Every society that seeks to progress and develop never forgets its history. The heroes and heroines of the past who contributed to the present day success deserve recognition and honour.

In our State, we have made it a tradition, to recognize and remember heroes and heroines who have contributed to the greatness of our nation and our state in particular. Moshood Kahimawo Olawale Abiola deserves the best from our state because Lagos was his success story.

On this special day that our country remembers and celebrates Chief MKO Abiola, we are particularly happy that Lagos State has a good reason to honour this symbol of our democracy.

Exactly 25 years since he won a presidential election but was refused to serve the people who gave him their mandate, the country finally and deservedly recognises him today with the highest honour in the land – the Grand Commander of the Federal Republic.

We are very happy to gather here today at the MKO Abiola garden to unveil this statue, a monument that will forever crystallize his legacy, serves as a reminder to the greatness that Chief Abiola represents in our socio-political landscape

As an individual, he transcended race, tribe and religion.  He appealed to all Nigerians and we voted for him. Sadly, he lost his life trying to secure his mandate.

Even though he was from another State, Lagos was his home. And we recognize his contribution to our State and our democracy.

It is now my honour to unveil this statue as a monument to symbolize democracy and the supremacy of the voice of the people.

Thank you and God bless you all.

Itesiwaju Ipinle Eko, lo je wa logun!