Is it obligatory for someone who lied and whose lie caused a problem that has not yet been discovered, to inform those affected by the problem of the truth in order to repent, knowing that five years have passed since the incident, and he is still cited as an example of honesty, and that the one who was wronged was the one who initiated the apology?

Lying is one of the most heinous sins, and the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, warned against it. Muslim narrated: "Beware of lying, for lying leads to immorality, and immorality leads to the Fire. A man continues to lie and seeks to lie until he is written down as a liar with Allah."

It was also narrated that the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, was asked: "Can a believer commit adultery?" He said: "That may happen." It was asked: "Can a believer steal?" He said: "That may happen." It was asked: "Does he lie?" He said: "No," and then he followed it with: "Indeed, those who do not believe invent falsehood."

The sin of lying increases in severity according to its consequences. It is obligatory to hasten to sincere repentance to Allah Almighty and to rectify the problems that resulted from the lie. If disclosing it would lead to a greater harm, then you should conceal yourself and not disclose it unless the disclosure rectifies the corruption and does not result in a greater harm. You must exert every effort to rectify what has been corrupted and seek forgiveness from those who were harmed.