In the wake of Chief MKO Abiola's sudden passing during a meeting with US envoys, the question of whether he was poisoned has been a subject of intense debate. However, a new insight emerges from the pages of General Abdulsalami Abubakar's autobiography, 'Call of Duty'. In this piece, I delve into the former Head of State's account, offering a fresh perspective on Abiola's death and the surrounding controversies.
A Natural Cause, Not a Poisoned Death
Abubakar's account reveals a compelling narrative that challenges the notion of poisoning. He emphasizes that an autopsy, conducted by a team of international pathologists, attributed Abiola's death to natural causes. This finding is particularly intriguing, given the circumstances surrounding Abiola's demise.
The former military leader provides a detailed account of the fatal meeting, describing Abiola's sudden coughing fits and subsequent heart attack. He quotes Susan Rice's memoir, 'Tough Love', to illustrate the dramatic turn of events. This first-hand account from a key witness adds a layer of authenticity to the narrative.
A Pre-Existing Condition
What makes this case even more compelling is the revelation of Abiola's pre-existing medical conditions. As early as 1994, when Abiola was detained, it was known that he was managing hypertension and a heart ailment. This information raises a deeper question: Could Abiola's health have been a factor in his death, rather than an external cause?
Abubakar's reference to a radiological report by Colonel O. Awofeso further supports this idea. The report, dated September 28, 1994, noted Abiola's enlarged heart with 'right ventricular preponderance', consistent with hypertensive cardiac disease. This finding implies that Abiola's health issues may have been more severe than previously thought.
The Role of International Pathologists
The involvement of American, British, Nigerian, and Canadian pathologists in the autopsy is a significant detail. It suggests a level of transparency and international cooperation in the investigation. This collaborative effort adds credibility to the findings, as it brings a diverse range of expertise to the table.
Speculation and Conspiracy Theories
However, the context of Abiola's death cannot be ignored. His passing came just over a month after General Sani Abacha's death, fueling speculation and conspiracy theories. Some suggest that Abiola's release and inauguration were imminent, and his death was a strategic move to prevent this.
Abubakar addresses these allegations, describing them as 'pure fantasy' and 'an absolute imagination'. He emphasizes that the autopsy findings are conclusive and that the notion of poisoning is baseless. Yet, the timing of Abiola's death cannot be dismissed as a mere coincidence.
A Missed Opportunity for Transparency
One thing that immediately stands out is the missed opportunity for transparency. If Abiola had died in custody without an autopsy, the circumstances would have been very different. The family's request for an autopsy and the involvement of international experts demonstrate a commitment to a thorough investigation.
In my opinion, this case highlights the importance of transparency in matters of public interest. The autopsy findings, though conclusive, raise more questions than they answer. The timing of Abiola's death and the surrounding circumstances warrant further scrutiny.
A Call for Further Investigation
What this really suggests is a need for a more comprehensive investigation into Abiola's death. The autopsy findings are compelling, but they do not provide a complete picture. The involvement of international experts and the family's request for an autopsy demonstrate a commitment to transparency.
From my perspective, this case serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding political figures and their deaths. It raises important questions about the role of health, transparency, and international cooperation in such matters. As we reflect on Abiola's passing, we must also consider the broader implications for Nigeria's political landscape.
