The Interim National Government (ing)

Welcome to our course material on the Interim National Government (ING) in Nigeria since Independence. The period of the Interim National Government was a significant phase in Nigeria's political history, marked by various challenges and complexities as the nation navigated through a transitional period.

The Role and Challenges of the Interim National Government: The primary objective of the Interim National Government was to steer the country towards full civilian rule after a series of military coups and political instability. It served as a transitional administration tasked with organizing credible elections and handing over power to democratically elected officials. However, the ING faced numerous challenges that impeded its effectiveness and legitimacy.

Struggle For The Control Of The Centre: During the era of the Interim National Government, there was a struggle for control of the central government among different political factions and regional interests. This power struggle often resulted in political tensions and machinations that influenced governance and decision-making processes.

Issue Of Revenue Allocation: Another crucial issue that confronted the ING was the contentious matter of revenue allocation among the various regions of Nigeria. The debate over how to distribute national resources fairly and equitably exacerbated existing regional disparities and heightened ethnic and political rivalries.

Minority Question: The Interim National Government also grappled with the complex issue of minority rights and representation. Ensuring adequate political participation and protection of minority interests posed a significant challenge in a diverse country like Nigeria with multiple ethnic groups vying for recognition and influence.

The 1962/63 Census Controversies: One of the notable controversies during the ING period was the 1962/63 census disputes. The accuracy and fairness of the national census became a contentious issue, with allegations of manipulation and bias leading to mistrust and tensions among different regions and ethnic groups.

The Action Group Crisis And The General Elections Of 1964/65: The Action Group crisis and the subsequent general elections of 1964/65 marked a turbulent period for Nigerian politics. Internal party conflicts, electoral irregularities, and the manipulation of the electoral process cast a shadow over the legitimacy of the elections and highlighted the fragility of democratic institutions.

The Coup D’Etat Of January 1966 And The Ironsi Regime: The coup d’état of January 1966 that ousted the political leadership and ushered in the Ironsi regime further destabilized the country. The military intervention disrupted the fragile political balance established by the ING and set the stage for a new phase of military rule and governance.

Causes, Course, and Effects: The causes, course, and effects of the events surrounding the Interim National Government are essential to understanding the broader context of Nigerian history since independence. Exploring the underlying factors that led to the establishment of the ING, the sequence of events that unfolded during its tenure, and the lasting impacts on Nigerian politics and society provide valuable insights into the complexities of the country's democratic journey.

The Interim National Government (ING) of Nigeria was a makeshift government established in 1993, following the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential elections. This period was a critical juncture in Nigerian political history, characterized by political instability, military rule, and public unrest. The establishment of the ING was an attempt to restore order and pave the way for a democratic transition.