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Exclusive: Abiola’s GCFR Honours: Kola Abiola’s Acceptance Speech
Below is the detailed acceptance speech of Mr. Kola Abiola on reception of the GCFR award for the winner of the June 12, 1993 Presidential Election, Bashorun MKO Abiola:
ACCEPTANCE SPEECH: RE: NATIONAL HONOUR FOR LATE BASHORUN MOSHOOD KASHIMAWO OLAWALE ABIOLA AND DESIGNATION OF JUNE 12 AS DEMOCRACY DAY
RECONCILING THE PAST
Your Excellency, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR), the Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo (GCON), Members of the Federal
Executive Council present, State Governors present, Legislators present, Awardees, distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen.
It gives me great pleasure and honour to stand before you today on this epoch-making occasion to accept this award. I do not stand here alone. I do not stand for myself. I stand for the MKO Abiola family in all its entirety. I also stand for the millions of Nigerians who had almost given up hope that a day like this would ever come. Most importantly, I stand for the Pillar of Sports in Africa, Bobagunwa of Egbaland, the Basorun of Ibadan, the 14th Are Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, the Magayakin Katsina, the Magayakin Zauzzau of Suleja, the Osemoya of Auchi among over a hundred other titles. I stand here with a huge sense of
history and responsibility, for Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola (MKO), Grand Commander of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (GCFR).
My late father used to say: “you can’t shave a man’s head in his absence”. Mr. President, I dare say, with this courageous posthumous honour award being bestowed today, you have just succeeded in shaving MKO’s head behind him.
MKO was a man of many parts. He knew and touched every part of this great land of ours. From the North to the South, from the East to the West, he was at home everywhere across Nigeria. He believed that every Nigerian deserved to benefit from the immense endowments of this great land. In his private capacity, he didn’t just invest in businesses across Nigeria, he invested in people and causes. He was a great believer in Nigeria, a
detribalised Nigeria and a Pan Africanist.
With his uncommon passion and commitment to progress, not many were surprised that he vied for the highest office in the land.
On June 12 1993, Nigerians from all nooks and crannies, from all works of life including the military trooped out to affirm their belief in the future MKO Abiola envisioned for Nigeria. It was beyond ethnicity; beyond religion; beyond all the things “ they” use to keep us divided. To quote Mr. President, “it was undisputedly the freest, fairest and most peaceful election since our Independence.” The pain and anguish that followed in the wake of the cruel annulment of this watershed event in the life of our nation is well known to those of us who witnessed it and had to endure its ugly consequences.
The return of democratic rule on May 29, 1999 offered us a chance to face the reality of our recent history. Rather than reconciling ourselves to the truth and righting the wrong, the new democratic government failed the first test by designating the day it came to power as Democracy Day. This singular act indicated a warped reading of history at the Federal level which all South Western states tried to address by commemorating
June 12 nonetheless.
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission that was inaugurated subsequently became a parade in futility by failing to acknowledge the truth about the pivotal role of June 12 1993 in
the rebirth of our democracy. It is for this reason that I never took the exercise serious enough to attend it.
Mr. President, today you have not only given June 12 its rightful place in the history of our nation, this brave act of yours is telling the people of Nigeria that voted on June 12 and the millions of Nigerians that have had to bear the brunt of the consequences of the annulment that all hope is not lost. It has taken over two decades, but finally the votes have not gone to waste.
I would therefore like to thank the Executive branch of the Federal Government of Nigeria led by Your Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR) and the Vice President, Professor
Yemi Osinbajo (GCON) for genuinely commencing the process required to bring Truth and Reconciliation to our nation and thereby ensure for us all the hope of a peaceful future.
On a day like this, we cannot forget the sacrifices of those Nigerians who paid the ultimate price for our democracy. We remember Pa Alfred Rewane, Chief (Mrs.) Bisoye Tejuosho, Dr
Shola Omatsola and Bagauda Kaltho among many others. For our family, we didn’t just lose our patriarch, we also lost our own Alhaja Kudirat Abiola. May God in His infinite mercy bless their souls.
Leadership always demands objectivity even at one’s own expense. At certain points in our lives, we all have to make a choice. A choice between what suits our fancy and what works in
the interest of the common good. Mr. President, you could have ignored the call of many Nigerians that led to this day. After all, you were not involved in the events that led to the political impasse of June 12 1993. Rather, you chose the path of statesmanship for the sake of posterity. For this, once again, we salute you.
Life is all about the choices we make. My father could have chosen to continue living his private life as a businessman and philanthropist. Rather, he chose to serve his fatherland as his way of paying back a nation that had given him a lot of opportunities. While many expected him to buckle in and go back to his former life at the height of the June 12 backlash, he chose to fight on until the very end.
On a personal note, over the years, a lot of people have asked and wondered why I am not visibly involved in politics or any form of agitation. There is really just one reason.
At the tender age of 29, I was privileged to lead the Hope ‘93 campaign organisation. Together with SDP, we organised and conducted probably the best campaign to elective office in the history of this country to date cumulating in Nigeria’s undisputed free, fair and most peaceful election to date. I am glad that most of the key players of that era are still around as living witnesses to the humble contributions of our young and dynamic team that worked tirelessly to deliver the ticket. Unfortunately, the results were annulled, leaving me in limbo.
As a person, I find it difficult to leave anything unfinished. I made a vow to myself that until this whole matter is resolved, I will not get involved politically in any form or shape. I took on a quiet mission of bringing closure to this sordid chapter in our lives.
Mr. President, for me today is Mission Accomplished. As my father would say, no one can clap with only one hand. Our nation today faces the threat of ethnic and religious divisiveness.
From different corners of our nation, there is a growing tribe of people who will stop at nothing to remind us of what makes us different. As a person, I have chosen to think and act otherwise.
Our demographics may tell us that we are a nation of 250 ethnic groups and over 400 languages, but our survival in the 21st century and beyond, demands that we see ourselves as one tribe – Tribe Nigeria. This is the cause I have chosen for myself. I am committed to working with like-minded Nigerians to make this day count in the annals of our nation.
Once again, Mr. President, on behalf of our family, I thank you forthis great honour you have done my father. I thank you for taking this decisive measure to strengthen the foundation of our democracy and guarantee our future by reconciling our past.
Generations to come will honour you for this brave act.
May the soul of all our dearly departed for ever Rest In Peace.
God bless Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Thank you.
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UBA Foundation Kicks Off Festive Season with Spectacular Garden Light-Up
The United Bank for Africa (UBA), through its Corporate Social Responsibility arm, the UBA Foundation, held its annual Garden Light-Up ceremony on Monday at its head office in Lagos.
The event marked the start of the festive season with a spectacular display of lights, fireworks, and music, bringing together staff, customers, and well-wishers in a celebration of unity and gratitude.
The Garden Light-Up, a cherished tradition, reflects UBA’s commitment to spreading joy and fostering a sense of community. Speaking at the event, UBA Group Managing Director/CEO Oliver Alawuba highlighted the bank’s dedication to creating memorable experiences and expressed appreciation for the efforts of staff and customers during a challenging year.
“As we approach Christmas, a time of love, we remember the spirit of giving and community,” Alawuba said. “This ceremony symbolizes hope for the future and the goodness it brings into people’s lives. I encourage everyone to spread kindness and light as we celebrate together.”
The ceremony also marked UBA’s 75th anniversary, with Alawuba emphasizing the bank’s commitment to building a lasting heritage. Guests enjoyed Christmas carols performed by the UBA Customer Fulfilment Centre choir and a guided tour of the UBA Foundation gardens at Lagos Marina.
In addition to the festivities, the UBA Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable development through initiatives that focus on education, environmental conservation, economic empowerment, and community welfare. As part of its corporate social responsibility, the Foundation will provide meals to tens of thousands of people across Africa during the holiday season.
The event ended with fireworks, leaving attendees inspired and excited for the season of giving.
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My Economic Policies Harsh, But Yielding Results, Tinubu Insists
President Bola Tinubu has, for the umpteenth time, insisted that the economic policies that he initiated on assumption of office are now yielding the desired results.
Tinubu, who acknowledged that the policies are harsh on the people, stated that the decision became imperative in order to salvage the country from the crises facing it.
Speaking during the 34th and 35th convocation ceremonies of the Federal University of Technology, Akure, FUTA, the President, who was represented by the Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Egbewole, stated that Nigeria is now moving from consumption to production economy.
While calling for the people’s understanding and support, he maintained that his administration is open to criticisms and admiration.
The President said: “The need to salvage the future of our children and bring the country back from the brink of collapse necessitated the strategic decisions to remove the fuel subsidy and also unify the exchange rates.
“I am not unaware of the consequences of the tough decisions on our people. I sincerely wish there could be softer options.
“The macro-economy of our dear country is improving by the day and beyond expectations. The micro-economy, which directly affects our citizens, is also taking shape gradually with positive results.
“By the grace of the Almighty God, every household will experience a better life and have brighter hope for the future.
“We are working hard to ensure the safety of every Nigerian in every part of the country. Our security architecture is up to the task, and the ugly narratives of the past are changing for good. Also, we are not relenting in our pursuit of making our country a haven of prosperity for all.”
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Ademola Adeleke and Two Years of Significant Milestone
By Eric Elezuo
“We are only getting started. The journey of transforming Osun State into a state of opportunities for all is ongoing, and with your continued support, we will achieve even greater things” – Governor Adeleke
The atmosphere at the Aurora Event Centre was a clear testament that the Governor of Osun State, His Excellency, Senator Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, is not just a man of the people, but a man, whose presence and influence command love and admiration, evidence of his passion for good governance and lucid display of affection for the plight of the people.
It was the gathering of champions; a gathering that explains that his Excellency, better known as the performing Governor, has exceeded all expectations, and delivered much more than the dividends of democracy just two years in office.
The event was the celebration of excellence; the celebration of a significant milestone that has completely changed the topography of Osun State. The excitement exhibited by the people on the day, was therefore, not surprising.
Prior to the November 27, 2024 d-day, the Osun State Government had unveiled a 16-day events to mark the grand second anniversary as governor of the state.
The Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Teslim Igbalaye, who unveiled the ceremonies, rated Adeleke high in terms of service delivery, grassroots development and human capacity development.
The 16-day fiesta, according to Igbalaye comprises a health walk, novelty match, Jumaat, church service, state awards presentation, and projects commissioning.
Commenting on the achievements of the administration in the past two years, Igbalaye, said Adeleke had surpassed expectations, assuring that an increase in political activities would not distract the governor from completing all ongoing projects.
Among the projects commissioned was the dualisation of the Old Garage-Okefia Lameco Freeway, which was done by a former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, which much gusto and fanfare with other dignitaries in attendance including representatives of the eight assembly – Senator Dino Melaye and Lanre Tejuoso. Others were Juju music maestro, Sir Shina Peters, notable traditional rulers, members of the executive council as well as state assembly members.
In his address at the commissioning, Obasanjo lauded Adeleke’s steadfastness in the discharge of his constitutional duties of providing good governance, reminding him that there are two more years from the present midterm, to unleash more his human faced policies, programmes and projects.
Other dignitaries that commissioned many other projects during the period included the Governor of Oyo State, Mr. Seyi Makinde, who commissioned the Osogbo Ring Road; the Minister of Works, Engr. Dave Umahi, and the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, who laid foundation for the proposed Osun Airport, and performed turning of sod for emerging projects, and a host of others.
It is worth noting that inaugurated projects spanned across the 30 local government areas in the state.
Presentation of bond certificates to contributory pensioners and presentation of award to Governor Adeleke by the contributory pensioners was also done.
As early as 10am, the event venue was a beehive of activities with groups, market men and women, political associations and students unions among others, singing the praises of the administration and the person of the governor. It was the grand entrance of the governor, flanked by aides and associates, that set the stage for what later become the mother of all events.
In their various speeches, all represented groups lauded the giant strides of the governor, highlighting areas of staunch improvement including Healthcare, Education, Investments, Entertainment, Sports, Rural Electrification and Technological advancement.
Additionally, awards were presented to outstanding individuals who contributed significantly to the growth and development of the state just as long awaited CofOs were released to deserving citizens of the state.
While addressing the mammoth crowd of happy indigenes, Governor Adeleke thanking them for their support and promised to continue his administration’s efforts in education, health, and infrastructure.
However, it was the governors speech that gave vent and flesh to the myriads of achievements that the brief two years of the Adeleke-led administration has bestowed on the people of Osun State.
He therefore, rendered his stewardship, a catalogue of immutable achievements that everyone has come to agree on.
He said, as broadcasted:
My good people of Osun State, today marks my two years in office as your popularly elected Governor. I start this broadcast by paying glowing tributes to elders, women, youths and residents of Osun State.
I convey my deep appreciation for your strong support and prayers. From November 27th, 2022 to date, Osun residents have demonstrated unshaken faith in our government. Your prayers for me and my team have strengthened us significantly. Your regular counseling have enhanced our intentional drive to deliver on good governance.
My people, you are well aware of what Osun was on and before we took over two years ago. We all recall the pains and sufferings of the public servants and pensioners. We remember the huge infrastructure and policy deficit in transportation, health, education, water, ICT, environment, agriculture and commerce and industry. We cannot forget in a hurry the deep gap between the state leadership and the people.
To revive the state and deliver on good governance, my administration launched out with a five-point agenda. We targeted specific areas of needs of the people which form the major components of the clearly defined agenda.The goal principally was to address the aspirations and immediate needs of our people.
In line with norms of accountability and responsibility to the electorate, I am obligated to render my stewardship midway into the life of our administration. It is, therefore, with praises to God Almighty and the universe that I address you on major advances our admnistration has already recorded across the sectors.
We pursue a preventive health care policy which places emphasis on access to health care. By today, our administration has upgraded 200 primary health care centers out of almost 400 with solar power, boreholes and medical materials. We are now shifting attention to the six general hospitals for upgrade and refurbishing.
In the same vein, we conducted two major Imole medical outreach with over 100, O00 beneficiaries. The third edition is upcoming, even as we have enrolled 29,000 pensioners in the health insurance scheme to bankroll their Healthcare.
On water supply, we developed three structure plans of immediate, short and long term template to resolve the acute water shortage inherited in 2022. Immediately, we delivered 332 boreholes across the 332 political wards in the state. Another 332 is ongoing. Simultaneously, we commenced the rehabilitation of the water works in major towns by relaying the rusted pipes laid in early 70s. Additionally, the abandoned 10 mini-water works are being revived while the project for Ora water scheme is also under implementation.
In the agricultural sector, we started the farm mechanization plan by purchasing 31 tractors in the first phase. Farm inputs were regularly distributed and I am launching the youth agropreneur programme across the 30 local governments and the area councils. We are reviving the farm settlements. We are implementing the new Cocoa and Cashew expansion initiatives.
For the education sector, the University of Ilesa has become a reality with take off grants and accredited courses. Rehabilitation of its internal roads are now ongoing. For the Osun State University, four abandoned projects were completed and a new anatomy laboratory was started and completed by our administration. We rehabilitated 99 secondary schools, restarted the upgrade of the six technical colleges and are about to issue letters of appointment to new teachers.
For the public service sector, our government has paid about 12 billion pension debt in two years compared with 11 billion paid by the opposition for its 12 years in the government of the state. We restored normalcy within the public service with permanent secretaries and regular promotion exercises. Half salary debt is being paid in phases, and a new minimum wage has just been approved for the state workers. Ours is an openly pro-workers government.
In Science and Technology, we gave Osun its first ICT policy, innovations policy and Startup legal framework. We introduced the first digital economy agenda for the state. Implementation of these policies and programmes are ongoing.
For the power sector, our government is finalizing a policy and legal frameworks for the electricity market system. With the devolution of the power sector, the passage of the electricity bill into law in Osun state will enable us to regulate stakeholders in the sector. An electricity regulatory commission will be set up to license generators of powers among others.
My dear people of Osun state, our administration has constructed over 120 kilometers of roads across the state. Several inter- state and intra-city roads completed are to be commissioned during this 16 days anniversary. Two major flyovers are also progressing to completion at Osogbo while works are progressing at the Ile Ife Flyover and Ilesa dualization.
I have redirected our efforts and plan at the completion of Iwo-Osogbo road. We have added the dualisation of Odoori – Adeeke road inside Iwo to be executed in two phases. The first phase will reach Post -Office and Oluwo Palace while the second phase will take off from Post Office to Adeeke Junction.
Our government has enhanced the local economy, not just through its local content policy, we have also expanded access to financing for artisans and small businesses through the cooperative societies. Several millions of naira have been advanced to the state cooperative movement as revolving loans, the first time since the First Republic. We encouraged creation of ward-based artisans cooperative societies across the 332 political wards. Another millions of naira have been advanced to the 332 business groups as revolving loans. During this anniversary, another set of small businesses will get microcredit cheques. Osun money is truly revolving within Osun State economy.
I want our people to note for the record that for all our projects and programmes, we did not obtain any loan. We only block leakages in the state finance and employ local content to moderate project cost and enforce high standards. We never discriminate on inherited projects and we never sack any contractors engaged by our predecessor. We run an open transparent government.
For the second half of our government, I reassure all sons and daughters of Osun State that the government under my leadership will complete all ongoing projects. We will continue to address the infra and social needs of our people. We will strike a balance between hard and soft infrastructure.
Going forward, we will deepen our consultation and interactive mechanism with the citizenry. As we have acted only in public interest in the last two years, we will sustain our responsiveness and respect for the wills and aspirations of our people.
Therefore, I invite you to join me as we commence the anniversary with town hall meetings and commissioning of projects and programmes.
Once again, I thank Osun elders, sons and daughters for your support and prayers. I remain your Governor who is ever committed to service to the high and the low, to the poor and the rich, and to all our citizens and residents.
I thank you for listening.
HE, Senator Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, Executive Governor of Osun State.
Governor Adeleke, on July 16 2022 defeated the incumbent administration of Adegboyega Oyetola, and was sworn in as governor on November 27, 2022 to begin a four-year term.
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