05/12/2025
I find it difficult to accept, but this is written by an Ibo professor — Prof. Ihechukwu Madubuike. It highlights why Hausas, Yorubas, Edo, and Niger Delta people may not trust the Ibo man at the center, and why Hausas may not want to relinquish power in Nigeria.
Historians, please feel free to verify this information without insults or character assassination.
*Forgotten History of Igbo Tribe and Northern Alliance*
Did you know that during Tafawa Balewa's tenure as Prime Minister:
- Key positions like Chief of Army Staff, Chief of Naval Staff, IG of Police, Chief of Defence Staff, Internal Affairs Minister, External Affairs Minister, Education Minister, and many others were held by people from the SE.
- Parliament President was from SE.
- Unilag VC was from SE.
- The University of Ibadan VC was from SE.
- The North resisted this at ABU.
Despite this, there was dissatisfaction from SE, and officers from the region killed Balewa.
Out of the most senior officers in Nigeria, SE had 37, none were killed. 8 from the North were all killed. 10 from the West, 2 were killed.
Ironsi imposed a unitary system of government, which led to further issues.
Understanding our history is crucial to making informed decisions and avoiding past mistakes. This is about facts, not tribalism.
The following are documented facts that can be cross-checked for authenticity.
*The Role of Igbo Elite in Nigeria's History*
Prof. Ben Nwabueze drafted the constitution that centralized power, taking it away from regions. His brother Aguiyi Ironsi's actions contributed to Nigeria's problems.
The Igbo people often blame other tribes and colonial powers for their situation, but their own elite played a significant role in Nigeria's woes.
*Early Nigerian History and the Struggle for Independence*
After the 1914 Amalgamation, Nigeria's future was uncertain. Leaders like Ahmadu Bello and Awolowo advocated for a federal system, while Nnamdi Azikiwe pushed for unity.
Anthony Enahoro proposed a secession clause in the constitution, but Azikiwe opposed it. Azikiwe's stance was supported by many Igbos, who believed they were destined to dominate Nigeria.
The 1914 Amalgamation was a pivotal moment in Nigerian history, marking the beginning of a complex and often contentious relationship between the various tribes and regions that make up the country.
*Key Events and Figures in Nigerian History*
- Ahmadu Bello described the 1914 Amalgamation as "the mistake of 1914" that could lead to bloodshed.
- Awolowo advocated for federalism and regional autonomy.
- Azikiwe denounced Awolowo and Ahmadu Bello as ethnic champions.
- Enahoro's proposal for a secession clause was opposed by Azikiwe.
- Azikiwe's actions were seen as promoting Igbo dominance.
The 1953 motion for independence, led by Anthony Enahoro, was a significant moment in Nigerian history. Enahoro's proposal for a secession clause was a bold attempt to ensure that the rights of minority groups were protected in the event of independence.
*The First Military Coup and Its Aftermath*
The first military coup was carried out by Igbo officers, leading to the killing of political leaders from other regions. Aguiyi Ironsi became the new military ruler, but his actions sowed the seeds for the Biafra War.
Isaac Adaka Boro declared the secession of the Niger Delta Republic, but was arrested and charged with treason. Ojukwu later declared the secession of Biafra, leading to conflict with the Nigerian government.
The coup was a traumatic event that had far-reaching consequences for Nigeria, leading to a period of instability and violence that would last for decades.
*The Aburi Accord and Its Implications*
The Aburi Accord was an agreement made by soldiers and civil servants, not elected representatives. It was not a legitimate law-making process and did not reflect the will of the people.
The accord was also inconsistent with the Independence Constitution, which was the first agreement between all Nigerians. The constitution established federalism and regional autonomy, but was later subverted by military rule.
The Aburi Accord remains a contentious issue in Nigerian history, with some seeing it as a necessary step towards peace and others viewing it as a flawed agreement that failed to address the underlying issues driving the conflict.
*The Legacy of Colonialism and Its Impact on Nigerian History*
The legacy of colonialism continues to shape Nigerian history, with many of the country's current challenges rooted in the decisions made by colonial powers.
The British colonial administration imposed a system of governance that was ill-suited to Nigeria's diverse cultural and linguistic landscape, leading to a legacy of conflict and division.
*The Role of Education in Shaping Nigerian History*
Education has played a significant role in shaping Nigerian history, with many of the country's leaders educated in Western-style institutions.
However, the education system has also been criticized for promoting a narrow and elitist view of Nigerian history, which has contributed to the country's ongoing challenges.
*Conclusion*
Understanding Nigeria's history is essential to addressing its current challenges. By examining the roles of various leaders and events, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of Nigerian history and work towards a more informed and nuanced understanding of the country's past and present.
Nigeria's history is complex and multifaceted, reflecting the country's diverse cultural and linguistic landscape. By studying this history, we can gain a deeper understanding of the challenges that Nigeria faces today and work towards a more peaceful and prosperous future.
