Military governments have repeatedly reshaped Nigeria's political history since independence. From the 1966 first coup to subsequent takeovers, the armed forces have stepped into civilian affairs for a mix of political, social, and economic reasons. Understanding these causes is central to preventing the country from sliding back into military rule.
What Is Military Intervention in Politics?
Military intervention is a deliberate act by armed forces to intercede in political controversies without necessarily triggering war. In practical terms, the military takes political power away from a civilian government. Such intervention can happen in both totalitarian and democratic systems. It can also peacefully coexist with politics; in medieval Japan, the Emperor held nominal power while the Shogun, the supreme military commander, exercised real authority.
In some countries, criticising the military's political involvement is forbidden, and the armed forces may allocate leadership positions during an intervention. Military forces follow strict but democratic hierarchies, meaning officers must train and serve for years before rising through the ranks. The military also promotes its country's constitutional order and protects citizens and national resources from external and internal attacks.
10 Reasons for Military Intervention in Nigerian Politics
1. Unhealthy Rivalry Among the Major Tribes
A socially stable country is more likely to experience military coups when ethnic tensions remain unresolved. The Nigerian military promotes social cohesion through its barracks system, which houses officers and their families from different cultures, religions, and regions under one roof. According to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the army deserves commendation for promoting culture and social cohesion during the 2021 West African Social Activities (WASA) forum.
2. Corrupt Leadership
Corrupt leaders undermine policies and programmes aimed at reducing poverty. Because the military defends the people's interests, it can step in when civilians elect leaders widely seen as corrupt. Nigeria has long been ranked among Africa's most corrupt countries, leading observers to argue that military takeovers may be used to maintain political stability when civilian institutions fail.
3. Regional Political Differences
Regionalised parties and sharp political differences across Nigeria have also driven intervention. The government uses soldiers to enforce peace in volatile areas before, during, and after elections. In extreme cases, the military locks down entire states during electoral cycles. Although critics say such heavy deployment undermines civil liberties, more than 400 tribes in Nigeria continue to coexist peacefully despite the shifting political wave.
4. The Rise of Rebel Groups
Religious, political, and ethnic differences have given rise to groups such as Biafra separatists and Boko Haram insurgents. Extremist networks, including ISIS-inspired cells, and warlords with criminal networks add to the threat facing Nigeria's democracy. One of the military's top priorities, therefore, is to fight rebel groups and prevent them from destroying the state.
5. Authoritarianism
The military possesses massive resources and power to protect citizens from dictatorship and authoritarian overreach. It ensures that politicians respect the constitution and democratic leadership. In Nigeria, as in the United States, the younger generation of military officers increasingly values the rule of law, human rights, and democracy.
6. Foreign Complicity
Some foreign policy decisions made by politicians attract military intervention. When politicians initiate actions that create differences with other countries, the military can step in to build dialogue and facilitate communication between Nigerian leaders and foreign counterparts. Military intervention may also stop foreign powers from helping certain politicians rise to power.
7. Hegemony
Hegemony, or preponderant influence over others, is another trigger. The Nigerian military intervenes when a leader, political party, or social group tries to overpower its rivals. Like the United States, Nigeria's military has pushed for superpower parties and leaders to share the national cake rather than monopolise power.
8. Mismanagement of the Economy
Economic mismanagement has historically led the military to seize power. In 1966, Gen. Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi installed a military government and introduced a new constitution intended to unite the nation. Six months later, northern military officers killed him on July 29, 1966, and replaced him with Maj. Gen. Yakubu Gowon. After several coups, the military ended the oil war between Nigeria and Biafra in the early 1990s. The country's oil industry has since become the backbone of economic growth.
9. Tribalism and Nepotism
The Nigerian military once overthrew a civilian government because recruitment, appointments, and promotions in the civil service were based on tribal and family connections rather than merit. Nepotism and tribalism weakened state institutions and provided a justification for military takeover.
10. Electoral Malpractices and Rigging
Electoral fraud, vote buying, and rigging are massive threats to any democracy. Some soldiers have helped friends commit election fraud, while some politicians use the military to plan coups after losing elections. The military has also been accused of intervening when election outcomes are seen as illegitimate.
How to Prevent Military Intervention in Nigerian Politics
To stop future military takeovers, Nigeria must address the root causes. Some of the key measures include:
- Educating the public about the dangers of tribal politics through mass sensitisation campaigns.
- Implementing policies that punish corrupt leaders and deter financial crimes.
- Enacting laws that promote accountability and commitment among politicians.
- Developing strategies to curb electoral malpractices and rigging.
- Forbidding politicians from using armed forces to stage coups when they lose elections.
- Punishing soldiers who intervene in politics to favour their friends or networks.
- Allowing soldiers and civilians to share power, thereby preventing coups.
- Investing in military intelligence technologies and skilled personnel who can detect and report coup plots early.
Who Led the First Military Intervention in Nigeria?
The first Nigerian coup d'état was carried out in January 1966 by military officers including Lt. Colonel Murtala Muhammed, Chukwuma Kaduna Nzeogwu, and Emmanuel Ifeajuna. Twenty-two people died, including the Prime Minister of Nigeria, senior army officers and their wives, senior politicians, and sentinels on protective duty.
What Happens in a Military Coup and Why Do Interventions Happen?
A military coup occurs when a political faction, rebel group, military body, or dictator illegally takes control of a government and its powers. Military interventions happen to protect, defend, or rescue people from abuse by their government. More than one person, state, or organization can execute such interventions.
A thorough examination of the reasons for military intervention in Nigerian politics shows that the military has often claimed good intentions. It intervenes to stabilise the economy and promote peace in the country. However, the long-term solution rests on strengthening civilian institutions, tackling corruption, and ensuring free and fair elections.
