Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has disclosed that former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, was making efforts to secure the release of the late Chief MKO Abiola before the June 12 election winner died in detention in 1998.
Obasanjo made the revelation during an event held in Abuja to celebrate Abdulsalami’s 84th birthday and the presentation of three books highlighting his life and contributions to Nigeria. The ceremony was attended by President Bola Tinubu and other prominent political figures.
According to Obasanjo, Abdulsalami regularly kept him informed about plans to release Abiola and also maintained communication with the family. He recalled that Abiola’s son, Kola, had already arrived in Abuja in anticipation of his father’s freedom when the unexpected news of Abiola’s death emerged.
The former president said Abdulsalami played a crucial role in stabilising the country following the death of General Sani Abacha in 1998. He noted that the former military leader quickly moved to ease political tensions, releasing political detainees and initiating steps toward national reconciliation.
Obasanjo praised Abdulsalami’s leadership during a period of uncertainty, describing him as a patriot, peacemaker and committed statesman who guided Nigeria back to democratic rule within a short period.
Also speaking at the event, former President Goodluck Jonathan commended Abdulsalami for overseeing a peaceful transition to civilian government and resisting any temptation to extend his stay in power. Jonathan said the former Head of State’s legacy continues to stand as an example of selfless leadership and dedication to national development.
The event also featured the unveiling of the Abdulsalami Abubakar African Resource Centre, an initiative aimed at promoting leadership, peacebuilding and democratic values across the continent. President Tinubu announced federal support for the project and directed that land be allocated for its development in Abuja.
Abdulsalami became Nigeria’s Head of State in June 1998 following the death of General Abacha. Less than a year later, he successfully completed a transition programme that culminated in the return of democratic governance on May 29, 1999, when power was handed over to the civilian administration led by Obasanjo.
