Speaking in Lagos, Carter says he is committed to the independence of Zimbabwe and Namibia. 1979 Elections result in a civilian government and Obasanjo becomes the first modern African military ruler to voluntarily hand over power to an elected government. Alhaji Shehu Shagari, a northerner, becomes president. But there are questions. Although Shagari won a clear majority with 34 per cent of the vote, he failed to meet the constitutional requirement that a candidate get at least 25 percent of the vote for each of Nigeria's 19 states.
Public disenchantment sets in quickly as politicians help themselves to the spoils of office.
Politics and the winning of contracts become inextricably entwined. Elections in 1983 were considered by many to be rigged. Shagari is overthrown in a popular coup led by General Mohammed Buhari who promises to crackdown on corruption. General Ibrahim Babangida becomes his chief of staff. Journalists and human rights activists were set free.