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As Nigeria grapples with rumors of a fresh military plot, BBC Pidgin examines the history of coup makers who shaped the nation's destiny, from Major Nzeogwu's 1966 revolution to Sani Abacha's 1993 palace takeover. This chronicle reveals how power seized by force often ended in tragedy, exile, or eventual democratic redemption for the nation.

Key Coup Plotters and Their Outcomes:
  • Chukwuma Nzeogwu (Jan 1966) – Died in battle during the Civil War after imprisonment and release by Biafran forces.
  • Murtala Muhammed (July 1966) – Became Head of State but was assassinated in another coup attempt in 1976.
  • Joseph Garba (July 1975) – Transitioned to diplomacy, becoming UN General Assembly President before he died in 2002.
  • Bukar Dimka (1976) – Executed by firing squad after a failed coup against Murtala Muhammed.
  • Ibrahim Babangida (1985) – Ruled for eight years, surviving multiple coup attempts before handing over in 1993.
  • Gideon Orkar (1990) – Executed after a failed attempt to overthrow Babangida.
  • Sani Abacha (1993) – Died in office in 1998, ending his military regime.
While Nigeria's democracy has held since 1999, recent investigations into military officers show the enduring legacy of these seismic power struggles.

Sources: BBC News Pidgin

Tags: Nigeria Coups, Military History,