Former Jigawa State Governor, Sule Lamido, has called on President Bola Tinubu to pay ₦45 billion to the family of the late MKO Abiola. Lamido said the money is owed as part of a judgment debt awarded years ago but never fulfilled.
Lamido made the call during a radio interview while reflecting on the significance of June 12, the day Nigerians remember Abiola’s 1993 presidential election victory. He said honoring Abiola’s memory should go beyond words and national holidays—it should include settling all debts tied to his unjust treatment.
According to him, Abiola’s company, Concord Press, was awarded a ₦45 billion judgement against the Federal Government by a court in the early 2000s. The company sued over the military government’s allegation of suspicious activities for which it was seized and shut down. This was during the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo. No payment was made.
Flashback:
MKO Abiola was thought to have secured the 1993 presidential election, which the military government of General Ibrahim Babangida declared null and void. Abiola was subsequently incarcerated for proclaiming himself president and died in prison in 1998 under uncertain conditions. Former President Muhammadu Buhari formally declared June 12 as Democracy Day in honor of Abiola in 2018.
Lamido contended that if the government really respects Abiola’s legacy, then it should move beyond symbolic acknowledgment. He asserted that paying compensation to the family would be a bold move toward justice and healing the nation.
He further posited that Abiola’s work in Nigeria’s democracy was not symbolic but financially based. As Lamido saw it, Abiola spent his own money fighting for democracy and paid dearly for it.
While speaking, Lamido also noted that despite being recognized posthumously, Abiola’s family still faces financial difficulties. He asked President Tinubu, who shares a political connection with Abiola, to act and pay what is due.
The ex-governor opines that paying the debt will demonstrate to Nigerians that the nation cares for those who make sacrifices for it. He also urged further reforms to take care of families of political heroes who died for Nigeria’s development.
In conclusion, Lamido’s demand has talked much about how Nigeria honors its past leaders and heroes. As June 12 approaches again, all eyes are focused on the government to see whether it will take action or remain silent.
