Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has disclosed that former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, was working towards securing the release of the winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola, before his death.
Obasanjo made the revelation on Saturday during the public presentation of three books in honour of Abdulsalami’s 84th birthday, titled *“The Legacy of a Statesman @84,”* held at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
The former president described Abdulsalami as a patriot, nationalist, peacemaker and an exemplary military officer whose leadership helped stabilize Nigeria during a critical period in the nation’s history.
He praised the former military ruler for effectively managing the uncertainty that followed the death of former Head of State, General Sani Abacha, in 1998.
According to Obasanjo, Abdulsalami’s administration took decisive steps, including the release of political detainees and efforts to secure Abiola’s freedom.
He said: “You sagaciously managed the seeming confusion and uncertainty that followed Abacha’s death. You emerged from the cloud and carefully proceeded to untangle the nation. Political prisoners were released, and I was.
“As has been said by the president of the Senate, the National Assembly is a beneficiary of that. Your next move was how to get MKO Abiola released, and you kept me regularly informed and also related messages to the family.
“Kola was already in Abuja to pick up his father when the unexpected happened. I remember you telling me on the telephone, ‘Our man is dead.’”
Obasanjo also credited Abdulsalami with restoring democratic governance in Nigeria.
“Within less than one year of your taking office, we had democracy restored,” he added.
Speaking at the event, former President Goodluck Jonathan described Abdulsalami as a remarkable statesman who dedicated his life to the service of Nigeria and humanity.
Jonathan recalled the former Head of State’s role in overseeing Nigeria’s transition from military rule to democratic governance, describing his actions as courageous and selfless.
He commended Abdulsalami for his commitment to peace and national development, noting that his legacy should be measured by his achievements rather than the number of years he has lived.
Jonathan further praised him for strengthening Nigeria’s democracy and resisting pressure to extend his stay in office.
Also at the event, former President of the Senate and former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, introduced the Abdulsalami Abubakar African Resource Centre.
