Remembering Murtala Muhammed Five Decades After

By Richard Odusanya

Murtala Muhammed is remembered as a national hero whose life was tragically cut short, yet he left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s developmental trajectory.

Let us reflect on the words of his amiable daughter, Aisha Muhammed-Oyebode, who recently noted: “My father’s simplicity led to his assassination.”

Reflecting on Another Year of Life
As I recall my fourteenth birthday on February 13, 1976, the memories are bittersweet. The day began with the excitement of a birthday but was overshadowed by a profoundly turbulent moment in Nigerian history: the assassination of Nigeria’s Head of State, General Murtala Muhammed, in a failed coup attempt in Lagos. For a fourteen-year-old, the mix of personal joy and national sorrow was unforgettable.

A Transformative Leader
Murtala Muhammed’s brief tenure as Head of State was transformative. Known for his 200-day, action-oriented, and anti-corruption rule, he championed Angola’s independence, initiated the creation of Nigeria’s new capital, Abuja, and created seven additional states. His legacy of simplicity in governance and decisive action was abruptly ended on February 13, 1976.

Even in his short time in office, he initiated critical changes:

• Commencing the process of relocating the federal capital to Abuja
• Addressing government inefficiency
• Laying the groundwork for a return to civilian rule

Lessons for Political Leaders and Nigeria’s Future
Murtala Muhammed lived a life of sacrifice. From his example, political gladiators and leaders can draw key lessons to foster better governance and national development:

1. Shift from Self-Interest to Public Service
   • Prioritize the Masses: Leadership must focus on citizens’ needs over personal gain.
   • Avoid “Godfatherism” and Corruption: Recycling leaders and reliance on political godfathers hinders development and perpetuates corruption.
   • End Impunity: Political office should not be a tool for personal enrichment.
2. Embrace Integrity, Accountability, and Ethics
   • Accountability is Non-Negotiable: Leaders must own their actions and failures.
   • Accept Correction: Constructive criticism is essential for growth.
   • Eschew Politics of Bitterness: Campaigns should focus on policies, not personal attacks, hate speech, or ethnic sentiments.
3. Foster Inclusivity and Human Capital Development
   • Empower the Youth: Engage youth in governance rather than using them for violence or electioneering.
   • Involve Technocrats: Collaborate with experts to improve service delivery.
   • Respect the Rule of Law: Leaders must operate within constitutional boundaries.
4. Strategic and Visionary Leadership
   • Clear Vision and Goal-Setting: Leaders must inspire and mobilize the nation towards development.
   • Manage Conflict: Act as unifiers to prevent crises that impede growth.
   • Adaptability: Be flexible and capable of navigating changing landscapes to effect positive change.

In Conclusion
As we remember General Murtala Muhammed, I stand in solidarity with his immediate family, particularly our matriarch, Chief (Mrs) Hafsatu Ajoke Muhammed, my brother Abba (Risqua) Abba Muhammed, and our dear sister, Aisha Muhammed-Oyebode.

Citizen Richard Odusanya
Public Affairs Enthusiast and Good Governance Advocate
odusanyagold@gmail.com

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