Cheif Ernest Shonekan
A British-trained lawyer and industrialist who served as the interim Head of State of Nigeria following the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election.
Quick Facts
- Full Name
- Ernest Adegunle Oladeinde Shonekan
- Tenure
- 26 August 1993 – 17 November 1993
- Title
- Head of the Interim National Government
- Birthplace
- Lagos, Nigeria
- Education
- University of London
- Profession
- Lawyer and Business Executive
Early Life and Corporate Career
Born in 1936 in Lagos, Shonekan attended CMS Grammar School and Igbobi College before studying law at the University of London. He was called to the English Bar and eventually returned to Nigeria to join the United Africa Company (UAC) of Nigeria. He rose through the corporate ranks to become the Chairman and Managing Director of UAC of Nigeria, one of the country’s largest and most influential companies. His reputation as a seasoned technocrat and industrialist made him a respected figure in both domestic and international business circles.
The Interim National Government
In the midst of the political crisis following the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential elections, General Ibrahim Babangida appointed Shonekan to lead the Interim National Government (ING). His administration was tasked with managing a transition to a democratic Third Republic during a period of intense civil unrest and strikes. Despite his efforts to stabilize the economy and seek international recognition, the ING was widely criticized for lacking a democratic mandate. His tenure faced significant legal challenges, including a high court ruling that declared the interim government illegal.
Ousting and Post-Presidency
After only eighty-three days in office, Shonekan was forced to resign in a palace coup orchestrated by General Sani Abacha, who was then the Minister of Defence. Following his removal, Shonekan returned to the private sector and became a prominent elder statesman. He was a leading founder and the first chairman of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG), which was established in 1996 as a platform dedicated to fostering public-private sector dialogue. He remained an influential voice in Nigerian economic policy and national reconciliation until his death in January 2022.
Key Works / Related Items
- Leading role in the establishment of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG)
- Leadership of the Vision 2010 Committee
- Chairman and MD of United Africa Company (UAC) of Nigeria
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