Votu-Obada celebrates MKO in commemoration of Nigeria’s Independence Anniversary

Nigeria has a rich and complex history shaped by diverse cultures, kingdoms, and colonial influence. Her history dates back to the early civilisations of the Nok culture, which started about 1500 BC. Some African civilisations settled in the area presently known as Nigeria, including the Kingdom of Nri, the Benin Kingdom, the Bornu Empire and the Oyo Empire, among others. In the late 19th century, Britain colonised the area, merging various ethnic and political groups into one entity in 1914 under the name Nigeria. After decades of nationalist movements and resistance to colonial rule, Nigeria gained independence on October 1, 1960.

Post-independence, the country experienced political instability, including military coups and civil war (1967-1970), but transitioned to a stable democratic government in 1999, shaping its modern political and cultural identity. Since then, Nigeria has witnessed a peaceful transition from 2007 to 2023, a development which has made it one of the stable democracies in the African region.

Since independence about 64 years ago, many notable political leaders have contributed to Nigeria’s political development. These include Abubakar Tafewa Balewa, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Kaduna Nzeogwu, Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi, Yakubu Gowon, Chukwuemeka Ojukwu, Murtala Mohammed, Olusegun Obasanjo, Shehu Shagari, Ibrahim Gbadamosi Babangida (IBB) and Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawole (MKO Abiola), whose democratic election in June 12, 1993, was annulled by the government of Ibrahim Babangida. This development culminated in a political impasse that caused IBB to step down.

It is against this background that Mrs. Olamidotun Votu-Obada, an internationally celebrated children’s books author, speaker and podcast host, celebrated him, MKO Abiola, in one of her books under the Be Inspired by the Greatest, “The BIG Series,” which was launched in February this year. According to her, due to Nigeria’s political role in Africa, the stories of leaders of influential and inspiring people are stories that people connect to, not just in Nigeria but other African countries.

The Be Inspired by MKO Abiola delves into the life and times of the legendary Late Chief M.K.O Abiola, who, through many obstacles, achieved great things in life despite his humble upbringing and became a successful businessman recognised both internationally and nationally. Nigeria gained independence from British rule in 1960, but military coups and political instability marred the subsequent decades. Abiola’s fight for the actualisation of his electoral mandate was crucial in exposing the limitations of the post-colonial state in providing true freedom to its citizens. His eventual detention and death in 1998 while fighting for democratic recognition made him an enduring symbol of sacrifice for the restoration of civilian governance.
“The book also sheds more light on how MKO Abiola became a significant influencer, leaving his mark on the footprint of time as he became a presidential candidate in an African nation that defied all odds and a man with a legacy that still lives on even after he is long gone,” Mrs. Votu- Obada said.

Consequently, since the announcement of the MKO book and the series and its official launch in 2024, the reception has been enormous, as significant political personalities, including Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and other members of the Parliament in Canada, received the book during its launch. Olamidotun’s books have been celebrated in schools internationally for their celebration of diversity and are present in libraries and bookstores across Canada and Nigeria.

Speaking on the passion for writing books on notable African characters, Olamidotun said, “My goal is for our children across the world to be able to read about inspiring African people, regardless of where they are, and be proud of their heritage and who they are. We have many inspiring African leaders whose stories get lost over time. As a result, we cannot retell many of these stories and pass on their legacy to children and people who are coming behind”.

Concerning the significance of MKO’s story on Nigeria’s independence, Olamidotun notes that “Nigeria as the giant of Africa has many deep stories of notable leaders since gaining independence in 1960. So retelling the story of MKO, amongst many other characters, helps showcase and tell the history of this great nation, connecting it to Africa and internationally”.

Olamidotun noted that she wants children of African heritage to reconnect with legendary African characters and learn from their lives. She says, “For instance, if you ask a seven-year-old in America, he will tell you about George Washington and Abraham Lincoln and their roles in their societies. But I find that a lot of African children who are in their 20s and below don’t know about their people and culture and the roles they played in their society.”

Since the book’s launch, Olamidotun has seen a tremendous reception internationally. She says, “One of the things that has been very genuine and authentic about this book is also the authenticity of the story, with different people who knew the characters reaching out and saying that this story was told from a truthful point of view that a child can see and connect with.”

Thus, children locally and in the diaspora must know and appreciate culture. The BIG Series presents a great starting point for parents to educate their children about rich African history.

According to her, she was inspired to start writing these stories after she migrated abroad and her children began to ask her questions. “They started asking many questions about Nigerian history, African history. My parents told me many stories about our culture and history when I was younger. This helped me pass this culture down to my children, and I felt I needed to do the same for other African children worldwide.”

To make the books accessible to audiences worldwide, they are currently being sold on Amazon and other major international book stores.