May 29, 1999: Nigeria’s Historic Return to Democracy
On May 29, 1999, Olusegun Obasanjo took the presidential oath and brought an end to 16 years of military rule, launching Nigeria’s Fourth Republic. For millions of citizens, that day represented renewed hope after decades of coups and authoritarian governance. From the first post-independence coup in 1966 through successive regimes led by Buhari, Babangida, and Abacha, military leaders shaped the nation’s politics. The annulment of the June 12, 1993 election and the execution of Ken Saro-Wiwa under Abacha intensified national unrest. Abacha’s unexpected death in June 1998 allowed General Abdulsalami Abubakar to release political prisoners, ease restrictions, and organize local, state, and federal elections. Within a year, Nigerians had ushered in civilian rule once again.
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