Some revolutionaries act off the cuff, in a fit of indignation, without a preformed plan. Others are more methodical, biding their time and laying the groundwork for their act. Ibrahim Babangida, a career military man, belonged to the second category. As he rose through the ranks of the army, to lieutenant, commander, captain, and eventually major-general, he also made sure to place men loyal to him in positions of power. When he was finally read, his coup was swift and bloodless.

On this day, August 27, in 1985 Ibrahim Babangida overthrew Major General Muhammadu Buhari, the leader of the military junta ruling Nigeria since 1983.

Nicknamed “Maradona” for his political maneuvering skills,  Babangida came to power as a champion of human rights, but his record has been less than stellar on that front. Although he released many of the political prisoners imprisoned by his predecessors, he also persecuted opposition groups, detaining many under various pretenses.