David Ejoor

Early Life and Background

Major General David Akpode Ejoor was born on January 10, 1934, in Ovu, an important community within Urhoboland, located in what is now Delta State, Nigeria. His early life unfolded during a period of significant social and political transformation as Nigeria moved steadily towards independence from British colonial rule. Growing up in the Niger Delta region, Ejoor was exposed to a rich cultural heritage and the burgeoning nationalist sentiments that swept across the country. His family background instilled in him values of discipline, community service, and a strong sense of identity, which would later define his illustrious career. The precise details of his parents and their occupations are not widely documented, but it is understood that he hailed from a respectable family in the Urhobo ethnic group, which is one of the largest indigenous groups in the Delta region.

Education

Ejoor's educational journey began with his primary schooling in his native Ovu. He later gained admission to the prestigious Government College, Ughelli, a renowned secondary institution in the Mid-Western region known for producing many of Nigeria's future leaders and intellectuals. At Government College Ughelli, Ejoor excelled academically and demonstrated leadership qualities, which likely influenced his decision to pursue a career in the military. Following his secondary education, Ejoor sought to join the nascent Nigerian military. In 1953, he was selected for officer training at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the United Kingdom, one of the world's most esteemed military academies. He underwent rigorous training at Sandhurst for three years, graduating in 1956 and earning his commission as a second lieutenant in the Nigerian Army. This marked a significant milestone, as Sandhurst was the primary training ground for many of the first generation of indigenous Nigerian officers. Later in his career, Ejoor further honed his military expertise by attending the British Army Staff College, Camberley, also in the United Kingdom, which provided advanced training in military strategy, logistics, and command, further preparing him for higher leadership roles within the Nigerian Army.

Career

Upon his commissioning in 1956, David Ejoor embarked on a distinguished military career that spanned nearly two decades. He quickly rose through the ranks, holding various command and staff positions, including Platoon Commander, Company Commander, and Commander of the Reconnaissance Squadron. By 1964, he had been appointed as the Commandant of the Nigerian Military Training College in Kaduna, a testament to his leadership abilities and instructional prowess. His career took a dramatic turn with the turbulent events of 1966. He narrowly escaped assassination during the January 15, 1966, military coup, which saw the demise of several senior political and military figures. Following this coup, Major General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi, the new Head of State, appointed Colonel David Ejoor as the first Military Governor of the newly created Mid-Western Group of Provinces, which was later formally renamed the Mid-Western State. His tenure as governor was marked by efforts to maintain peace and stability in a region known for its ethnic diversity amidst growing national unrest. He strove to keep the Mid-Western State neutral during the escalating tensions that led to the Nigerian Civil War. However, in August 1967, the Mid-Western State was invaded by Biafran forces. Ejoor, finding his command compromised and facing overwhelming odds, made the controversial decision to escape from Benin City, the state capital, through the bush to Lagos. This event, though criticized by some, was later defended by Ejoor as a tactical retreat to preserve his life and continue the fight. After the civil war concluded in 1970, Ejoor was appointed Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) from 1970 to 1971, where he played a crucial role in rebuilding and training the post-war officer corps. His most significant appointment came in 1971 when he was elevated to the position of Chief of Army Staff, a role he held until July 29, 1975. As Chief of Army Staff, Ejoor was instrumental in the post-civil war reorganization, demobilization, and professionalization of the Nigerian Army. He oversaw the integration of former Biafran soldiers and worked to instill a sense of national unity and discipline within the armed forces. His tenure focused on strengthening the army's capabilities and ensuring its loyalty to the state. He was retired from the army following the military coup that brought General Murtala Muhammed to power in July 1975.

Major Achievements

Major General David Ejoor's career was punctuated by several significant achievements. As the inaugural Military Governor of the Mid-Western State, he laid the administrative foundations for a new state, navigating complex ethnic and political landscapes during a highly volatile period in Nigerian history. His efforts, though ultimately challenged by the civil war, were crucial in establishing a distinct identity for the region. His survival of both the January and July 1966 coups, while many of his contemporaries perished, stands as a testament to his resilience and perhaps a degree of fortune. Later, as Chief of Army Staff, he was a key figure in the crucial post-civil war era, responsible for the monumental task of rebuilding, reorganizing, and professionalizing a vastly expanded Nigerian Army. He played a vital role in integrating different factions and fostering a unified military. Beyond his military and administrative roles, Ejoor made a lasting contribution to Nigerian historical scholarship through his detailed memoirs, "Reminiscences," published in 1989. This book offers invaluable first-hand accounts and perspectives on the critical events leading up to and during the Nigerian Civil War, making him a significant chronicler of his era. In his later years, he served as the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Urhobo Progress Union (UPU), the apex socio-cultural organization of his people, demonstrating his continued commitment to community leadership and development.

Personal Life

Major General David Akpode Ejoor was married to Mrs. Agnes Ejoor. Together, they built a family and supported each other through the demanding life of a military officer and public servant. While specific details about all his children are not widely publicized, it is known that he was a devoted family man. For instance, his daughter, Mrs. Eloho Otobo, has been mentioned in public records. Ejoor maintained a strong connection to his Urhobo heritage throughout his life, actively participating in and leading initiatives for the development and welfare of his people. He was revered as an elder statesman and a prominent voice within the Urhobo community, reflecting his deep roots and commitment to his cultural identity. His personal integrity and dedication to service extended beyond his military career into his community life.

Legacy

Major General David Akpode Ejoor left an indelible mark on Nigeria's history. He is remembered as one of the pioneering indigenous officers of the Nigerian Army, a member of the elite group that took over command from the departing British. His tenure as the first Military Governor of the Mid-Western State established a precedent for state administration in a federal structure and highlighted the challenges of nation-building in a multi-ethnic society. His role as Chief of Army Staff during a critical post-civil war period was instrumental in stabilizing and professionalizing the Nigerian armed forces, laying groundwork for its future development. Perhaps one of his most enduring legacies is his memoir, "Reminiscences," which provides a crucial primary source for understanding the complexities and human dimensions of the Nigerian Civil War and the events leading up to it. Through his writings, he offered future generations a window into the mind of a leader navigating one of Nigeria's most trying periods. Ejoor's life exemplified dedication to duty, resilience in the face of adversity, and a lifelong commitment to his nation and his people. He passed away on February 10, 2019, at the age of 85, leaving behind a legacy of service, leadership, and historical insight.