Abdulsalami Abubakar Questions Circumstances of Abacha's Death

Former Head of State Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar expressed suspicions about the circumstances of Gen. Sani Abacha's death on June 8, 1998, during the presentation of his autobiography at Aso Rock Villa, Abuja. Abubakar detailed a series of events leading up to the moment he received a phone call early that morning, which informed him of Abacha's desire to see him.

He described his confusion and frustration as he waited in a locked room at the presidential villa, alongside Lt. Gen. Ishaya Bamaiyi. After a prolonged wait, the door was opened by Inspector General of Police Alhaji Ibrahim Coomassi, who informed them that Abacha was dead.

Abubakar recalled the shock and chaos that ensued, with many senior military figures present, including Al Mustapha and Brigadier General Ibrahim Sabo. He noted that discussions about the next head of state began immediately, highlighting the urgency to avoid a power vacuum following Abacha's death.