MKO Abiola’s Son Reveals Only 55 Out of 103 Alleged Children Passed DNA Tests

Late chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola, son Abdulmumuni Abiola, has disclosed that only 55 of the 103 children believed to be his father’s were confirmed as biological offspring following DNA tests.

Speaking in a recent interview, Abdulmumuni debunked widespread claims that his father, Nigeria’s acclaimed winner of the annulled 1993 presidential election, had 120 children. He clarified that during MKO Abiola’s lifetime, he supported 103 children, but posthumous DNA testing revealed that 48 of them were not biologically related to him.

“My father took care of 103 children during his lifetime,” Abdulmumuni said. “But after he passed, DNA tests were conducted as part of the estate and inheritance process. Only 55 of them turned out to be his biological children.”

He explained that the tests were carried out according to instructions in Abiola’s will, which directed that only children proven to be his through scientific means would be recognized as legitimate heirs. Not all of MKO’s wives participated in the DNA process, but those who did submit their children for verification.

This revelation has drawn significant public attention, especially considering MKO Abiola’s reputation for maintaining a large family. He was widely believed to have married more than 40 women, a detail that added to the legend of his expansive household.

However, Abdulmumuni emphasized that the narrative of 120 children is inaccurate and likely a product of exaggeration. “People just created stories. It became easy to attach children to my father’s name, especially because he was generous and willing to help anyone who came to him claiming a connection,” he stated.

Beyond clearing the air, the disclosure has legal implications. The DNA results are central to the administration of MKO Abiola’s vast estate, as only the confirmed biological children are now entitled to inherit property or benefits under the terms of the will.

Abdulmumuni also touched on the emotional impact of the revelations, noting that the results have caused friction among those who once believed they were part of the Abiola lineage. He urged for maturity and acceptance in handling the truth, stressing that the clarification was necessary to ensure fairness and transparency.

This development sheds light on the complexities surrounding the legacy of one of Nigeria’s most prominent political and business figures. MKO Abiola, who died in detention in 1998 while fighting to reclaim his presidential mandate, left behind a mixed legacy of political courage and a sprawling family whose structure is still being clarified more than two decades after his death.