A rare eyewitness account has shed new light on the tragic assassination of Nigeria's former Head of State, General Murtala Muhammed, revealing he did not die immediately after the initial gunfire.
In an emotional interview published by Daily Trust on Friday, February 12, 2016, Master Warrant Officer Michael Otuwe (rtd), who served as Murtala’s orderly, recounted in vivid detail the harrowing events of that day – February 13, 1976.
According to Otuwe, Murtala had just ruled for six months following his takeover from General Yakubu Gowon. Known for his humility and disciplined lifestyle, Murtala often travelled without the heavy security detail typical of military leaders.
“On that fateful day, we were passing through Alagbon Junction, and the traffic officer failed to recognize the official flags on the car. Suddenly, men dressed in flowing agbada garments pulled out AK-47 rifles and opened fire. The driver, Sergeant Adamu Michika, was shot in the head. I fell over him for cover,” Otuwe recalled tearfully.
He described how both the General and his ADC took cover as the ambush unfolded. The assassins, initially believing their mission was complete, moved toward the National Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) to announce the coup. However, upon spotting movement from the ADC trying to assist the General, one of the plotters realized they were still alive.
“They turned back and finished the job, spraying bullets into the vehicle. I was the only one who survived, though I was badly wounded in the arm and hip,” Otuwe said.
In a dramatic twist, Otuwe was mistakenly taken to the mortuary alongside the General and others. Hours later, he regained consciousness.
“I woke up in the mortuary, the cold breeze and pain jolted me. A mortuary attendant noticed my hand move and alerted a doctor. That’s how I was saved.”
His account offers a chilling yet heroic insight into one of Nigeria’s darkest political tragedies, confirming that General Murtala Muhammed, revered by many, clung to life briefly after the ambush.