Fellow Nigerians, this is Brigadier Joseph Nanven Garba. It is with great sorrow that I have to announce to you the tragic and untimely death of His Excellency, the Head of the Federal Military Government and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, General Murtala Ramat Muhammed, this morning in an abortive coup attempt.
A small group of dissident soldiers under the leadership of Lieutenant-Colonel Buka Suka Dimka attempted to overthrow the Federal Military Government. The attempt has failed. Loyal troops are in firm control of the situation throughout the country.
I appeal to all Nigerians to remain calm and to go about their normal business. Further announcements will be made in due course.