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Murtala Ramat Mohammed

head of state of Nigeria

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Murtala Ramat Mohammed was a Nigerian general and head of state who initiated significant changes during his brief tenure. He came to power in July 1975 after overthrowing General Yakubu Gowon. Mohammed's administration began the process of moving Nigeria's federal capital to Abuja and addressed government inefficiency. Crucially, he initiated the transition back to civilian rule, setting a timetable for the return of democracy.1

His reforms and plans were cut short when he was assassinated in February 1976 during an unsuccessful coup attempt. His deputy, Olusegun Obasanjo, then became head of government, continuing Mohammed's commitment to returning the country to civilian rule.12

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