Abacha died few hours to execution of my dad – Diya’s son

The son of the late Lt-General Donaldson Oladipo Diya, Dr Babatunde Diya has recounted the life and time of his father and explained how the late former Military Head of State, General Sani Abacha died few hours to the planned execution of his father over an alleged coup de tat.

He spoke with Punch and revealed that his father lived well enough that made them to be proud of him, adding that the last moments he would remember of his father was his closeness to God, while attending the church he set up in Abule Ijesha and the other branches in Idi Iroko and of course the church in Odogbolu, the Cathedral of St Paul.
Diya who was the Chief of General Staff during the late Abacha military administration, he said, dedicated his life to ensure that many Nigerians go a proper education.

“So, those were the final moments and of course. He was closer to home, closer to his children and wife, and his extended family.”

Speaking on the mood of the family, Dr Diya said: “The family is in a sober mood and at the same time in a joyous and grateful mood because his life was one well-spent. He lived his life meritoriously. He lived his life with dignity, and he served the country with all passion and dedication. So, we are grateful to God and we are happy.”

Diya junior said his father will be remembered for honesty even as other elder statesmen called him as “the incorruptible leader.

“I think this is very key to the general public in Nigeria because if you look at the present situation of the country, even President Muhammadu Buhari is fighting against corruption and his anti-corruption drive is very alive. Handing over to President-elect Bola Tinubu will be a continuous drive to end corruption. So, his legacies included a dedication to public service and serving the people.”