Nigeria’s Past Coup: Lessons We Must Heed Today

In 1966, Nigeria faced deep political instability. Rigged elections and ethnic tensions led to violent riots in the Western Region. Young army majors saw corruption and regional imbalance as a threat to national unity. On January 15, 1966, those officers seized power. They assassinated several leading politicians. The coup’s aftermath placed Major General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi in control and left many Nigerians divided. Today, our politicians repeat old mistakes. Most citizens lack knowledge of these events to demand accountability. We must study our history—through reliable sources—to prevent the same suffering from recurring.

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