Former Senator Shehu Sani, who represented Kaduna Central in the 8th National Assembly, has stated that Nigeria continues to suffer from the aftermath of the assassination of Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto, and other prominent figures in 1966.
Bello, the first and only Premier of Northern Nigeria, played a pivotal role in the country’s political landscape until his brutal assassination during Nigeria’s first military coup in January 1966. His death, alongside other leaders, marked a turning point in the nation’s history.
In a social media post on Wednesday, Sani described the events of 1966 as the “seed of evil” that still casts a long shadow over the country.
“For those of us in Kaduna, where the late Premier of Northern Nigeria lived, led, and was brutally murdered, we still cannot trace any house, vehicle, or company in his name or associated with his family,” Sani wrote.
He emphasized Bello’s selfless service to the people, noting that despite his significant contributions to the region and the nation, the late premier died without material wealth.
“After his death, his personal belongings were taken to his family home in Sokoto. The Sardauna dedicated his life to his people and his country but passed away as a materially poor man,” Sani added.
Reflecting on the tragic coup, Sani concluded, “His murder and that of others in 1966 planted a seed of evil that continues to haunt our country. May the souls of all the victims of the 1966 coup rest in peace. Ameen.”
