50 years after 1976 tragedy, military chiefs, family honour Col. Ibrahim Taiwo’s legacy

By Adeola Badru

Senior officers of the Nigerian Armed Forces, political leaders, and family members have paid tribute to the late Military Governor of Kwara State, Ibrahim Taiwo, describing him as a disciplined officer and visionary administrator whose legacy endures five decades after his assassination.

The Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, and the Chief of Army Staff, Waidi Shaibu, led tributes at a memorial remembrance in Ogbomosho, honouring the fallen officer whose life was cut short on February 13, 1976.

Col. Taiwo, popularly known as “No-Nonsense,” served as Military Governor of Kwara State until his assassination on the same day coup plotters led by Buka Suka Dimka killed then Head of State, Murtala Ramat Muhammed, in Lagos during a failed coup attempt.

Military Tributes

Represented by Major General Akinniyi Oyelade, the CDS described Taiwo as a man of courage, discipline, and foresight whose impact outlived his brief tenure.

“Colonel Ibrahim Taiwo belonged to that rare breed of officers who understood that leadership is not about authority alone, but about responsibility, integrity, and service to the people,” he said, noting that development initiatives he introduced in Kwara State remain evident.

Similarly, the COAS, represented by Major General Nansak Shagaya, described Taiwo as a gallant soldier and patriotic administrator whose loyalty to Nigeria was unquestionable.

“His courage was not loud, but firm; his leadership was not flamboyant, but effective. He served with honour and fell in the line of duty at a defining moment in our country’s history,” he said.

Family Remembers a Father and Mentor

Family members also reflected on Taiwo’s personal legacy. His son, Ahmed Taiwo, recalled that he was only ten years old when his father died, describing the loss as profound but the values he left behind as a guiding light.

“My father was a man of principle and quiet strength. Though I was just a child when he passed, the stories of his integrity and dedication to duty shaped my understanding of service and honour,” he said.

He added that the family takes pride in the continued respect accorded to Taiwo’s name, noting that his life symbolised integrity, purposeful leadership, and sacrifice for national unity.

Community, National Reflection

Community leaders described Taiwo as a distinguished son of Ogbomosho whose service brought pride to Oyo State and Nigeria at large.

Speakers at the remembrance noted that the most fitting tribute to the late military administrator lies in strengthening democratic institutions, promoting good governance, and fostering national unity.

As Nigeria reflects on the tragic events of February 1976, the memorial underscored the enduring impact of Col. Taiwo’s service and the sacrifices made by those who have served the nation.

The post 50 years after 1976 tragedy, military chiefs, family honour Col. Ibrahim Taiwo’s legacy appeared first on Vanguard News.