Emir of Kano Reveals Where He Was During Murtala Mohammed’s Assassination
Emir of Kano Muhammed Sanusi II shares personal memories of Nigeria’s former Head of State
A Personal Account of Nigeria’s Darkest Day
In a rare and poignant revelation, His Royal Highness Muhammad Sanusi II, the Emir of Kano, has shared his personal whereabouts during one of Nigeria’s most traumatic historical moments – the assassination of former Head of State General Murtala Mohammed.
The Fateful Day: February 13, 1976
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today program, the former Central Bank Governor disclosed that he was a student at Kings College in Lagos when the military leader was brutally murdered in an attempted coup led by Lieutenant Colonel Bukar Suka Dimka.
“I was in Kings College and he was my Guardian at the time he was sadly assassinated by Dimka,” Sanusi revealed, painting a vivid picture of that turbulent period in Nigeria’s history.
Family Ties and Personal Memories
The Emir explained his close familial connection to the late Head of State, describing Murtala Mohammed as his uncle through his great uncle Alhaji Inuwa Wada. This relationship meant young Sanusi had unique access to the private side of the famously stern military leader.
“We grew up as children knowing him as our uncle Kawu Murtala,” Sanusi recalled, using the affectionate nickname. “When in 1973 I came to Lagos, Kings College, naturally, he was my guardian.”
Behind the Public Persona
Contrary to Murtala’s public image as a no-nonsense military ruler, Sanusi painted a portrait of a warm family man with a surprising sense of humor.
“I knew him to be a very kind man,” the Emir reflected. “It’s interesting he has this image of a very strong, tough man outside. He was quite gentle and humorous.”
Sanusi shared intimate details of their family interactions: “I did have a close personal relationship growing up in his house, spending every weekend from Kings College, spending midterms, and some days of the holidays with his children. I’m part of that family.”
Legacy of a Fallen Leader
Nearly five decades after the assassination that shocked the nation, Sanusi’s personal testimony offers historians and Nigerians alike a rare glimpse into the human side of one of Nigeria’s most consequential leaders.
Murtala Mohammed’s brief 200-day reign as Head of State (July 1975 – February 1976) left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s political landscape. His anti-corruption stance and push for civil service reforms earned him both admiration and enemies.
The Historical Context
The February 1976 coup attempt that claimed Murtala’s life occurred during morning rush hour in Lagos’ infamous Ikoyi traffic. The assassination plunged the nation into mourning and led to a brutal crackdown on the conspirators.
Sanusi’s account provides valuable context about where key figures were during this pivotal moment. As a young student under Murtala’s guardianship at one of Nigeria’s most prestigious schools, his perspective bridges the personal and political dimensions of this national tragedy.
Preserving Historical Memory
By sharing these memories, the Emir contributes to the ongoing documentation of Nigeria’s complex political history. Firsthand accounts from credible witnesses like Sanusi help combat historical revisionism and keep the nation’s collective memory alive.
As Nigeria continues to grapple with questions of governance and leadership, reflections on figures like Murtala Mohammed – their strengths, flaws, and ultimate sacrifices – remain profoundly relevant to contemporary political discourse.
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