Rufai Oseni says Abacha-era officials still hold government roles
Arise Television anchor Rufai Oseni posted on X on Friday, June 12, 2026, stating that individuals who served under former military ruler General Sani Abacha remain relevant and are still enjoying government appointments. He wrote: “Those that served Abacha are still relevant today and enjoying government. They enjoyed the best of military and civilian. Happy democracy day.” The comment came as Nigerians marked Democracy Day, a public holiday declared by the Federal Government on Thursday, June 11, 2026, by Minister of Interior Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo to commemorate the annulled 1993 presidential election and the transition from military rule in 1999. Abacha’s regime (1993–1998) is widely associated with human rights abuses, political suppression, and corruption. Oseni’s remark highlights concerns that figures from that era continue to benefit from civilian governance, raising questions about accountability and the durability of Nigeria’s democratic gains decades after the end of military rule. Do you think the continued appointment of former Abacha officials undermines Nigeria’s democratic progress, or should their experience be valued regardless of their past?