Tributes continue to pour in for Lt. Col. George Otonbara Ikoli, as friends and admirers mourn his passing. The Ernest Sisei Ikoli Foundation is among those honoring his legacy.
In a statement released in Lagos, the Foundation described Otonbara Ikoli as a valiant officer and a true gentleman. “In solemn remembrance of the Nigerian Army C130 Hercules plane crash that occurred 32 years ago, we gather to pay tribute to a brave Nigerian Army officer and noble gentleman,” the statement read.
Signed by renowned lawyer Antony George-Ikoli, the statement recalled the tragic afternoon of September 26, 1992, in Ejigbo, a suburb of Lagos, where Lt. Col. George Otonbara Ikoli lost his life, along with 158 of his comrades, during what was intended to be a routine training exercise.
The statement highlighted Colonel Ikoli’s bravery, sacrifices, leadership qualities, and strong human connections. “Lt. Col. Ikoli’s bravery and sacrifices, as well as his parting words on that fateful morning—’Come what may, I will not abandon my men’—remain etched in our hearts as enduring symbols of courage and patriotism,” it emphasized.
It also reflected on the happier memories of Lt. Col. George Otonbara Ikoli’s life, stating, “His memory remains evergreen as we steadfastly cling to recollections of happier times and ponder the good times that may have been. In our hearts and minds, he will remain a hero, soldier, and gentleman for all eternity.”
