DEATH OF SANI ABACHA DEATH

9 June 1998

Very few people will mourn the death of the Nigerian Military Dictator Mr.
Sani Abacha, except his cohorts in the military and those who enjoyed his
patronage during his misrule.

COSATU feels that it is most unfortunate that Abacha's death has not
ushered in any moves towards genuine transformation and democracy. We are
disappointed that the military council has merely seen fit to impose yet
another military dictator on the people of Nigeria.

We therefore reject the election of the "new Nigerian Head of State, Mr.
Abdulsalam Abubakar", who will be the 9th military ruler since 1960.
COSATU believes that this is a step backwards.  COSATU will not be
surprised if he pleads to be given another three years to move the country
towards democratic elections, just as his predecessor did. The
international community should reject this as the same old trick that will
allow him to distribute patronage to corrupt political leaders who will in
turn nominate him as the sole candidate for the so-called Presidential
elections.

COSATU calls for the immediate release of Chief Abiola so that he can play
a significant role in the transitional period and the establishment of a
Government of National Unity in Nigeria.  We reiterate our call for the
release of trade unionists Comrades Frank Kokori and Milton Dabibi as well
as all other political prisoners.

We also call on the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) not to make the
mistake of  accepting the new dictator.  They should pressurise him to
speed up the transformation process in Nigeria.

COSATU reiterates its call to all countries that have strong trade
relations with Nigeria, such as the United States and Britain, to exert
more pressure on the new military junta to ensure that democracy is brought
about in that country.

Nowetu Mpati
COSATU Head of Communications

Tel:    + 27 + 11 + 339-4911
Fax:    + 27 + 11 + 339-2281
E-mail: nowetu@cosatu.org.za