On 29 July 1975, Nigeria experienced one of the most remarkable political shifts in its post‑independence history, a bloodless coup d’état that removed General Yakubu Gowon from power and replaced him with Brigadier Murtala Muhammed. Unlike earlier coups marked by violence, this transition unfolded peacefully and reshaped the nation’s governance and expectations for democratic progress.
Gowon’s Leadership and Mounting Frustration
General Yakubu Gowon rose to power in 1966 amid political instability and led Nigeria through the Civil War (1967–1970), keeping the country intact and promoting post-war reconciliation.
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By the mid-1970s, Nigeria underwent dramatic changes. The economy grew rapidly due to oil revenue, but concerns about corruption, weak public services, and bloated government spending were mounting. The most intense frustration within the army stemmed from Gowon’s postponement of the planned 1976 hand-over to civilian governance, leaving no new timetable for transition. Many junior and mid-ranking officers, eager for political renewal, viewed this as a breaking point.
Planning a Coup Without Conflict
A group of younger and mid-level military officers decided a leadership change was necessary. Among the key officers were Colonel Joseph Nanven Garba, Colonel Anthony Ochefu, Colonel Abdullahi Mohammed, Colonel Shehu Musa Yar’Adua, Colonel Muhammadu Buhari, and Lieutenant Colonel Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida.
They chose Murtala Muhammed as the new head of state due to his respect, charisma, and ability to rally support. Garba’s position as commander of the Brigade of Guards allowed access to communication hubs and the platform to broadcast the coup message.
The Coup That Didn’t Spill Blood
In the early hours of 29 July 1975, while Gowon was attending an Organization of African Unity summit in Kampala, Uganda, soldiers loyal to the conspirators secured key military and communication facilities in Lagos. There were no battles or civilian casualties.
At 6:00 a.m., Colonel Garba broadcast on Radio Nigeria that Gowon had been removed as head of state, urging citizens to remain peaceful. With communications under control and no resistance from loyalist forces, the transition happened swiftly and peacefully.
Gowon’s Departure and New Leadership
Gowon left for Togo briefly, then traveled to the United Kingdom for further education. He did not attempt to counter the coup, leaving the new government to take full control.
Once in power, Murtala Muhammed initiated administrative reforms, dismissing officials perceived as corrupt, streamlining government operations, and preparing for a return to civilian governance. He established a clearer timetable for political transition than Gowon had provided.
Reform, Reaction, and Legacy
Murtala’s leadership energized Nigerians weary of prolonged military rule. Reforms revitalized the civil service and military administration. Though Murtala was assassinated in 1976, the reforms he initiated and the democratic transition he began continued under Olusegun Obasanjo, culminating in the Second Republic in 1979.
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The bloodless nature of the 1975 coup demonstrated that even military interventions could occur without violence, maintaining stability while reshaping governance. It remains a pivotal event in Nigeria’s political history, highlighting the importance of leadership accountability and orderly transitions.
The peaceful removal of Gowon in 1975 recalibrated Nigeria’s expectations for governance and political renewal. It showed that leadership change can happen with discipline, foresight, and respect for stability, leaving a lasting legacy on the nation’s political culture.
Author’s Note
This article recounts the bloodless removal of General Yakubu Gowon in July 1975, highlighting how Nigeria’s leadership changed without violence. It details Gowon’s extended rule, the frustrations that sparked the coup, the coordinated planning by junior officers, the peaceful execution while Gowon was abroad, and the swift reforms introduced by Murtala Muhammed. The takeaway is that even in times of political upheaval, transitions can occur with order, discipline, and respect for stability, setting the stage for democratic progress.
References
Toyin Falola and Matthew M. Heaton
Nigeria’s Military Coup Culture (1966–1976), Max Siollun
Nigeria’s Post‑Civil War Politics 1970–1990, Adekeye Adebajo
Background to Nationalism, James S. Coleman
