Eminent Nigerians have said that military incursions into politics hindered Nigeria’s socio-economic and political growth since independence. They made the remarks at the launch of a book titled The Gun Hegemony in Lagos on Thursday, where speakers linked prolonged military influence to slowed national progress.
The event was attended by former Commonwealth Secretary-General Chief Emeka Anyaoku, Vanguard Publisher Chief Sam Amuka-Pemu, Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese Most Rev.
Matthew Hassan Kukah and author Ayo Opadokun. President Bola Tinubu was represented by his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, while Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu was represented by the state’s Attorney-General, Lawal Pedro.
Opadokun, a former Secretary of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), said years of military governance and indirect influence through later civilian leaders shaped Nigeria’s political trajectory.
He traced how coups since January 15, 1966 and periods of direct military rule entrenched structures that have affected governance and growth.
Chief Amuka-Pemu said gun power and military dominance in politics changed the direction of Nigeria’s development. He argued that before military intervention, regional governments harnessed economic resources and advanced education, industry and agriculture.
He said the country’s plural nature required a truly federal constitution to support unity and growth.
Anyaoku echoed calls for constitutional reform that reflects Nigeria’s diversity and encourages equitable development. He said federations that thrive globally do so because their constitutions match their plural nature.
Bishop Kukah warned against thinking that military government could solve Nigeria’s problems and said good governance was the real antidote to autocratic rule.
Opadokun said the book provides evidence and perspectives not widely published, including links between historical figures and early coups.
He noted that entrenched military loyalists and systems have persisted across different political eras, influencing governance well after direct military rule ended.
Speakers emphasised that a constitution addressing Nigeria’s diversity and protecting democratic values would support sustainable economic growth and reduce the risk of regression to authoritarianism.
The discussions highlighted the need for renewed focus on federal principles and inclusive governance.
The launch of The Gun Hegemony comes as Nigeria reflects on lessons from past military interventions and explores ways to strengthen democratic institutions. Participants said true federalism and constitutional reform remain key elements for long-term national cohesion and economic progress.
