Former Nigerian Senator and renowned activist, Shehu Sani, has expressed his continued concern over the lingering trauma caused by the brutal killings of prominent Nigerian leaders, including the Northern Nigerian Premier, Sir Ahmadu Bello, in the aftermath of the January 1966 coup. Speaking at an event commemorating the tragic loss, Sani highlighted how the bloody events of that time continue to shape the socio-political landscape of the country, decades after the incident.
The January 1966 coup, led by young military officers, resulted in the assassination of Sir Ahmadu Bello, the then Premier of Northern Nigeria, alongside other key figures such as General Aguiyi-Ironsi, Nigeria's first military Head of State, and other prominent political leaders. These tragic killings plunged Nigeria into a cycle of instability and violence, further complicating the nation's path to unity and peace.
Sani, who has long been an advocate for national reconciliation, stated that "the wounds of the past, particularly the brutal murder of Sir Ahmadu Bello and his peers, continue to haunt Nigeria. The national trauma from that period has left deep scars in our collective memory, and it is a reminder of the need for a united and peaceful country, free from the divisive forces of violence and hate."
He further emphasized the importance of remembering these events as a critical part of Nigeria's history. "We must acknowledge the pain and the loss suffered by families, communities, and the nation as a whole," Sani noted. "But it is equally important to focus on healing, fostering dialogue, and working towards a more inclusive and prosperous future for all Nigerians."
The statement came as part of ongoing discussions on the need for national healing and the rebuilding of trust among Nigeria’s diverse ethnic and regional groups. Sani urged government leaders, civil society organizations, and ordinary Nigerians to reflect on the lessons from the past, and work toward creating a country where all citizens feel valued and united.