Out of three most senior officers submitted by the British Majot General to the then President Azikiwe to choose as Head of the Nigerian Army, Ironsi was the least qualified.

Although the most senior in rank, Ironsi rose from the ranks and got commissioned later on by the British in their ongoing Nigerianization policy .

Ironsi was a lowly recruit that got commissioned in the field unlike both Ademulegun and Maimalari who were trained professional soldeirs minted from the officer college at Sandhurst.

The outgoing British Maj General had submitted 3 officers to Azikiwe who was ceremonial president and head of state, to select who will lead the army.

The British officer had written brief recommendations for each officer and submitted their names in order of competence.

Top of the list and with the most glowing recommendations was Maimalari.

Ademulegun came second with a caution over his political connections .

Ironsi was given few words of accolades relating to his ability to reign in discipline among the rank owing to his humble roots as a company sergeant major.


Azikiwe, being the tribal he-goat that he was, refused to appoint the most qualified professional soldier,Maimalari that was recommended to him by the outgoing British Maj General but instead took third place Ironsi to head the army.


Is that not tribalism and Gbaju E at work like our own third place Peter Obi ?

Oga rest.