The name Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola (MKO Abiola) is widely recognised among Nigerians today due to the June 12, 1993, controversy.
A business magnate, publisher and politician, Abiola contested the presidency on the aforementioned date, but the election results were annulled, and he was arrested for declaring himself president.
Abiola, who died in detention on July 7, 1998, is revered as one of Nigeria’s martyrs, hence the need to bring to the fore five things many may not know about him.
First to survive infancy in his family
Despite being his father’s 23rd child, Abiola was the first of them to survive infancy, hence the name ‘Kashimawo’.
He was later properly named Moshood by his parents.
Ventured into business as a child
While his age mates were engaged in childhood activities, Abiola started his first business at the age of nine, selling firewood gathered in the forest at dawn before school, to support his father and siblings.
Performed in exchange for food
MKO Abiola founded a band when he was 15 years old and performed at different ceremonies in exchange for food.
Eventually, he was able to ask for payment for his performances and used the proceeds and support his family and his secondary education.
Wife’s assassination
His second wife, Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, was assassinated in Lagos in 1996 for supporting her husband after he declared himself Nigeria’s lawful president in June 1994.
Died on the day he was scheduled to be released
Abiola, who was detained for four years, died on the day he was to be released after falling ill while meeting American diplomats at a government guesthouse in Abuja.
Despite evidence to the contrary, it is believed by many that he was poisoned by one of the diplomats, Susan Rice, as she served him tea shortly before his collapse.