Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has called on President Bola Tinubu to posthumously recognize the late Chief MKO Abiola as a former President of Nigeria. This appeal follows recent admissions by former military president, General Ibrahim Babangida, acknowledging Abiola’s victory in the annulled June 12, 1993, presidential election. Speaking at the National Assembly, Senator Orji Kalu emphasized the importance of officially acknowledging Abiola’s electoral victory. He stated, “Yes, Abiola won the election. And I will say President Tinubu should declare him a president posthumously.” Orji Kalu further suggested that Abiola’s portrait be displayed alongside those of other past Nigerian leaders in the Presidential Villa, asserting that such recognition would bring solace to Abiola’s family and honor his democratic legacy.
Babangida’s Admission and Its Implications
The call from Orji Kalu comes on the heels of General Babangida’s recent memoir, “A Journey in Service: An Autobiography,” where he admitted that the June 12, 1993, election was indeed won by Abiola. This acknowledgment has reignited discussions about rectifying historical injustices associated with the annulment. Senator Orji Kalu believes that Babangida’s revelation has settled longstanding controversies surrounding the election, paving the way for official recognition of Abiola’s mandate.
Calls for Comprehensive Historical Accountability
Beyond advocating for Abiola’s recognition, Senator Orji Kalu has urged General Babangida to provide a more detailed account of the events leading to the annulment. He suggested that Babangida should publish a second volume of his memoirs to disclose the identities of those who influenced the decision to nullify the election results. Kalu remarked, “I look forward to the second edition of Babangida’s book because the first did not reveal all the realities.”
Previous Honors and the Need for Further Action
In 2018, former President Muhammadu Buhari conferred the Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR) honor on Abiola and declared June 12 as Nigeria’s Democracy Day, acknowledging the significance of the 1993 election. While these gestures were widely appreciated, Senator Orji Kalu contends that officially recognizing Abiola as a former president would be a more fitting tribute to his sacrifice for democracy. He commended Buhari’s actions but emphasized the need for President Tinubu to take the additional step of posthumous recognition.
Support from Civil Society and Legal Perspectives
Human rights lawyer Femi Falana has also weighed in, stating that Nigerians have long regarded Abiola as the elected president since 1993. Falana noted, “Since 1993, he has been recognized by the people of Nigeria as an elected president.” This sentiment reflects a broader national consensus on Abiola’s rightful place in Nigeria’s political history.
Afenifere’s Endorsement of Senator Orji Kalu’s Proposal
The pan-Yoruba socio-political organization, Afenifere, has expressed support for Kalu’s proposal, describing the move to declare Abiola as a former president as long overdue. Afenifere’s backing underscores the regional and cultural significance of Abiola’s recognition, highlighting the enduring impact of his legacy on Nigeria’s democratic journey.
Senator Orji Uzor Kalu’s call for President Bola Tinubu to posthumously recognize Chief MKO Abiola as a former president has reignited discussions on addressing historical injustices in Nigeria’s democratic evolution. With support from legal experts and socio-political groups, this proposal seeks to honor Abiola’s enduring legacy and provide closure to a pivotal chapter in the nation’s history.
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