Lamido urges Tinubu to pay MKO Abiola’s ₦45 billion debt

Former Jigawa State Governor, Alhaji Sule Lamido, has called on President Bola Tinubu to clear a ₦45 billion debt reportedly owed to the late Chief MKO Abiola by the Nigerian government, describing the payment as a vital step toward closing the chapter on the June 12, 1993 presidential election.

Lamido made the appeal during the public presentation of his memoir, Being True To Myself, held on Tuesday in Abuja. While delivering his vote of thanks, the elder statesman stressed the importance of honoring Abiola’s legacy both politically and financially.

“I would like to appeal to President Tinubu to close the chapter of June 12,” Lamido said. “In his book, General Ibrahim Babangida revealed that Abiola won the election. When I went to him, he told me Abiola is being owed ₦45 billion. Abiola is doubly punished — denied the presidency and also owed this huge sum.”

He directed his message to the Minister of Information, who represented the President at the event: “Please tell him to pay Abiola’s family the ₦45 billion. When this money is paid, the chapter of June 12 will be closed. It is very important.”

Abiola, the acclaimed winner of the annulled June 12, 1993 election, died in detention in 1998 after being arrested for declaring himself president. Despite various posthumous honors — including being declared winner by President Muhammadu Buhari in 2018 — Lamido insists that the financial reparation remains unresolved.

The event, which drew dignitaries from across the country, was also an occasion for Lamido to express gratitude to key figures who supported him throughout his career and the launch of the book.

“All manner of gratitude goes to Allah for His endless bounties and blessings,” he said, reflecting on the success of the book project.

Lamido paid glowing tribute to former President Olusegun Obasanjo, describing him as his “Boss, Guide, Leader, and Inspiration,” and commending his presence at the event as well as his foreword to the book.

“Baba, I sincerely and profoundly thank you. May God Almighty bless you with health, wisdom, and well-being,” Lamido said.

He also acknowledged former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, for his “professional truthfulness and service to our nation,” and lauded the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, for promoting religious harmony and honoring the event with his presence.

Lamido extended appreciation to Dr. Iyorchia Ayu for reviewing the book, calling him a “MunChi comrade” and long-time ally. He praised the editorial and organizing committees for their resilience and commitment, as well as the media team for generating nationwide interest in the book launch.

Being True To Myself offers a personal and political account of Lamido’s life, chronicling decades of service and reflection on Nigeria’s democratic journey.