Despite the country's history of religious violence, Abiola says she's still surprised that a young Nigerian Muslim would be accused of trying to commit mass murder against American citizens.
Abubakar may make some moves like having a deal with Abiola (provided Abiola survives the storm after Abacha's death) but I think Abiola will not settle for anything less than the "oga" of Nigeria.
The north has ruled Nigeria since independence (a southerner was in charge for just six years), but the rioting after Abiola's death is said to have persuaded many northerners that it is time to cede power.