Abdulsalami’s ex-CSO recounts military pressure to extend transition programme

Abdul Aliyu, a retired major general and former chief security officer to Abdulsalami Abubakar, says the former head of state resisted pressure from some military officers to extend his transition programme and handover date after assuming power in 1998.

Aliyu spoke in Abuja on Saturday during celebrations marking Abubakar’s 84th birthday and the launch of three of his new books, including his autobiography.

Speaking as chairman of the organising committee of the former head of state’s 84th birthday celebrations, Aliyu described Abubakar as a leader who was prepared to make difficult decisions in the national interest, including those that ran contrary to the wishes of influential figures within the military hierarchy.

He said after Abubakar announced a six-month transition programme following his emergence as head of state in 1998, opinions within the military were “sharply” divided.

According to him, while some officers supported the timeline, others wanted it extended, arguing that civilians were not ready to assume power.

“When he rolled out his six-month transition programme, participants in the military were divided into three groups,” Aliyu said.

“One group believed that, yes, this was the right thing to do.

“Another group felt it was okay, but that there should be an extension of about five or six months.

“The third group believed the civilians were not ready to take over the country.”

Aliyu said he approached Abubakar with the concerns being raised by officers who favoured an extension of the transition.

“I went to him and said, ‘Sir, there are those who are asking whether we can extend the six months so that we can bring some of these people on our side’,” he said.

“He looked at me and said, ‘It is my duty and my task to take decisions on behalf of the country and what is good for the country and for the people. I have taken my decision. That is what I will do.’”

Aliyu said the response showed Abubakar’s commitment to returning Nigeria to democratic rule despite pressure from various quarters.

“He was ready to go to any extent, including against himself, to ensure that the right thing was done for the country,” he added.

Abubakar became head of state in June 1998 following Sani Abacha’s death.

He oversaw the transition programme that saw the inauguration of Olusegun Obasanjo as the democratically elected president on May 29, 1999, ending years of military rule. (TheCable)