“Shocking betrayal” – Yakubu Gowon reveals how trusted security aide contributed to his overthrow in 1975 coup

Former Head of State, Yakubu Gowon, has revealed that one of his most trusted security aides, Joseph Garba, the Commander of the Federal Guards Unit he personally appointed for his protection, played a role in the coup that removed him from power in July 1975.

In his 859-page autobiography titled My Life of Duty and Allegiance, Yakubu Gowon described the incident as the deepest personal betrayal of his public life, saying it was carried out by individuals he had trusted and elevated, including Garba, who also had family ties to him.

He stated that just days before the coup, Garba had assured him he was unaware of any plot against his government.

Gowon recounted that his Chief Security Officer and head of the Special Branch, M.D. Yusuf, had earlier warned him about a planned coup ahead of the OAU summit in Kampala, Uganda. The warning reportedly named Joseph Garba, then Commander of the Federal Guards Unit, and Anthony Ochefu, then Provost Marshal of the Nigerian Military Police, as key participants.

He said the alert placed him in a difficult position, especially as Garba occupied one of the most sensitive roles in his administration, leading the elite unit responsible for the Head of State’s personal security.

Yakubu Gowon further noted that Garba’s appointment to the position was influenced by both trust and family connection, making the alleged betrayal even more painful.

He emphasized that as head of the Federal Guards, Garba was expected to demonstrate absolute loyalty to the office of the Head of State.

Yakubu Gowon added that he had known both men closely and had developed personal trust in them over the years, noting that they even shared regional and religious ties with him, which made the events of 1975 particularly shocking.