Let's delve into the fascinating life and reflections of General John Atom Kpera, a retired Nigerian military officer with an intriguing story to tell. This is a man who has seen and done it all, from the battlefields to the governor's seat, and now, a life of retirement in Gboko.
A Life of Unexpected Turns
General Kpera's journey began with a medical condition that almost claimed his life. Born with a 'soft head', as he puts it, his father had little hope for his future. Yet, fate had other plans. Sent to live with his grandmother, he received an education and grew up under her care until the age of seven. This early adversity shaped his resilience and determination, traits that would serve him well in the years to come.
His academic journey took him to various schools, including the Benue Provincial Secondary School, where he first encountered the allure of military life. It was a chance visit by a British captain that set him on this path, leading to his recruitment and subsequent training in Ethiopia.
The Military Man
The Ethiopian experience was a formative one, offering a unique cultural exchange and the opportunity to learn a new language, Amharic. Despite the challenges of military academy life, General Kpera thrived, becoming one of the few to earn their 'ticket' as a pilot in the Nigerian Air Force.
His military career was not without its twists and turns. He found himself participating in a coup, albeit unknowingly at first. Deployed to Ogoja during the civil war, he led a squadron of engineers, building bridges and diffusing explosives. It was a role that required both physical strength and strategic thinking.
A Governor's Tale
Perhaps the most surprising chapter in General Kpera's life was his appointment as military governor. First, of the East Central State, and later, his home state of Benue. These appointments came as a shock to him, but he took them on with a sense of duty and responsibility.
In his own words, he treated every tribe equally, ensuring that his actions as governor were fair and unbiased. This approach, though challenging, helped him gain the acceptance and respect of the people he governed.
Retirement and Reflections
Retirement brought General Kpera back to his roots, to Gboko, where he embraced farming. Despite the jokes and statues mocking his decision, he stood firm, believing in the importance of agriculture for his state.
Today, at 85, he is an inspiration, defying age with his fitness routine and natural diet. He credits his longevity to daily exercise and a diet rich in natural foods.
When it comes to politics, General Kpera maintains a distance, believing in the power of unity and friendship among Nigerians. He fears the divisive nature of partisan politics and prays for leaders who will unite, not divide.
In his own words, "I am a citizen of Nigeria and I love my country. I want Nigeria to develop and become a big and independent nation."
General John Atom Kpera's life is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and a deep love for his country. His story is a reminder that life often takes unexpected turns, and it's how we navigate these turns that defines us.
