Lt. Colonel Bukar Suka Dimka’s coup speech on Radio Nigeria, Lagos, February 13, 1976, after he assassinated and overthrew General Murtala Mohammed.
“Good morning, fellow Nigerians,
This is Lt. Col. B. Dimka of the Nigerian Army speaking. I bring you good tidings. Murtala Muhammed’s deficiencies have been identified.
His government has now been overthrown by young revolutionaries. All 19 military governors no longer have authority over the states they govern. The affairs of the states will be managed by military brigade commanders until further notice.
All commissioners are hereby dismissed, except the armed forces and police commissioners, who will be redeployed.
All senior military officers are to remain calm in their respective positions. No divisional commanders are to issue orders or instructions until further notice.
Any attempt to foil these plans from any quarter will be met with death. You are warned. It is all over the 19 states.
Any acts of looting or raids will be punished by death. Everyone should remain calm. Please stay tuned to your radio for further announcements.
All borders, airports, and seaports are closed until further notice. A curfew is imposed from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Thank you.”
