President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday apologized to the family of the presumed winner of June 12, 1993, presidential election, Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola.

Buhari tendered the apology on behalf of the federal government after conferring the title, Grand Commander Of the Federal Republic on Abiola.

He said the event was not an attempt to open any wounds but to right the wrongs, adding that June 12 produced unity and national cohesion.

“We cannot rewind the past but we can at least assuage our feelings, recognise that a wrong has been committed and resolve to stand firm now and ease the future for the sanctity of free elections.

“Nigerians will no longer tolerate such perversion of justice. This retrospective and posthumous recognition is only a symbolic token of redress and recompense for the grievous injury done to the peace and unity of our country.”