13th February, 2022
Aisha Muhammed-Oyebode has said her father, late Head of State, General Murtala Muhammed’s legacy has continued to endure 46 years after his death.
Murtala Muhammed was killed on 13 February, 1976 in a bloody coup.
Celebrating his legacy, the Murtala Muhammed Foundation (MMF) founded by Muhammed-Oyebode paid tribute to the late Head of State.
According to Muhammed-Oyebode, as the country remembers the former Head of State of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1975 -1976) Late General Murtala Ramat Muhammed, his legacy remained strong in the hearts and minds of the Nigerian people.
“On the fateful day, 13 February 1976, the late former Nigerian leader was assassinated, ending abruptly the era of a Pan-Africanist,” she said.
Muhammed-Oyebode, in a release, commemorating the 46th anniversary of his death on Sunday, said the name Murtala Muhammed had become synonymous with a fierce and committed-‘ leader, who stood tall in his belief that Nigeria is endowed with the resources necessary to develop and serve as a beacon and shining light for the rest of Africa.
“During his brief tenure in power, the late General’s administration prevailed in the fight against corruption and indiscipline, while also establishing the institutions that would ensure sustainable peace and security within Nigeria’s borders.
“His administration began the process of relocating the federal capital to Abuja, tackled government inefficiencies, and, most crucially, initiated the process for a return to civilian rule.
“Under his leadership African diplomacy reached a zenith with the anti apartheid struggle, a period that could be regarded as Africa’s golden age of global diplomacy.
“He was no doubt a firm believer in a peaceful and united and strong Nigeria within an integrated and prosperous Africa,” she stated.
As a tribute to the late leader, she noted that the Murtala Muhammed Foundation, which was founded 20 years ago, had achieved significant success in accordance with his philosophy.
“At the MMF, we are proud without being immodest to say that 46 years after his death, Nigerians continue to mourn late Murtala Muhammed,” she added.
Muhammed-Oyebode said the Foundation itself continued to be recognised as a trailblazer and pioneer in interventions that promote democracy, human rights, education, women empowerment and service to undeserved communities across the Nation.
She urged Nigerians to use this year’s remembrance day of his assassination to reflect on the legacy of the late leader and his vision for Nigeria and as a source of introspection in order to continue to implement his legacies and to continue to support the country Nigeria with prayers.