Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has reflected on the assassination of General Murtala Ramat Mohammed, describing it as a turning point for Nigeria’s military leadership.
According to a report by Nigerian Tribune on Thursday, February 12, 2026, speaking in Abuja at the Murtala Muhammed International Lecture and Leadership Conference, Obasanjo said he was present when Murtala was killed during the February 1976 coup. He explained that the tragic event forced the military government to confront serious weaknesses in the country’s security system. According to him, the assassination revealed dangerous negligence and led to a complete reorganisation of Nigeria’s security structure.
Obasanjo noted that some of the coup plotters were people who had been close to Murtala, including trusted associates. This made the incident even more shocking and painful. He said the experience taught the leadership the importance of strong institutions and proper safeguards rather than relying only on personal loyalty.
He also recalled the period after the civil war, explaining that disagreements within the Federal Government nearly weakened the country’s efforts. He said the leadership realised Nigeria first needed to stabilise its political structure before moving forward effectively.
Obasanjo described Murtala as a disciplined and patriotic leader who lived a simple life. He said the late Head of State avoided luxury and focused on serving the nation.
Reflecting on leadership, Obasanjo stated that Murtala’s greatest achievement was leaving behind a successor who could continue his vision. He admitted that later leaders, including himself, had struggled to do the same.
In his words, “When Murtala was assassinated, I was there. There was nothing left for me in the military government. We had given our best