TRUE STORY: HOW I SURV!VED A CIVILIAN COUP – CHRIS NGIGE

TRUE STORY: HOW I SURVIVED A CIVILIAN COUP – CHRIS NGIGE

In July 2003, I became the first civilian governor in Nigeria to survive what can only be called a civilian coup.

On that morning, strange calls came in — some warning me to “watch my House of Assembly members.” Even Chris Uba himself called, claiming he was off to Lagos. Hours later, I found out he was in Awka. My instincts told me danger was near.

By 11 a.m., armed policemen stormed my office. My ADC was disarmed, and in walked AIG Ralph Ige, not in uniform, smelling of alcohol. They brought me a forged resignation letter and demanded I sign it. I refused.

For nearly 12 hours, I was held hostage. Guns were pointed at me, phones were seized, but I stood my ground. I boldly declared, “I will not resign!”

When the news spread that I had stepped down, I quickly countered it live on radio. Nigerians heard my voice: “I am alive. I have not resigned. I am still the Governor of Anambra State.” That announcement changed everything.

Vice President Atiku intervened. Anambra people stormed Awka. By evening, my captors had no choice but to retreat.

That day, I survived intimidation, guns, and godfatherism. And I learned: never bow to political bullies.

– Dr. Chris Ngige