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Who is MKO Abiola in Nigeria?
MKO Abiola is a name that is synonymous with Nigeria's struggle for democracy. He is known as the winner of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, which was annulled by the military government led by General Ibrahim Babangida. Abiola was a Nigerian businessman, philanthropist, and politician who made significant contributions to the development of Nigeria. This article delves into who MKO Abiola was, his early life, his political career, and his legacy.
Early Life of MKO Abiola
Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola was born on August 24, 1937, in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria. He was the 23rd child of his father, Alhaji Salawu Abiola, who was a successful trader and farmer. Abiola's mother, Alhaja Zulikhatu Abiola, was a descendent of Shehu Usman Dan Fodio, a famous Islamic scholar and warrior. Abiola's parents were both Muslims, and he was brought up in a religious home.
Abiola attended African Central School in Abeokuta and Baptist Boys' High School in Lagos before going to Glasgow University in Scotland, where he studied accountancy. After graduation, he returned to Nigeria and worked for a few multinational corporations before starting his own business.
Business Ventures of MKO Abiola
Abiola was a successful businessman who had a keen sense of entrepreneurship. He started his business career as a bank clerk before moving on to set up his first company, Abiola Bookshops, which later grew into the Abiola Group, a conglomerate of over 40 companies. Some of the companies under the Abiola Group were Concord Press, Radio Communication Nigeria Ltd, and Abiola Farms.
Abiola was also known for his philanthropic activities. He established the MKO Abiola Foundation, which was focused on promoting education, health, and poverty alleviation. He also set up the Abiola Family Trust, which provided scholarships to students in need.
MKO Abiola's Political Career
Abiola's political career began in the 1970s when he joined the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons (NCNC). He later joined the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and contested for the presidential primaries in 1992. He defeated his opponent, Ambassador Babagana Kingibe, to become the flagbearer of the SDP in the 1993 presidential election.
The 1993 presidential election was considered one of the most credible elections in Nigeria's history. Abiola won the election with a wide margin, and he was poised to become Nigeria's first democratic president. However, the military government led by General Ibrahim Babangida annulled the election, citing irregularities.
Abiola refused to accept the annulment of the election and declared himself the rightful president of Nigeria. He was subsequently arrested and detained by the military government. He remained in detention for several years until his death.
Legacy of MKO Abiola
MKO Abiola's legacy is one that has continued to live on long after his death. He is remembered for his contributions to Nigeria's democracy and his philanthropic activities.
Abiola was a symbol of hope for Nigerians who were yearning for a democratic government. His death in detention sparked national outrage and led to the end of military rule in Nigeria.
In 2018, the Nigerian government declared June 12 as Democracy Day in honor of MKO Abiola and the sacrifice he made for Nigeria's democracy. Also, in the same year, President Muhammadu Buhari conferred on Abiola the posthumous award of Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR), Nigeria's highest national honour.
Conclusion
MKO Abiola was a prominent figure in Nigeria's struggle for democracy. He was a successful businessman, a philanthropist, and a politician who made significant contributions to the development of Nigeria. Abiola's legacy continues to inspire Nigerians and serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made to achieve democracy in Nigeria.
