Former Kaduna Central Senator, Shehu Sani, has stated that Nigeria is yet to recover from the tragic assassination of Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Premier of Northern Nigeria, during the 1966 military coup. In a heartfelt social media post on Wednesday, Sani described the event as a pivotal moment that sowed “the seed of evil” which continues to plague the nation.
Sani lauded Bello, popularly known as the Sardauna of Sokoto, for his selfless leadership and commitment to his people. He emphasized that despite his stature and influence, Bello lived and died without material wealth.
“For those of us in Kaduna where the late Premier of Northern Nigeria lived, led, and was brutally murdered, we couldn’t yet find any house, vehicle, or company traced to his name or any of his family members,” Sani shared.
He further revealed that after Bello’s assassination, his personal belongings were transported to his family home in Sokoto, underscoring his life of simplicity and service.
“The late Sardauna did everything for his people and his country and died a materially poor man,” Sani noted.
Reflecting on the 1966 coup that claimed the lives of Bello and several others, Sani remarked, “His murder and that of others in 1966 was the seed of evil that continues to haunt our country. May the souls of all the victims of the 1966 coup rest in peace. Ameen.”
Sir Ahmadu Bello, a towering figure in Nigerian politics, served as the Northern Region’s first and only Premier from 1954 until his assassination. His influence and legacy continue to resonate across the country, with many remembering him as a leader who prioritized the welfare of his people above personal gain.
The 1966 coup, a dark chapter in Nigeria’s history, remains a poignant reminder of the country’s challenges in achieving unity and stability.
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