June 12: MAPOLY Alumni Celebrate MKO Abiola’s Legacy on Democracy Day, Reaffirm Commitment to His Ideals
ABEOKUTA – The National Executive Council of the Moshood Abiola Polytechnic Alumni Association (MAPALUM) has joined Nigerians and the international democratic community in commemorating June 12 Democracy Day, paying glowing tribute to the late Bashorun Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola for his enduring contributions to Nigeria’s democratic development.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the Association’s National Public Relations Officer, Mr. Ganiyu Olowu, the National President of MAPALUM, Alhaji Ayinde Soaga, described the late democracy icon as a patriot whose sacrifice remains a defining symbol of Nigeria’s democratic struggle.
According to Soaga, Abiola’s steadfast commitment to democratic principles and the will of the Nigerian people continues to serve as a source of inspiration for generations of leaders and citizens.
“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,” he said.
The MAPALUM president noted that as an institution that bears the name of the late statesman, Moshood Abiola Polytechnic and its alumni community have a responsibility to preserve and promote the values he championed throughout his lifetime.
He highlighted the association’s annual free medical outreach programme, which has provided healthcare services to more than 20,000 beneficiaries over the years, as a practical reflection of Abiola’s spirit of generosity and compassion.
“Our annual medical outreach 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,” Soaga added.
The association maintained that MAPOLY, as one of the foremost institutions privileged to bear Abiola’s name, considers it both fitting and necessary to join millions of Nigerians and admirers across the world in celebrating a legacy that continues to shape national consciousness.
Olowu further explained that MAPALUM has consistently marked Democracy Day for more than a decade through its annual free medical outreach initiative, a programme designed to embody Abiola’s values of selfless service while delivering healthcare support and hope to thousands of people across Ogun State and neighbouring communities.
The association also commended the dedication of its various chapters, including Abeokuta, Lagos, Sagamu, and London/Europe, for their commitment to community service, development initiatives, and the promotion of social responsibility.
According to the statement, these efforts have distinguished MAPOLY Alumni as a body committed to translating Abiola’s ideals into practical actions that positively impact society.
“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,” the statement said.
As Nigerians reflect on the significance of June 12, the alumni body offered prayers for the peaceful repose of Abiola’s soul and for continued peace, stability, and prosperity in the country.
The association stressed that the most appropriate tribute to the late democracy hero would be a renewed national commitment to addressing insecurity, poverty, injustice, and other pressing challenges facing the nation.
MAPALUM reaffirmed its dedication to sustaining the ideals of MKO Abiola through humanitarian interventions, community development programmes, and the promotion of democratic values, while ensuring that the lessons and spirit of June 12 continue to inspire hope, unity, and progress for future generations.
