Thursday, February 18, 1999 Published at 18:11 GMT
The BBC Foreign Affairs Correspondent, Fergus Nicoll, looks back at General Abacha's time in power.
Abiola's death captures world headlines
The death of Chief Moshood Abiola hit the headlines around the world and prompted commentators to wonder what it would mean for Nigeria's stability.
Nigeria's ethnic divisions
The death of Chief Moshood Abiola has sparked ethnic violence, illustrating the country's sectarian and communal divisions.
From Our Own Correspondent
Mention General Abacha's name in Lagos now and people smile, or even laugh openly ... writes Lagos correspondent, Hillary Andersson.
Analysis: What next for Nigeria?
With the death of Chief Moshood Abiola, Nigeria has lost its main opposition leader less than a month after the death of its military ruler, General Sani Abacha.
Abacha's uniting shadow
Local elections in Nigeria are the first step towards a planned return to civilian rule next May, reports Caroline Hawley.