Pay Abiola’s family N45b FG Owes Him, Lamido Tells Tinubu

Former Governor of Jigawa State, Alhaji Sule Lamido, has asked President Bola Tinubu to settle the ₦45 billion debt owed the winner of the June 12, 1993 elections, late Chief MKO Abiola by the Federal Government.

Lamido made this appeal during the public presentation of his book: “Being True To Myself,” on Tuesday in Abuja.

Speaking while delivering his vote of thanks on the occasion, Lamido noted the importance of resolving the financial debt owed to Abiola, who won the June 12, 1993, Presidential Election but was denied the presidency.

His words, “I would like to appeal to President Tinubu to close the chapter of June 12. In his book, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida revealed that Abiola won the election.

“When I went to him, IBB, (former military president) he said Abiola is being owed N45 billion. Abiola is double punished. One, he was not given the presidency, and two, he is being owed.”

Turning to the Minister of Information who represented the President on occasion, the former governor urged him to deliver the message to Tinubu, adding, “Please tell him to pay Abiola’s family the N45 billion debt. When this money is paid, the chapter of June 12 will be closed, it is very important.”

Lamido also expressed his deep appreciation to Allah, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, and others who contributed to the success of the event.

“All manner of gratitude goes to Allah SWT for His endless bounties and blessings for sparing our lives to see this momentous day,” he added.

Furthermore, Lamido paid glowing tribute to former President Olusegun Obasanjo, describing him as his “Boss, Guide, Leader, and Inspiration,” noting that Obasanjo’s inspiring foreword in the book and his physical presence at the launch were marks of trust and confidence.

“Baba, I sincerely and profoundly thank you. May God Almighty endow and bless you with abundant health, wisdom, joy, and well-being,” Lamido said, just as he also 

expressed gratitude to General Abdulsalami Abubakar, rtd, for his “professional truthfulness and service to our nation,” pointing out that Abdulsalami had always supported him in his endeavors.

Lamido, also praised the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, for his remarkable efforts in promoting religious harmony and attending the event despite his busy schedule, even as he further acknowledged Dr. Iyorchia Ayu for his role in reviewing the book, describing him as a “MunChi comrade” and longtime friend among others.