In a heartfelt recount of her life’s most tumultuous chapter, Aishatu Gidado Idris, daughter of the late statesman Gidado Idris and widow of Captain Bala Shagari, reveals how she was rescued from the brink of despair by none other than General Sani Abacha. Her story is one of pain, perseverance, and an unexpected act of kindness by the late military ruler that would leave an indelible mark on her life.
The Collapse of a Marriage and the Search for Escape
Aishatu’s early life was filled with the comforts of a prominent family. As the eldest daughter of the late Gidado Idris, a distinguished civil servant, she enjoyed a childhood steeped in respect and admiration. Yet, despite the privileges, her journey would take a drastic turn after her first marriage began to disintegrate.
“The generational gap between me and my father and the expectations of a dutiful daughter made things difficult. I had to leave my first marriage, not because of any personal abuse, but because the situation had become unbearable,” she explained. This decision led her to exile herself in Dubai, a place she hoped would offer the peace she so desperately needed.
However, her time in the Middle East was far from serene. The city, which was still in its infancy compared to today’s gleaming skyline, became the backdrop for her overwhelming struggles. “I felt alienated and alone. I was almost destitute, and the locals jokingly called me ‘Aisha miskin’—the poor lady,” she recalled with a bittersweet smile.
The Unexpected Call: Abacha to the Rescue
At a time when it seemed like there was no way out, Aishatu’s plight reached the ears of General Sani Abacha, then the head of state. She had no idea that the man many regarded with fear and suspicion would be her saviour.
“It was surreal. I was walking through the market when my phone rang repeatedly. I thought it was a prank, but then a voice introduced itself—‘This is General Sani Abacha.’ I didn’t know whether to believe it,” she shared.
The call came as a lifeline, and the intervention of the Nigerian government began to unravel a series of events that would change Aishatu’s life. “I was tracked down and cleared of overstaying in Dubai by an official from the Nigerian Embassy in Kuwait. I was relieved, and soon after, I was flown back to Nigeria, where I was welcomed with open arms at the State House,” she recounted, still amazed at the kindness shown to her.
A Meeting That Never Was: Abacha’s Final Promise
After being brought back to Nigeria, Aishatu’s life seemed to regain a sense of stability. The next stage in her journey was to meet with General Abacha. But fate had a cruel twist in store.
“He called me again the following day and asked when I would come to see him. I was so nervous but agreed to meet him the next day. Unfortunately, he called later to cancel, explaining he was preparing to meet with Yasser Arafat. He promised we’d meet the following day, but that day never came. It was the day he passed away,” Aishatu said, her voice filled with a mix of reverence and sorrow.
She reflects on Abacha’s kindness with deep gratitude, calling him her “earth angel.” “The Abacha I knew was someone who treated me like a daughter. He took time to hear my story, and he gave me the strength to move forward. He didn’t just offer material help—he gave me hope when I had none left.”
A Turning Point: From Crisis to Clarity
Aishatu’s unexpected rescue by Abacha was not just a personal reprieve; it marked a pivotal point in her life. The emotional turmoil she had endured during the collapse of her marriage, followed by her exile in Dubai, had left deep scars. But with Abacha’s support, she began to rebuild her life.
“I will always remember how General Abacha listened to me. He offered me advice that no one else had. He didn’t just see me as a problem to be solved; he saw me as a person with potential. That’s something I will forever cherish,” Aishatu said.
She acknowledges that life has a way of teaching us lessons in the most unexpected ways. Through her struggles, she has learned to value the importance of faith and patience. “Life is full of uncertainties, and no experience—whether good or bad—lasts forever. I’ve learned that it’s not about the material things; it’s about trusting in God and keeping faith,” she said.
A Royal Marriage and the Shagari Legacy
Aishatu’s life journey also includes the memories of her royal wedding to Captain Bala Shagari, son of Nigeria’s former President, Shehu Shagari. The wedding, while modest compared to today’s standards, was a significant event.
“Our wedding was organized with dignity and simplicity. I remember attending a polo match at Windsor Castle and traveling in style on the Concorde to Florida and New York. Those were memories I hold dear,” she recalled.
Despite the grand celebrations, Aishatu’s life after the 1983 military coup, which ousted her father-in-law, President Shehu Shagari, was marked by uncertainty. “After the coup, we had nothing. My husband was forced out of the army, and we started over in Sokoto. It was a trying time, but we eventually found our footing,” she added.
Writing as a Form of Healing
Today, Aishatu has found a way to heal and share her story through writing. She has authored several novels, both in English and Hausa, and views writing as a form of self-expression.
“My experiences and my observations of people’s lives inspired me to write. I believe everyone has a story to tell, and writing has allowed me to share mine,” she said with a quiet sense of fulfillment.
In her words, “Nothing is certain in life, not suffering, not enjoyment. Trust in God, and you’ll be rewarded with wisdom, patience, and strength.” Aishatu’s resilience and faith have guided her through the darkest of times, and her story stands as a testament to the unexpected kindness of others, the power of perseverance, and the importance of family and faith in overcoming life’s obstacles.
