Historical Events tagged with "nigeria"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Crime & Law

Yelwa Massacre and Subsequent Violence

May 2nd, 2004 20 years ago

Tensions in Yelwa, Nigeria escalated dramatically when armed Muslims attacked the Christian community, resulting in the deaths of 78 individuals. This violent act sparked retaliatory violence where around 630 Muslims were subsequently killed by Christians in response to the initial assault. The events reflect deep-seated ethnic and religious tensions in Nigeria.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Deadly Explosion in Lagos Military Facility

January 27th, 2002 23 years ago

An explosion at a military storage facility in Lagos, Nigeria, caused widespread devastation, resulting in the deaths of at least 1,100 people and displacing over 20,000. The blast was attributed to the mishandling of munitions in the facility. The incident highlighted issues of safety and management within Nigeria's military operations and raised concerns among the local population about the risk of similar occurrences in the future.

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Politics & Government

Olusegun Obasanjo Becomes President of Nigeria

May 29th, 1999 25 years ago

Olusegun Obasanjo was inaugurated as President of Nigeria, marking the transition to democratic rule after 16 years of military governance. The ceremony took place in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, as thousands gathered to witness this significant political milestone. Obasanjo, a former military ruler himself, promised to foster unity and development in a nation troubled by corruption and ethnic divisions. His election was seen as a turning point, embracing a new era of civilian administration and democratic governance.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Nigeria Airways Flight 357 Crashes in Kaduna

November 13th, 1995 29 years ago

Nigeria Airways Flight 357 experienced a crash while attempting to land at Kaduna International Airport. The aircraft, a McDonnell Douglas DC-9, faced difficulties due to challenging weather conditions, leading to its unfortunate accident. Emergency response teams quickly mobilized to the site of the crash, resulting in the loss of 11 lives and 66 injuries among the survivors. The incident raised concerns regarding aviation safety in Nigeria amid the growing airline industry.

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Politics & Government

General Sani Abacha Overthrows Ernest Shonekan

November 17th, 1993 31 years ago

In Nigeria, General Sani Abacha led a military coup that resulted in the ousting of President Ernest Shonekan from power. The coup was characterized by its swift execution and the establishment of a military regime which sought to restore order in the country amid political instability and public discontent. Abacha's takeover was against the backdrop of an attempt at democratic governance led by Shonekan, who had been in power for only a few months following a protracted period of military rule and a struggle for democracy.

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Politics & Government

Nigeria's 1993 Presidential Election Results Annulled

June 12th, 1993 31 years ago

The June 1993 presidential election in Nigeria saw Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola emerge victorious, gaining widespread support from the populace. However, the results were annulled by the military regime of Ibrahim Babangida, a decision that sparked widespread protests and heightened political tension in the country. This annulment was seen as a significant blow to democratic processes in Nigeria and drew international condemnation, affecting the political landscape for years to come.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Nigerian Hercules Plane Crash in Lagos

September 26th, 1992 32 years ago

A Lockheed C-130 Hercules operated by the Nigerian Air Force crashed in Ejigbo, Lagos, resulting in the deaths of 159 people. The aircraft was on a routine flight when it encountered difficulties and crash-landed, leading to a catastrophic fire. Eyewitnesses reported a loud explosion and flames visible from a distance. The tragedy shocked the nation and brought attention to the state of military aviation safety in Nigeria.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Fatal Crash of Nigeria Airways Flight 2120

July 11th, 1991 33 years ago

Nigeria Airways Flight 2120 crashed while approaching Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, resulting in the loss of all 261 lives on board. The Boeing 747-130, operating a pilgrimage flight from Lagos, encountered severe difficulties upon landing due to poor weather and miscommunication. Pilot error played a significant role in the crash, as the crew attempted to land during turbulent conditions, leading to a tragic outcome.

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Politics & Government

Babangida Ousts Buhari in a Military Coup

August 27th, 1985 39 years ago

Major General Ibrahim Babangida led a coup d'état that resulted in the ousting of Major General Muhammadu Buhari, the Chairman of Nigeria's Supreme Military Council. The coup was motivated by economic mismanagement and growing public discontent under Buhari's rule, which had been marked by strict authoritarian measures. Babangida's takeover was executed with minimal bloodshed, marking a significant shift in Nigeria's leadership dynamics.

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