By Kolawole Ojebisi
Sadiq Abacha, Son of General Sani Abacha, Nigeria’s former military ruler, has said his admiration for his father remains as strong as ever stressing that the public perception cannot dim it.
Sadiq noted that his father’s leadership remains significant despite persistent criticisms.
The late dictator’s son, in a Facebook post on Saturday, suggested that his father, even in death, remains the envy of other leaders and victim of subtle betrayal but insisted that history would ultimately be kind to him.
“The man Abacha—you have always been the one they envied with silent deceit. History shall remember you for being a better leader, no matter how much they try to put you down. As a son, I am most proud of you today. You indeed are the man they wish they were half of”, he wrote.
He ended his message with a Hausa proverb: “Duk wanda yayi jifa a kasuwa,” which translates to “whoever throws a stone in the market…”—a phrase often interpreted as a warning that actions have consequences.
Sadiq’s statement comes just days after the launch of the long-awaited memoir by former military President, Ibrahim Babangida, which has triggered extensive discussions.
A major highlight of the book is the controversial annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, which Babangida admitted was won by MKO Abiola.
The former leader disclosed that while he regretted the decision, the move was largely orchestrated by forces within his government, allegedly led by Abacha, without his full awareness.
The late Abacha, who ruled Nigeria from 1993 until his passing in 1998, remains one of the country’s most debated figures.
While some of his allies hold on to the opinion that the country witnessed economic stabilisation and strong security policies during his reign, allegations of corruption and human rights violations continue to shape his legacy.
