Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has disclosed that former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (retd.), made efforts to secure the release of Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola, winner of the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election, before his sudden death.
Obasanjo made the revelation on Saturday during the public presentation of three books published in honour of Abdulsalami’s 84th birthday celebration at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Paying tribute to the former military leader, Obasanjo described Abdulsalami as a patriotic Nigerian, a statesman and a committed peacemaker whose leadership helped guide the country through one of its most uncertain periods.
Reflecting on events following the death of former Head of State, General Sani Abacha, Obasanjo said Abdulsalami stepped in at a difficult time and moved quickly to restore stability and rebuild public confidence.
According to him, one of Abdulsalami’s early decisions was the release of political detainees, including himself, while efforts were also underway to secure Abiola’s freedom.
Obasanjo recalled that Abdulsalami kept him updated on the discussions surrounding Abiola’s planned release and maintained communication with the Abiola family.
He revealed that Abiola’s son, Kola, had already arrived in Abuja in anticipation of receiving his father before events took an unexpected turn.
Recalling the moment, Obasanjo said Abdulsalami informed him by phone that Abiola had died.
The former president also credited Abdulsalami with laying the foundation for Nigeria’s return to democratic governance, noting that democracy was restored within a year of his assumption of office.
Also speaking at the event, former President Goodluck Jonathan praised Abdulsalami for his lifelong service to Nigeria and his role in overseeing a peaceful transition to civilian rule.
Jonathan described him as a courageous and selfless leader who resisted pressure to extend his stay in power and instead prioritised national unity, democratic stability and peace.
Former President of the Senate and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, also attended the event and introduced the Abdulsalami Abubakar African Resource Centre.
Advertisement