Abdulsalami Breaks Silence: June 12 Annulment, Abiola's Death — The Untold Story

General Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd), Nigeria's former military Head of State, recently made significant revelations concerning pivotal moments in the nation's history, alongside the public presentation of his autobiography, 'Call of Duty,' and two other books: 'Nigeria’s Grand Patriot' and 'Mediating for Peace in Africa.' These insights were shared during a grand ceremony in Abuja that also marked his 84th birthday, drawing encomiums from current and past leaders across Africa.

In his autobiography, General Abubakar clarified his position on the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election. Contrary to popular belief that his closeness to then military President, General Ibrahim Babangida (rtd), implied his involvement, Abubakar asserted that he heard of the annulment 'in the news like every other Nigerian.' He emphasized that he was not a member of the Armed Forces Ruling Council (AFRC), the country’s highest ruling body, and the decision was never discussed with him, despite his role as Chief of Policy and Plans (COPP) at Army Headquarters.

Abubakar also shed light on the suspicious circumstances surrounding the death of General Sani Abacha on June 8, 1998. He recounted a peculiar incident where he and the late Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Ishaya Bamaiyi, were mysteriously locked inside a waiting room at the Presidential Villa for nearly an hour before being informed of Abacha's death. This experience left him with a lingering sense that 'something was fishy,' as detailed in Chapter 19 of 'Call of Duty.' He subsequently explained how he succeeded Abacha to become Nigeria's 11th Head of State.

Another crucial revelation from Chapter 21 of his 264-page autobiography addressed the contentious death of Chief MKO Abiola on July 7, 1998. General Abubakar unequivocally dismissed claims of poisoning, stating that an autopsy conducted by a panel of pathologists from four countries – American, British, Nigerian, and Canadian – attributed Abiola’s death to natural causes. He narrated that Abiola collapsed during a meeting with a visiting American delegation, which included the then United States Undersecretary of State for Political Affairs, Mr. Tom Pickering, and Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, Ms Susan Rice, moments before his demise.

The book launch event was a gathering of distinguished personalities, including President Bola Tinubu (represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima), President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone (and ECOWAS Chairman), former Military Head of State Gen. Yakubu Gowon (rtd), and former Presidents Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Dr Goodluck Jonathan, and Thabo Mbeki of South Africa. They all poured praises on General Abubakar for his exemplary leadership and pivotal role in Nigeria's return to democracy.

President Tinubu lauded Abubakar for his continued service as a respected elder statesman, promoting peace, national unity, democratic stability, and responsible political engagement through the National Peace Committee. He directed the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to allocate a befitting parcel of land in Abuja for the Abdulsalami Abubakar African Resource Centre (AAARC), recognizing it as a worthy initiative aligning with Abubakar's values. Tinubu emphasized that Abubakar's life, defined by duty, moderation, courage, and an unwavering commitment to the public, secured the democratic foundation that allowed the Fourth Republic, Nigeria's longest uninterrupted democratic period, to flourish.

Former President of South Africa, Thabo Mbeki, in his keynote address, highlighted Abubakar’s decision to prioritize the well-being of Nigerians over personal interests, opting instead to entrench democratic governance and peacebuilding. Gen. Yakubu Gowon, who chaired the occasion, stressed the invaluable lessons to be learned from Abubakar's leadership and peacebuilding legacy, particularly his role in one of Africa's most significant transitions from military to civilian rule.

Dr. Goodluck Jonathan credited General Abubakar with demonstrating uncommon courage and patriotism by resisting influential military interests that sought to prolong his rule. Jonathan asserted that if credit were to be given for stabilizing democracy in Nigeria today, it would belong to General Abdulsalami Abubakar, applauding the books as an important effort to preserve history and inspire future generations.

Chief Olusegun Obasanjo emphasized consultation and inclusive leadership as crucial for strengthening democracy. He recounted Abubakar’s early actions, including the release of political prisoners, such as himself, and diligent efforts to secure MKO Abiola’s freedom, confirming that arrangements for Abiola’s release were underway before his unexpected death. President Maada Bio noted that the three books collectively depict a life dedicated to service, patriotism, and leadership.

The book presentation was a significant financial success, raising millions of naira from prominent figures and organizations. Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, contributed N500 million, while Chairman of BUA Group, Abdul Samad Rabiu, pledged N250 million. Other contributors included the House of Representatives (N50 million) and the Senate (N100 million), alongside Nigerian governors and commercial banks. Dignitaries present also included the Prime Minister of Niger, Ali Lamine Zeine, and former Vice Presidents Namadi Sambo and Yemi Osinbajo. General Abubakar's wife, Fatima Lami Abubakar, expressed profound gratitude for witnessing the launch of these important books chronicling her husband’s life of service and enduring impact.