THE first Premier of Western Region of Nigeria, Chief Jeremiah Obafemi Awolowo was sentenced to 10 years imprisonment along with others for allegedly planning a coup against Nigeria.
When the military took over power on January 15, 1966, late General Aguiyi-Ironsi became the Head of State. Awolowo was said to have written a petition to Ironsi for his release.
There has been controversy on who actually released Awolowo from prison between General J.T.U. Aguiyi-Ironsi and Lt. Colonel Yakubu Gowon.
While some argued that it was Gowon, not many knew that Aguiyi-Ironsi had worked for his release but could not effect it because he along with Colonel Adekunle Fajuyi were assassinated on the day Awolowo was to be released. Gowon claimed the glory over Aguiyi-Ironsi.
