Okotie-Eboh killed for fear of rallying against 1966 coupists — Daughter, Dere Awosika

Former Access Bank Chairman, Dr. Ajoritsedere  Awosika, has  said his father,  Festus Okotie-Eboh’s strong-willed nature made him uncontrollable, possibly thwarting the 1966 coup’s success.

She said her father’s death during the 1966 coup might have been due to his strong-willed nature, which made him difficult to control. 

She speculated that the coup leaders understood that sparing him would have jeopardised their plans, adding that Okotie-Eboh would have undoubtedly rallied support to prevent the coup and ensure the continuation of democracy.

Speaking in an ARISE NEWS interview, on commemoration of Armed Forces Day yesterday, Dr Awosika acknowledged that while Okotie-Eboh was not a prime minister, he had an important role in Nigerian politics.

“He hasn’t been recognised, perhaps, because he’s not the prime minister, but he died as a friend of the government.  He was probably killed because he was a self-motivated person who was difficult to pull back. They (1996 coup leaders) probably know that if they spare him, the coup will not succeed.  He would definitely move the world to stop the coup,’’ she added.

She emphasised that the late minister’s contributions to Nigeria’s early years of independence deserved to be honoured.

Awosika said further:  “I brought it to the attention of two past presidents, but I haven’t seen the light of day on what the request was.  If the country wants to be fair, they will honour him, but more importantly, is the legacy. He is a man of integrity.”

Reflecting on Okotie-Eboh’s life and achievements, Dr Awosika described him as a man whose actions were often misunderstood. 

“The man, Festus Okotie-Eboh, was just an enigma blessed by God,” she said. 

According to her, he was wealthy, prior to entering government and played a pivotal role in advancing his party, the NCNC. 

While many focused on his flamboyance, she said he was simply seeking cultural recognition, adding that being a proud Itsekiri man, he remained deeply connected to his heritage, even while abroad, choosing not to eat non-African food.

Dr Awosika then read excerpts from her late father’s letters regarding the creation of Midwest region, highlighting the importance of unity for progress. 

“The lesson there is that we need one another to be able to make progress.  Are we doing that? “Are we coming together? Are parties seeing the need for friendship beyond politics and governance being part of coming together to be able to make progress?” Awosika queried

She also warned against the “I know it all” syndrome, where those in power fail to learn from the past. Dr Awosika  disclosed that when she read his budget speech, she was “amazed that there are solutions there,” even in other speeches made years ago. 

"His remarks served as a timely reminder of the importance of recognising and learning from the nation’s past."

On Wednesday, Nigeria’s capital, was one of solemn reflection as the nation paused to pay tribute to the unmatched patriotism and sacrifices of fallen heroes during the 2025 Armed Forces’ Remembrance Day.

“The efforts they put in place in a new independent nation deserve to be further acknowledged.  We have a lot to learn from history, and perhaps there are lessons we can use to shape a better Nigeria,’’ she stressed.