Murtala Muhammed's Daughter Reveals Factors Behind His Assassination

Aisha Muhammed, the daughter of Nigeria's former Head of State, Murtala Muhammed, spoke about her father's assassination during an interview on the Arise News Morning Show. She highlighted that her father's leadership style, embodying values like discipline and anti-corruption, contributed to his vulnerability.

Murtala Muhammed deliberately rejected heavy security details and insisted on living like an average Nigerian, which ultimately made him an easy target for assassination on February 13, 1976. Aisha also mentioned that despite Murtala Muhammed's bloodless coup in July 1975, overthrowing General Yakubu Gowon, he was assassinated just six months later during a failed coup.

His administration introduced sweeping reforms, including the dismissal of 10,000 allegedly corrupt public officials and the creation of seven new states. Aisha revealed that her father's assassination occurred while he was traveling in traffic, showcasing his commitment to being close to the Nigerian people.

The incident led to the initiation of the process to relocate Nigeria's capital from Lagos to Abuja.