The assassination of General Murtala Ramat Muhammed on 13 February 1976 marked a turning point in Nigeria’s history. It propelled Olusegun Obasanjo from his position as Chief of Staff, Supreme Headquarters, into the nation’s highest office, setting the stage for a period of stability and a smooth transition to civilian rule.
The Assassination That Changed History
Early in the morning of 13 February 1976, a faction of military officers led by Lieutenant Colonel Buka Suka Dimka attempted a coup. In the attack, General Murtala Muhammed was killed while driving in Lagos. The coup quickly collapsed as loyalist forces regained control. Obasanjo, serving as deputy to Muhammed, narrowly escaped assassination. The sudden loss of the head of state created an urgent need for stable leadership.
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Obasanjo’s Appointment as Head of State
Following Muhammed’s assassination, the Supreme Military Council convened to appoint a successor. Despite initial reluctance, Obasanjo accepted the role after persuasion from senior military officers. His appointment ensured continuity in governance and prevented potential chaos during a critical period in Nigeria’s history.
Continuing Muhammed’s Vision
Obasanjo’s tenure focused on executing the transition program initiated by Muhammed. He oversaw reforms in public administration, mobilized the civil service, and maintained the timeline for returning Nigeria to civilian rule. A Constituent Assembly drafted the new constitution in 1977, leading to elections and the eventual inauguration of President Shehu Shagari on 1 October 1979.
A Landmark Transition in Nigerian History
By voluntarily relinquishing power to an elected civilian administration, Obasanjo became the first Nigerian military leader to hand over authority peacefully. This act distinguished his leadership from that of many other military rulers in Nigeria and established a precedent for future transitions.
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Legacy and Takeaways
Obasanjo’s rise after an assassination demonstrates the critical role of institutional continuity and disciplined leadership during times of national crisis. His tenure ensured stability, maintained reform momentum, and successfully executed the country’s return to civilian governance. For Nigeria, this period highlights how sudden tragedy can give rise to leadership grounded in responsibility, foresight, and commitment to national interest.
Author’s Note
This article highlights the circumstances surrounding Olusegun Obasanjo’s ascension after General Murtala Muhammed’s assassination. Readers gain insight into how he became Head of State, continued Muhammed’s transition programs, and facilitated Nigeria’s peaceful return to civilian rule. The story demonstrates how leadership can emerge from unexpected events and the importance of institutional stability in times of crisis.
References
Falola, T., & Heaton, M. M. A History of Nigeria. Cambridge University Press, 2008.
Sklar, R. L. Nigerian Political Parties: Power in an Emergent African Nation. Princeton University Press, 1963.
Dailypost.ng, Obasanjo Recalls Becoming Head of State After Murtala Muhammed’s Assassination
Eces.eu, Olusegun Obasanjo
