ABSTRACT
Nigeria became independent in October 1960. Accompanying its independence was an almost mystical belief in its ability to ride all storms and rise to its full potential, as befitting the giant of Africa. Yet within a short time one crisis gave way to another and in January 1966 the inept Westminster type multi-party system of government was overthrown by a military coup. In July 1966 there followed another coup and, in less than a year, on 30 May 1967, the Eastern Region (Eastern Nigeria) declared itself independent, assuming the name of the Republic of Biafra. Apparently, the giant of Africa had feet of clay.
