Sadiq Abacha, son of Nigeria’s former military ruler, General Sani Abacha, has defended his late father’s legacy despite ongoing criticism.
In a Facebook post on Saturday, Sadiq claimed that his father was often envied and subtly betrayed but insisted that history would judge him favorably.
“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 concluded his post with a Hausa proverb: “Duk wanda yayi jifa a kasuwa”—which means “whoever throws a stone in the market…”—a phrase often interpreted as a warning that actions have consequences.
Sadiq’s comments come just days after former military President Ibrahim Babangida released his long-anticipated memoir, which has sparked widespread debate.
One of the key revelations in the book was Babangida’s admission that the June 12, 1993, presidential election—widely believed to have been won by MKO Abiola—was annulled due to internal pressures, allegedly led by Abacha. Babangida claimed he was not fully aware of the extent of these efforts at the time.
General Sani Abacha, who ruled Nigeria from 1993 until his death in 1998, remains a controversial figure. While his administration is credited with economic reforms and security measures, it is also criticized for corruption and human rights violations.
