The Third Republic (1999-2003): Nigeria’s return to democratic rule after years of military dictatorship. This period marked the beginning of the current democratic era.
Transition to Third Republic
After the death of General Sani Abacha in 1998, General Abdulsalami Abubakar organized a transition to civilian rule.
The 1999 Elections
Several parties contested for the 1999 general elections:
- People’s Democratic Party (PDP)
- All People’s Party (APP)
- Alliance for Democracy (AD)
Winners
The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) emerged winner with:
- President: Chief Olusegun Obasanjo
- Vice President: Alhaji Atiku Abubakar
Significance
- Ended military rule that began in 1983
- Established the longest democratic period in Nigeria’s history
- Introduced the 1999 Constitution still in use today
- PDP dominated politics for 16 years (1999-2015)
Challenges of the Period
- Ethnic and religious tensions
- Corruption allegations
- Niger Delta militancy
- Economic challenges