Chapter 06 of 17

Discipline and Principle

Widespread despair over corruption and governance issues led to the bloodless overthrow of General Yakubu Gowon on July 29, 1975, bringing General Murtala Mohammed to power as Head of State. Known for his commitment to honesty and transparency, Mohammed gave Nigeria a new direction and announced a transition program to civilian rule by October 1, 1979. During this period, Shehu Yar'Adua was appointed Federal Commissioner of Transport, where he successfully reorganized and decongested the nation's ports and created a blueprint for the country's transport sector. Following the assassination of General Mohammed on February 13, 1976, after only six months in office, Lt. General Olusegun Obasanjo was sworn in as the new Head of State. Concurrently, Brigadier Shehu Yar'Adua was elevated to the position of Chief of Staff, Supreme Headquarters.

Shehu Musa Yar’Adua (first from left) being sworn in as Commissioner for Transport following his promotion to the rank of Brigadier General, with Generals Tunde Idiagbon, Murtala Mohammed, and Olusegun Obasanjo.

General Murtala Mohammed addressing the press shortly after assuming office as Head of State following the bloodless coup of 29 July 1975

Shehu Musa Yar’Adua (first from right) during a Federal Executive Council meeting as prayers were offered for General Murtala Mohammed following his assassination during the failed coup attempt of 13 February 1976

Shehu Musa Yar’Adua (last row, second from left) with other members of the Cabinet of General Murtala Mohammed’s Administration

Newspaper Publication Announcing the Assassination of General Murtala Mohammed Following the Failed Coup Attempt of 13 February 1976

Front Page of the New Nigerian Newspaper Reporting the Appointment of General Olusegun Obasanjo as Head of State and Brigadier Shehu Musa Yar’Adua as Chief of Staff, Supreme Headquarters, Following the Failed Coup Attempt of 13 February 1976