The family of late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Abiola has asked the Federal Government to provide a breakdown of the reported N45 billion said to be owed to the late business tycoon.
This request follows a recent public statement by former Jigawa State Governor, Sule Lamido, who urged President Bola Tinubu to settle the alleged debt as part of efforts to promote justice and national reconciliation.
Lamido brought up the matter in May 2025 during the launch of his autobiography, Being True to Myself, in Abuja.
According to him, Abiola’s company, International Telephone & Telegraph, executed major telecommunications projects for Nigeria’s military government in the 1970s but was never fully paid. Lamido added that the debt was acknowledged by then Head of State, General Murtala Mohammed, before his assassination in 1976.
He also recalled a private discussion with Abiola in 1994, just before his arrest, during which the late businessman reportedly confirmed the outstanding payment.
Lamido described the situation as a “double injustice,” noting that Abiola was first denied his electoral mandate in the 1993 presidential election and then allegedly denied rightful payment for services rendered.
According to Lamido, settling the debt would provide symbolic justice and reinforce President Tinubu’s commitment to recognizing the contributions of pro-democracy leaders like Abiola.
“Abiola served this country with loyalty. Addressing this issue would bring closure and honour his legacy,” Lamido stated.
He also urged Information Minister Mohammed Idris, who was present at the event, to deliver the message to the President.
The issue has stirred renewed public interest in Abiola’s sacrifices during Nigeria’s struggle for democracy.
Abiola died in detention in 1998 after being arrested for declaring himself president following the annulled June 12, 1993 election.
Gani Adams, the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, also called on the government to resolve the matter.
He said, “It’s not only about compensation. It’s about honouring a man who gave everything for the democracy we enjoy today. Offering one of his children a political appointment doesn’t do justice.”
Jamiu Abiola, one of MKO Abiola’s sons, responded to the claims by asking for more information.
Speaking with Saturday PUNCH, he said, “The former governor didn’t provide specific details about the contract or the debt. Until we receive more clarity, it’s too early to push for any payment.”
A source in the Presidency, who requested anonymity, said the Abiola family has the right to file a formal claim if they possess verifiable documentation. However, the source questioned why Lamido, rather than a family member, was making the appeal.
“MKO’s children are alive and capable of presenting their case. It’s not Sule Lamido’s place to speak for them. If there truly is a debt, let the family come forward with their claim,” the source said.
The official also wondered why previous administrations, including those of Olusegun Obasanjo and Muhammadu Buhari, did not act on the matter.
Meanwhile, on Friday, Hafsat Abiola expressed appreciation to the Tinubu administration for posthumously honouring her late mother, Kudirat Abiola, with the national award of Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR).
She said, “President Tinubu’s decision to honour my mother is deeply appreciated. She stood firmly beside my father and worked fearlessly for the return of democracy. I believe she would have been overwhelmed by such recognition.”
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