Former Abia State governor and senator, Orji Uzor Kalu, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take a historic step by officially recognizing Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola as a former President of Nigeria. Kalu made this appeal while emphasizing the importance of correcting historical injustices and giving due recognition to Abiola’s contributions to democracy.
The Legacy of MKO Abiola
MKO Abiola, the presumed winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, remains a symbol of democracy in Nigeria. The election, widely regarded as the freest and fairest in the country’s history, was annulled by the then-military government of General Ibrahim Babangida, preventing Abiola from assuming office. His fight for the actualization of his mandate led to his eventual arrest and tragic death in detention in 1998 under the regime of General Sani Abacha.
In 2018, former President Muhammadu Buhari took a step toward recognizing Abiola’s legacy by declaring June 12 as Nigeria’s Democracy Day and posthumously awarding him the Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR), a title traditionally reserved for presidents. However, Abiola has never been officially acknowledged as a former President of Nigeria.
Orji Kalu’s Appeal to Tinubu
Orji Uzor Kalu argues that recognizing Abiola as a former President would bring closure to a painful chapter in Nigeria’s history and further solidify the country’s commitment to democracy and justice. He urged President Tinubu, who was a key figure in the pro-democracy struggle, to take this bold step in honor of Abiola’s sacrifice.
Kalu stated that since Abiola was widely accepted as the rightful winner of the 1993 election, his recognition would serve as a symbol of justice and fairness in Nigeria’s political history.
Reactions from Nigerians
The call for Abiola’s recognition has sparked diverse reactions. While many Nigerians support the idea, others argue that the focus should be on ensuring good governance and democratic values, rather than symbolic recognitions. Some political analysts believe that such a move could help in national healing, acknowledging past mistakes and promoting democratic ideals.
The Way Forward
As discussions continue, it remains to be seen whether President Tinubu will take executive action to formally recognize MKO Abiola as a former Nigerian President. Such a move could further cement June 12’s significance in Nigeria’s democratic journey and reaffirm the nation’s commitment to upholding the will of the people.
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Written By Fortune Davidson