17th Nov Abacha takes over power from the caretaker government of ChiefErnest Shonekan, which was put into place by GeneralBabangida after his annulment of the 12 June 1993 elections (won by Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola) causes massive unrest
8th June Abubakar had never before held public office and is quick to announce a transition to democratic civilian rule which led to the election of President Olusegun Obasanjo
8th June Majo General Abdulsalami Abubakar, Nigeria's defence Chief of Staff, is sworn in as the country's Head of State on the death of Abacha
Abubakar had never before held public office and is quick to announce a transition to democratic civilian rule which led to the election of President Olusegun Obasanjo