By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
Maryam Abacha, widow of former Nigerian military ruler General Sani Abacha, has rejected long-standing accusations that her late husband embezzled public funds during his time in office.
In an interview on Politics on Sunday aired by TVC and anchored by Femi Akande, Mrs. Abacha said the allegations were based on misinformation and have unfairly tarnished her husband’s legacy.
Responding to claims that General Abacha orchestrated the annulment of the 1993 presidential election, she said:
“The annulment wasn’t done by my husband. But if it was, that would mean he was more powerful than the President then. That would make him the greatest. But I’m not here to speak about Babangida or anyone else. All I know is that my husband was not responsible.”
On the widely reported accusations of looting, she questioned the basis of the claims and the absence of clear, documented proof.
“Where are the witnesses? Who saw money being moved or signed for? Where’s the evidence of funds hidden abroad?” she asked. “The money my husband left for the country vanished within a few months. Yet, fingers are still being pointed at him.”
Mrs. Abacha also called for national unity, lamenting the divisions caused by ethnicity and religion.
“We are too hard on one another — Northerners against Southerners, Muslims against Christians. This is not the way forward,” she said.
Addressing Nigeria’s ongoing security issues, she expressed concern over the persistent insurgency, especially considering the country’s military capacity.
“I don’t understand why the insurgency has lasted this long. Smaller countries have handled theirs. We have the strength, the money, and the experience. Why is this still a problem?” she questioned.
She urged stronger collaboration between the military and civilian government, expressing confidence in the armed forces.
“Our military has what it takes. Look at what ECOMOG achieved abroad. The government needs to partner with the military closely to end this crisis,” she said.
Reflecting on her time as First Lady, she criticized the lack of continuity in government programs and advised the current administration to build on existing initiatives rather than discarding them.
“Every administration starts from scratch. Without continuity, there can be no real development,” she said, citing the Africa First Ladies Peace Mission as one of the enduring legacies of her time.
Defending the legacy of military governments, Mrs. Abacha argued that they were often misunderstood but brought structure and effectiveness.
“Military governments had their strengths. They acted with authority. Maybe what’s missing now is that sense of willpower. But we need cooperation to move forward,” she said.
In closing, she urged citizens and the media to focus on national development and unity.
“We should speak positively about our country. The media should report truthfully and avoid damaging reputations. Let’s build, not destroy,” she said.Attach
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