Abacha Was Open to Any Deal Except Abiola’s Presidency — Oshiomhole

Former Edo State Governor and Senator, Adams Oshiomhole, has disclosed that the late Head of State, General Sani Abacha, was prepared to offer Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola any form of concession—except recognising him as President of Nigeria following the annulled June 12, 1993 election.

Oshiomhole made the remark while speaking at a Democracy Day lecture held in Akure, Ondo State, where he reflected on his experiences during the struggle for the restoration of Abiola’s mandate.

According to him, a delegation of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) met Abacha shortly after the annulment, during which the military leader allegedly expressed willingness to make compromises, provided Abiola dropped his presidential claim.

He said Abiola remained resolute, insisting that accepting any alternative arrangement would amount to betraying the millions of Nigerians who voted for him in what is widely regarded as Nigeria’s freest and fairest election.

Oshiomhole described Abiola’s stance as one of sacrifice and patriotism, noting that the late politician chose principle over personal freedom during his detention.

He further urged younger Nigerians to draw lessons from the June 12 struggle, describing it as a defining moment in Nigeria’s democratic history.

The lecture also touched on current governance issues, including insecurity and proposed reforms toward state policing, which he said require constitutional amendments and collaboration between the federal and state legislatures.