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Reflecting on 25 Years of Freedom from Abacha”s Death Sentence: A Journey of Resilience and Gratitude
Reflecting on 25 Years of Freedom from Abacha”s Death Sentence: A Journey of Resilience and Gratitude
By Bello Fadile_
As I sit down to pen these words, my mind drifts back to a momentous day etched in the annals of my personal history – March 4, 1999. It was on this day, 25 years ago, that I emerged from the shadows of incarceration into the warm embrace of freedom. The memory of that day remains vivid in my mind, a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the unwavering power of faith.
In a recent conversation with journalists, I had the opportunity to recount the events surrounding my unexpected liberation from the confines of Argungu Prison, a facility now known as a Correctional Facility, in Kebbi State. Sentenced to what seemed like a lifetime behind bars for advocating a non-violent transition to democracy, I found myself grappling with the harsh realities of life under the regime of the late Gen. Sani Abacha–my then friend and boss.
The following excerpt is testimony of my release from a “life sentence”, as extracted from the upcoming book, “Nine Lives: The Bello Fadile Memoirs”:
“..25 years ago, in the wee hours of March 4 1999, I had tap, tap, tap, on my cell window and Colonel! Colonel!! wake up. I got up and went closer. Then I saw the warder on duty, a retired Warrant officer of the Nigerian Army now working for the Nigeria Prison Services. He said, “Oga you don free, congratulations sir, start packing your things, you are going home.”
I asked him, what did you just say? ” He said, “Yes sir you are to be released today, sir.” I did not say anything. I just believed him and rushed to the general open cell opposite my cell to tell the two other inmates who were on a three-day dry fasting with me, seeking the face of God in my situation. It was the beginning of the third day. I told them the good news and they shouted, “Hallelujah!” and we stood up and joined hands to sing out sing-song chorus; God is able, abundantly able, to deliver and to save; The Lord is able, abundantly able, to deliver those who trust in him. Hallelujah!”
As can be seen from the excerpts, it was as the early hours of March 4th dawned that a gentle tap on my cell window shattered the silence of the night, heralding the arrival of long-awaited news. A retired Warrant Officer turned prison warder stood before me, bearing tidings of liberation. With a heart overflowing with gratitude, I shared the news with my fellow inmates, their voices rising in a chorus of praise and thanksgiving.
In those fleeting moments, as I prepared to leave my confinement behind, I was overcome with a profound sense of gratitude towards those who had supported me during my darkest hours. It was with a newfound appreciation for the precious gift of freedom that I stepped out of the prison gates, my spirit unshackled from the chains of oppression.
As I reflect on the significance of this momentous occasion, I am reminded of the countless individuals who fought tirelessly for the cause of democracy in Nigeria. I extend my deepest gratitude to Gen. Abdusalami Alhaji Abubakar, whose act of clemency paved the way for my release, and to all those who contributed to the establishment of a true democratic government in our beloved nation.
As March 4th, 2024, marks the 25th anniversary of my freedom, I am filled with a sense of humility and reverence. My journey from incarceration to liberation serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the triumph of justice over adversity. I am eternally grateful for the unwavering support of my fellow countrymen and women, and I remain committed to upholding the values of democracy and freedom for generations to come.
To God be the honor and glory, and may His blessings continue to shine upon the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Col. Bello Fadile (Ph.D Law) is human rights lawyer and retired Nigerian Army officer
Reflecting on 25 Years of Freedom from Abacha”s Death Sentence: A Journey of Resilience and Gratitude
Eid-el-Ftr: FG Declares Monday, Tuesday as Public Holiday
By: Michael Mike
The Federal Government has declared Monday, March 31, and Tuesday, April 1, 2025, as public holidays to mark the Eid-el-Ftr festival, the celebration marking the end of the Ramadan Fast.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who extended heartfelt congratulations to the Muslim Ummah on the successful completion of the Ramadan fast.
The statement, signed by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, conveyed the Minister’s warm wishes and urged all Muslims to embrace the virtues cultivated during Ramadan – self-discipline, compassion, generosity, and peace.
Tunji-Ojo, while emphasizing the significance of love, forgiveness, and solidarity as key elements in fostering a harmonious society, encouraged Nigerians to use the festive period for prayer, focusing on the peace, stability, and prosperity of the nation.
He expressed hope that the joyous occasion of Eid-el-Fitr would serve as a catalyst for unity and cooperation, bridging divides across religious and ethnic lines.
The minister called on citizens to celebrate safely and responsibly, while remembering the less-privileged through acts of kindness and charity—keeping in line with the true spirit of Ramadan and Eid.
Eid-el-Ftr: FG Declares Monday, Tuesday as Public Holiday
3rd SDGs Film Challenge Launched by Nigeria, UN
By: Michael Mike
The United Nations Resident Coordinator in Nigeria, Mr. Mohamed Fall, has described Nigeria as a storytelling powerhouse, urging
filmmakers to channel their creative force toward amplifying awareness of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs, Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire on Wednesday in Abuja launched the 3rd Edition of the SDGs film Challenge
The film challenge which is a collaboration with the United Nations, aimed at mobilising filmmakers to use films to mobilise the nation towards achieving the SDGs.
The UN has set 2030 to achieve the SDGs which has 17 Goals aimed at improving standards of living across the globe.
Speaking at the launch, Fall said: “Nigeria is a storytelling powerhouse. Our Nollywood industry, which is among largest film industry in the world reaches millions across Africa and beyond. By channelling this creative force toward the SDGs, we are doing more than amplifying awareness.
“We are empowering young Nigerians to take ownership of the development narrative: to spotlight issues like gender inequality, climate change, and poverty, and to present solutions through the lens of sustainability.
“The UN in Nigeria stands firmly behind this mission. This year’s challenge — led by Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals, the UN Information Centre, and Fresh NEWS builds on the remarkable momentum of past editions.
“From 73 entries in 2023 to an astonishing 2,250 entries from 119 countries last year, the message is clear: young people are not waiting on the sidelines. They are ready to create, to lead, and to transform their world.
“Globally, the UN Secretary-General has underscored the vital role of youth and digital innovation in driving the 2030 Agenda forward. The SDGs Film Challenge embodies this vision. It aligns with Chapter IV of the Pact for the Future, recognizing youth and future generations as key architects of sustainable development.
“To all filmmakers, producers, and actors across Nigeria: this is your moment. Let your cameras roll.
“Let your stories stir our collective conscience. Whether your lens captures the struggle of a girl fighting for her education or the resilience of communities battling environmental degradation — your voice matters.
“Let’s make 2025 a year where stories drive change, where creativity fuels progress, and where Nigeria leads the charge in storytelling for sustainable development.”
on her part, Orelope-Adefulire said “The SDG Film Challenge is an initiative designed to mobilise filmmakers in this decade of action to accelerate the achievement of the SDG.”
She invited creators to produce impactful short films that highlight development challenges and offer solutions and direct action on critical issues such as poverty, illiteracy, gender equality, climate change, and social justice.
She added: “It is also an opportunity to provide information and to generate hope through our many narratives.
“We challenge them to educate, to provoke conversations and direct action towards achieving more that reduces the violence faced and threatens our planet. The success of this initiative over the past two editions is a testament to the power of partnership and creativity.”
She also stressed that “This year we are introducing a new strategy including training and capacity-building programmes for all the hosting and training sessions with filmmakers who will be stationed in this regard for their future training.
“With today’s launch, the online quarter is officially open for filmmakers to submit short films, multiple films, addressing selected issues.”
She revealed that three finalists will be shortlisted, from the entries with winners receiving prizes, global excursions, and additional opportunities.
Participants are expected to also benefit from the exchange of programme and mentoring initiatives.
3rd SDGs Film Challenge Launched by Nigeria, UN
Vice President Kashim Shettima Arrives for Body of Benchers Annual Lecture in Abuja
By: Our Reporter
Vice President Kashim Shettima has arrived at the maiden edition of the Body of Benchers Annual Lecture in Abuja, where he is representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The Body of Benchers is a body of legal practitioners of the highest distinction in Nigeria, with the primary responsibility of administering the formal call to the Bar for individuals seeking to become legal practitioners.
The theme of this year’s lecture is: “Half-a-Century of the Body of Benchers: The Past, the Present, and the Future of Maintaining the Ethics of the Legal Profession in Nigeria.”
The lecture will also feature the public presentation of the report of the directions of the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee.
Vice President Kashim Shettima Arrives for Body of Benchers Annual Lecture in Abuja
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