MKO Abiola, a Beacon of Democracy – Activist Sulaiman

Renowned human rights activist and Executive Chairman of the Centre for Human Rights and Social Justice (CHRSJ), Comrade Adeniyi Alimi Sulaiman, has hailed the late Bashorun MKO Abiola as a symbol of Nigeria’s current democratic experiment. Sulaiman highlighted Abiola’s victory in the June 12, 1993, presidential election, widely considered the fairest and freest in Nigeria’s history, and emphasized the sacrifices made by Abiola and other key figures in the fight for democracy.

In a statement commemorating June 12, Sulaiman praised the efforts of late activists such as Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, Gani Fawehinmi, Beko Ransome-Kuti, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, Alao Aka-Bashorun, Abraham Adesanya, Bola Ige, Alfred Rewane, Adekunle Ajasin, Anthony Enahoro, and Ola Oni. He acknowledged their relentless struggle for the restoration of the annulled June 12 election and the establishment of democracy in Nigeria.

Sulaiman also recognized living legends of the pro-democracy movement, including Ayo Adebanjo, Wole Soyinka, Femi Falana, Omoyele Sowore, Shehu Sani, Osagie Obayuwana, Femi Aborisade, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Adeola Shoetan, Segun Sango, Lanre Suraj, Dipo Fashina, Amitolu Shittu, Niyi Owolade, and Shina Odugbemi. These individuals played significant roles in the national struggle against the military regime following the annulment of the June 12 election.

Highlighting the efforts in his home state of Osun, Sulaiman noted that Comrade Amitolu Shittu coordinated several key figures, including Waheed Lawal, Sefiu Ayanbimpe, Tunji Akande, Goke Butika, Kayode Adebisi, Ademola Bankole, Najeem Olawuwo, Prince K, and Rufus Oyatoro, among others. He also emphasized the critical role of journalists in advocating for the restoration of democracy.

As Convener of the Save Lagos Group (SLG), Sulaiman underscored the ultimate sacrifices made by Chief Abiola and others who laid down their lives for democracy. He criticized current elements that have eroded the dividends of democracy, urging President Bola Tinubu to govern effectively, as the populace endures the harsh impacts of his policies.

In his statement, Sulaiman lamented that Nigeria’s current democratic experiment has yet to produce exemplary leaders across all government tiers in the 25 years of the fourth republic. He pointed out that inadequate leadership training remains a significant barrier to the nation’s development.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s history, Sulaiman expressed regret over the prolonged military rule, noting its detrimental effects on the country’s progress and national life. He called for renewed efforts to strengthen democratic governance and ensure that the sacrifices of past heroes are not in vain.