Nigeria’s former military Head of State, Ibrahim Babangida, has finally broken his silence on the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, describing it as a “tragic irony of history” that still weighs heavily on his conscience. Speaking at the launch of his memoir, ‘A Journey in Service,’ in Abuja, Babangida acknowledged that the election, won by businessman and politician Moshood Abiola, was “undoubtedly credible, free and fair.” He praised the electoral process, saying it was a near-perfect exercise that showcased the best of Nigeria’s democratic aspirations. However, Babangida annulled the results, citing concerns over national security, a decision that sparked widespread protests and political unrest nationwide. The annulment led to a prolonged struggle for democracy in Nigeria, with many Nigerians viewing it as a betrayal of the country’s democratic ideals. Babangida accepted full responsibility for the decision, saying, “As a leader of the military administration, I accept full responsibility for all decisions taken under my watch.” He acknowledged that the annulment was a mistake, saying it was a decision that has haunted him for decades.”I regret that decision, and I apologize to Nigerians for the pain and suffering it caused,” Babangida said. “If I had the opportunity to do it again, I would have handled it differently.” Babangida also expressed satisfaction with former President Muhammadu Buhari’s decision to honor Abiola posthumously and recognize June 12 as Nigeria’s Democracy Day. He praised Buhari’s gesture, saying it was a step towards healing the wounds of the past.
The launch of Babangida’s memoir drew an elite gathering of past and present leaders, including former Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo, who emphasized the importance of multi-party democracy in Africa’s development. Akufo-Addo praised Babangida’s commitment to democracy, saying it was a testament to his leadership and vision.Other notable attendees included former Nigerian Head of State General Yakubu Gowon, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, and former President Goodluck Jonathan. The event also saw significant donations to support the construction of the IBB Presidential Library, including N8bn from Aliko Dangote and N5bn from Abdulsamad Rabiu. In his remarks, former President Jonathan described Babangida as one of Nigeria’s most charismatic leaders, saying his legacy would continue to inspire future generations. Jonathan praised Babangida’s commitment to democracy, saying it was a testament to his leadership and vision. The launch of Babangida’s memoir marked a significant moment in Nigeria’s history, as it provided a rare glimpse into the life and times of one of the country’s most influential leaders.
The event also highlighted the importance of leadership and vision in shaping the course of a nation’s history.
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