13th February, 2016
On February 13 1976, Nigeria’s then head of state, General Murtala Ramat Muhammed was assassinated as military ruler barely a year in charge as the number one citizen of Nigeria.
Forty years on, Nigerian’s react to the passing of Murtala Muhammed with mixed feelings. While some have chosen to laud his efforts, others have condemned him.
In remembrance and honour of Muhammed, Nigeria named its popular airport in Lagos after him. He also graces one of Nigeria’s currency, the 20 naira note.
He has many streets named after him as well.
Here are some responses from Twitter:
General Murtala Mohammed was assassinated 40 years ago today. pic.twitter.com/d4JhZabXGZ
— BennyCapricorn (@BennyCapricorn) February 13, 2016
@benmurraybruce Murtala Mohammed was the best head of state Nigeria ever had, pity he was killed by external influence
— Usulor Shedrach (@KasonShed) February 13, 2016
Murtala Mohammed died 40 years ago today. He was responsible for the Asaba Massacre
He has memorials to honor his legacy, his victims don't
— Onye Nkuzi (@cchukudebelu) February 13, 2016
I still don't understand why Gen. Murtala Mohammed's face is on a currency note and Gowon's is not.
Is there… https://t.co/U3PRVzInWm
— Ross Alabo-George (@imaginasion1) February 13, 2016
Britain's M15 and American CIA stood against Murtala Mohammed. The Dimka coup that killed him was backed by Britain. pic.twitter.com/x6dWB4u7XC
— Arafrika Sankara (@arafrika) February 13, 2016
Within the short period that Murtala Mohammed ruled, Nigeria enjoyed relative peace and Nigerians lived in abundance
— M.kabir Salim Babajo (@SalymBabajo) February 13, 2016
@imaginasion1 Gowon misused the chance given to him and allow his selfish interest to derailed him from path of honour. Murtala Mohammed
— Sabiu Zaranda (@Binzaranda) February 13, 2016
I don't quite understand how Murtala Mohammed is a Nigerian hero
— Tedochie, Mosby (@Mr_Svengali) February 13, 2016
I remember Murtala Mohammed for the asaba massacre,No peace for nigeria since then #progrom #biafra
— Uche Kennedy (@uchekennedy_) February 13, 2016
can stil rememb dat Murtala Mohammed basin my ma used 2have, too bad we don't hav it anymor bt 20naira wil stil keep his memories in ourhrts
— JOANAH MATTHEWS (@Joanah_Matthew) February 13, 2016
40 yrs in our mind ! Nigerians love and celebrate you Murtala Mohammed . God bls ur soul . R.I.P
— FrEnZy ! (@FrenzyMichaels) February 13, 2016
For me after Abdulsalm Abubarkar, then "Murtala Mohammed"These were the best 2 head of states Nigeria ever had!
— Honorable sounds (@Iceberg_Kel) February 13, 2016