₦airaland Forum

Of all the killers of Igbos from 1966 to 1970, only he died poor. I asked ChatGPT why? Even Murtala Muhammad who murdered thousand of Igbo men, women and children in Asaba was handsomely rewarded, in life and in death. What did the Black Scorpion do wrong?

ChatGPT responds:

Benjamin Adekunle, known as "The Black Scorpion," was one of the most formidable commanders during the Nigerian Civil War. He led the 3rd Marine Commando Division, which played a key role in capturing major Biafran territories, including Bonny, Calabar, and Port Harcourt. Despite his battlefield successes, he was sidelined after the war and never enjoyed the wealth and political influence that many other military officers who fought against Biafra later attained.

Reasons Adekunle Was Not Rewarded Like Others

1. Clash with Gowon and Other Military Leaders

Adekunle was known for his fiery temper and outspokenness, which made him unpopular among top military and political figures, including Head of State General Yakubu Gowon.

He openly criticized the military hierarchy and accused the government of failing to properly support his troops. This created tension between him and his superiors.

2. Sudden Removal from Command

Despite his battlefield successes, Adekunle was relieved of his command in 1969 before the war ended. This was partly due to his aggressive war tactics, which even some within the Nigerian military considered excessive.

His removal meant that he did not share in the final victory when Biafra surrendered, unlike generals such as Olusegun Obasanjo, who took over command and later reaped the benefits.

3. Lack of Political Ambition or Alignment

Many of the officers who became wealthy after the war transitioned into politics or secured powerful government positions.

Figures like Obasanjo, Theophilus Danjuma, and Ibrahim Babangida aligned themselves with successive governments, securing lucrative oil deals and political appointments.

Adekunle, on the other hand, did not build strong political alliances and remained largely isolated after the war.

4. Perceived Brutality and Controversial Image

His ruthless tactics, including his famous declaration that he was fighting to "kill everything that moves," made him one of the most feared commanders.

This reputation may have made some within the government hesitant to associate with him after the war, fearing international scrutiny or backlash.

5. Personal and Financial Struggles

Unlike his counterparts, Adekunle did not have significant business interests or military contracts after the war.

In his later years, he struggled financially and even publicly lamented his lack of recognition and support from the government.

Legacy

While other war commanders became wealthy and politically influential, Adekunle faded into obscurity, a fate many attribute to his blunt nature and lack of political maneuvering. Despite his military prowess, he remained an outsider within Nigeria’s power structure until his death in 2014.

Which pauper? He had mansions before he died. Google the third largest shareholder in SML and see

Man should not live by wealth alone...

danvon:
By your own AI conclusion

He wasn't as wealthy as others because he wasn't corrupt and power hungry.

I suppose Sani Abacha who died with millions of dollars in his Swiss account is a great hero.

A man's value is always based on his pocket in your culture.

AI gave examples of his petulance:
Yes, Benjamin Adekunle had multiple clashes with authorities during and after the Nigerian Civil War. His outspoken nature, aggressive war tactics, and lack of political diplomacy created friction between him and the military high command. Here are some notable instances:

1. Clashes with Yakubu Gowon (Head of State)

Adekunle frequently complained that his 3rd Marine Commando Division was underfunded and undersupplied compared to other divisions. He publicly accused the Gowon-led government of neglecting his troops despite their frontline role.

His frustration boiled over in interviews where he criticized the government’s handling of the war. This did not sit well with Gowon and other military leaders.

His removal from command in 1969 was seen as a direct result of his open criticisms. He was replaced by Colonel Olusegun Obasanjo, who went on to take credit for the final phase of the war.


2. Dispute with the Supreme Military Council (SMC)

Adekunle was sidelined from major military decision-making after the war. Unlike other top commanders, he was not given a prominent post or major financial rewards.

He reportedly had issues with senior officers who viewed him as too arrogant and independent-minded. This contributed to his exclusion from the inner circles of power.


3. Clashes with Obasanjo

After Obasanjo took over his command, Adekunle felt betrayed and sidelined.

There were reports that he accused Obasanjo of benefiting from his hard work without acknowledging the sacrifices made by the 3rd Marine Commando.

Their relationship remained strained even after the war, as Obasanjo continued to rise politically while Adekunle faded into the background.


4. Fallout with the Military Establishment

Unlike other officers who transitioned into politics or lucrative business ventures, Adekunle became a forgotten figure.

In later years, he publicly lamented how he had been abandoned, making statements that further alienated him from the military elite.

Final Years

In contrast to generals like Theophilus Danjuma (who became one of Nigeria’s richest men through oil deals), Adekunle struggled financially and lived in relative obscurity until his death in 2014.

He once granted an interview where he expressed disappointment over his treatment by Nigeria, a stark contrast to his battlefield heroics during the war.

ScamHunter:
AI gave examples of his petulance:
Yes, Benjamin Adekunle had multiple clashes with authorities during and after the Nigerian Civil War. His outspoken nature, aggressive war tactics, and lack of political diplomacy created friction between him and the military high command. Here are some notable instances:

1. Clashes with Yakubu Gowon (Head of State)

Adekunle frequently complained that his 3rd Marine Commando Division was underfunded and undersupplied compared to other divisions. He publicly accused the Gowon-led government of neglecting his troops despite their frontline role.

His frustration boiled over in interviews where he criticized the government’s handling of the war. This did not sit well with Gowon and other military leaders.

His removal from command in 1969 was seen as a direct result of his open criticisms. He was replaced by Colonel Olusegun Obasanjo, who went on to take credit for the final phase of the war.


2. Dispute with the Supreme Military Council (SMC)

Adekunle was sidelined from major military decision-making after the war. Unlike other top commanders, he was not given a prominent post or major financial rewards.

He reportedly had issues with senior officers who viewed him as too arrogant and independent-minded. This contributed to his exclusion from the inner circles of power.


3. Clashes with Obasanjo

After Obasanjo took over his command, Adekunle felt betrayed and sidelined.

There were reports that he accused Obasanjo of benefiting from his hard work without acknowledging the sacrifices made by the 3rd Marine Commando.

Their relationship remained strained even after the war, as Obasanjo continued to rise politically while Adekunle faded into the background.


4. Fallout with the Military Establishment

Unlike other officers who transitioned into politics or lucrative business ventures, Adekunle became a forgotten figure.

In later years, he publicly lamented how he had been abandoned, making statements that further alienated him from the military elite.

Final Years

In contrast to generals like Theophilus Danjuma (who became one of Nigeria’s richest men through oil deals), Adekunle struggled financially and lived in relative obscurity until his death in 2014.

He once granted an interview where he expressed disappointment over his treatment by Nigeria, a stark contrast to his battlefield heroics during the war.

So you mean Murtala, Danjuma and co are no longer villains even tho they killed Ironsi and supervised the decimation of Biafrans just because Adekunle who was one of them was not as rich as them...?

Nigga pls listen to urself through ur anus

It seems closer to ur brain

iamnotillicit:
So you mean Murtala, Danjuma and co are no longer villains even tho they killed Ironsi and supervised the decimation of Biafrans just because Adekunle who was one of them was not as rich as them...?

Nigga listen to urself with ur anus

ChatGPT even speculates he may have died of heartbreak. What a world. This is why we all should put our mortality in proper perspective. Killing everything that walks and crawls because they're not our tribesmen sure has consequences.

ChatGPT:

Benjamin Adekunle died on September 13, 2014, at the age of 78. While he had significant health issues in his later years, including complications from a stroke, many believe that frustration, neglect, and financial struggles played a role in his decline.

Did He Die of Heartbreak?

Psychological and Emotional Struggles: Adekunle felt abandoned by the Nigerian government and military establishment despite his major role in the Civil War. He openly complained about how he was sidelined, while others who fought in the war, like Olusegun Obasanjo and Theophilus Danjuma, became politically and financially powerful.

Lack of Recognition: Unlike Obasanjo, who went on to become Head of State and later President, and Danjuma, who became one of Nigeria’s richest men through oil ventures, Adekunle received no major post-war rewards or influence. This deep sense of betrayal and neglect likely affected his mental and emotional well-being.

Did Poverty Contribute to His Death?

Financial Struggles: Unlike many of his contemporaries who became wealthy through government contracts and political connections, Adekunle lived a modest and financially constrained life after retiring.

In one of his last public appearances, he was seen in a wheelchair, looking frail, and he reportedly struggled with medical bills.

His widow confirmed that he had been ill for a long time before his death, indicating that a lack of resources might have affected his ability to get the best medical care.

Contrast with Obasanjo and Danjuma

Obasanjo and Danjuma remained active in politics and business, keeping them relevant and well-connected.

Danjuma, in particular, made billions from oil and was in a position to control his destiny financially and medically.

Adekunle, on the other hand, was left in obscurity, relying on goodwill rather than state support, which likely worsened his condition.

Conclusion

While his death was officially due to illness, the emotional toll of neglect and financial struggles likely contributed. Unlike some of his contemporaries who adapted politically and economically after the war, Adekunle was left behind—a tragic end for a man once feared and respected on the battlefield.

danvon:
By your own AI conclusion

He wasn't as wealthy as others because he wasn't corrupt and power hungry.

I suppose Sani Abacha who died with millions of dollars in his Swiss account is a great hero.

A man's value is always based on his pocket in your culture.

What amazes me is how a man could know billionaires like Obasanjo and Danjuma and still end up a pauper. Doesn't that get to you?

iamnotillicit:
Man should not live by wealth alone...

But by killing women and children. And everything that walks and crawls ba?

hisexcellency34:
Which pauper? He had mansions before he died. Google the third largest shareholder in SML and see

On his knees he bowed before Ihejirika, the Chief of Army Staff under Goodluck Jonathan, shamelessly pleading for bailouts and assistance. A pitiful display from someone who suddenly found his tongue when it suited him.

Yet, when Abacha locked up Yoruba generals—OBJ, Diya, and 17 others—he was silent. Mute. Deaf. Cowardice wrapped in hypocrisy.

These so-called weak , inept and incompetent generals on paper will fight to the last drop of their fraudulent blood against any southern tribe but turn spineless when it comes to defending their own. When true courage is needed, they vanish, proving time and again that their loyalty is to self-preservation,

ScamHunter:
What amazes me is how a man could know billionaires like Obasanjo and Danjuma and still end up a pauper. Doesn't that get to you?

Does it not bother you that someone relied on Danjuma and still ended up shot and dumped in a pit maybe Iwo road or Ede road...

Does it not bother you that you worship Babangida now because he is a civil war veteran and rich for nothing probably from killing ur folks

ScamHunter:
What amazes me is how a man could know billionaires like Obasanjo and Danjuma and still end up a pauper. Doesn't that get to you?

Seems they detested him.

Must be something off about his personality that would make his fellow officer friends and colleagues isolate him like that.

hisexcellency34:
Which pauper? He had mansions before he died. Google the third largest shareholder in SML and see

I googled as you asked. Below is what I got

I can bet anything you are wearing your wifes skirts and shivering under the bed today on Monday

ZombieDredd:
Chameleon
That says a lot.

Yimu!

TheChameleon:
I can bet anything you are wearing your wifes skirts and shivering under the bed today on Monday

But Simon Epka is in jail...

According to the fake drugs developers, Yoruba are cowards, but Adekunle and Obasanjo crushed Biafra, while the real coward, Ojukwu ran away at the first sight of danger.

ScamHunter:
Of all the killers of Igbos from 1966 to 1970, only he died poor. I asked ChatGPT why? Even Murtala Muhammad who murdered thousand of Igbo men, women and children in Asaba was handsomely rewarded, in life and in death. What did the Black Scorpion do wrong?

ChatGPT responds:

Benjamin Adekunle, known as "The Black Scorpion," was one of the most formidable commanders during the Nigerian Civil War. He led the 3rd Marine Commando Division, which played a key role in capturing major Biafran territories, including Bonny, Calabar, and Port Harcourt. Despite his battlefield successes, he was sidelined after the war and never enjoyed the wealth and political influence that many other military officers who fought against Biafra later attained.

Reasons Adekunle Was Not Rewarded Like Others

1. Clash with Gowon and Other Military Leaders

Adekunle was known for his fiery temper and outspokenness, which made him unpopular among top military and political figures, including Head of State General Yakubu Gowon.

He openly criticized the military hierarchy and accused the government of failing to properly support his troops. This created tension between him and his superiors.

2. Sudden Removal from Command

Despite his battlefield successes, Adekunle was relieved of his command in 1969 before the war ended. This was partly due to his aggressive war tactics, which even some within the Nigerian military considered excessive.

His removal meant that he did not share in the final victory when Biafra surrendered, unlike generals such as Olusegun Obasanjo, who took over command and later reaped the benefits.

3. Lack of Political Ambition or Alignment

Many of the officers who became wealthy after the war transitioned into politics or secured powerful government positions.

Figures like Obasanjo, Theophilus Danjuma, and Ibrahim Babangida aligned themselves with successive governments, securing lucrative oil deals and political appointments.

Adekunle, on the other hand, did not build strong political alliances and remained largely isolated after the war.

4. Perceived Brutality and Controversial Image

His ruthless tactics, including his famous declaration that he was fighting to "kill everything that moves," made him one of the most feared commanders.

This reputation may have made some within the government hesitant to associate with him after the war, fearing international scrutiny or backlash.

5. Personal and Financial Struggles

Unlike his counterparts, Adekunle did not have significant business interests or military contracts after the war.

In his later years, he struggled financially and even publicly lamented his lack of recognition and support from the government.

Legacy

While other war commanders became wealthy and politically influential, Adekunle faded into obscurity, a fate many attribute to his blunt nature and lack of political maneuvering. Despite his military prowess, he remained an outsider within Nigeria’s power structure until his death in 2014.

Chatgpt is now your god

Child of perdition

He started good and ended bad

Biafrans pulled out of Niger Delta after the locals were compromised and sabotaged the struggle. Adekunle was removed after his failure to penetrate Igbo hinterlands. He was a failure just like murtala Muhammad failed woefully in Onitsha. IBB and Obasanjo that entered Igboland are carting severe injuries inflicted on them to the grave

iamnotillicit:
Does it not bother you that someone relied on Danjuma and still ended up shot and dumped in a pit maybe Iwo road or Ede road...

Does it not bother you that you worship Babangida now because he is a civil war veteran and rich for nothing probably from killing ur folks

You all always act as if it's all rosy for you. How about your people killed, Fajuyi, Akintola, Dele Giwa, MKO, Kudirat, Awolowo (rat poison). You all always make up excuses for killers of your people and focus on others, typical cowardice

ScamHunter:
What amazes me is how a man could know billionaires like Obasanjo and Danjuma and still end up a pauper. Doesn't that get to you?

Obasanjo actually stole Adekunle's victory, Gowon saw that if Adekunle ended the war it would turn him to a deity, so Gowon reshuffled him and put Obasanjo in charge of his unit, hating someone who took credit for your hardwork is nothing new, been happening since Crassus vs Pompey.

As someone pointed out, Danjuma was a politically ambitious snake, he betrayed Aguiyi Ironsi then turned around and betrayed Gowon, then he used the death of Murtala as an excuse to purge his military rivals like Illiya Bisalla, Danjuma wealth was mostly from the brazillian contract that Sani Abacha gave him in exchange for his support - but once Abacha died, he quickly switched to democracy, supporting the very Obasanjo that Abacha tried to kill and in return he became the minister of defense.

Adekunle wasn't as flexible, dishonourable and ambitious as Danjuma, that's why he wasn't as rich as them.

MXrep:
Biafrans pulled out of Niger Delta after the locals were compromised and sabotaged the struggle. Adekunle was removed after his failure to penetrate Igbo hinterlands. He was a failure just like murtala Muhammad failed woefully in Onitsha. IBB and Obasanjo that entered Igboland are carting severe injuries inflicted on them to the grave

From Babangida'a memoir, Adekunle could not take umuahia during the operation OAU which made the first division to be drafted to take umuahia during which time Babangida was almost killed in uzuakoli in Bende LGA.

Adekunle's attempt to take owerri ended in one of the biggest human tsunami during the civil war, the 3rd Marine command with a military strength of 33,000 soldiers was reduced to less than 1000 soldiers, Biafra later retook owerri in 1969 with the Gowon’s regime recalling Adekunle. Adekunle sacrificed more people than murtala Mohammed. Both were recalled for their gross human carnage the incurred .

danvon:
Obasanjo actually stole Adekunle's victory, Gowon saw that if Adekunle ended the war it would turn him to a deity, so Gowon reshuffled him and put Obasanjo in charge of his unit, hating someone who took credit for your hardwork is nothing new, been happening since Crassus vs Pompey.

As someone pointed out, Danjuma was a politically ambitious snake, he betrayed Aguiyi Ironsi then turned around and betrayed Gowon, then he used the death of Murtala as an excuse to purge his military rivals like Illiya Bisalla, Danjuma wealth was mostly from the brazillian contract that Sani Abacha gave him in exchange for his support - but once Abacha died, he quickly switched to democracy, supporting the very Obasanjo that Abacha tried to kill and in return he became the minister of defense.

Adekunle wasn't as flexible, dishonourable and ambitious as Danjuma, that's why he wasn't as rich as them.

Adekunle has no victory. Niger Delta creek boys betrayed Biafra struggle and Biafra soldiers pulled out to Igbo territories. Attempts by Adekunle to go beyond minority tribes territory was complete failure

MXrep:
Adekunle has no victory. Niger Delta creek boys betrayed Biafra struggle and Biafra soldiers pulled out to Igbo territories. Attempts by Adekunle to go beyond minority tribes territory was complete failure

Then why is he hated so much? According to you he didn't do anything to Biafra

danvon:
Then why is he hated so much? According to you he didn't do anything to Biafra

Ask Gowon, Muhammad and co why they hate him

He used and dumped by the born-2-rule Northerners after fulfilling his purpose -- ditto almost all the Yoruba military officers who fought against Biafra.

ScamHunter:
AI gave examples of his petulance:
Yes, Benjamin Adekunle had multiple clashes with authorities during and after the Nigerian Civil War. His outspoken nature, aggressive war tactics, and lack of political diplomacy created friction between him and the military high command. Here are some notable instances:

1. Clashes with Yakubu Gowon (Head of State)

Adekunle frequently complained that his 3rd Marine Commando Division was underfunded and undersupplied compared to other divisions. He publicly accused the Gowon-led government of neglecting his troops despite their frontline role.

His frustration boiled over in interviews where he criticized the government’s handling of the war. This did not sit well with Gowon and other military leaders.

His removal from command in 1969 was seen as a direct result of his open criticisms. He was replaced by Colonel Olusegun Obasanjo, who went on to take credit for the final phase of the war.


2. Dispute with the Supreme Military Council (SMC)

Adekunle was sidelined from major military decision-making after the war. Unlike other top commanders, he was not given a prominent post or major financial rewards.

He reportedly had issues with senior officers who viewed him as too arrogant and independent-minded. This contributed to his exclusion from the inner circles of power.


3. Clashes with Obasanjo

After Obasanjo took over his command, Adekunle felt betrayed and sidelined.

There were reports that he accused Obasanjo of benefiting from his hard work without acknowledging the sacrifices made by the 3rd Marine Commando.

Their relationship remained strained even after the war, as Obasanjo continued to rise politically while Adekunle faded into the background.


4. Fallout with the Military Establishment

Unlike other officers who transitioned into politics or lucrative business ventures, Adekunle became a forgotten figure.

In later years, he publicly lamented how he had been abandoned, making statements that further alienated him from the military elite.

Final Years

In contrast to generals like Theophilus Danjuma (who became one of Nigeria’s richest men through oil deals), Adekunle struggled financially and lived in relative obscurity until his death in 2014.

He once granted an interview where he expressed disappointment over his treatment by Nigeria, a stark contrast to his battlefield heroics during the war.