Phrank Shaibu, Special Assistant to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has accused President Bola Tinubu of disrespecting the legacy of late democracy activist Kudirat Abiola by awarding a national honour to Bayo Onanuga.
The criticism comes after Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to the President, received the Commander of the Order of Niger (CON) award during Nigeria’s Democracy Day celebrations.
Shaibu argued that honouring Onanuga, who once allegedly made disparaging remarks about Kudirat Abiola, contradicts the spirit of June 12 and insults the memory of the slain heroine of Nigeria’s democracy struggle.
Kudirat, wife of acclaimed June 12 election winner MKO Abiola, was assassinated in 1996 during the military regime’s crackdown on pro-democracy activists.
The presidential aide described the national honour to Onanuga as “a slap on the faces of all June 12 heroes” and evidence of the current administration’s disregard for democratic ideals.
He recalled Onanuga’s controversial 2021 statement where he reportedly dismissed Kudirat’s sacrifice, questioning how such an individual could merit recognition on a day meant to celebrate democracy martyrs.
Political analysts note the statement reflects ongoing tensions between Nigeria’s political factions over the interpretation of democratic history.
While the presidency has yet to respond, supporters of the administration maintain that Onanuga’s contributions to media development and public service justify his recognition.
The controversy has reignited debates about the criteria for national honours and the need to preserve the sanctity of Nigeria’s democratic history. Many pro-democracy activists have expressed disappointment, arguing that the awards should align with the values symbolised by June 12, like Kudirat Abiola.
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cc: Daily Post Ng
