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Sani AbachaNigerian military and statesman, Lieutenant General (rank awarded in 1987).
Date of Birth: 20.09.1943
Country:  Nigeria |
Content:
- Early Life and Education
- Military Career and Political Rise
- Ascension to Power
- Economic Sanctions and International Isolation
- Swiss Money Laundering Case
- Legacy
Early Life and Education
Sani Abacha, a Nigerian military and political figure, was born in Kano, Northern Nigeria, on September 20, 1943. He received his military training in the United Kingdom and the United States.
Military Career and Political Rise
Abacha rose through the ranks of the Nigerian Army, eventually attaining the rank of Lieutenant General in 1987. During his military career, he played a role in the preparation of military coups in 1983 and 1985. In 1990, he became the Minister of Defense, and in 1992, he was appointed Vice President of Nigeria.
Ascension to Power
In 1993, Abacha organized a military coup and became the Chairman of the Provisional Ruling Council and the Federal Executive Council. His presidency was marked by a series of foreign policy setbacks and human rights violations.
Economic Sanctions and International Isolation
As a result of Abacha's human rights abuses, Nigeria faced economic sanctions from the United States and was suspended from the Commonwealth of Nations. The government of Nigeria is currently attempting to recover billions of dollars of stolen oil revenues believed to have been stashed abroad by Abacha.
Swiss Money Laundering Case
In June 2010, Abacha's younger son, Abba Abacha, was sentenced to 24 months in prison by a Swiss court for money laundering during his father's regime. Abba, along with his older brother Mohammed, had controlled a large amount of their father's money through secret accounts in Swiss banks.
Legacy
Sani Abacha's presidency is remembered for its authoritarian rule, human rights abuses, and economic isolation. The Swiss money laundering case remains a significant part of the late dictator's legacy.
