The highest decision-making body in Nigeria under the Buhari's military regime was the ________

Analyze the question: It asks for the highest decision-making body during General Muhammadu Buhari's military regime (December 1983 to August 1985).

Explain the concept: Nigerian military regimes usually had a supreme body that made final decisions, and its name changed from one regime to another:

• Gowon (1966-75) and Murtala/Obasanjo (1975-79): Supreme Military Council (SMC)
• Buhari (1983-85): Supreme Military Council (SMC)
• Babangida (1985-93): Armed Forces Ruling Council (AFRC)
• Abacha (1993-98): Provisional Ruling Council (PRC)

Step-by-step solution:

1. Buhari's regime came to power after the coup of 31 December 1983, which overthrew Shehu Shagari's Second Republic.
2. The regime was led by Major-General Muhammadu Buhari as Head of State, with Tunde Idiagbon as Chief of Staff, Supreme Headquarters.
3. The highest decision-making organ was the Supreme Military Council (SMC), made up of top military officers.
4. The Federal Executive Council only implemented policies, so it was not the highest body.
5. The National Council of States was an advisory body in civilian setups.
6. The Armed Forces Ruling Council was introduced by Babangida in 1985 when he replaced the SMC, so it does not fit Buhari's regime.

Answer: B. Supreme Military Council

Exam tip: Remember the order of the military councils: SMC (Gowon, Murtala/Obasanjo, Buhari) → AFRC (Babangida) → PRC (Abacha). If the question names Babangida, think "Armed Forces Ruling Council". For Buhari, think "Supreme Military Council".