‘We were tortured, harassed’ — MKO Abiola’s family narrates encounter with gunmen

The family of late Moshood Abiola, self-acclaimed winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, has narrated their encounter with some gunmen.

TheCable had reported that gunmen invaded the residence of the late businessman in Ikeja, Lagos, on Wednesday.

In a statement on behalf of the family, Tundun Abiola, daughter of the late businessman, said the police have been informed of the incident and investigation has commenced.

She said the gunmen subjected the family “to extreme emotional torture and harassment”.

Tundun added that they stole cash and other valuable items belonging to the family.

“The hoodlums subjected the family to extreme emotional torture and harassment and stole cash and other valuable items belonging to the family,” the statement read.

“The police have since been informed. The crime is being investigated. We are consoled by the fact that no life was lost in this unfortunate and frightening incident.

“We give glory to Almighty Allah and we thank friends and family members across the world who have called and sent messages of support and solidarity.”

Bala Elkana, spokesman of the Lagos police command, had earlier told TheCable that some suspects were arrested in connection with the incident.

“We have suspects in custody. We have commenced investigation,” he said.

Abiola won the 1993 presidential election which was annulled by the military government of Ibrahim Babaginda.

In 2018, the president declared June 12 as Democracy Day in honour of Abiola, whom he gave a posthumous national honour.