Former Head of State, Abdulsalami Abubakar, has revealed startling details about the events that unfolded following the death of former military ruler, Sani Abacha, in June 1998, describing how he was unexpectedly confined to a room before eventually emerging as Nigeria’s leader.
Abubakar made the revelation in his autobiography, Call of Duty, which is scheduled for unveiling in Abuja on Saturday as part of activities marking his 84th birthday.
According to the retired general, he was informed on the morning of June 8, 1998, that Abacha wanted to see him urgently. However, upon arriving at the Presidential Villa, he discovered that the situation was far different from what he had been told.
He recounted that after being ushered into a room, he was effectively locked inside while top military officers and government officials deliberated on the next course of action following Abacha’s sudden death.
The former military leader said the development came as a surprise, noting that he had no prior indication of the events that would eventually lead to his emergence as Nigeria’s Head of State.
Abacha, who seized power in a military coup in 1993, died on June 8, 1998, triggering a major political transition in the country. Following consultations among senior military officers, Abdulsalami was selected to succeed him and oversee the transition to civilian rule.
His administration subsequently initiated a democratic transition programme that culminated in the election of a civilian government in 1999, bringing an end to years of military rule in Nigeria.
The autobiography provides fresh insight into one of the most significant moments in Nigeria’s political history, shedding light on the uncertainty, behind-the-scenes consultations and power dynamics that followed Abacha’s death.
