MKO: Tinubu Attends Documentary On Abiola’s Life, June 12 Struggle

President Bola Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu attended the national premiere of MKO, a documentary chronicling the life, political journey and legacy of late businessman, publisher and politician Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola.

The premiere took place on Thursday, October 1, at the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts in Iganmu, Lagos, as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.

The documentary was directed by Nigerian-American filmmaker Ose Oyamendan.

It examines Abiola’s business and publishing career, political activities and his place in Nigeria’s democratic history, with particular attention to the June 12, 1993 presidential election.

The election was annulled by the military government, after which Abiola was detained as the political crisis deepened. The film also examines the pro-democracy struggle that followed the annulment and the wider campaign for the restoration of democratic governance.

MKO had its international premiere at the Sheffield International Documentary Festival in the United Kingdom in June 2026.

It uses archival material and first-hand accounts from personalities connected with the events surrounding the June 12 election and the pro-democracy movement.

The Lagos premiere attracted senior government officials, political leaders, cultural figures and other dignitaries.

Among those present were Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu.

Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila, Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy Hannatu Musawa and former Ogun State Governor Segun Osoba were also present.

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The documentary is scheduled for nationwide cinema release on October 2.

ValidViewNetwork reports that the film arrives at a time when June 12 remains an important reference point in discussions about Nigeria’s democratic history, political transition and the sacrifices associated with the struggle against military rule.