Former Governor of Ogun State, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, has mourned the passage of veteran journalist and media icon, Dr. Doyin Abiola (nee Aboaba), wife of the late Chief MKO Abiola, winner of the June 12, 1993 Presidential election.
Dr. Doyin Abiola, renowned journalist, former Managing Director of National Concord, and wife of the late Chief MKO Abiola, has passed away at the age of 82 on Tuesday morning after a period of illness, according to family sources.
One of the pioneers in Nigerian journalism, Dr. Abiola made history as the first Nigerian woman to become editor and later managing director/editor-in-chief of a national daily newspaper – the National Concord.
Reacting in a condolence message through Lanre Akinwale of Senator Ibikunle Amosun Media Office, Amosun described her death as a profound loss to the journalism profession, Ogun State and the nation at large.
“Dr. Doyin Abiola was a trailblazer, and a consummate media professional who devoted her life to the advancement of journalism in Nigeria. At a time when it was a rare privilege, particularly for women to attain academic heights, she earned a doctorate degree in Communications and Politics, underscoring her brilliant mind.
“Following this remarkable achievement, Dr. Doyin Abiola served briefly on the editorial board of the Daily Times before joining the Concord Newspaper, where she made history as the first female Editor-in-Chief of a national daily in Nigeria. Her groundbreaking accomplishments opened doors and paved the way for generations of women in the media industry.
“She will also be remembered for her unwavering commitment to objective and impactful journalism—hallmarks of her tenure as Managing Director of the Concord Group of Newspapers, where she left an enduring legacy of service, visionary leadership, and integrity.”
Beyond her remarkable accomplishments in journalism, Senator Amosun also paid tribute to Dr. Abiola’s steadfast support during the political struggles of her late husband, Chief MKO Abiola, particularly in the aftermath of the annulled June 12, 1993 Presidential election, describing her as a courageous woman who stood by her husband in the face of adversity.
While commiserating with the children, grandchildren and the entire Abiola family, Senator Amosun prayed that Almighty Allah (SWT) will grant Dr. Abiola Aljannah Firdaus and give the family she left behind the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.
