By Etop Ekanem

The National Executive Council of the Moshood Abiola Polytechnic Alumni Association (MAPALUM) has joined Nigerians and the global democratic community in marking June 12, Nigeria’s Democracy Day, by celebrating the life, sacrifice, and enduring legacy of the late Bashorun Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola. 

An illustrious son of Ogun State and Abeokuta, Abiola’s unwavering commitment to democracy remains one of the defining chapters in Nigeria’s national history.  

A statement by the National Public Relations Officer of the association, Mr Ganiyu Olowu, National President of MAPALUM, Alhaji Ayinde Soaga, reaffirmed the association’s commitment to preserving and promoting the ideals for which Chief MKO Abiola stood throughout his lifetime.  

According to Alhaji Soaga, “Chief MKO Abiola was not only a philanthropist of rare distinction but also a patriot whose sacrifice gave profound meaning to Nigeria’s democratic journey. His courage in standing firmly for the will of the people remains an enduring lesson in leadership, conviction, and service to the nation.

“As an institution that proudly bears his name, Moshood Abiola Polytechnic and its alumni community have a responsibility to uphold the values he exemplified. Our annual medical outreach, which has catered to more than 20,000 beneficiaries over the years, represents a modest but meaningful reflection of his generosity and abiding concern for humanity. It also serves as a reminder that democracy flourishes where justice, compassion, and service remain central to public life.

“For MAPOLY, now in its 47th year of existence, the association with MKO Abiola transcends nomenclature. It is a bond rooted in shared ideals and sustained by a collective commitment to societal advancement. As one of the foremost institutions privileged to bear his name, the Polytechnic and its alumni community consider it both fitting and necessary to join millions across Nigeria and beyond in celebrating a legacy that continues to inspire generations.”

In recognition of June 12, officially designated as Nigeria’s Democracy Day, MAPALUM has, for more than a decade, marked the occasion through its annual free medical outreach programme. The initiative embodies Abiola’s spirit of compassion and selfless service while bringing healthcare and hope to thousands of beneficiaries across Ogun State and neighbouring communities.  

The National body expresses delight at the commitments of its various chapters, including Abeokuta, Lagos, Sagamu, and London/Europe, in upholding selflessness, the spirit of giving back, and relentless dedication to development. These efforts have distinguished MAPOLY Alumni as a collective that embodies Abiola’s values in practical and impactful ways.  

MAPALUM recognises that its greatest strength lies in the collective efforts of its members across the world. From grassroots interventions within local communities to international engagements that promote education, development, and social responsibility, the Association remains steadfast in demonstrating that the ideals of MKO Abiola are best preserved through purposeful action.  

As the nation reflects on the significance of June 12, MAPALUM offers prayers for the peaceful repose of the soul of Bashorun MKO Abiola and for the continued peace, stability, and prosperity of Nigeria. The Association believes that the most fitting tribute to his memory is a renewed national commitment to confronting insecurity, poverty, injustice, and other challenges confronting the country.  

MAPALUM therefore reaffirms its dedication to sustaining the ideals of Chief MKO Abiola through community development initiatives, humanitarian interventions, and the promotion of democratic values, while ensuring that the spirit and lessons of June 12 continue to inspire hope and progress for generations to come.