By Dada Ahmed.
As Nigeria marks June 12, the country’s Democracy Day and a solemn reminder of the nation’s long and arduous march toward civil rule, the Moshood Abiola Polytechnic Alumni Association (MAPALUM) has joined the rest of the nation in honouring the memory and legacy of Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola (GCFR).
In a statement issued on Thursday by MAPALUM’s National Public Relations Officer, Mr. Ganiyu Olowu, the Association’s National President, Alhaji Ayinde Soaga, paid a glowing tribute to the late icon.
He described Abiola as “a towering symbol of democracy, an unwavering advocate for the oppressed, and a foundational benefactor of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic (MAPOLY).”
“Chief MKO Abiola remains an indelible figure in Nigeria’s democratic history and in the heart of our institution. His life’s work,spanning business, politics, philanthropy, and education,epitomised the values of justice, knowledge, and service to humanity.
“MAPOLY stands today as a proud testament to his vision and generosity. As alumni, we are deeply conscious of our responsibility to honour his legacy,not just in words but in action. We recommit ourselves to promoting the ideals he lived and died for: democracy, equity, civic engagement, and institutional excellence,”the statement read.
Our correspondent reports that June 12, 1993, the day of Nigeria’s most credible and widely acclaimed presidential election, remains a watershed in the country’s political evolution. Though the election was annulled by the military junta, the symbolic victory of MKO Abiola ignited a renewed consciousness among Nigerians and catalysed the pro-democracy movement that eventually ushered in civilian rule in 1999.
To MAPOLY, MKO Abiola was more than a national hero, pointing out that he was a hands-on benefactor whose vision helped build the institution’s foundation.
The Association noted that through Abiola’s philanthropy and commitment to youth development, thousands of students had the opportunity to acquire quality education and contribute meaningfully to society.
The alumni body acknowledged that MKO’s connection to MAPOLY runs deeper than the renaming of the institution, adding that his principles,service to the people, education as a tool for liberation, and faith in Nigeria’s youth,remain embedded in the polytechnic’s ethos and alumni culture.
“MAPALUM proudly upholds Chief Abiola’s ideals. His name is not just a symbol—it is a call to action for all graduates to be vanguards of positive change,” the statement added.
MAPALUM urged Nigerians, especially the youth, to guard the hard-earned democracy and hold leaders accountable, emphasising that the spirit of June 12 must not fade with time but be renewed with every democratic challenge the nation faces.
“Let June 12 forever remind us of the power of the people’s voice. Let it inspire generations to uphold the values of integrity, justice, and participatory governance,” the Association said.
It offered prayers for the peaceful repose of Chief MKO Abiola’s soul and expressed hope that his sacrifice would continue to inspire a more just and equitable Nigeria.
