It was said that five Majors plotted the first coup in Nigeria and they are Chukwuma Kaduna Nzeogwu (leader), Emmanuel Ifeajuna, Adewale Ademoyega, Chris Anuforo and Timothy Onwuatuegwu.
Major Chukwuma Kaduna Nzeogwu was said to be the leader of the coup d'etat that overthrew a civilian government of Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa and Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe on 15 January, 1966. In the coup, many top first Republic politicians were assassinated among them were Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa (Prime Minister), Sir Ahmadu Bello (Premier Northern region), Samuel Ladoke Akintola (Premier Western region), Okotie Eboh(Finance of Minister) and many more.
He was born in Kaduna, in present-day North Western Nigeria, where his name Kaduna emanated from but he was from Okpanam town, in Delta State.
Images of Nzeogwu
Photos credited to Gettyimages
Major Emmanuel Ifeajuna was among the coup plotters of January, 1966, which resulted in the death of many politicians of first Republic. He was a Nigerian soldier and atlete, who hailed from Onitsha in present-day Anambra State.
Image of Emmanuel Ifeajuna
Photo credited to Gettyimages
Adewale Ademoyega was a major in Nigerian army who participated heavily in January, 1966 coup. He was born in present-day Ogun State of South West geopolitical zone of the federation. He authored a book titled "WHY WE STRUCK," the book revealed a lot about the first Military incursion into politics.
Image of Adewale Ademoyega
Photo credited to Gettyimages
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