Siblings Unleashes Scathing Rebuke: "Abacha's Critics Would Be Eating Their Words If He Were Alive"

By Mohammed buhari Abacha

Kano – The family of late General Sani Abacha, Nigeria’s former military head of state, has launched a blistering attack on former Military President, General Ibrahim Babangida (IBB), over claims made in his recently launched book, “A Journey in Service”.

In a statement issued yesterday, Mohammed Buhari Abacha, described IBB’s claims as “mischievous” and “self-serving”, saying that his father’s legacy has been unfairly maligned.

“Did you know that after the legendary leaders like Sir Ahmadu Bello, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, and Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, there has never been a leader in Nigeria’s history as impactful as General Sani Abacha? Since his passing, we have not seen a leader with his strength, vision, and ability to make Nigeria truly stand as the Giant of Africa”.

Mohammed Abacha’s statement was in response to IBB’s claims in his book that his government’s failures were largely due to Abacha’s actions, including the infamous annulment of the June 12 presidential election won by MKO Abiola. This move led to a national crisis, extending military rule until 1999.

“Abacha did what no one expected, shaping Nigeria into a formidable force that commanded global respect. During his time, even world powers and Western nations feared Nigeria’s growing strength. He solidified Nigeria’s position in Africa, strengthened the economy, and ensured stability. Unlike the leaders who came after him, Abacha’s leadership was bold, decisive, and unapologetically pro-Nigeria”.

The younger Abacha argued that his father’s actions were justified and that IBB’s claims were a desperate attempt to rewrite history and absolve himself of blame for the country’s problems during his tenure.

Mohammed Abacha’s statement has sparked a fresh debate about Nigeria’s past and the legacy of its former leaders. Many Nigerians have taken to social media to express their opinions on the matter, with some defending IBB’s claims and others supporting the Abacha family’s position.

“Those who now speak negatively about him whether former heads of state like Buhari, IBB, or Abdulsalami do so out of jealousy. They have failed to match his achievements, and their corruption and weak leadership have let Nigeria down”.

The controversy surrounding IBB’s claims and Abacha’s response highlights the ongoing struggle to come to terms with Nigeria’s complex history. As the country continues to navigate its democratic journey, it is essential to acknowledge the past and learn from the successes and failures of previous leaders.

According to him “If Abacha were alive today, seeing how this so-called democracy has failed Nigerians, he would never have allowed the suffering and hardship we are experiencing. He was a father who protected his people, a leader who took initiative, and a patriot who put Nigeria first. Unlike those who rule for personal gain, Abacha’s vision was for the prosperity of all Nigerians”.

May Almighty Allah grant him eternal peace and reward him for the good he did for this nation. We salute General Sani Abacha, a leader whose legacy remains unmatched. And In Sha Allah, we pray that another great leader like him rises to take Nigeria back to its rightful place.

It could be recalled that recently during the book launch, attended by prominent figures, including former presidents and business leaders, donated over N17 billion to the IBB Presidential Library Foundation.