TEARS, GRIEF AS OBASANJO’S EX-ADC, MAJ-GEN JEMITOLA, LAID TO REST IN ABUJA
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The remains of Major General Chris Jemitola (Rtd.), former Aide-de-Camp (ADC) to former President Olusegun Obasanjo, were laid to rest on Thursday at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja. The burial, marked by military honors, was attended by top military officers, family, and friends, who praised his service, integrity, and leadership.
The former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Lucky Irabor (Rtd.), described Jemitola as the epitome of a professional soldier.
“General Chris Jemitola was a perfect example of an officer and a gentleman,” Irabor said. “I had the privilege of meeting him at the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA). He was my senior, and we later served together in the signal corps. Throughout his career, he was calm, reliable, and dedicated. He will be deeply missed.”
Irabor recalled his last conversation with Jemitola, which took place just two weeks before his death.
“He called me to ask after my family. It’s hard to believe that was our last conversation. My comfort is that he lived a good life, and I pray for God to comfort his family,” he added.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, also paid tribute, describing Jemitola as a mentor to many officers.
Represented by the Chief of Administration (Army Headquarters), Major General Lawrence Fejokwu, the COAS said:
“The late General Jemitola was a mentor to all of us. He was calm, approachable, and always willing to guide younger officers. His legacy of kindness and professionalism will endure.”
Jemitola’s son, Caleb, shared emotional memories of his father’s dedication to teaching life lessons.
“What I will miss most about my dad are his lessons,” Caleb said. “He found meaning in every moment—whether watching a casual video or observing something on the road, he always asked, ‘What can you learn from this?’ I know there’s no one who can offer me the same advice, but I’ll hold on to everything he taught me and do my best to make him proud.”
The atmosphere at the cemetery was sorrowful, as tears flowed from the eyes of friends, associates, and serving and retired military officers.
Late Major General Chris Jemitola died on February 6, 2025, while playing golf at the IBB Golf Club in Abuja.
The funeral was a brief, solemn, and colorful ceremony, reflecting the distinguished service of a man remembered as a gentleman officer and a general par excellence.
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