Dr. Nwafor Orizu GCON: The Acting President of Nigeria from October 16, 1965, to January 15, 1966

Dr. Nwafor Orizu GCON served as the acting president of Nigeria from October 16, 1965, to January 15, 1966. He was the first Igbo man to hold that position. Orizu was born in Nnewi, Anambra State, Nigeria, on November 13, 1914. He attended the University of London, where he studied law. After graduating, he returned to Nigeria and worked as a lawyer. In 1954, he was elected to the House of Representatives. Orizu served as the Minister of Health from 1954 to 1957. In 1959, he was elected to the Senate. Orizu served as the Senate President from 1960 to 1965.

When President Nnamdi Azikiwe was on a trip to Europe in October 1965, Orizu became the acting president. He served in that role until Azikiwe returned in January 1966. During his time as acting president, Orizu faced a number of challenges, including the outbreak of the Nigerian Civil War. He also had to deal with the assassination of Prime Minister Tafawa Balewa. Despite these challenges, Orizu was able to maintain stability in the country.

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
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After the end of the Civil War in 1970, Orizu returned to the Senate. He served as the Senate President again from 1979 to 1983. Orizu died in Abuja, Nigeria, on November 10, 1999.

Legacy

Dr. Nwafor Orizu was a respected statesman who served his country with distinction. He was a strong advocate for democracy and the rule of law. Orizu was also a pioneer in the field of education. He founded the Nwafor Orizu College of Education in Nsugbe, Anambra State. The college is one of the leading teacher training institutions in Nigeria.

Orizu was a complex and controversial figure. He was a brilliant intellectual who was deeply committed to his country. However, he was also a flawed man who made some mistakes. Despite his flaws, Orizu was a significant figure in Nigerian history. He played a key role in the country's struggle for independence and in the development of its democracy.

Further Reading

* Nwafor Orizu on Wikipedia * Nwafor Orizu on Notable Biographies * Nwafor Orizu on WorldCat

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

FREE