Abboomaa Mitikkuu Waaqoo, known by his struggle name Abbaa Xiiqii (“The Resolute One”), was a force of nature. He was not called “The Resolute” because he held grudges, but because once he set his mind to a task, he would see it through to the end without ever looking back.

Though his life was tragically short—cut down at just 32 or 33 years of age—he accomplished enough to secure his place in the annals of Oromo history. His story is one of fierce dedication, strategic brilliance, and ultimate sacrifice.

A Revolutionary’s Formation

Born into an educated and politically active family, Abboomaa’s path seemed almost destined. His father, Mitikkuu Waaqoo, was a university graduate and an active member of the Maccaa and Tuulama Association. Growing up in Finfinnee, Abboomaa attended elite schools like the American Community School and Tafari Makonnen, becoming fluent in English and sharpening his intellect.

Even before university, he was known for his strategic mind and organizational skills. At Addis Ababa University (then Haile Selassie I University), he quickly became a prominent student leader. In 1974, he was elected as the high-level secretary of the University Students Union, a testament to his charisma and capability. Notably, he was more popular and influential among the student body than his peer, Meles Zenawi, the future Prime Minister of Ethiopia.

The Path of Armed Struggle

The 1974 revolution and the Derg’s rise to power marked a turning point. Abboomaa, like many students, was sent to the countryside for the “Zemacha” (Development Campaign). He was deployed to the Amhara region via Gondar.

Upon his return to Finfinnee, he was secretly dispatched to Somalia by veteran Oromo liberation figures like Baro Tumsa to receive military training. This mission, codenamed “M-6,” was fraught with peril, including a failed attempt to reach Yemen. Despite these setbacks, Abboomaa’s commitment never wavered.

He returned to Ethiopia and played a pivotal role in the nascent Oromo Liberation Front (OLF). At the first OLF congress in August 1976, he was elected to the Central Committee, where he contributed significantly to structuring and building the organization.

Confrontation and Martyrdom

His fiery dedication made him a target. In 1977, while driving home in Kazanchis, a Derg security official pursued him with the intent to kill. In a dramatic act of self-defense, Abboomaa fought back and killed the assailant. He immediately turned himself in to the police.

The Derg, claiming he was killed for personal reasons, imprisoned him. However, thanks to clandestine efforts by OLF sympathizers within the Derg itself, he was released after only four months.

Upon his release, he immediately rejoined the armed struggle in eastern Oromia. His strategic prowess was demonstrated when he successfully mobilized and transferred OLF forces from Harar to the Ambo-Waddessa area—a complex military operation that earned him deep respect.

Tragically, his life was cut short. Abboomaa Mitikkuu was one of the ten OLF leaders and artists brutally executed in Somalia at a place called Shinniga. This atrocity is commemorated annually on Ebli 15 as “Gootota Day” (Martyrs’ Day).

A Legacy of Resolve

Abbaa Xiiqii lived by a simple, powerful principle: see a task through to the end. In his brief life, he displayed a level of strategic acumen and leadership that, had he lived, could have profoundly shaped the destiny of his people. His story is not just one of martyrdom, but of a brilliant, unyielding spirit that refused to be silenced.

His legacy is a challenge to future generations: to carry forward the same unwavering resolve in the pursuit of justice and freedom.

May the sacrifices of our heroes forever be remembered.