Maryam Abacha to Northerners: Speak with one voice, engage government constructively

Maryam Abacha, widow of former Nigerian Head of State, Sani Abacha, has called on political leaders, traditional rulers, religious scholars, women and youth groups across Northern Nigeria to adopt a coordinated and constructive approach in engaging the Federal Government on the region’s challenges.

She said such an approach is necessary to achieve lasting and sustainable solutions to issues such as insecurity, poverty, and economic hardship.

Mrs Abacha also cautioned against the use of abusive language and derogatory remarks in public discourse, warning that such conduct undermines governance and weakens efforts at meaningful engagement.

“The use of invective against leaders does not serve the interests of the ordinary citizen; rather, it weakens governance structures,” she said. “What is required is constructive engagement, accompanied by prayers and a sincere articulation of the people’s challenges in a manner that promotes unity and collective advancement.”

She made the remarks in a personally signed statement issued to journalists from Paris on Friday.

Drawing from her experience as a former First Lady, Mrs Abacha emphasised the importance of using established institutional channels to communicate public concerns, urging Northern stakeholders to recalibrate their advocacy strategies.

“Rather than resorting to media platforms for the exchange of insults, I call on Northern traditional rulers to close ranks and engage the Federal Government through appropriate mechanisms on pressing challenges confronting the region,” she said.

She stressed the need for inclusive participation, calling on women’s groups, business leaders, the organised private sector, youth organisations, academics, religious scholars, and security personnel of Northern origin to unite and form a common platform for dialogue with the Federal Government.

Mrs Abacha noted that sustained and coordinated pressure through legitimate channels could compel government action, particularly on insecurity and underdevelopment.

“After presenting grievances, prayers should follow. Let there be supplication, patriotism, and then structured engagement with government,” she added.

She also urged public office holders at all levels—federal, state, and local—to govern with justice, equity, and a strong sense of national responsibility.

The former First Lady expressed concern over what she described as stronger cohesion among stakeholders in Southern Nigeria in advancing shared interests, urging Northern leaders to emulate similar unity and strategic engagement.

She further called on the Federal Government to prioritise youth welfare by addressing unemployment and insecurity to improve socio-economic conditions and national stability.

Mrs Abacha said her appeal was made in her capacity as a mother to all Nigerians, aimed at promoting fairness, unity, and social cohesion.

“I made this appeal in the interest of national harmony. Those who may be uncomfortable with my remarks should recognise that truth can sometimes be difficult to accept,” she said.

She also offered prayers for peace, stability, and unity in Nigeria.