By LKJ Ogunewe
Today, 47 years after his passing, we remember with deep pride and enduring reverence the life and legacy of Eze (Colonel) David Sunday Ogunewe—a father, a patriot, and a man whose principles still guide our family and inspire our nation.
A Soldier of Honour
Colonel Ogunewe was not only among Nigeria’s earliest commissioned officers—he was a standard-bearer for what it truly meant to serve with integrity. As the 34th officer commissioned into the Nigerian Army, he served through some of the most turbulent chapters of our national history with courage, restraint, and unwavering conviction.
In the midst of the 1966 crisis that brought Nigeria to the brink of collapse, he stood out—not for retaliation, but for resolve. In a time of chaos, he chose calm. In a climate of revenge, he upheld restraint. His actions were a moral compass in an era that desperately needed one.
A Guardian in the Midst of Chaos
As Commanding Officer of the 1st Battalion in Enugu during the July 1966 counter-coup, Col. Ogunewe distinguished himself by his defense of human life. He shielded northern officers from reprisals, prevented mob violence, and reminded his men that strength lies not in brutality but in humanity.
That singular act of conscience remains one of the most underappreciated moments of peacekeeping in Nigeria’s military history.
A Leader of Conscience
When war broke out and Biafra was born, he answered the call—not with bravado, but with purpose. As Principal Staff Officer to General Odumegwu Ojukwu, he helped steer the nascent Republic through its darkest hours. And when the war ended in 1970, he once again stood for unity—participating in the delegation that negotiated peace with dignity and grace.
A Bridge Between Eras
In a profound gesture of reconciliation, the Nigerian government under General Yakubu Gowon welcomed him back into the Army without prejudice. It was more than a personal restoration—it was a powerful national statement: that men like Col. Ogunewe were not enemies, but essential figures in the healing and rebuilding of our fractured nation.
A Legacy Continued
To us, his children and grandchildren, he was more than a soldier—he was our teacher, our protector, our quiet source of strength. He led not just with command, but with character.
His legacy lives on through his son, Maj.-Gen. Lincoln Jack Keonyemere Ogunewe (rtd), who rose to high command in the Nigerian Army and continues to serve our nation—guided by the same unwavering values his father exemplified: duty, discipline, and devotion to the greater good.
Forever Remembered
Colonel David Sunday Ogunewe lived at a time when Nigeria needed men of courage and conscience. He answered that call, and in doing so, helped shape the story of a nation still finding its way.
His life is our pride. His values are our inheritance. His name is etched not only in history, but in our hearts.
Maj.-Gen. LKJ Ogunewe, MFR (rtd) wrote this tribute in memory of his late father, Eze, Col. David Sunday Ogunewe, Okenze1 of Akpodim, Mbaise, who was laid to rest 47 years ago, today.
