acknowledge your heroes. Bring General Adekunle back home from Ikoyi Cemetery to enjoy a hero’s burial in a newly created Heroes Park,” he implored, tasking the Ogbomoso community with the responsibility of honoring their own.
The memorial lecture was not just a eulogy but also a platform to educate the younger generation on the values embodied by Adekunle. Rear Admiral Jacob Ajani, the President of Ogbomoso's Valiant Club, spoke on the military prowess and leadership qualities exemplified by Adekunle. He emphasized the lessons of loyalty, integrity, courage, and decisiveness that every young person should aspire to embody, urging the audience to apply these principles in their own lives.
Academic voices also contributed to the discussion. Professor Omotoye Olorode and Dr. Olayinka Ogungbile emphasized the broader Nigerian context of celebrating Adekunle's legacy, arguing that honoring him is a national project and not solely the responsibility of his local community. Olorode passionately stated, "Adekunle did not seek personal enrichment; he was committed to creating a Nigeria that was habitable for all, focusing on national cohesion and development."
Prominent members of the Ogbomoso community, including Justice Afolabi Adeniran, Professor Sola Adepoju, and Hon. Sunday Dare, echoed the calls for appropriate recognition of Adekunle’s contributions to the nation.
According to Akin Onigbinde, the President of Ogbomoso Parapo group, "Although 'Nigeria' happened to Adekunle but did not affect his character. Those putting up their best in Nigeria are always victims of their best. This is because we have a system in Nigeria that put good people to be disadvantaged. We therefore need to ensure that proper recognition is accorded to late Gen. Adekunle", he stated.
A heartfelt vote of thanks was delivered by Barrister Segun Adekunle, representing the Adekunle family, who noted that the Secretary to the Federal Government, Senator George Akume, has pledged to consider their pleas for the late general’s due honors.
Earlier in the week, in a parallel initiative marking the tenth anniversary of General Adekunle's passing, the family engaged in a significant philanthropic effort. They empowered widows, students, and other vulnerable individuals in Ogbomoso by distributing essential items valued at millions of naira. Barrister Busola Olagunju (née Adekunle), the eldest daughter of the late general, explained that the initiative was aimed at alleviating the economic hardships faced by many Nigerians today. “This event aims to provide support for those in need during these challenging times,” she affirmed, reinforcing her father's commitment to social justice and care for the less fortunate.
The family distributed cash, clothing, and foodstuffs to widows and students, including school supplies for primary school children. The efforts also extended to students from the local school for the blind, who received cash gifts as a reflection of the late general's character—a tough but compassionate soldier who always championed the cause of others.
Barrister Olagunju (Nee Adekunle) highlighted her father’s commitment to helping others, saying, “Our father was a strong pillar for our family and always extended assistance to both relatives and strangers. Today’s event focuses on orphans, the needy, and widows, reflecting his core beliefs.”
In his welcome address, Sir Olusegun Adekunle nephew to the late General remarked that the foundation serves as a befitting tribute to the late Ashipa of Ogbomosoland. He assured attendees that the family would continue to carry out meaningful initiatives to keep his memory alive.
Beneficiaries of the program including Risikat Olaoye expressed their gratitude to the Adekunle family for their generosity and offered prayers for continued blessings upon them.
Ojo Daniel a primary six student of Osupa Baptist Day school said he was given sandals school uniforms, exercise books, and bags, saying it would help him in his education.
His imperial Majesty Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, Orumogege 111, the Soun Ogbomosoland,and Oba Sunday Oladapo Oyediran, the Onpetu of Ijeruland were represented by their traditional chiefs.
Former chief of Statf to late Governor Alao Akala, Dr Saka Balogun, and Rector Federal Poly Ayede Ogbomoso Dr Taofeek Adekunle Abdulahmeed, and a retired military officer in their separate remarks said the late Adekunle who is a true reflection of Ogbomosoland Valiancy played significant role in ensuring the unity of Nigeria and commended the laudable gesture of the Adekunle’s family.
According to Dr Saka Balogun, the family has laid good example and Late Adekunle is worthy to be celebrated. He said: "Although his name is 'Maja' meaning 'don't fight' but as a military man, he fought valiantly for the good of this country and is landmark achievement remains indelible in the history of the country".