By Milcah Tanimu
Retired Colonel Ralph Sixtus Babatunde (RSB) Bello-Fadile officially launched his memoir, *Nine Lives: The Bello-Fadile Memoirs*, on November 18, 2024, in Abuja. This gripping autobiography recounts his extraordinary journey through Nigeria’s military history, personal challenges, and brushes with death during the nation’s darkest military regimes.
The event, chaired by former Nigerian Head of State Abdulsalami Abubakar, drew dignitaries, including former Bauchi Governor Mohammed Abubakar and ex-National Security Adviser Sambo Dasuki.
A Story of Resilience and Survival
The 400-page memoir delves into Bello-Fadile’s life, from humble beginnings in Kabba, Kogi State, to becoming the Nigerian Army’s first military-trained lawyer. It sheds light on his imprisonment and death sentence during General Sani Abacha’s 1995 “phantom coup” saga.
In the foreword, former military leader Ibrahim Babangida highlighted Bello-Fadile’s resilience, describing the memoir as a testament to his bravery and intellectual depth.
A Rich Historical Account
The book, published by Premium Times Books, is divided into five chapters that:
1. Detail Bello-Fadile’s early struggles and educational journey.
2. Chronicle his unique role as the Army’s first lawyer and his near-death experiences.
3. Analyze Nigeria’s history of coups and their impact on governance.
Praise for the Memoir
Abdulsalami Abubakar lauded the memoir for its insight into the military’s role in upholding democracy and emphasized its inspirational value for young Nigerians. Agbo Madaki, the book reviewer, praised the author’s narrative skill, calling it a vivid and poetic recollection of Nigeria’s tumultuous history.
