The Military in Nigerian Politics

1. Introduction

Since independence in 1960, Nigeria has experienced several periods of military intervention in its political landscape. The first coup occurred on January 15, 1966, ending the First Republic. Military rule in Nigeria is characterized by the suspension of the constitution and the use of decrees.

2. Factors that Led to Military Intervention

Several factors contributed to the military's decision to seize power from civilian governments:

• Political Instability: The First Republic was plagued by crises like the 1962/63 Census Crisis and the 1964 General Election crisis.
• Widespread Corruption: Allegations of embezzlement and nepotism among civilian politicians.
• Tribalism and Sectionalism: Political parties were largely based on ethnic lines (NPC for North, AG for West, NCNC for East), leading to friction.
• The 1965 Western Region Crisis (Operation Wetie): Violence and breakdown of law and order following disputed regional elections.
• Personal Ambitions: In some cases, military officers sought power for personal or group interests.

3. Structure of Military Regimes

Military governments are hierarchical and centralized. Key features include:

• The Supreme Body: Known variously as the Supreme Military Council (SMC) under Gowon/Murtala/Buhari, the Armed Forces Ruling Council (AFRC) under Babangida, and the Provisional Ruling Council (PRC) under Abacha/Abubakar.
• The Executive: The Head of State or President (Military) holds supreme power.
• The States: Led by Military Governors or Administrators appointed by the Head of State.
• Fusion of Powers: The military exercises both executive and legislative powers. The judiciary remains but is often limited by 'Ouster Clauses' in decrees.

4. Impact of Military Rule

A. Political Impact

• Unification Decree No. 34 (1966): Promulgated by Aguiyi-Ironsi, it attempted to turn Nigeria into a unitary state.
• Creation of States: Military regimes changed Nigeria from 4 regions to 12 states (1967), 19 states (1976), 21 states (1987), 30 states (1991), and 36 states (1996).
• Centralization: More power was concentrated at the federal level, weakening the federal character of the nation.

B. Economic Impact

• Indigenization Policy (1972/1977): Aimed at giving Nigerians control over the economy.
• Structural Adjustment Program (SAP): Introduced by Babangida in 1986 to reform the economy amidst falling oil prices.
• Infrastructure: Construction of major highways, refineries, and the development of Abuja as the Federal Capital Territory.

5. Processes of Military Disengagement

Military withdrawal from politics usually involves a planned transition program, which includes:

• Setting up a Constitution Drafting Committee (CDC).
• Formation of a Constituent Assembly to deliberate on the constitution.
• Lifting the ban on political activities and registration of political parties.
• Conducting elections at local, state, and federal levels.
• Handover of power to a democratically elected president (e.g., Oct 1, 1979, and May 29, 1999).