According to a report by Nigerian Tribune on Friday, June 12, 2026, Adams Oshiomhole, former Governor of Edo State and current Senator, has stated that the late military Head of State, General Sani Abacha, was prepared to grant Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola any form of concession, provided he agreed to abandon his claim to the June 12, 1993 presidential mandate.
He made the disclosure on Friday while delivering a lecture at the June 12 Democracy Day celebration held at the International Event Centre, known as The Dome, in Akure, Ondo State capital.
The event formed part of activities marking Democracy Day and provided a platform for reflections on Nigeria’s democratic journey.
He spoke on the theme “June 12 and Beyond: Reflecting on the Progress of Democracy and Security Concerns,” focusing on experiences tied to the period.
Oshiomhole explained that he had earlier been involved in efforts aimed at securing the release of MKO Abiola during the era of military rule.
He noted that his participation came through a delegation of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), where he previously served as president, and that the delegation engaged authorities in attempts to push for Abiola’s freedom following the annulled election.
He further recalled that shortly after the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, which is widely regarded as one of the freest and fairest polls in Nigeria’s history, he was part of an NLC delegation that travelled to Abuja for discussions with General Sani Abacha.
The engagement, according to him, took place during a period of heightened political tension following the electoral dispute.
During the engagement, he said the discussions were centered on the political crisis that emerged from the annulled mandate and the push for Abiola’s release from detention.
He explained that the Labour delegation sought clarification and dialogue with the military authorities on possible resolutions to the unfolding situation at the time.
He reiterated that the exchange with the military leadership reflected efforts to resolve the issues arising from the disputed election, while also addressing the continued detention of MKO Abiola.
According to him, the only firm position maintained during the discussions was tied to the recognition of Abiola as president, which remained a sticking point in the engagement.
“General Abacha told us he was ready to tolerate anything and do anything for MKO Abiola. The only thing he was not ready to tolerate was the declaration of Abiola as President of Nigeria,” Oshiomhole said.
