‘They envied my father,’ says Abacha’s son as Babangida’s memoir sparks renewed criticism
By Jeffrey Agbo
Sadiq Abacha, son of Nigeria’s former military ruler, General Sani Abacha, has defended his late father’s legacy, claiming his leadership remains significant despite enduring criticism.
In a Facebook post on Saturday, Sadiq suggested that envy and subtle betrayal shaped much of the negative perception surrounding his father. He expressed confidence that history would eventually judge his father favourably.
This defence follows the release of former military President Ibrahim Babangida’s memoir, which has reignited debates over key events in Nigeria’s political history. A central revelation from the book highlights the controversial annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election—an election Babangida admitted was won by Moshood Abiola.
READ ALSO: Babangida claims Abacha violently plotted to overthrow him
Babangida claimed that internal forces within his administration, allegedly led by Abacha, influenced the annulment without his full awareness.
Responding to the renewed criticism, Sadiq wrote: “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.”
Sadiq said he was “most proud” of his father, adding that Abacha’s critics secretly wished they were in his position.
He concluded with a Hausa proverb, “Duk wanda yayi jifa a kasuwa,” meaning, “Whoever throws a stone in the market…”—a reminder that actions often have far-reaching consequences.
