The President of the federal republic of Nigeria, Dr. Goodluck Ebelemi Jonathan in his May 29, 2012 address to the nation in celebration of Democracy Day has anounced the change of name of the University of Lagos to MKO Abiola University.
The President’s address was made in the morning of May 29, 2012.
The late MKO Abiola marked the contemporary symbol of democracy in Nigeria following the tussle to end military rule in Nigeria. Abiola had contested for the presidency – and was believed to be the winner when the then military dictator, Ibrahim Babangida cancelled the elections. The election cancelaton opened the flood gates to protests and riots around the country and around the world where Nigerians were resident. The struggle for justice landed Abiola in prison where he later died mysteriously in the hands of the Nigerian military dictators.
Some of the alumini of the university who reacted to the announcement expressed anger over the name change – indicating that the decison was a political one. Already, reports have it that a protest has started within the campus – and has begun to reach the gate of the campus to pour out to the streets in Yaba.
stay tuned
