Tinubu, Army Chief, and Dignitaries Honour General Murtala Muhammed on 50th Anniversary

Tinubu, Army Chief, and Dignitaries Honour General Murtala Muhammed on 50th Anniversary

Abuja, Nigeria – Senior government officials, military leaders, and diplomatic representatives gathered in Abuja on Friday to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the assassination of Nigeria’s former Head of State, General Murtala Muhammed. The solemn event featured a wreath-laying ceremony and a Juma’at service, honoring the legacy of the late leader.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, led the tribute alongside the Chief of Army Staff, Maj. General Waidi Shaibu, represented by the Chief of Administration, Nigeria Army, Major General Isah Mahadi Abdullahi, and a host of other dignitaries at the Abuja Geographic Information Systems (AGIS), Central Business District, Garki.

The ceremony also included a delegation representing the President of Angola, Joao Lourenco, led by his Special Envoy, Dr. Dionisio Manuel Da Fonseca, as well as members of the diplomatic corps and Nigerian political leaders. A minute of silence was observed before the laying of wreaths, creating a reflective atmosphere for the occasion.

Speaking on behalf of the Muhammed family, Risqua Muhammed, son of the late General, described his father as “an unrelenting patriot who believed Nigeria could be stronger than the divisions that hold us back.” He emphasized that his father’s short tenure of 200 days did not diminish the impact of his leadership, stating: “What matters is not how long you stay in office, but what you do and how your legacy affects the lives of others.”

Representing the Nigerian Army, the Military Secretary, Major General Evaristus Okoro, praised General Muhammed as a “soldier-statesman whose legacy continues to challenge institutions to uphold professionalism and accountability.” He added, “Remembrance must translate into responsibility. This tribute is an opportunity for us to recommit to disciplined service, national unity, and leadership that places country above self.”

The commemoration concluded with a special Juma’at prayer service at the Abuja National Mosque, attended by clerics, government officials, members of the Muhammed family, and invited guests, praying for the repose of the late Head of State and for national unity.