Former South African President Thabo Mbeki has praised Abdulsalami Abubakar, ex-military head of state, for his decision to return Nigeria to democratic rule within 11 months of assuming office.
Mbeki spoke virtually on Friday at the public presentation of three books in honour of the former head of state ahead of his 84th birthday.
The former South African leader said Abdulsalami’s response to the political uncertainty that followed the death of late military ruler Sani Abacha in June 1998 demonstrated “great wisdom, foresight and statesmanship”.
According to Mbeki, Abdulsalami recognised the need for stability and democratic governance shortly after assuming office and committed to a brief transition period rather than extending military rule.
“Following his appointment as head of state by the Provisional Ruling Council, he recognized the urgent need for stability and democratic governance and hence chose to commit to a short transition period,”
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