The children of the late Chief MKO Abiola, Abdulmumuni Abiola and Hafsat Abiola-Costello, have responded to former military ruler Gen. Ibrahim Babangida’s recent acknowledgment that their father won the June 12, 1993, presidential election.
Their reactions underscore the enduring impact of the annulled election on their family and the nation.
Gen. Babangida, speaking at the launch of his autobiography A Journey in Service, publicly expressed remorse over the annulment of what has been widely hailed as Nigeria’s freest and fairest poll.
He acknowledged the turmoil caused by the decision, which derailed Nigeria’s transition to democracy and sparked nationwide unrest.
In her statement, Hafsat Abiola-Costello acknowledged Babangida’s confession but emphasized that the wounds caused by the annulment have not healed for her family and Nigerians.
She described June 12 as a symbol of hope and unity, transcending the personal losses suffered by her father and mother, Kudirat Abiola.
“When anyone mentions June 12, my mind always goes to MKO and Kudi. But June 12’s staying power was because the vote that Nigerians expressed that day was a vote for a better future and for unity,” she remarked, reflecting on the broader significance of the election.
Abdulmumuni Abiola echoed his sister’s sentiments, calling Babangida’s admission a crucial moment of reconciliation for Nigerians, despite the personal and national trauma inflicted by the annulment.
“From the age of eight when the election was held, I knew my father had won. Most people in the country had that inclination.
However, what stood out to me was Babangida’s remorse. He admitted that if given another chance, he would have acted differently. That, for me, is what matters now,” Abdulmumuni stated in an interview.
Reflecting on the aftermath of the annulment, Abdulmumuni lamented the personal losses endured by his family and the broader repercussions on Nigeria’s democratic journey.
“We cannot change history, but we can ensure that my father’s vision and sacrifice were not in vain. Democracy is a journey, not a destination. I am committed to this Nigerian project, and I hope others are too,” he affirmed.
Both siblings stressed the need for concrete actions to secure their father’s legacy and ensure justice for the injustices suffered.
“President Muhammadu Buhari recognized my father’s role in democracy by naming June 12 as Democracy Day. Now, Babangida has admitted that the election was won by Abiola and that it was free and fair. At this point, it is beyond me.
The state’s organs need to act to secure his legacy and protect his estate,” Abdulmumuni urged.
The Abiola family’s responses highlight the ongoing significance of June 12 in Nigeria’s political discourse and the quest for justice decades after the historic election.
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