By LKJ Ogunewe
Tribute to my late dad, Eze (Colonel) David Sunday Ogunewe (N/34), who passed on to glory on 1 July 1978, and was committed to Mother Earth on 23 July 1978-47 years today. “The strength of a soldier, the soul of a statesman.”
We remember with deep pride and enduring reverence the life of Colonel David Sunday Ogunewe—a father, a patriot, and a man whose legacy continues to shape our family and inspire our nation.
A Soldier of Honor
Colonel Ogunewe was not just among Nigeria’s earliest commissioned officers—he was among the first to truly define what it meant to wear the uniform with integrity. As the 34th officer commissioned into the Nigerian Army, he served during some of the most turbulent times in Nigeria’s history, always with calmness, courage, and conviction.
During the military upheaval of 1966, when the nation teetered on the edge of collapse, he stood out—not for violence or vengeance—but for his restraint, his protection of life, and his unyielding moral compass. When many chose division, he chose dignity.
A Guardian in the Midst of Chaos
As the Commanding Officer of the 1st Battalion in Enugu, Col. Ogunewe’s actions during the July 1966 countercoup saved lives. He shielded northern officers from retaliatory attacks, prevented mob violence, and reminded his fellow soldiers that true strength lies in humanity, not hatred. His courage under pressure remains one of the most underappreciated acts of peacekeeping in our country’s military history.
A Leader of Conscience
When war came, and Biafra was born, he answered the call to defend his people—not with prideful defiance, but with purpose and discipline. Appointed Principal Staff Officer to General Odumegwu Ojukwu, he helped guide Biafra through its most desperate hour. And when the guns fell silent in 1970, he stood again for peace—part of the delegation that formally ended the war with honour and grace.
A Bridge Between Eras
In a rare and deeply symbolic act of reconciliation, the Nigerian government under General Gowon welcomed him back into the Army without prejudice. It was a powerful statement: that men like Col. Ogunewe were not enemies, but essential to healing and rebuilding a wounded nation.
A Legacy Continued
To us, his children, and grandchildren, he was more than a military man. He was a teacher, a protector, and a quiet source of strength. His discipline was firm, his words few—but his example said it all.
That legacy continues through his son, Maj.-Gen. Lincoln Jack Keonyemere Ogunewe, who rose to high command and today serves Nigeria in new ways—guided by the same values his father lived by: duty, discipline, and devotion to the greater good.
Forever Remembered
Colonel David Sunday Ogunewe lived and served at a time when Nigeria needed men of principle. He answered that call—and in doing so – helped shape our nation’s story.
His life is our pride.
His values are our inheritance.
His name is etched, not just in history but in our hearts.
Adieu Daddy!
Your Son,
Maj Gen LKJ Ogunewe, MFR (Rtd).
