Abacha's death led to a period of uncertainty and confusion in Nigeria. The military government, now led by General Abdulsalami Abubakar, quickly moved to consolidate power and announce a new transition program. However, the legitimacy of the new government was widely questioned, and the country remained in a state of turmoil.
The sun beat down on Aso Rock, but the heat didn't penetrate the inner sanctum. General Sani Abacha sat behind his desk, the air conditioner humming a low, steady drone. To the outside world, Nigeria was a pariah state, suffocating under sanctions and the grip of tyranny. But inside, the General felt an intoxicating sense of momentum.
