Dr. Abejide Olusegun
Nigeria’s journey as a nation has been tumultuous, marked by events that have left indelible scars on its socio-political landscape. At the heart of the country’s challenges are three pivotal coups, each representing a critical juncture in its history. These events—Lord Lugard’s colonial imposition, the 1966 coup, and the annulment of Chief MKO Abiola’s 1993 presidential election—shaped Nigeria’s trajectory, entrenching systemic inequities, ethnic divisions, and unresolved grievances that persist to this day.
Understanding these historical moments and the roles played by key actors and groups is essential for reckoning with Nigeria’s past and charting a path forward. Each coup offers a window into the forces that undermined Nigeria’s potential, from the colonial manipulations of the British to the ethnic and political rivalries that eroded national unity.
The First Coup: Lord Lugard’s Colonial Engineering
The first and most foundational blow to Nigeria was the 1914 amalgamation of the Northern and Southern Protectorates under British colonial rule. Spearheaded by Lord Frederick Lugard, this administrative decision created a geopolitical entity that prioritized British imperial interests over the welfare of the indigenous peoples.
At the heart of this amalgamation was a calculated strategy: the British empowered the Fulani minority, a nomadic group with a centralized emirate system, to serve as a proxy ruling class. Despite being foreigners to Nigeria and a demographic minority, the Fulani were favored for their perceived ability to maintain order and loyalty to British interests. This move ensured that the colonial masters could exploit Nigeria’s resources while maintaining indirect control through the Fulani elite.
The long-term consequences of this decision cannot be overstated. By entrenching the Fulani in positions of political dominance, the British sowed the seeds of systemic inequality, regional imbalances, and ethnic tensions that would plague Nigeria for decades. The Fulani minority’s ascent to power created resentment among other ethnic groups, particularly the Yoruba and Igbo, who were sidelined despite their contributions to Nigeria’s development.
The Second Coup: The 1966 Military Intervention
Nigeria’s post-independence history underwent a significant transformation with the 1966 coup d’état, which intensified ethnic mistrust and paved the way for civil war. Largely orchestrated by Igbo military officers, it was ostensibly aimed at addressing corruption and incompetence in the First Republic. However, its execution revealed ethnic biases that exacerbated Nigeria’s fragile unity.
Led by Major Chukwuma Kaduna Nzeogwu, the coup targeted prominent political figures from the Northern and Western regions, including Prime Minister Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Northern Premier Sir Ahmadu Bello, and Western Premier Chief Samuel Akintola. Notably, Igbo leaders such as President Nnamdi Azikiwe and Eastern Premier Dr. Michael Okpara were spared, fueling accusations of an Igbo agenda to dominate the nation.
The coup’s aftermath was catastrophic. The Northern backlash culminated in a counter-coup in July 1966, during which General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi, Nigeria’s first military head of state and an Igbo officer, was assassinated. This event sparked widespread ethnic violence, with thousands of Igbos massacred in the North. The escalating tensions eventually led to the Nigerian Civil War (1967–1970), a conflict that claimed millions of lives and left deep scars on the national psyche.
The 1966 coup shattered Nigeria’s fragile trust, embedding ethnic divisions that continue to define its politics. The Igbo, Yoruba, and Hausa-Fulani, rather than uniting as Nigerians, became entrenched in mutual suspicion and competition, undermining national cohesion.
The Third Coup: The Annulment of MKO Abiola’s Election
The third and perhaps most devastating coup came not from the military but from a calculated political betrayal. On June 12, 1993, Nigerians went to the polls in what is widely regarded as the freest and fairest election in the nation’s history. Chief MKO Abiola, a Yoruba businessman and philanthropist, was poised to become president, symbolizing hope for a new era of democracy and unity.
However, this hope was dashed when then-military president General Ibrahim Babangida annulled the election under dubious circumstances. Central to this betrayal was the Association for a Better Nigeria (ABN), a shadowy group led by figures such as Arthur Nzeribe, Chukwumerije, and other Igbo eliites. The ABN secured a controversial midnight court injunction that nullified the election results, denying Abiola his mandate and plunging Nigeria into political chaos.
The annulment of the 1993 election had far-reaching consequences. It delegitimized the military regime, ignited nationwide protests, and deepened ethnic animosities. Abiola’s subsequent imprisonment and death under suspicious circumstances further solidified the perception of a systemic conspiracy against the Yoruba. The annulment marked a low point in Nigeria’s democratic journey, leaving scars that continue to influence political dynamics.
The Lingering Consequences
The three pivotal coups—Lugard’s colonial manipulation, the 1966 coup, and the 1993 election annulment—have left Nigeria fractured, distrustful, and struggling to fulfill its potential. Each event deepened ethnic divisions and entrenched systemic inequalities that hinder national progress.
Empowered by the British, the Fulani continue to dominate Nigeria’s political landscape, perpetuating a system that prioritizes centralization over regional autonomy. The Igbo, despite their grievances of marginalization, are viewed by some as complicit in Nigeria’s woes due to their involvement in the 1966 coup and the annulment of Abiola’s election. The Yoruba, despite their contributions to Nigeria’s development, remain victims of betrayal, with their political aspirations thwarted by systemic conspiracies.
The Yoruba Perspective
Known for their Omoluabi ethos of integrity, respect, and communal values, the Yoruba have often endured the brunt of Nigeria’s political betrayals. From the colonial era to the annulment of Abiola’s election, the Yoruba have been repeatedly undermined; yet, they have maintained their dignity and commitment to national unity.
However, the scars of these betrayals run deep. The annulment of Abiola’s election, in particular, remains a painful reminder of the systemic forces that work against Yoruba aspirations. The Yoruba continue to demand accountability and justice, refusing to forget the roles played by figures like Peter Obi and the ABN in derailing their democratic hopes.
Moving Forward: A Path to Redemption
To address the damage caused by these three pivotal coups, Nigeria must confront its history with honesty and accountability, as can be seen in the accompanying video and this article itself. The colonial legacy of Lord Lugard, the ethnic biases of the 1966 coup, and the betrayal of the 1993 election must be critically examined to understand their enduring impact.
Reconciliation requires acknowledging the grievances of all ethnic groups and fostering a narrative of inclusivity. The Fulani must relinquish their stranglehold on power, allowing for equitable resource distribution and regional autonomy. The Igbo must confront their role in Nigeria’s historical crises, recognizing the need for collaboration rather than competition. The Yoruba, despite their grievances, must continue to champion unity and justice, embodying the Omoluabi values that define their identity.
For individuals like Peter Obi, who seek to lead Nigeria, reconciling with their past actions is essential. True leadership demands accountability, transparency, and a commitment to democratic principles. Without addressing these historical injustices, Nigeria risks perpetuating the cycles of division and mistrust that have hindered its progress.
Dear readers, we really need your support to keep on serving you with authoritative, truthful, and juicy stories everyday. For your support, please reach out to the editor @gavelinternational66@gmail.com