The first military coup in Nigeria toppled the government of?

A. General Yakubu Gowon
B. Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe
C. Alhaji Abubakar Tafewa Balewa
D. Major General Aguiyi-Ironsi

Correct Answer:

Option C – Alhaji Abubakar Tafewa Balewa

Explanation

The first military coup in Nigeria toppled the government of Alhaji Abubakar Tafewa Balewa.

Nigeria witnessed the first military coup in the early hours of 15th January, 1966. The coup was led by Major Chukwuma Nzeogwu and other majors in the then Nigerian Army. The coup ousted the civilian government of Alhaji Abubakar Balewa from power. The coup was bloody some key political leaders who were killed were as follows:

1. Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, the then Prime Minister of Nigeria.
2. Chief S.L. Akintola Premier of Western Region.
3. Chief Festus Okotie Eboh, the Minister for Finance.
4. Sir Ahmadu Bello, Premier of Northern Region and
5. Many top-ranking officers in the armed forces.