The legacies of Late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale, MKO Abiola remains a symbol of Nigeria’s democratic struggle and a reminder of the sacrifices made by patriots for the nation’s progress and development.
This was the collective position of discussants at this year’s Democracy Day celebration, organized by the June 12 Renewed Hope Group at the Ikeja residence of the late acclaimed winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, Chief MKO Abiola.
Speaking at the event, former Chairman of Amuwo-Odofin Local Government Area of Lagos State and former student union leader, Mr. Ayodele Adewale, noted the need for Nigerians to cherish, protect and preserve democracy noting that June 12 would not have attained its current national significance without the transparent and credible primaries of the then Social Democratic Party, SDP, held in Jos ahead of the historic election.
Mr. Adewale urged members of the Abiola family to remain united and committed to preserving the legacies of their parents and also appealed to the government to ensure the release of all outstanding entitlements, compensation and business interests belonging to the family of the late democracy icon.
In her remarks, Convener of the June 12 Renewed Hope Agenda, Mrs. Aminat Irawo, declared support for the re-election bid of President Bola Tinubu, stating that the Renewed Hope Agenda seeks to advance the vision and aspirations of the late Chief MKO Abiola and called on Nigerians to support efforts aimed at improving the country’s fortunes.
Earlier, members of the Movement for Credible Elections, MCE, visited the Democracy Centre in Ikeja, where the late MKO Abiola and his wife Kudirat, were laid to rest, to pay tribute to the heroes and heroines of Nigeria’s democratic struggle.
Dignitaries at the event included former President of the National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, who suffered detention during the struggle Comrade Olusegun Mayegun, former Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Solomon Dalong, and several other notable personalities.
Reporting By Abiola PETERS