Hafsat Abiola-Costello, daughter of the late Chief MKO Abiola and Kudirat Abiola, has responded to the recent revelation by former military leader, Gen. Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (Rtd.), that MKO Abiola won the June 12, 1993, presidential election.
Babangida made the admission in Abuja on Thursday during the launch of his memoir, A Journey In Service.
June 12: More Than Just a Date
In a heartfelt statement, Hafsat Abiola-Costello reflected on the significance of June 12, emphasizing that the election symbolized more than just her father’s victory—it represented the collective hope of Nigerians for a better and more united nation.
“When anyone mentions June 12, my mind always goes to MKO and Kudi. But June 12’s staying power was because the vote that Nigerians expressed that day was a vote for a better future and for unity,” she stated.
According to her, while her father was the face of the Hope ’93 campaign, the movement transcended one individual and stood as a testament to Nigeria’s democratic aspirations.
IBB’s Admission Ends Decades of Doubt
Hafsat welcomed Babangida’s acknowledgment of her father’s victory, saying it should put to rest any lingering doubts about the outcome of the election.
“For those that kept expressing doubt that Nigerians had spoken so decisively on that day, I’m glad that General IBB’s admission that MKO won the election can now lay the matter to rest.”
However, she lamented that such a unifying moment was cut short by the annulment of the election, describing it as a grave injustice.
Honoring MKO and Kudirat’s Sacrifice
Despite the tragic turn of events, she expressed gratitude to her parents for their unwavering commitment to the Nigerian people, even in the face of great personal risk.
“It’s sad that such a galvanizing statement as the breakthrough vote for MKO should have been truncated by an unjust annulment. But I will be forever grateful to both MKO and Kudi for not allowing their fears for their personal safety to stand in the way of the people’s desire for a better Nigeria. May such commitment endure.”
A Legacy That Lives On June 12 remains a defining moment in Nigeria’s political history, symbolizing the resilience of democracy and the enduring struggle for justice. With Babangida’s recent acknowledgment, the legacy of MKO Abiola’s electoral victory takes on renewed significance, serving as a reminder of the sacrifices made in the fight for a truly democratic Nigeria
