Late Chief Moshood Olawale Abiola’s House in Ikeja, Lagos was abuzz as dignitaries gathered for the 30th Anniversary of MKO Abiola’s Epetedo Self Declaration on Wednesday, June 12, 2024.
The event, organised by the Coalition of Pro-Democracy Groups for A Better Nigeria in collaboration with the family of the late President MKO Abiola, celebrated the enduring legacy of the June 12, 1993 election winner.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State was represented by his Deputy, Dr. Obafemi Kadiri Hamzat, who arrived with the Governor’s Chief of Staff, Mr. Tayo Akinmade Ayinde, and the Commissioner for Information, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso.
Among the distinguished attendees were Alhaji Tanko Yakassai, represented by Comrade Shehu Musa Shittu, Oloye Lekan Alabi, Veteran Nollywood Actor Chief Lere Paimo (Eda Onile Ola), Prof. Sabitu Olagoke, JP, and Engr. (Mrs) Abimbola Akinajo, Managing Director of Lagos State Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), who delivered the keynote address.
Other notable figures included Comrade Debo Adeniran, Comrade Ayo Adewale, Dr. Wale Fasakin, Comrade Babatunde Ogun, and Mr. Donatus Amatokwu.
Dr. Hamzat highlighted the achievements of Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration, emphasizing the progress made since the annulment of the June 12 election and the ongoing commitment to building a greater Lagos.
Chief (Mrs) Bisi Abiola, widow of the late hero, and Hon. Lola Edewor Abiola, his first daughter, led the family’s representation with Alhaja Aminat Irawo.
The gathering extolled the virtues of MKO Abiola, praying for his soul, his bereaved family, and all June 12 victims.
Earlier, Comrade Awa Bamiji, the national coordinator of Coalition of Pro-Democracy Groups, during interviews with journalists, stressed the need for MKO Abiola’s recognition as a former President and due compensation to his family and notable June 12 activists.
The two-day program, which commenced yesterday, concluded today with a public lecture.
A highlight of the event was the live drawing of MKO Abiola by Nigeria’s youngest virtual artist, Moronkeji Ebunoluwa Joshua, aged 10, which was presented to the Deputy Governor.