Inna Maryam, widow of former Nigerian military leader General Sani Abacha, has pushed back against long-standing accusations that her husband looted billions of dollars while in power.
Speaking in an interview on TVC’s Politics with Femi Akande, she challenged the credibility of the claims and questioned the basis of the narrative that funds were stolen and hidden abroad.
Mrs. Abacha described the allegations as unfair and based on misinformation, suggesting that the constant references to looted funds have created a distorted image of her late husband.
“The annulment was not done by my husband. And if it was him, then that means he was more powerful than the President at the time. That means Abacha was the greatest. But I’m not here to talk about Babangida or anybody. All I know is that my husband didn’t do it,” she said.
She questioned the sources of the accusations, asking, “Who is the witness of the monies that were being stashed? Did you see the signature or evidence of any money stashed abroad? And the money that my husband kept for Nigeria, in a few months, it vanished. Why are you blaming somebody?”
Beyond defending her husband’s legacy, Inna Maryam expressed worry about Nigeria’s increasing insecurity. She said it was troubling that despite the country’s military strength and resources, insurgents still pose a major threat.
“I don’t know why insurgents have lingered this long. Other smaller nations have tackled theirs. We are bigger, richer, and more experienced,” she noted.
She also called for closer cooperation between the civilian government and the military in dealing with security issues.
“I believe in our military. I know they have what it takes to tackle the insurgents. If ECOMOG could bring peace to other countries, why can’t we have peace here? The government must work hand-in-hand with the military to solve this,” she urged.
Inna Maryam reflected on the challenges of leadership in Nigeria and the lack of continuity in government programs. She noted that valuable initiatives often disappear with the change of administrations.
“Every government comes with its own programs. But if there is no continuity, there will be no progress,” she said, naming the Africa First Ladies Peace Mission as an example of a lasting legacy.
Addressing issues of national unity, she stressed the importance of tolerance and understanding across ethnic and religious lines. “Why are we so bad towards each other? Because someone is a Northerner or Southerner? A Muslim or a Christian? It’s not fair,” she said.
She also defended the structure and strength of past military regimes, saying that while different from civilian rule, they were not without purpose. “No government can fail. Military governance is different, they have the will and the power. Maybe the civilians are not that strong. But the solution lies in cooperation.”
In closing, Mrs. Abacha urged Nigerians to support their leaders, be patriotic, and promote truth in media. “Let’s pray for our country. Let’s be good to our leaders and say good things. The press should be truthful and help build the nation, not destroy people’s reputations,” she added.
