LEKAN LAWAL

I am of the idea that Yerima should have a permanent space in the Oxford Dictionary😂

Because at this point, Yerima is no longer just a name but it’s a statement, an attitude, and a reaction.
Let's have a national vocabulary.😀

So, Oxford, take note. We officially have a new word:

Yerima /ˈje.rɪ.ma/

Word class: noun, verb, adjective
Origin: From Nigeria (2025); popularized after the public clash between FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and naval officer A. M. Yerima.

1. Yerima (n.)
A person who boldly stands their ground before authority; one who remains calm under pressure.
Example: That guy told his boss, “With all due respect, sir, I’m not a fool.” 😂

2. Yerima (v.)
To confront power fearlessly; to resist intimidation from someone in higher office.
Example: When the landlord shouted, Chika -ed him right back (respectfully but firmly).

3. Yerima (adj.)
Displaying uncommon composure and courage in the face of provocation.
Example: Her attitude today at work was top-tier; she didn’t even flinch when they tried her.

4.Yerima (adj.)
Belonging to or associated with the Nigerian Navy; exhibiting the discipline or composure typical of naval officers.
Example: The young man didn’t even flinch; that calmness could only belong to the Navy.

ˈje.rɪ.ma

JUNE 12: HOW MKO ABIOLA D!£D – Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar Speaks 🕊️

Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, the acclaimed winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, remains a towering figure in Nigeria’s journey toward democracy. His election victory—considered one of the freest and fairest in the nation’s history—was cru£lly annulled by the military regime led by General Ibrahim Babangida, igniting widespread protests and a deep national crisis.

Abiola’s defiance in reclaiming his mandate and his eventual imprisonm£nt turned him into a symbol of resistance, cutting across ethnic and religious lines—an uncommon feat in Nigerian politics.

He was d£t@ined for four years, and on July 7, 1998, just as Nigeria stood on the cusp of transition, tragedy struck: Abiola di£d in custody—a moment that shook the nation and the world.

🔍 What really happened?

Former Head of State General Abdulsalami Abubakar, who assumed power after the sudden d£ of Gen. Sani Abacha in June 1998, finally gave his account. He denied longstanding rumors that Abiola was p0!soned, insisting instead that:

He was not p0!s0ned. He d!£d of natural causes. Abiola had health issues, and he c0ll@psed while meeting with an American delegation. He was rushed to the hospital but could not be saved.

General Abubakar added that autopsies were carried out by international and local doctors, including representatives from the U.S. and Abiola’s family, and they all confirmed he d!£d of natural causes—likely heart-related.

🔹 Legacy Lives On

Though he never took office, Abiola’s d£ solidified his role as a martyr for democracy. His sacrifice became a rallying point for civil society and the international community, ultimately contributing to the return to civilian rule in 1999.

Today, June 12 is celebrated as Democracy Day in Nigeria—not just to honor Abiola, but to remember the cost of freedom and the importance of upholding the will of the people.

🕯️ Rest in Power, MKO.