The Forgotten Legacy of Major Gideon Gwaza Orkar: A Call for Justice and Equity in Nigeria

In the annals of Nigerian history, few figures have sparked as much debate and reflection as Major Gideon Gwaza Orkar, a 37-year-old intellectual and military officer of Tiv ethnicity from Benue State. His audacious coup attempt in 1990 not only challenged the entrenched power dynamics of the time but also highlighted the deep-seated grievances of the Middle Belt and Southern regions against what many perceived as Northern (particularly Fulani) domination.

The Man Behind the Movement

Born into the Tiv ethnic group, Major Orkar was more than just a soldier; he was an astute intellectual with a keen understanding of the socio-political landscape of Nigeria. His dissatisfaction with the status quo stemmed from the systemic marginalization of non-Northern groups, particularly those from the Middle Belt and Southern regions. Orkar believed that the concentration of political power in the hands of the “Core North” had created an imbalance that stifled national progress and perpetuated inequality.

On April 22, 1990, Major Orkar led a group of 41 co-conspirators in an attempted coup d’état. The objective was clear: to remove what they saw as the oppressive grip of the Core North over the nation’s political and economic structures. Their manifesto called for the liberation of the Middle Belt and Southern regions from what they perceived as Northern domination, advocating for a more equitable distribution of power and resources across the country.

The Coup and Its Aftermath

Despite its noble intentions, the coup was swiftly quashed by the then-military government led by General Ibrahim Babangida. Major Orkar and his fellow conspirators were arrested, tried, and ultimately convicted of treason. In a chilling display of authority, they were executed by firing squad, silencing one of the most vocal challenges to Northern hegemony in Nigeria’s history.

The Political Response

Following Orkar’s execution, the Nigerian government took steps that some argue further entrenched the very inequalities Orkar sought to address. In 1991, four additional states—Katsina, Kebbi, Jigawa, and Yobe—were created in the predominantly Northern region. This move expanded the number of states in the North to nine, adding to the existing five (Sokoto, Kaduna, Niger, Kano, and Bauchi). These new states provided increased representation and access to federal resources for the Northern elite, effectively consolidating their power.

This pattern is not unique to the 1990s. Throughout Nigeria’s history, uprisings against Northern dominance have been met with suppression, followed by measures that enhance the influence of the Fulani oligarchs and their allies. The creation of more states and local governments in the arid, resource-scarce Northern regions has been criticized as a strategy to maintain control over the nation’s wealth and decision-making processes.

A Nation Divided?

Critics argue that the forced “unity” imposed on Nigeria serves the interests of a dominant few who view the rest of the country as conquered territory to be exploited. This perspective is rooted in the historical narrative of conquest and colonization, where the South and Middle Belt are seen as subordinate entities whose resources should flow northward. The result is a nation grappling with identity crises, economic disparities, and social unrest.

Lessons from History

Major Gideon Gwaza Orkar’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the struggles faced by marginalized groups in Nigeria. His vision of a more equitable society resonates with many today, as the issues he fought against continue to plague the nation. The question remains: How can Nigeria move forward in a way that respects the diversity of its people while addressing the imbalances that have long plagued its political and economic systems?

As we reflect on the legacy of Major Orkar, it becomes clear that true unity cannot be achieved through force or manipulation. Instead, it requires genuine dialogue, fair representation, and a commitment to justice for all Nigerians, regardless of ethnicity or region. Only then can the dream of a united, prosperous Nigeria become a reality.

In conclusion, Major Gideon Gwaza Orkar’s life and death represent a critical chapter in Nigeria’s ongoing struggle for equity and justice. His actions, though unsuccessful, ignited a conversation about power dynamics that continues to this day. As Nigeria moves forward, it must learn from its past and strive to build a future where every voice is heard and valued.