Criminals who aided abacha loot must be prosecuted ― debo adeniran

Debo Adeniran, a Nigerian activist and former presidential candidate, has called for the prosecution of individuals who aided the looting of the country's treasury by the late military dictator, Sani Abacha.

Abacha, who ruled Nigeria from 1993 to 1998, is estimated to have stolen over $5 billion from the country's treasury during his tenure. The looted funds, known as the Abacha loot, have been the subject of several investigations and recoveries over the years.

Adeniran, who is also the founder of the Centre for Anti-Corruption and Open Leadership (CACOL), made the call while speaking at a press conference in Lagos. He urged the Nigerian government to ensure that those who aided Abacha in his looting spree are brought to justice.

"We must not forget that the Abacha loot was not just stolen by Abacha alone, but also by those who aided and abetted him," Adeniran said. "We must ensure that those who helped him to steal our commonwealth are also prosecuted and brought to justice."

Adeniran's call comes as the Nigerian government is working to recover the Abacha loot, which has been frozen in foreign banks. The government has recovered some of the looted funds, but Adeniran believes that more needs to be done to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.

"We must not just recover the loot, but also ensure that those who stole it are brought to justice," Adeniran said. "We must also ensure that the loot is used for the benefit of the Nigerian people, and not just for the benefit of a few individuals."

Adeniran's call has been echoed by other anti-corruption activists and civil society groups in Nigeria, who believe that the prosecution of those who aided Abacha's looting is essential for promoting transparency and accountability in the country.