Today In Nigerian History: 23rd March

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On this day in 1980, Nigeria won the Unity Cup after defeating Algeria 3-0 in Lagos…

– Also on this day in 1986, Fela Kuti was released from prison. In September 1984, Fela was arrested for attempting to unlawfully export foreign currency, which he had drawn from his British bank account. He was handed down a prison sentence of five years in November 1984.

There were several indications that his arrest and imprisonment were politically motivated. Brigadier Tunde Idiagbon, Chief of Staff, announced that the government would ensure Fela would be imprisoned for a long time, concluding: “and I hope he will rot in jail.” Moreover, there were allegations that important defence witnesses, including customs officials, were prevented from testifying at Fela’s trial.