Adekunle Fajuyi facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Adekunle Fajuyi
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| Military Governor of Western Nigeria | |
| In office 15 January – 29 July 1966 |
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| Preceded by | Position established |
| Succeeded by | Robert Adeyinka Adebayo |
| Personal details | |
| Born | 26 June 1926 Ado Ekiti, Nigeria |
| Died | 29 July 1966 (aged 40) Ibadan |
| Political party | None (Military) |
Francis Adekunle Fajuyi (born June 26, 1926 – died July 29, 1966) was a brave Nigerian soldier. He was from the Yoruba ethnic group. He also became the first military governor of the old Western Region of Nigeria.
Early Life and Military Career
Adekunle Fajuyi was born in Ado Ekiti, Nigeria. Before joining the army, he worked as a teacher and a clerk. In 1943, he decided to join the military.
He quickly showed his dedication. As a sergeant in the Nigeria Signal Squadron, he helped solve a problem in his unit. For this, he received the British Empire Medal in 1951.
Fajuyi went to the Eaton Hall Officer Candidate School in the United Kingdom. He trained there from July to November 1954. After his training, he became an officer.
In 1961, Major Fajuyi was a company commander. His unit was part of the 4th battalion of the Queen's Own Nigeria Regiment. They were involved in operations in North Katanga.
During one mission, his unit faced a difficult situation. Major Fajuyi bravely led his soldiers out of an ambush. For his courage and leadership, he was awarded the Military Cross.
After his time in the Congo, Fajuyi made history. He became the first Nigerian to command the 1st battalion in Enugu. He held this important role for some time.
Just before January 1966, he was moved to Abeokuta. There, he became the commander of the military base.
Becoming Governor
On January 17, 1966, Major General Ironsi became the new leader of Nigeria's armed forces. He chose Adekunle Fajuyi for a very important job.
Fajuyi was appointed as the first military governor of the Western Region. This was a significant role, as he was in charge of governing a large part of Nigeria.
A Tragic Event
On July 29, 1966, a sad event took place. Governor Fajuyi was in Ibadan. He was with General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi, who was Nigeria's Head of State.
General Ironsi had come to Ibadan to meet with traditional rulers. During this visit, both Governor Fajuyi and General Ironsi lost their lives. This happened during a time of political unrest in Nigeria.
This event was part of a series of changes in Nigeria's government. Six months earlier, the civilian government had been overthrown. The Prime Minister, Sir Tafawa Balewa, and other leaders had also been killed.
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Adekunle Fajuyi
