President Bola Tinubu has honoured the winner of the annulled June 12 presidential election, Chief Moshood Abiola, popularly known as MKO Abiola, 25 years after his demise.
Of the over 14 million total votes cast in the election, Abiola was said to have won almost 60 per cent of the votes, making him the winner of the election.
Compared to previous elections marred by fraud, violence and intimidation, the June 12 election, according to various international and local observers, was the most peaceful and credible in the country’s history.
The election was eventually annulled by the military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida, which sparked protests across Nigeria.
Abiola died on June 7, 1998, five years after the elections, at age 60.
Describing his death as sad, the President took to his Twitter page, OfficialBAT, on Friday to praise Abiola, describing him as the ‘true champion of democracy’.
He wrote, “Today, our nation honours the sacrifice and example of a true hero, Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola, 25 years after his sad demise.
“A true champion of democracy, his courage and integrity, complete dedication to public service, exemplified the highest ideals of our great nation. His legacy endures and his message of hope echoes still. May Allah SWT grant him mercy and increase his rewards.”
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