In a recent development that has reignited discussions about Nigeria's political past, former Military President General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB) has, after 32 years, publicly acknowledged that the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola won the June 12, 1993, presidential election. This admission, detailed in his autobiography "A Journey in Service," has elicited profound reactions from the Abiola family, who view it as a reopening of old wounds and a reminder of the nation's troubled journey toward democracy.
IBB's Admission: A Long-Awaited Acknowledgment
The June 12, 1993, election is often hailed as one of the freest and fairest in Nigeria's history. However, its annulment by the Babangida-led military regime plunged the country into political turmoil, leading to widespread protests and international condemnation. In his memoir, IBB reflects on this controversial decision, stating, "Upon deeper reflection and a closer examination of all available facts... there was no doubt that MKO Abiola won the June 12 elections."
This candid admission has been met with a mixture of relief and anguish by many Nigerians, especially those who lived through the events of that era. For the Abiola family, it serves as both a validation of what they have always known and a painful reminder of the personal and collective losses they endured.
The Abiola Family's Response: Painful Memories Resurfaced
Kola Abiola, the eldest son of MKO Abiola, expressed the family's sentiments in a statement, highlighting the emotional toll of IBB's revelation. He remarked, "It took the former military President, General Ibrahim Babangida, an incredibly long 32 years to confirm what the whole world knew all along—that Bashorun MKO Abiola won the 1993 presidential election."
Kola further emphasized that the annulment's repercussions extended beyond their family, affecting numerous other families and impeding Nigeria's unity and economic development. He noted, "There were so many other families directly affected and lives lost as a result of the annulment, not to mention the profound impact on the unity and economic development of our great country, Nigeria, to date."
Personal Reflections: The Children of MKO Abiola Speak
The annulment of the June 12 election had devastating effects on the Abiola family. MKO Abiola's steadfast pursuit of his mandate led to his incarceration and eventual death under mysterious circumstances in 1998. His wife, Kudirat Abiola, became a prominent figure in the pro-democracy movement, advocating tirelessly for her husband's release until her assassination in 1996.
Abdulmumuni Abiola, one of MKO's sons, shared his perspective on IBB's admission. He acknowledged that while the family always knew of their father's victory, hearing it from Babangida himself was significant. Abdulmumuni stated, "From the young age of eight, I knew my father won that election, even before the results were announced. Most Nigerians knew it too. What stood out for me was Babangida's admission of regret and his statement that he would have done things differently if given another chance."
He further reflected on the personal losses they endured, saying, "I lost my father and mother because of June 12. Our family businesses were destroyed, and we were forced into exile. It was a painful time, but my father's dream for Nigeria did not die with him. His vision was for a better country, and we, his children, must continue to push for that dream."
The National Impact: A Collective Trauma
The annulment of the June 12 election was not just a personal tragedy for the Abiola family but a national crisis that disrupted Nigeria's democratic trajectory. The period following the annulment saw widespread civil unrest, economic sanctions, and a loss of confidence in the nation's leadership. Many Nigerians were forced into exile, and the country experienced a significant brain drain as professionals sought stability elsewhere.
The prolonged military rule that ensued delayed democratic governance and hindered economic development. The collective psyche of the nation was scarred, with many citizens losing faith in the electoral process and the possibility of genuine democracy.
Forgiveness and Moving Forward: A Complex Path
While IBB's admission has been described by some as a step toward national healing, it also raises questions about accountability and reconciliation. Abdulmumuni Abiola touched on the human capacity for error and the importance of acknowledging mistakes. He said, "It is human to make mistakes, but what matters is recognizing them and seeking forgiveness. This is healing, not just for my family but for the Nigerian people."
However, forgiveness is a complex process, especially when the actions in question have had such profound and lasting impacts. For many Nigerians, Babangida's acknowledgment, though late, is a necessary step. Yet, it also brings to the forefront the need for a comprehensive examination of that period, justice for those who suffered, and institutional reforms to prevent a recurrence.
Preserving MKO Abiola's Legacy: Calls for Restitution
In the wake of IBB's admission, there have been renewed calls to honor MKO Abiola's legacy and address the injustices his family faced. Abdulmumuni highlighted the deliberate destruction of his father's businesses and the resulting fragmentation of their family. He suggested that "state organs need to spring into action" to secure Abiola's legacy and estate, implying that some form of restitution or recognition may be necessary.
Such actions could include formal apologies, compensation, and the establishment of institutions or programs that reflect Abiola's vision for Nigeria. These measures would not only serve as a balm for the Abiola family's wounds but also as a commitment to upholding democratic principles and acknowledging past mistakes.
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