The family of Nigeria’s former Head of State, Major General Johnson Thomas Umunnakwe Aguiyi-Ironsi, has paid glowing tribute to the late Lt. Col. Francis Adekunle Fajuyi, describing his death as a heroic act of loyalty and patriotism that continues to symbolize national unity six decades later.
In a remembrance letter marking the 60th anniversary of Fajuyi’s death, Ambassador Thomas Aguiyi-Ironsi, former Minister of Defence and son of the late Head of State, conveyed the family’s message of solidarity to the Fajuyi family.
The letter described July 29, 2026, as a solemn moment to honour a soldier whose sacrifice remains one of the most remarkable acts of courage in Nigeria’s history.
According to the Aguiyi-Ironsi family, Fajuyi, who served as Military Governor of the Western Region, demonstrated exceptional loyalty during the 1966 military counter-coup when mutinous soldiers abducted him alongside Aguiyi-Ironsi in Ibadan.
The family noted that despite having an opportunity to distance himself from danger, Fajuyi chose to remain with his guest and superior officer, embracing what they described as the highest standards of military honour, integrity, and brotherhood.
They said the decision elevated Fajuyi to the status of a national martyr whose legacy continues to inspire generations of Nigerians to embrace courage, selflessness, and unity.
Expressing sympathy to the Fajuyi family, the Aguiyi-Ironsi family acknowledged the enduring pain caused by his death while praying for continued strength, comfort, and peace for his loved ones.
The family also commended Nigerians, institutions, and patriotic individuals who have consistently preserved Fajuyi’s memory, stating that such recognition demonstrates that the sacrifice of true patriots will never be forgotten.
“He did not run. He did not hide. He chose to stand. In that sacrificial decision lay the essence of his greatness,” the statement read.
The family further urged government institutions, military authorities, and custodians of Nigeria’s history to sustain efforts aimed at recognising and supporting the Fajuyi family, stressing that honouring his legacy remains a collective national responsibility.
They called on Nigerians to draw inspiration from Fajuyi’s life, noting that his example continues to challenge the nation to uphold the values of unity, courage, honour, and selfless service.
Lt. Col. Francis Adekunle Fajuyi was killed alongside Major General Aguiyi-Ironsi on July 29, 1966, during the military counter-coup in Ibadan.
