I'm Back: Unravelling the 1966 Coup + This Week's Igbo Learning Gift

Dear Echiche Igbo Family,

I want to take a moment to acknowledge my absence over the past two weeks. I recently lost my father, Chief Richard Neife Tagbo, and it has been a time of deep reflection and mourning. Your patience and continued support mean so much to me. I am honoured to return with this edition, as we celebrate our culture, history, language, and heritage together.

Welcome to another enriching edition of Echiche Igbo! Today, we embrace our vibrant heritage with exciting features:

🎭 History Spotlight – Unraveling the 1966 Coup & Its Lasting Impact
🌟 Igbo Icon – The Untold Story of Njideka Ojukwu
🎶 Song of the Week – Ekene Diri Chineke by Ebuka De Great feat. Chisom Favour
📝 Fun for Kids – Engaging Igbo Matching & Coloring Activity

Stay connected to our roots, learn something new, and enjoy this issue! Jisie ike! 💛

The 1966 Coup: Unraveling the "Igbo Coup" Myth and Its Lasting Impact on Nigeria

For decades, the January 15, 1966 coup has been labeled as an "Igbo coup," a narrative that has fueled ethnic tensions and justified the marginalization of the Igbo people. However, in a surprising revelation, former Nigerian Military President Ibrahim Babangida has challenged this claim, shedding new light on one of Nigeria’s most pivotal events.

A Coup with Devastating Consequences

Led by Major Kaduna Nzeogwu and other officers, the coup resulted in the assassination of key political leaders, including Prime Minister Abubakar Tafawa Balewa. The fact that several of the coup plotters were Igbo led to widespread anti-Igbo sentiment, culminating in:

• Massacres in the North – Between 8,000 to 30,000 Igbo people were killed in violent reprisals.

• Forced Displacement – Nearly 1 million Igbo people fled northern Nigeria in fear for their lives.

• The Biafran War (1967-1970) – A tragic conflict where approximately 3 million Igbo people, mostly women and children, perished.

Babangida’s Perspective & The Fight for Justice

In his book A Journey in Service, which was launched on Thursday, February 20, 2025, Babangida refutes the "Igbo coup" myth, stating that Nzeogwu—who was raised in Kaduna—was more culturally aligned with the North than the Igbo cause. The Ohanaeze Ndiigbo has since called for a government apology and 10 trillion naira in reparations for decades of oppression.

Why This Matters

Understanding this history is essential for young Igbo people navigating today’s socio-political landscape. The past informs our fight for justice, representation, and economic growth.
Let’s continue the conversation—how should Nigeria address these historical injustices? Reply and share your thoughts. I’d love to hear from you!

Mrs. Njideka Ojukwu: A Life of Resilience, Strength, and Legacy

Mrs. Njideka Ojukwu, born on December 25, 1933, in Nawfia, Anambra State, was a woman of remarkable resilience and grace. Her life was intertwined with Nigeria’s turbulent history, particularly during the Nigerian Civil War, where she stood as a pillar of strength beside her husband, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, the leader of Biafra.

Early Life and Education

Njideka was born prematurely as a twin, but only she survived. Her name, Njideka, meaning "The one I am holding is supreme", reflected the deep appreciation of her parents, Mr. C. T. Onyekwelu and Mrs. Malinda Nnuaku Onyekwelu. She received her education at St. Monica’s in Onitsha and Archdeacon Crowder Memorial Girls School in Elelenwo, near Port Harcourt, laying the foundation for the remarkable woman she would become.

Marriage and Family

Njideka’s first marriage was to Brodie Mends in 1955, with whom she had a daughter, Iruaku. However, in 1962, she married Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu, a decision that would forever shape her life. Their wedding reception was held at Eastern House in Lagos, a symbol of the prominence of the couple. Together, they had three children, including Chukwuemeka Ojukwu Jr. and Okigbo Ojukwu.

A Pillar During the Nigerian Civil War

During the Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970), Njideka stood unwaveringly by her husband’s side, offering him support and serving as one of Biafra’s unsung heroines. Her strength during this period was crucial in sustaining Ojukwu’s leadership amid the immense challenges faced by the Biafran people.

Later Years and Legacy

Following the war, Njideka’s marriage to Ojukwu ended in separation while they were in Côte d'Ivoire. However, she remained a symbol of resilience, poise, and cultural pride until her passing on March 24, 2010. Despite her profound contributions to Nigerian history, her story remains largely untold, highlighting the often-overlooked roles of women in pivotal historical moments.

Njideka Ojukwu’s legacy endures as a testament to strength, loyalty, and the unyielding spirit of Igbo women. Her life serves as an inspiration to younger generations, ensuring that her name and contributions are never forgotten.

Igbo Learning Printable: Match & Color!

This fun activity helps learners connect Igbo words with their corresponding images, reinforcing vocabulary through play. Simply draw a line to match each word with its picture and colour them in for extra fun!

🎵 Song of the Day: Ekene Diri Chineke – Ebuka De Great feat. Chisom Favour

Today’s featured song, Ekene Diri Chineke, is a soulful and uplifting Christian spiritual song that offers deep comfort and reassurance. With the powerful message, "If God doesn’t condemn me, who will?", this song serves as a reminder of divine grace and unwavering faith.

Thank You for Being Part of Echiche Igbo!

As we continue our journey of learning and preserving Igbo heritage, I’m excited to offer resources designed to help you master the language and culture with ease. Whether you want to perfect your pronunciation, introduce your child to Igbo, or learn powerful proverbs for daily life, there’s something for you!

🔹 Igbo Sounds Workshop – Master Igbo pronunciation confidently.
🔹 Igbo Dictionary Videos – A child-friendly tool to complement Igbo learning.
🔹 Proverbs for Daily Life – Learn and apply 38 authentic Igbo proverbs.

🛍️ Get started today → Learn Igbo Now

Thank you for your support, and I look forward to connecting with you in the next edition!

P.S. If you found this newsletter valuable, share it with a friend who loves Igbo culture. Let’s grow together!

Ya gazie,

Yvonne Chiọma Mbanefo
Editor, Echiche Igbo Newsletter

www.learnigbonow.com