MKO is a new documentary about Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (M.K.O.) Abiola, the Yoruba businessman, publisher and politician from Abeokuta who is widely regarded as the winner of Nigeria’s annulled 12 June 1993 presidential election. The film had its Nigerian premiere in Lagos on 1 October 2026 and opened in cinemas nationwide the next day. This guide explains what the film covers, who made it and where it fits in Nigeria’s story.
What Is the MKO Documentary About?
The documentary follows the life, political journey and legacy of Abiola, with a particular focus on the 1993 election, its annulment by the then military government, his later detention and the pro-democracy struggle that followed. Abiola died in detention in 1998. Reports describe the film as using archival material and first-hand accounts from people connected to the period.
Key Facts About the Film
- Director: Ose Oyamendan, a Nigerian-American filmmaker and former journalist.
- Length: 108 minutes.
- World premiere: Sheffield DocFest in the UK, in June 2026.
- Nigerian premiere: Lagos, 1 October 2026 (Nigeria’s Independence Day), at the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts, Iganmu.
- Cinema release: nationwide from 2 October 2026, handled by Nile Entertainment.
Read the official coverage at the Voice of Nigeria and ThisDay.
Who Was MKO Abiola?
Abiola was a prominent Yoruba businessman and publisher who built a large media and business empire. He is best remembered for the 12 June 1993 election, widely seen as one of Nigeria’s freest, which the military government annulled. The date is now marked as Democracy Day. His story is part of the wider history of Lagos and Yorubaland; see the history of Lagos and famous Yoruba people who shaped history.
Why It Matters for Yoruba Culture
Abiola came from Abeokuta, the home town of other great Yoruba figures such as Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti and Wole Soyinka, and the premiere venue is named for Soyinka. The film also adds to a growing catalogue of Nigerian documentaries and films; see our guide to Yoruba movies.
How to Watch
The film opened in Nigerian cinemas on 2 October 2026, and its distributor has said further screenings and releases are planned in Europe and North America. Check local cinema listings for times, as availability can change.
MKO Documentary FAQs
Who directed the MKO documentary?
Ose Oyamendan, a Nigerian-American filmmaker, directed it.
When was the MKO documentary released?
It premiered in Lagos on 1 October 2026 and opened in cinemas on 2 October 2026.
What is the June 12, 1993 election?
It is the Nigerian presidential election widely believed to have been won by MKO Abiola and later annulled by the military government.
Is the MKO documentary a Yoruba film?
It is a Nigerian documentary about a Yoruba leader. Reports describe it as a documentary feature rather than a Yoruba-language drama.
