Buhari Coup: Nigerian Military Governors Sworn in | January 1984

Wednesday, January 4th 1984.

Footage of the swearing-in ceremony of the military governors appointed by the new Head of State, Major General Muhammadu Buhari, who came to power on New Year's Eve after overthrowing the civilian government of President Shehu Shagari.

In keeping with the hardline tone of the new military regime, Major General Buhari's statement warned the governors to set an example and to set about tackling Nigeria's problems with the requite level of competence and resolve.

Seated to Buhari's right was Brigadier Tunde Idiagbon, who he appointed as chief of staff, Supreme Headquarters.

Transcript of General Buhari's statement:

"Gentlemen, as has already announced, the Supreme Military Council met yesterday, and after an exhaustive deliberation approved the appointment of military governors for the 19 states of the federation. Your choice for this assignment is based mainly on your personal merit and the confidence which the members of the Supreme Military Council have in your ability to discharge the responsibilities of the military governor, in the best interests of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and without fear or favour, affection or ill-will, in accordance with the oath which you have just taken. Sloth, indiscipline, corruption, Squander-mania, misuse and abuse of public office, for self or group aggrandisement, which has assumed debilitating proportions in the last few years, will be dealt with ruthlessly, no matter whoever may be involved. The private sector has also its share of crimes against the Nigerian economy, especially in the area of the distribution of basic commodities. Reports reaching us confirm large-scale hoarding of commodities. I have already warned that hoarding will not be tolerated. Gentlemen, I must point out that your assignment as military governors is a service posting. You are, therefore, subject to redeployment at any time as exigencies may dictate. All military governors are answerable to the chief of staff at Supreme headquarters."

Transcript of Governor being sworn in:

"I, (name indistinct), do solemnly swear that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to the Federal Republic of Nigeria. That, as a member of the Supreme Military Council of the Federal Republic for Nigeria, I will discharge my duties to the best of my ability, faithfully, and in accordance with the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria."

Source: Reuters News.