By Jide Ajani, General Editor
“Fellow Nigerians.
“Events of the past few years have indicated that despite our great human and material resources, the Government has not been able to fulfil the legitimate expectations of our people. Nigeria has been left to drift.
This situation, if not arrested, would inevitably have resulted in chaos and even bloodshed.
“In the endeavour to build a strong, united and virile nation, Nigerians have shed much blood. The thought of further bloodshed, for whatever reasons must, I am sure, be revolting to our people.
The Armed Forces, having examined the situation, came to the conclusion that certain changes were inevitable.
“After the civil war, the affairs of State, hitherto a collective responsibility, became characterised by lack of consultation, indecision, indiscipline and even neglect.
Indeed, the public at large became disillusioned and disappointed by these developments.
“Fellow Countrymen, the task ahead of us calls for sacrifice and self-discipline at all levels of our society.
This government will not tolerate indiscipline. The Government will not condone abuse of office.
“I appeal to you all to cooperate with the Government in our endeavour to give this nation a new lease of life. This change of Government has been accomplished without shedding any blood, and we intend to keep it so.
“Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
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