MKO Abiola
President Bola Tinubu has posthumously honored Chief Moshood Abiola, widely known as MKO Abiola, who won the annulled June 12 presidential election. This tribute comes 25 years after MKO Abiola’s passing.
Out of the over 14 million voters, Abiola emerged as the winner with an impressive majority, securing nearly 60 percent of the votes. This resounding mandate made him the clear winner of the election.
Considering previous elections in Nigeria characterized by fraud, violence, and intimidation, the June 12 election stood out as the most peaceful and credible in the history of the country, as recognized by both international and local observers.
However, the military regime led by General Ibrahim Babangida annulled the election, which lead to widespread protests throughout Nigeria.
Chief MKO Abiola died on June 7, 1998, five years after the elections, at age 60.
The President took to his official Twitter page, @OfficialBAT, on Friday to praise Abiola, describing his death as sad, and as the ‘true champion of democracy’.
He wrote, “Today, our nation honours the sacrifice and example of a true hero, Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola, 25 years after his sad demise.
“A true champion of democracy, his courage, and integrity, complete dedication to public service, exemplified the highest ideals of our great nation. His legacy endures and his message of hope echoes still. May Allah SWT grant him mercy and increase his rewards.”