27 Years After: Abiola Family, Eminent Nigerians Remember MKO and Kudirat Abiola at Memorial Event

 

Oluwaseyi fadoro 

The legacy of Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola and his wife, Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, took centre stage once again as family members, dignitaries, political icons, and pro-democracy activists gathered in Lagos to commemorate the 27th anniversary of their passing.

In a deeply emotional welcome speech, Mr. Olalekan Abiola, son of the late Chief MKO Abiola and Alhaja Kudirat, recalled the tragic events of June 4, 1996, when his mother was assassinated, and July 7, 1998, when MKO died under mysterious circumstances while in detention. He described the two losses as monumental tragedies for the family and the nation.

“The news was a big shock to lovers and admirers of the boisterous, humorous, and cheerful giver MKO. Nigerians mourned. Africa mourned. The black race mourned,” he said, describing his father as a "big tree with a big shed" whose absence left a deep vacuum.

Mr. Abiola expressed deep appreciation to those who have kept the memory of his parents alive, notably Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka, Pastor Tunde Bakare, Chief Femi Falana, and Dr. Joe Okei-Odumakin, who have consistently visited the family home on every July 7 to offer prayers and support.

He also acknowledged the unwavering support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing him as a steadfast ally of the Abiola family since the NADECO years.

“We remain grateful to you, Mr. President, for believing in MKO and Kudirat. We, the children of Kudirat, remain members of your political family,” he said.

Paying special tribute to the Alake of Egbaland, His Royal Majesty Oba Michael Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, Olalekan Abiola noted the monarch’s invaluable father-figure role to the Abiola family and his enduring support for MKO's cause.

The convener used the occasion to appreciate Dr. Layo Adeniyi, author of the newly launched book "MKO Abiola: Symbol of Democracy," describing the work as a recorded legacy and vital political history, especially in honour of his late mother.

In her author’s remarks, Dr. Layo Adeniyi underscored the significance of the day as a remembrance of "the elected President that was never allowed to rule, and his wife whose blood was brutally shed for daring to demand justice."

She praised the courage of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) and other pro-democracy advocates who challenged military rule, asserting that without their sacrifices, Nigeria might still be in the grip of “military men in flowing agbadas.”

Dr. Adeniyi paid tribute to both deceased and living NADECO leaders and activists, listing figures like Chief Anthony Enahoro, Chief Bola Ige, General Alani Akinrinade, Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti, Mrs. Sarah Jubril, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, among others.

She congratulated President Tinubu on his rise to the highest office in the land, saying, “Allah blesses who He will. Hence the gown of the Presidency for which Abiola lost his life is now blessingly put on you.”

Dr. Adeniyi urged the President to make a lasting difference, noting that true honour to MKO Abiola would come from fulfilling the promise of good governance and justice. “ILE LABO SIMI OKO,” she said in conclusion, reminding the President not to forget his roots.

The event also featured prayers, musical tributes, and reflections on the enduring struggle for democracy in Nigeria. It ended on a hopeful note, with guests pledging to continue advocating for justice, accountability, and democratic values in memory of the June 12 heroes.