Dr Nwafor Orizu: The Legacy of Nigeria's Acting President

Dr Nwafor Orizu GCON, a distinguished statesman and academic, played a pivotal role in Nigeria's history as the nation's Acting President from October 16, 1965, to January 15, 1966. His tenure, though brief, was marked by significant contributions to Nigeria's political and constitutional development. This article delves into the remarkable life and legacy of Dr Nwafor Orizu, exploring his early life, political career, and the lasting impact he left on Nigeria.

92 DAYS IN POWER: DR. A.A. NWAFOR-ORIZU, GCON, AS ACTING PRESIDENT OF NIGERIA (OCTOBER 16, 1965- JANUARY 15, 1966)

by Thom Hatch

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	21763 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
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Early Life and Education

Nwafor Orizu was born on November 15, 1914, in Nnewi, Eastern Nigeria (present-day Anambra State). He received his early education at the Methodist Boys' High School, Owerri, and later attended the University College, Ibadan, where he obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in History. He subsequently earned a PhD in Political Science from the University of London in 1944, becoming one of the first Nigerians to hold a doctorate degree.

Political Career

Dr Orizu's political career began in 1951 when he was elected to the Eastern Regional House of Assembly. He served as the Minister of Education in the Eastern Region from 1954 to 1957 and later as the Minister of Finance from 1957 to 1959. In 1959, he was elected to the Federal House of Representatives, representing the Nnewi North constituency.

Acting President of Nigeria

Dr Orizu's most notable role came during the political crisis that engulfed Nigeria in 1965. Following the controversial parliamentary elections of December 1964, the country's political leadership became deeply divided. President Nnamdi Azikiwe, who had been re-elected, faced impeachment proceedings by the Parliament. In the midst of this turmoil, Dr Orizu, as President of the Senate, assumed the office of Acting President on October 16, 1965.

As Acting President, Dr Orizu faced the daunting task of restoring stability and Free Download to the nation. He worked tirelessly to mediate between the conflicting political factions and to prevent the country from sliding into chaos. Under his leadership, the military was called in to maintain peace and restore Free Download, a move that would have long-lasting consequences for Nigerian politics.

Contributions to Nigeria's Constitutional Development

Dr Orizu's tenure as Acting President also coincided with the drafting of a new constitution for Nigeria. He played a crucial role in the development of the constitution, which was adopted in 1966 and served as the foundation of Nigeria's Second Republic. The constitution introduced significant changes to the country's political and legal framework, including the establishment of a federal system of government and the creation of an independent judiciary.

Challenges and Controversies

Dr Orizu's tenure as Acting President was not without its challenges and controversies. The political crisis that had brought him to power continued to cast a shadow over his presidency. He faced allegations of bias and partisanship from political opponents who questioned his ability to serve as an impartial arbiter.

Moreover, Dr Orizu's decision to invite the military to intervene in the political crisis raised concerns about the erosion of civilian rule and the potential for military domination of Nigerian politics. These concerns would ultimately prove to be well-founded, as the military would seize power in a coup d'état just a few months after Dr Orizu's tenure ended.

Later Life and Legacy

Following the military coup of January 15, 1966, Dr Orizu retired from politics. He returned to academia and served as a visiting professor at several universities, including the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and the University of Lagos. He continued to write and publish extensively on Nigerian history and politics.

Dr Nwafor Orizu passed away on November 10, 1999, at the age of 84. He is remembered as a respected statesman, constitutional expert, and a pioneer in the field of Nigerian education. His contributions to Nigeria's political and constitutional development continue to be studied and debated by scholars and policymakers alike.

Dr Nwafor Orizu GCON was a towering figure in Nigerian history. His tenure as Acting President during a turbulent period in the nation's history left a lasting impact on Nigeria's political and constitutional evolution. Despite the challenges and controversies he faced, Dr Orizu remained committed to the principles of democracy, constitutionalism, and the rule of law. His legacy continues to inspire generations of Nigerians and serves as a reminder of the importance of dialogue, compromise, and nation-building in the face of adversity.

92 DAYS IN POWER: DR. A.A. NWAFOR-ORIZU, GCON, AS ACTING PRESIDENT OF NIGERIA (OCTOBER 16, 1965- JANUARY 15, 1966)

by Thom Hatch

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	21763 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	205 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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