Maryam Abacha, the widow of the late General Sani Abacha, has spoken out to defend her husband against longstanding accusations of embezzling billions of dollars while in office as Nigeria’s military Head of State. In a recent interview, she firmly rejected the allegations, challenging anyone to provide clear and credible evidence of the supposed looted funds. She questioned the legitimacy of the claims, asking rhetorically, “Who witnessed the money being stashed? Where is the signature, or what is the evidence of any money kept abroad?”
Mrs. Abacha went on to claim that any funds her husband may have secured for Nigeria mysteriously disappeared shortly after his death. She insinuated that those who succeeded him in government may have mismanaged or misappropriated these resources. “The monies that my husband kept for Nigeria vanished in a few months,” she said, suggesting that this aspect of the narrative has been largely ignored.
She also took issue with what she perceives as a continued and unjust focus on her husband’s legacy, raising concerns about possible ethnic or religious bias. She questioned why people continue to blame Abacha, asking if tribalism or religion might be influencing public sentiment. “Why are we so unkind to one another?” she asked, highlighting the dangers of divisions based on ethnicity or faith. She called for a change in mindset, urging Nigerians to “stop telling lies and blaming people,” and emphasized the need for unity and compassion among citizens.
Criticizing the media, Mrs. Abacha urged journalists to focus on educating the public rather than damaging reputations. She noted that it has been nearly three decades since her husband’s death, yet his name continues to dominate conversations, which she interpreted as a sign of his enduring influence and, perhaps, respect.
When reminded of the economic stability during Abacha’s administration—characterized by rising foreign reserves and reduced external debt—Mrs. Abacha used it as a defense, reiterating that no verifiable wrongdoing had been proven. “So where did he steal the money from?” she asked skeptically, expressing frustration that many Nigerians accept such claims without question.
She concluded by stressing the shared responsibility of all Nigerians in nation-building. Referring to prominent figures like Babangida, Abiola, and her late husband, she reminded the public that no single individual is greater than Nigeria itself. “Even the man on the street is important,” she said, urging an end to the constant blame and division.