Hafsat Abiola-Costello, daughter of the late Chief MKO Abiola, has responded to former military ruler General Ibrahim Babangida’s recent acknowledgment that her father won the June 12, 1993, presidential election.
Reacting to Babangida’s revelation in his autobiography, A Journey In Service, Hafsat stated that her family and Nigerians had always known the truth.
“My father won; we always knew it,” she said in a statement on Friday. “For decades, Nigerians have known the truth. This is not new to us. But it is important that history records it from those who played a role in that dark chapter.”
Babangida’s admission has reignited discussions about the annulled election, with many reflecting on its impact on Nigeria’s democracy and the sacrifices made for the country’s progress.
“For those who kept expressing doubt that Nigerians had spoken so decisively on that day, I’m glad that General IBB’s admission that MKO won the election can now lay the matter to rest,” she added.
Hafsat also spoke about the emotional and historical significance of June 12, stating that while her parents—MKO and Kudirat Abiola—were at the heart of the struggle, the election symbolized much more.
“When anyone mentions June 12, my mind always goes to MKO and Kudi. But June 12’s staying power was because the vote that Nigerians expressed that day was a vote for a better future and for unity,” she said.
She expressed regret that the democratic mandate given to her father was annulled, describing it as a lost opportunity for Nigeria.
“It’s sad that such a galvanizing statement as the breakthrough vote for MKO should have been truncated by an unjust annulment. But I will be forever grateful to both MKO and Kudi for not allowing their fears for their personal safety to stand in the way of the people’s desire for a better Nigeria. May such commitment endure.”
Babangida’s remarks have sparked fresh debates about the events surrounding the June 12 election and the role played by key figures in Nigeria’s political history.
