June 12: MKO Abiola’s Family Demands Details on N45bn Contract Debt 

The family of the late Chief Moshood Abiola has demanded comprehensive details regarding an alleged N45 billion contract debt owed by the Federal Government. This demand follows a public appeal by former Jigawa State Governor Sule Lamido, who called on President Bola Tinubu to compensate the family as part of national reconciliation efforts.

At the May 2025 launch of his memoir Being True to Myself in Abuja, Lamido revealed that Abiola’s company, International Telephone & Telegraph, completed significant communications contracts for the military regime in the 1970s but was not fully paid. He further noted that the debt was acknowledged by the late Head of State Murtala Muhammed before his assassination and was confirmed by Abiola himself shortly before his 1994 arrest.

Lamido described the unpaid sum as a “double punishment” for Abiola—first being denied the presidency after the annulment of the June 12, 1993 election, and second, being denied rightful payment for completed contracts. He urged President Tinubu to settle the debt, arguing that doing so would provide moral closure to the June 12 saga and affirm the government’s commitment to justice.

The issue has reignited public debate on the sacrifices made by Abiola and the significance of June 12 in Nigeria’s democratic history. Gani Adams, the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, also called for the debt to be paid, emphasizing that symbolic appointments are insufficient.

Jamiu Abiola, speaking for the family, said they need more information before proceeding with any claim. “The former governor did not say what the money was owed for. He didn’t give much details about it. Before we can say more about it, we need more details,” he said.

A Presidency official, speaking anonymously, stated that the family could file claims if evidence is provided but criticized Lamido for speaking on their behalf, noting that past administrations had opportunities to settle the debt.

Meanwhile, Hafsat Abiola expressed appreciation for the Federal Government’s posthumous CFR award to her late mother, Kudirat Abiola, recognizing her dedication to democracy.

This development highlights the ongoing efforts to address unresolved issues related to June 12 and Abiola’s legacy.