Abacha SUNNY (Abacha, Sani)

(1943-1998)
Born in Kano in northern Nigeria September 20, 1943. He received military training in Nigeria, UK and U.S.. In the Nigerian Army rose to the rank of Lieutenant-General. In 1983 participated in the preparation of the coup that toppled the Government of Shehu Shagari, and put in power by Major-General Mohammed Buhari. Two years later, was one of the key figures in the new conspiracy, which culminated in the overthrow of Buhari and the coming to power, Major-General Ibrahim Babangida. Abacha was appointed Chief of General Staff instead of Babangida, and in 1990 - Minister of Defense. The new governor promised to establish democracy in the country, and in 1988, Nigeria adopted a new constitution. In 1992, elections have been held, however, when in June 1993, they still were, Babangida abolished the results, after it became clear that the victory they won Moshood Abiola, a wealthy businessman, who belongs to the Yoruba tribe. In August 1993, Babangida resigned, naming his successor, and interim President Ernest Shonekan. Abacha retained his post of Minister of Defense and was also appointed to the post of vice-president.
When in November 1993 Shonekan decided to raise petrol prices, it caused a wave of demonstrations and strikes. Taking advantage of the situation, Abacha ousted Shonekan and declared himself ruler. The country had banned all political activity, it was also stated that henceforth the government in Nigeria will belong to the military.

During his five-year term in Abacha's government brutally suppressed all dissent and opposition movements. In economics, the end of 1997 there has been a serious crisis. One of the largest oil exporters, Nigeria has a deficit of fuel in the domestic market, which was caused by corruption and bad management industry. By mid-1998 the unemployment rate was estimated at 30-50%.

Elections to the legislature in April 1998 were declared a national disgrace. All candidates were nominated by parties based and funded by the Abacha regime. The turnout of less than 10% of registered voters.

Abacha died in Abuja on June 8, 1998, allegedly from a heart attack. He was succeeded by Chief of General Staff Maj. Gen. Abdusalam Abubakar. A month later, Abiola, who was in prison since 1994 on charges of treason, also died of a heart attack.