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Former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, has claimed that the widely discussed Abacha loot was a false narrative, insisting that the late General Sani Abacha did not steal the country’s funds.
Abubakar made the statement during an exclusive interview with Saturday Sun in Abuja, after the presentation of his memoirs at the Presidential Villa on June 13, 2026.
When asked why some revelations in his book about NADECO leaders and Abiola’s freedom were only coming out now, despite many of the figures being late, Abubakar said it was unfortunate that the information emerged at this time.
He added that he respected some of the NADECO leaders, noting that they later became his friends and remained in contact with him until their deaths.
Further talking, he said, “For example, Papa Adesanya has been my confidant. Even when he was sick, I was surprised that the South-West governors were not able to pay his medical bills. They left him on his own. I was really, really surprised and up till today, I am in touch with the rest of his family.”
He said he had visited him several times after leaving office, including visits to Apapa, and that his children had also visited him in Minna. He added that they were still in contact with them.
He also stated that Bola Ige visited him in Minna after his retirement and that they maintained communication.
He further explained that he remained good friends with people such as Ayo Opadokun and the late Obi in Enugu, adding that they eventually reached an understanding and built cordial relationships.
