Forward to the Past (Echoes of June 12 and M. K. O. Abiola as Pivots in Nigeria's Developing Democracy)

'FORWARD TO THE PAST: Echoes of June 12 and MKO Abiola as pivots in Nigeria's developing democracy' highlights the events leading to one of the biggest landmarks in Nigeria's political development. The June 12 1993 presidential election and the events following its annulment by the Ibrahim Babangida-led military junta remain significantly relevant in our narrative. Pivotal to the political trajectory is the role of MKO Abiola as the symbol of the struggles that ensued following the ignominious truncation of an election adjudged fairest and most peaceful by Nigerians as well as the international community. It offers poignant insight into the political life and times of MKO from his grand entry into the political scene to his unique campaign strategies, his speeches, interviews and theatrics laced with appetising humour and colourful dress sense. Arrested and detained for exhibiting uncommon courage and refusing outrightly to renounce his mandate, MKO Abiola was incarcerated for about four years and eventually died while still in detention in 1998. The book highlights the contributions of Nigerians, at home and abroad, to sustain democracy. It is intended for general readership and as a handy tool of historical reference. It should also make a great addition to political documentations, valuable to historians, politicians, scholars, book collectors and researchers all over the world.