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ije's review
It is impossible to understand modern-day Nigeria without exploring the January 1966 coup - the issues that produced it, as well as its disastrous aftermath. This is a short biography of the most famous leader of the coup, written by his friend (who positioned himself very differently both during Nzeogwu’s lifetime and in the decades that followed). Primary strengths of this book are the insights into Nzeogwu’s behavior/ideology as observed by his friends and colleagues, discussion of his experiences in post-independence Congo, and the attached letters from his time in Kirikiri. For a more personal biography, I recommend the book written by Peter Nzeogwu (his younger brother).
Obasanjo clearly adored Chukwuma Nzeogwu, but he tries to maintain relative objectivity in this book which paints a portrait of an young man that was at once idealistic, bullheaded, occasionally callous, and naive. Less room for complexity is given to Nzeogwu’s coup compadres, especially Emmanuel Ifeajuna who is described as a bumbling coward (what kind of coward attempts to overthrow two governments within a three-year span?)
Useful information about an important, often misunderstood figure in Nigerian history. Recommended.
Obasanjo clearly adored Chukwuma Nzeogwu, but he tries to maintain relative objectivity in this book which paints a portrait of an young man that was at once idealistic, bullheaded, occasionally callous, and naive. Less room for complexity is given to Nzeogwu’s coup compadres, especially Emmanuel Ifeajuna who is described as a bumbling coward (what kind of coward attempts to overthrow two governments within a three-year span?)
Useful information about an important, often misunderstood figure in Nigerian history. Recommended.
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