On 29 July 1975, Nigeria experienced a bloodless military coup that ended the nine-year rule of General Yakubu Gowon. While attending the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) summit in Kampala, Uganda, Gowon was removed from power. The coup was announced by Colonel Joseph Nanven Garba on Radio Nigeria, and Brigadier Murtala Muhammed was installed as the new Head of State, with Brigadier Olusegun Obasanjo as his deputy. This peaceful change in leadership was driven by dissatisfaction among military officers over the delay in returning Nigeria to civilian governance.
The Political Climate Before the Coup
Gowon had been in power since the 1966 counter-coup, leading Nigeria through the Civil War from 1967 to 1970 and its immediate aftermath. Post-war, his administration focused on reconstruction and national reconciliation, but the repeated postponement of elections frustrated many officers and civilians alike. By 1975, internal discontent within the military and growing calls for political transition created the conditions for a coup.
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How the Coup Unfolded
The 1975 takeover is notable for its peaceful execution. Gowon was abroad, eliminating the need for confrontation. Key actions included strategic control of radio and communication networks, ensuring the announcement reached the public immediately, and the installation of Murtala Muhammed as Head of State and Obasanjo as his deputy without any military clashes. The public was reassured that the Federal Military Government remained in control and order would be maintained.
Motivations Behind the Coup
The coup plotters were primarily motivated by the delay in returning Nigeria to civilian rule, frustration with Gowon’s perceived indecision, and a desire for political reform. The officers sought a leadership capable of decisively setting Nigeria on a clear path to constitutional governance and stability.
Immediate Outcomes
Following the coup, Murtala Muhammed assumed power and began reforms to restructure government administration and the military hierarchy. Preparations for civilian governance were put on a defined timetable, paving the way for the Second Republic in 1979. Public reaction was largely calm due to the non-violent nature of the takeover. Muhammed’s reforms were cut short when he was assassinated in February 1976, and Obasanjo continued the transition to civilian rule.
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Legacy of the 1975 Coup
The 1975 coup remains a unique episode in Nigeria’s military history, demonstrating that regime change could be conducted peacefully. It reshaped the military hierarchy, accelerated reforms, and reinforced the importance of timely political transitions. The event also highlighted the military’s central role in national governance during periods of political uncertainty.
Author’s Note
The 1975 bloodless coup was a turning point in Nigeria’s history. It removed General Gowon while he was abroad, installed Murtala Muhammed and Olusegun Obasanjo, and showed that leadership change could be achieved without violence. Most importantly, it set Nigeria on a path toward constitutional reforms and civilian governance. This story demonstrates how decisive action and careful planning within the military can reshape a nation’s political course while maintaining public stability.
References
1975 Nigerian coup d’état, Wikipedia
Military coups in Nigeria, Wikipedia
“Why Yakubu Gowon was toppled”, Africa nationalism resource
