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MKO Abiola’s Son Endorses Atiku Abubakar for President

Published

7 years ago

February 11, 2019

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

Aliyu Abiola, a son of the renowned democracy giant and presumed winner of the June 1993 Presidential Election, Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, has endorsed the presidential ambition of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, as February 16 fast approaches.

Abiola expressed his endorsement in a letter titled “The truth about H. E Alhaji Atiku Abubakar Waziri Adamawa”, and made available to The Boss, where he went down memory lane, highlighting Atiku Abubakar’s selfless contributions to the emergence of MKO Abiola as the presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Jos, in 1992.

He maintained that history must not be distorted or sacrificed on the altar of self aggrandizement, and urged Nigerians, especially the youths to come out in their numbers and vote Atiku Abubakar.

Describing the reason for his choice apart from the role the former Vice President played in the democratic dispensation leading to the ‘fairest and freest’ election of June 1993, Abiola said that “Nigeria needs a thoroughbred democrat not a converted one; someone that has a track record as a businessman not someone who has admitted to not having any business. Above all we need a President that understands international trade.”

Read Abiola’s full letter below:

The truth about H. E. Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, Waziri Adamawa

My name is Aliyu Abiola. I am the son of late Chief MKO Abiola and a student of History as well as a lover of truth.

As a man maligned, vilified and most times wrongly criticized in spite of his great philanthropy and support for worthy causes in Nigeria and across the globe, I understand the misconception and false allegations a successful man is subject to.

Having said that, I want to start by saying I have never met either H. E. Alhaji Atiku Abubakar or President Muhammadu Buhari before so I don’t want my stand to be viewed from a partisan perspective or self interest hence the title THE TRUTH ABOUT H. E. ALHAJI ATIKU ABUBAKAR, WAZIRI ADAMAWA.

I find this piece very important because we live in a country where history is optional in the Nigerian education system and in an era where opinions of most youths like myself are shaped by rumours, fake news, propaganda, half truths and sometimes outright lies. It is therefore, important we go back to the archives so we are not misled or misinformed.

I am writing this article as someone whose family has contributed immensely to the democratic struggle of this nation. However, the truth remains that every struggle comes through a process, and in a democratic setting we all know what the process is. Again, politics being a game of numbers, a man desirous of anything has to work with men of like minds to achieve his objectives.

Before the military junta of General Ibrahim Babangida cancelled the freest and fairest elections in the history of this country, my late father was the candidate of the SDP (Social Democratic Party) and that was only possible due to the support he received from H. E Alhaji Atiku Abubakar Waziri Adamawa and his PDM block during the party’s convention in Jos in 1992.

H. E. Alhaji Atiku Abubakar sacrificed his presidential and even vice presidential ambition for the late martyr and icon of democracy as my father later came to be known.

This is very important because Alhaji Atiku Abubakar is presently being wrongly portrayed as a man who is overtly ambitious and uncompromising, but history and track record shows otherwise. It is therefore necessary for men of goodwill to speak up in defence of truth and history so that a man like H. E. Alhaji Atiku Abubakar Waziri Adamawa will not be robbed of his place in history or crucified on the altar of propaganda and lies.

Nigeria’s hard earned democracy is at the verge of collapse as democratic institutions are failing; court orders are not being respected even as judges are being harassed. Our population is growing at 4 per cent per annum while the economy is barely growing at 2 per cent per annum. Again, hunger has increased in the land to the extent that stealing of female underwears (pants) is now the most profitable business for our youths.

It is my considered opinion that Nigeria needs a thoroughbred democrat at this time not a converted one; someone that has a track record as a businessman not someone who has admitted to not having any business, and above all, we need a President that understands international trade as we all know that the Customs service, which Atiku has been part of, is an arm of the finance ministry which deals mostly with foreign trade.

During an interview with Charly Boy when he was asked what he feared most in life, my late father replied without hesitation or equivocation, ‘poverty’. It is for this reason that

the Nigerian youths must vote H. E Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, Waziri Adamawa for president to get Nigeria working again.

Aliyu Abiola

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Eid-el-Fitr: Tinubu Felicitates with Nigerian Muslims, Urges Renewed Patriotism

Published

1 day ago

March 20, 2026

Eric

As Muslims worldwide celebrate Eid-el-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, President Bola Tinubu has congratulated the Muslim faithful in Nigeria, urging renewed commitment to the nation and humanity.

President Tinubu enjoined Nigerian Muslims to rededicate themselves to the noble teachings of the holy month, which emphasise piety, empathy, and unity among humanity.

The President’s message was contained in a statement signed by his media aide, Bayo Onanuga, on Thursday.

“We have a lot to draw from the noble lessons of Ramadan, especially at a time like this. We must continue to abide by the virtues of piety, selflessness, perseverance, kindness and compassion beyond this period,” he said.

President Tinubu urged all Muslim faithful to extend a hand of kindness to the needy of all faiths, to further show unity and camaraderie.

The President also tasked Muslim leaders to use the occasion to offer prayers for peace and prosperity to prevail in the country.

On Wednesday, the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, approved the declaration of Friday as the day for Eid-el-Fitr.

He congratulated Muslims on the successful completion of Ramadan and called for sustained prayers for national unity and development.

The Sultan’s announcement came after the Federal government of Nigeria declared Thursday, 19 March, and Friday, 20 March 2026, as public holidays to mark the celebration of Eid-el-Fitr, which signifies the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

In a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Magdalene Ajani, on Tuesday, the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government, extended warm greetings and heartfelt congratulations to the Muslim faithful on the successful completion of the holy month of Ramadan.

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2027: Peter Obi Raises Doubt About Clinching ADC Presidential Ticket

Published

2 days ago

March 19, 2026

Eric

A former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has expressed reservations over his ability to clinch the African Democratic Congress’ (ADC) presidential ticket for the 2027 elections.

In a video address to his followers, Obi stated that receiving the ADC’s presidential ticket is not guaranteed.

He said: “Someone asked me how I know for sure that the ADC will give me the presidential ticket. I cannot be certain. What matters is that we are committed to a cause.

I keep wondering how we ended up in this situation and what might happen if we decide to stop working on this project.”

“Obi also said he is still committed to his goals, and he hasn’t let any reported threats stop him.

The former Labour Party presidential candidate praised his supporters for their resilience, recognizing the difficulties of working within opposition politics in Nigeria.

Obi thanked everyone who stayed loyal even though they didn’t get much benefit right away.

“I thank you for your sacrifice. It’s not easy to be in the opposition in Nigeria, and I’m thankful to those who keep supporting even when there’s no clear reward,” he said.

He, however, expressed uncertainty about the future, especially concerning political alliances and commitments.

“How can we be certain that the people we’re working with right now won’t leave us behind tomorrow? I wish we could be sure, but we can’t,” he said.

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Terrorism: Tinubu Seeks UK’s Assistance Amid Challenges

Published

2 days ago

March 19, 2026

Eric

President Bola Tinubu, on Wednesday, solicited partnership with the United Kingdom to crush terrorism in the Sahel before it engulfs the region.

“Our West African region faces complex terrorism challenges with roots in the Sahel,” Tinubu told King Charles III, Queen Camilla, Prince William, and elite guests, at a state banquet.

Speaking as the first Nigerian leader at the historic venue, Tinubu said: “As one of the largest nations within the Commonwealth, Nigeria looks forward to contributing constructively to the continued growth and vitality of this global community.

“Our West African region faces complex terrorism challenges with roots in the Sahel. Nigeria carries an enormous responsibility to help safeguard regional stability. In confronting these threats, partnership with the United Kingdom remains essential and I look forward to my meeting with Prime Minister Kier Starmer tomorrow.

“Despite these challenges, Nigeria approaches the future with hope and confidence. We are a nation of diverse and vibrant people, of young people dreaming big, of entrepreneurs with a global outlook, and of a hopeful people determined to realise their full potential.”

The Nigeria’s President said it was an honour to stand before the royal family, representing the people of Nigeria to reaffirm the enduring bonds of friendship, history, and shared purpose that have united Nigeria and the United Kingdom for several centuries.

“Allow me first to express my sincere appreciation to Your Majesty and to Her Majesty, The Queen for the warmth and generosity extended to me, my wife, Oluremi, and the Nigerian delegation.

“As the first Nigerian leader to speak here at Windsor Castle, which has served the British Crown for nearly a millennium, is particularly historic. Windsor has stood as a symbol of continuity, witnessing the steady evolution of institutions that have shaped governance, culture, and public life not only in Britain but far beyond these shores.

“Nigeria and the United Kingdom have shared more than just history; our two nations share a vision of progress and resilience. Today, we continue that journey, committed to building a future rooted in partnership, mutual respect, and common values.

“Standing here in Windsor Castle, one cannot help but reflect on Britain’s impact on modern democratic governance worldwide.”

He explained further: “The Magna Carta of 1215 laid the early foundations for the rule of law and the development of parliamentary democracy, establishing enduring ideals around liberty, accountable government, and civic responsibility.

“Great British thinkers and writers such as Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Edmund Burke helped to propagate those democratic ideals. Their influence continues to resonate to this day.

“The literary genius of William Shakespeare and other writers such as Charles Dickens, has enriched and shaped the English language, spoken by over 1.5 billion people worldwide.

“In Nigeria, elements of these traditions continue to inform the institutional foundations of our own republic. Our courts draw upon legal traditions rooted in English common law. Our parliamentary institutions reflect constitutional practices that evolved here over centuries. Our civil service structures have also drawn upon administrative models developed in Britain and adapted to Nigeria’s own national context.

“While institutions matter greatly, our people remain the strongest bridge between our two countries.”

He said the Nigerian community in the United Kingdom has become one of the most dynamic diaspora communities worldwide, adding: “Nigerians contribute enormously to the vitality of this nation. Within the National Health Service, Nigerian doctors and nurses play an indispensable role in delivering healthcare. Nigerian-trained doctors are among the largest groups of international medical professionals serving the NHS.”

He noted the exploits of Nigerians in the country especially in sports, saying: “in sport, rugby players such as Maro Itoje, footballers including Bukayo Saka and Eberechi Eze, and champion boxer Anthony Joshua, illustrate the remarkable human connection that links Nigeria and the United Kingdom.

“Our partnership is further strengthened through the Commonwealth of Nations, which connects 56 countries under Your Majesty’s leadership.”

He expressed confidence that the friendship between Nigeria and the United Kingdom will continue to grow.

“Finally, Your Majesty, I wish to express Nigeria’s deep gratitude to this great nation for the refuge and support it extended during the dark years of military dictatorship. Like many Nigerians involved in the pro-democracy struggle, I found safety here, and I recall that my residence was placed under Metropolitan Police surveillance for protection following threats from agents of the junta.

“That solidarity remains etched in our collective memory, and it is deeply humbling for me to stand before Your Majesty today as the President of a democratic Nigeria.

“On behalf of the Government and people of Nigeria, I thank Your Majesty, Her Majesty The Queen, Prince William and Catherine, the Princess of Wales, other members of the Royal Family, and the people of the United Kingdom for their longstanding friendship.

“In the spirit of friendship and our shared destiny, I invite you all to raise a glass with me:

“To the special bond between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, and to the bright future that we shall build together.”