The military coup led by General Sani Abacha in Nigeria marked a significant turning point in the nation’s tumultuous political landscape. In August 1993, Ernest Shonekan was appointed head of an interim government following the annulled elections of June won by Moshood Abiola. This interim government was intended to lead Nigeria towards democratic governance. However, Shonekan's administration faced challenges, including widespread civil unrest, economic difficulties, and a lack of legitimacy among the military and the populace. On November 17, 1993, Abacha, who was then the Chief of Defense Staff, struck decisively. The coup occurred swiftly, with military forces seizing key locations in Lagos, the nation’s commercial capital.Abacha justified his actions by claiming the need to restore order and stability to Nigeria, which was grappling with a series of political crises and social unrest. He suspended the constitution, dissolved all democratic institutions, and established a military junta. The coup put an end to Shonekan’s brief presidency, lasting only 82 days. Abacha’s regime, which would last until his death in 1998, was marked by widespread human rights abuses, strict media censorship, and an authoritarian rule that stifled opposition and dissent. The early days of Abacha's rule set a precedent for decades of military intervention in Nigeria's political affairs, further complicating the nation’s quest for genuine democracy and political stability.