In a revealing excerpt from his autobiography, 'Call of Duty', former Head of State Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar sheds light on the pressures he faced during the November 1993 coup that brought General Sani Abacha to power. This first-hand account offers a unique perspective on the inner workings of military politics and the complex dynamics between senior officers.
Abubakar's narrative begins with a sense of intrigue as he was posted to the National War College, now the National Defence College, as its Commandant. The political crisis surrounding the annulment of the June 12, 1993, election was intensifying, and Abacha, the Minister of Defence under the Interim National Government, was a key figure in the unfolding drama. Abubakar's role as the most senior military officer in active service and government, a position left behind by the Babangida administration, added to the tension.
The turning point came on a Monday evening in November 1993 when Rear Admiral Suleiman Saidu visited Abubakar with a warning. Abacha and Gusau were in Abuja, and the Navy would not be part of any coup. Abubakar, caught off guard, immediately ruled himself out, emphasizing his lack of knowledge about the coup rumors. The following day, he was approached by retired Major-General Shehu Musa Yar'Adua, who confirmed the plot to remove Chief Ernest Shonekan. This led to Shonekan's resignation and Abacha's power grab.
Despite initial reluctance, Abubakar found himself under pressure to attend a meeting of senior military officers at the Flag Staff House. He refused, insisting on his right to decline an uninvited invitation. However, his curiosity and the persistence of his colleagues eventually led him to the meeting, where he was publicly embarrassed by being denied entry. The situation took a shocking turn when an officer summoned him, demanding his presence at Abacha's house. This officer, acting with military discipline, announced Abubakar's appointment as Chief of Army Staff, a decision made in the blink of an eye.
In a private meeting with Abacha, Abubakar extracted a firm commitment before accepting the role. He insisted on maintaining his independence and honesty, setting conditions for his service. However, Abacha did not invite him to the meeting, and the next day, an officer revealed that the plan had changed. Abubakar was to be retired from the Army, a decision that left him surprised and concerned about the consequences for his colleagues.
The final twist came when Abubakar learned of his appointment as Chief of Defence Staff, the highest military position in the land. This role, which coordinates the activities of all three services, was a significant responsibility. Abubakar's personal history with Abacha, from their school days to the Civil War, added a layer of complexity to their relationship. Despite their differences, Abubakar's prophecy about Abacha's potential downfall added a fascinating dimension to their dynamic.
This first-hand account highlights the intricate balance of power within the military and the personal stakes involved. Abubakar's narrative offers a rare glimpse into the decision-making processes of senior officers during a tumultuous period in Nigerian history, leaving readers with a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by those in leadership positions during times of political upheaval.
