2025 Democracy Day: Dr. Mudiaga Odje Urges President Tinubu to Recognize MKO Abiola as Former President
By Wilson Macaulay
Dr. Akpo Mudiaga Odje, a renowned constitutional lawyer from the Niger Delta region, based in Warri, Delta State, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to initiate the constitutional process for officially announcing the annulled June 12, 1993, presidential election, which was overwhelmingly won by Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola.
Late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola.
The distinguished legal expert made this passionate appeal during the June 12 2025 Democracy Day celebration, a day set aside and commemorated in honour of Nigeria’s democratic journey.
Speaking at an event organized to mark the occasion, Dr. Odje delivered a powerful address highlighting the enduring significance of June 12 in the annals of Nigerian history.
Invited by the vibrant Ten Angles TV, Dr. Odje spoke on the importance of the day, reflecting on the monumental impact of the annulled election. He recalled that the June 12, 1993, crisis coincided with his time at the Nigerian Law School in Lagos, a period that shaped his legal and democratic consciousness.
He described the election as “the most credible and transparent ever conducted in Nigeria’s history,” noting that its true unifying figure was Chief MKO Abiola, whose popularity and political influence cut across all regions of the country. Widely celebrated for his philanthropy and grassroots engagement. Chief MKO Abiola, he said, embodied the hope of a better Nigeria.
Continuing, he said: “Tragically, that democratic mandate was overturned—first suspended by the judiciary on June 23, 1993, through a ruling by Justice Saleh, then Chief Judge of the FCT High Court, and subsequently annulled by a military decree.”
“As we reflect on the far-reaching consequences of this grave injustice against the Nigerian electorates and the nation’s democratic ideals,” Dr. Odje stated, “we respectfully and passionately urge President Tinubu to commence the constitutional process to declare the final results of that historic election and to posthumously recognize Chief MKO Abiola as the elected President of Nigeria in 1993.”
Late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola.
He emphasized that until such constitutional recognition is given, no national award or honour would be sufficient to redress the enduring pain and democratic setback caused by the annulment.
Dr. Odje further called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to implement the recommendations of the Uwais Electoral Reform Committee, as a critical step toward strengthening democracy and restoring full public confidence in the electoral system.
