Lifestyle
Front Page of P.M. News, June 4, 1996: The Assassination of Kudirat Abiola (PHOTOS)
The front page of P.M. News dated June 4, 1996, captures one of the most shocking moments in Nigeria’s political history, the assassination of Kudirat Abiola, a fearless pro-democracy activist and the wife of Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (M.K.O.) Abiola.
Background: Who Was Kudirat Abiola?
Kudirat Abiola was the outspoken wife of M.K.O. Abiola, the presumed winner of Nigeria’s June 12, 1993 presidential election, which was annulled by the military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida.
Following her husband’s imprisonment by the succeeding military government of General Sani Abacha, Kudirat emerged as a symbol of resistance. She tirelessly advocated for the validation of the June 12 mandate and the restoration of democratic governance in Nigeria, earning widespread respect for her courage and commitment to justice.
The Assassination
According to P.M. News, Kudirat Abiola was gunned down on June 4, 1996, while traveling in her white Mercedes-Benz. Her car was ambushed near the 7-Up bus stop on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, close to Ojota, Lagos. The audacious daylight attack shocked Nigerians nationwide and immediately fueled suspicions of political motives behind her murder.
Political Significance and Aftermath
Kudirat Abiola’s assassination became a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s pro-democracy struggle, provoking widespread condemnation both nationally and internationally. Her death underscored the brutal suppression of dissent under the Abacha military regime and galvanized local and global efforts to pressure the government toward democratic reforms.
The incident also intensified international attention on M.K.O. Abiola’s struggle and highlighted the urgency of Nigeria’s transition to civilian rule, which eventually occurred in 1999. Today, Kudirat is remembered as a martyr for democracy, her sacrifice symbolizing the courage and resilience of Nigerians who fought for freedom during one of the country’s darkest political eras.
Source: P.M. News, Front Page, June 4, 1996, Lagos Edition
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