Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi
Nigerian General and Head of State

Born
1924
101 years ago
Died
July 29th, 1966
59 years ago — 42 years old
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
Nigeria
Links & References
A Nigerian military officer and politician, served as the second Head of State of Nigeria from January 1966 until his assassination in July 1966. He came to power following a coup, aiming to stabilize the political environment in Nigeria after the tumultuous first republic. His administration focused on national unity and attempted to consolidate power amidst ethnic tensions. Aguiyi-Ironsi implemented a controversial unification decree in 1966 aimed at creating a more centralized government. His leadership style was characterized by military governance, which included the suppression of opposition. The period of his rule was marked by instability, leading to another coup that resulted in his death.
Served as the 2nd Head of State of Nigeria
Implemented the unification decree in 1966
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