Former military Head of State, Ibrahim Babangida, recently expressed regret over the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election. He acknowledged that MKO Abiola, the candidate of the Social Democratic Party, had indeed won the poll. Babangida referred to the annulment as an “accident of history” in a section of his autobiography.
His regret received mixed reactions from various individuals and groups. The Abiola family did not comment on Babangida’s admission. The June 12 election, considered Nigeria’s freest and fairest, was annulled by Babangida citing national security concerns. This led to widespread protests and political unrest, ultimately resulting in his resignation and the eventual return to civilian rule in 1999.
Babangida admitted that Abiola met the constitutional requirements for winning the election based on a closer examination of the election results. He also expressed concerns over the formidable forces against Abiola had he assumed the Presidency. At the official launch of his autobiography, Babangida acknowledged the credible elections held on June 12, 1993, while lamenting the interruption of the democratic progress in the country.
Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo shared that Babangida found the 1993 election as the most challenging chapter of his life. The book delves into key moments in Nigeria’s history, addressing national controversies such as the 1976 coup attempt and the 1986 letter bomb that killed journalist Dele Giwa. Babangida denied involvement in Giwa’s death, expressing hope for the truth to surface eventually.
The book launch event attracted a gathering of past and present leaders reflecting on Babangida’s legacy and democracy in West Africa. Discussions included Babangida’s contributions to Nigeria’s political history and concerns over military coups in the region. Various leaders praised Babangida for his leadership and expressed opinions on his admission regarding the June 12 election.
The pan-Yoruba socio-political organization, Afenifere, criticized Babangida’s belated admission, emphasizing the irreversible damage caused by the annulment. They demanded recognition for MKO Abiola’s rightful presidency and urged for justice to be served. Other figures like Olu Falae and Ayo Opadokun dismissed Babangida’s remorse, asserting that Abiola’s victory was already known.
The Coalition of Northern Groups commended Babangida for taking responsibility for the election annulment, describing him as an exemplary leader. Other prominent figures like former governors and Senior Advocates of Nigeria appreciated Babangida’s admission and expressed hopes for healing and closure in the aftermath of the June 12 annulment.
At the book presentation, notable figures like Aliko Dangote and Abdulsamad Rabiu pledged significant donations towards the construction of the IBB Presidential Library. The event highlighted Babangida’s policies that facilitated the growth of the private sector in Nigeria during his regime. The book launch was a platform for reflection on Babangida’s legacy and contributions to the country’s history.