Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has once again urged the Federal Government to immortalize the memory of the late Lt. Col. Adekunle Fajuyi, a former Military Governor of old Western Nigeria, for his exceptional courage and selflessness, demonstrated through his supreme sacrifice for the unity of Nigeria. Governor Oyebanji reiterated this call during a Command Performance of “FAJUYI FOR NIGERIA,” a stage play that reenacted the heroic deeds of the late Military Governor.
Lt. Col. Adekunle Fajuyi, a native of Ado Ekiti, is celebrated for his selfless act during the Nigerian Counter-Coup of 1966 when he chose to protect the then Head of State, Major-General Aguiyi-Ironsi, at the cost of his own life.
Governor Oyebanji emphasized that Lt.Col.Fajuyi’s legacy is an enduring testament to patriotism, heroism, and sacrifice that should be celebrated and memorialized as a symbol of unity for all Nigerians.
The Governor not only called for the naming of a national monument after Col. Fajuyi but also advocated for a posthumous national award and financial assistance to be provided to the late hero’s family.
The Command Performance witnessed a poignant moment when the first sons of the slain military officers, Fajuyi and Aguiyi-Ironsi, were invited to the stage for a symbolic handshake across the Niger, evoking deep emotions among the audience.
The event was attended by dignitaries including two former Governors of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi and Otunba Niyi Adebayo, as well as former Commonwealth Secretary General, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, among others.
