On a day like today, June 4, 1996, six gunmen shot and killed Kudirat Abiola, the wife of Moshood Abiola, near her home in Lagos.
In May 1996, just one month before the merciless killing of Kudirat Abiola, she was detained for a few hours on charges of possessing publications critical of Nigeria's military regime led by General Sani Abacha. Although her husband, the wealthy businessman and late Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, was imprisoned on treason charges, Kudirat became an activist demanding the release of her husband. She was a brave woman who became one of the most prominent opponents of the Abacha regime.
On Tuesday, June 4, 1996, around 3:05 p.m. at the 7-Up Depot/Bus Stop in Ikeja, the late Kudirat Abiola, along with her driver, was attacked by six gunmen. She was hit by multiple gunshots and was immediately rushed to Eko Hospital for emergency treatment. Despite all efforts by doctors to save her life, it was in vain. Kudirat Abiola died at the age of 44 after a bullet struck her forehead. Her driver also did not survive the attack.