Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Umar Audu
Published on 2024-03-18 23:02:12
Bello Shagari, the grandson of former President Shehu Shagari, recently shared a heart-wrenching story about his father, Muhammad Bala-Shagari, who was forcefully retired from the Nigerian Army. This revelation came as Bello celebrated his father’s birthday on social media, shedding light on a dark chapter in their family history.
According to Bello, his father’s military career came to an abrupt end following a coup that ousted his grandfather, President Shehu Shagari, in 1983. Simply being the son of the overthrown president was deemed a sufficient reason to retire him from the Army. At the time of his retirement, Muhammad Bala-Shagari held the rank of a captain in the armed forces, showcasing his dedication to his country and his profession.
In a poignant tribute to his father, Bello shared a photo of Captain Bala-Shagari in his military uniform from around 1980. He lamented how his father was unjustly removed from the Nigerian Army in 1984, solely because of his familial ties to the deposed president. Despite facing this unjust treatment, Captain Bala-Shagari persevered without any entitlements, displaying remarkable resilience and strength.
Reflecting on his father’s resilience, Bello expressed his admiration and wished him a happy 75th birthday. The tribute encapsulated the enduring spirit of Captain Bala-Shagari, highlighting his unwavering commitment to his duty and his ability to weather the storm of adversity.
The unfortunate events that led to Captain Bala-Shagari’s forced retirement were part of a larger political turmoil in Nigeria during the 1980s. Major-General Muhammadu Buhari seized power in December 1983, overthrowing the civilian administration of President Shehu Shagari. The military junta justified their intervention by citing economic mismanagement, inflation, corruption, and a lack of security under the civilian government.
The story of Captain Bala-Shagari serves as a poignant reminder of the collateral damage inflicted on individuals during times of political upheaval. His unwavering dedication to his country and his dignified response to unjust treatment underscore the resilience and fortitude of the human spirit.
As Bello Shagari’s tribute to his father reverberates online, it stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of integrity and strength in the face of adversity. Captain Bala-Shagari’s story serves as a powerful symbol of resilience and perseverance, inspiring others to remain steadfast in their convictions and weather life’s challenges with grace.
In a world marked by shifting political landscapes and uncertain futures, the story of Captain Bala-Shagari serves as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the enduring power of the human spirit. Happy Birthday, Baba – your legacy lives on in the hearts of those inspired by your strength and resilience.
Read the original article on DailyNigerian.com
