Aishat Oyebode, the eldest daughter of the late General Murtala Ramat Muhammed, reflected on the tragic events of February 13, 1976, when her father was assassinated, just seven months into his tenure as Nigeria’s leader. This somber anniversary marks a poignant moment for Aishat, who has continued her father’s legacy through her work as a lawyer, entrepreneur, author, activist, and philanthropist.

Aishat Muhammed-Oyebode, daughter of the late General Murtala Ramat Muhammed

Aishat Muhammed-Oyebode, daughter of late General Murtala Ramat Muhammed, recently shared her thoughts on her father’s assassination, which remains one of the darkest moments in Nigeria’s history. In an interview with our correspondent, she reflected on how his tragic death impacted their family, revealing the profound effects it had on their lives.

Aishat Muhammed-Oyebode revealed plans to honor her father, General Murtala Ramat Muhammed, on the 50th anniversary of his passing next year. This significant milestone will serve as a powerful reminder of General Muhammed’s lasting impact on Nigeria, which he led as Head of State, albeit briefly. The commemoration will likely highlight his enduring legacy and the profound effects of his leadership on the country.

Aishat Muhammed-Oyebode was dismayed to learn that 49 years after her father’s passing, the N20 note bearing his portrait has become virtually worthless in today’s Nigeria, unable to purchase even the smallest items. Aishat Muhammed-Oyebode expressed her dismay that 49 years after her father’s tragic assassination, the N20 note featuring his portrait has drastically lost its purchasing power in modern-day Nigeria.”It’s heartbreaking to see the N20 note, which bears my father’s image, rendered nearly worthless,” she lamented.

“This not only reflects the nation’s economic downturn but also symbolizes the widespread poverty affecting millions of Nigerians.” The devaluation of the Nigerian currency isn’t isolated to the N20 note, which bears the image of General Murtala Ramat Muhammed, a prominent figure in Nigeria’s history. Unfortunately, other denominations featuring notable Nigerian heroes have also suffered significant losses in value.

These heroes, including Alhaji Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa (N5 note), Dr. Alvan Ikoku (N10 note), Chief Obafemi Awolowo (N100 note), Sir Ahmadu Bello (N200 note), and Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe (N500 note), were champions of sacrifice, integrity, and nation-building. Their legacies continue to inspire Nigerians, but the declining value of the currency bearing their images serves as a poignant reminder of the country’s economic challenges.

Aishat Muhammed-Oyebode emphasized that the stark contrast between the N20 note’s original value and its current worthlessness mirrors the immense struggles Nigerians face daily. This drastic devaluation, she argued, underscores the urgent need for effective leadership that can revitalize the nation’s economic dignity and rekindle the hopes of its citizens.

Aishat Muhammed-Oyebode highlighted her father’s commitment to policies that fostered fair wealth distribution, self-sufficiency, and economic growth. She stressed that to address Nigeria’s current economic challenges, the country needs visionary leaders who prioritize the welfare of their citizens and strive for a prosperous and independent nation.¹

Effective policies that promote fair wealth distribution include progressive taxation, where the wealthy are taxed at a higher rate, and social welfare programs that provide essential support to those in need. Additionally, education and training programs can empower individuals with the skills necessary to compete in the workforce and contribute to economic growth.

Aishat’s emphasis on bold leadership echoes the need for policymakers to implement strategies that promote autonomous consumption, such as education and awareness campaigns that inform consumers about the environmental and social impact of their choices. By promoting fair wealth distribution and autonomous consumption, Nigeria can move towards a more equitable and prosperous society.