Former First Lady Maryam Abacha has vehemently denied allegations that her late husband, General Sani Abacha, looted Nigeria’s treasury. In an interview aired on TVC to mark 27 years since his death, she asserted that her husband’s financial dealings have been deliberately misrepresented.

During the interview, Maryam challenged those making the accusations to provide credible evidence of any wrongdoing. She questioned, “Who is the witness of the monies that were being stashed? Did you see the signature or any evidence?”

Maryam also criticized the narrative surrounding the recovery of “Abacha loot,” funds that have been repatriated from foreign accounts by successive Nigerian governments and used for social investment programs. She expressed her frustration that many Nigerians accept these claims without questioning their validity.

She further addressed the societal issues reflected in the blame directed at her husband, suggesting that tribalism and religious biases contribute to the animosity. “Why are we so bad towards each other?” she asked, calling for unity and goodwill among Nigerians.

Maryam rejected claims that her husband was responsible for the annulment of the June 12 election, insisting that it was not his decision. “If it was him, that means he was very powerful… even more powerful than the president,” she said.

In her remarks, she emphasized the importance of every individual in Nigeria, arguing against the idea that any one person could define the nation’s identity or destiny.