The family of the late Chief Moshood Abiola has called for transparency and detailed information regarding a reported N45 billion debt allegedly owed to them by the Nigerian government. This follows a public appeal by former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido, who urged President Bola Tinubu to settle the debt as a symbolic act of justice and national reconciliation.
At the launch of his autobiography Being True to Myself in Abuja, Lamido disclosed that Abiola’s firm, International Telephone & Telegraph, executed major contracts for the military government in the 1970s but was never fully compensated. He added that the debt was acknowledged by former Head of State Murtala Muhammed before his assassination and confirmed by Abiola himself shortly before his 1994 arrest.
Lamido described the situation as a “double punishment” for Abiola, who was first denied the presidency following the annulment of the June 12, 1993 election and then denied the rightful payment for completed contracts. He appealed to the government to pay the N45 billion to Abiola’s heirs, stating that doing so would close the June 12 chapter with dignity.
The call has sparked renewed discussions on the legacy of June 12 and Abiola’s sacrifices for democracy. Gani Adams, Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, supported the demand, emphasizing the need for tangible recognition beyond symbolic gestures.
However, Jamiu Abiola, representing the family, said they require more information before acting on the claim. “The former governor did not say what the money was owed for. He didn’t give much details about it. Before we can say more about it, we need more details,” he explained.
A Presidency source stated that the family may file claims if they have evidence but criticized Lamido for speaking on their behalf, noting that previous administrations had opportunities to settle the debt.
Meanwhile, Hafsat Abiola expressed gratitude for the Federal Government’s posthumous CFR award to her late mother, Kudirat Abiola, acknowledging her role in the fight for democracy.
The issue remains a significant chapter in Nigeria’s democratic history and the ongoing quest for justice for June 12 pro-democracy figures.