June 12: Pay Abiola Family N45bn Debt to Close Chapter, Lamido Urges Tinubu

By Kabir Akintayo

Former Governor of Jigawa State, Sule Lamido, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to settle a N45 billion debt allegedly owed to the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Abiola by the Nigerian government during the military era.

Lamido stated that the payment would serve as a symbolic and moral closure to the June 12 struggle and Abiola’s unjust treatment following the annulled 1993 presidential election, widely believed to have been won by Abiola.

He made this call during the closing remarks at the launch of his autobiography “Being True to Myself” held at the NAF Conference Centre, Abuja, on Tuesday.

“Before I end my remarks, I want to appeal to President Tinubu to finally close the chapter of June 12,” Lamido said. “In his book, General Ibrahim Babangida acknowledged that Abiola won the election. When I visited him, he also confirmed that Abiola is owed N45 billion. He was doubly punished: first, denied the presidency; second, denied what is owed to him.”

He urged the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Muhammad Idris Malagi—who represented President Tinubu at the event—to deliver the message to the president.

“Please tell the president to pay the Abiola family the N45 billion. Once this is done, the June 12 chapter will be closed. It is very important,” he emphasized.

Meanwhile, President Tinubu, through Malagi, congratulated Lamido on the launch of his autobiography, describing it as a notable contribution to Nigeria’s political history and democratic journey.

Speaking on behalf of the President, Malagi hailed Lamido as a bold, consistent, and principled political figure whose life reflects Nigeria’s democratic evolution.

“This is not just a book launch, it is a celebration of a life defined by courage, consistency, and dedication to democratic ideals. Though a staunch opposition figure and frequent critic of President Tinubu, Alhaji Sule Lamido remains a key pillar of Nigeria’s political development,” Malagi noted.

He commended the decade-long effort it took to write the book and urged other political leaders to document their journeys for posterity.

“The title of the book is fitting—it reflects Lamido’s reputation as a principled and forthright politician. I recommend this book to students, scholars, journalists, and fellow politicians. It will remain relevant for years to come,” he added.

Delivering the keynote address, former President Olusegun Obasanjo recalled his working relationship with Lamido, recounting how he appointed him Foreign Minister after another nominee declined. He praised Lamido’s role in reshaping Nigeria’s global image and lauded his evolution into a statesman.

Professor Attahiru Jega, representing former Head of State General Abdulsalami Abubakar, described the autobiography as a candid and insightful account that offers important reflections on Nigeria’s political landscape. He emphasized the importance of such works in fostering civic understanding and encouraging documentation of political history.

The book was formally launched by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, while former PDP National Chairman Dr. Iyorchia Ayu reviewed it, describing it as “a personal encounter with power and leadership.”

Other dignitaries in attendance included Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State, Governor Muhammad Yahaya of Gombe State, and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, among others.