Former military president, Ibrahim Babangida, has defended the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, saying the decision was made in the national interest.
Babangida, also known as IBB, was the military leader at the time. The election, believed to have been won by Moshood Abiola, was canceled before a winner was officially declared.
Speaking on Thursday in Abuja at the launch of his autobiography, A Journey in Service, Babangida said the move was necessary to keep Nigeria stable.
IBB Takes Responsibility
“As the head of the military government, I take full responsibility for all decisions made under my leadership,” he said.
“June 12 happened under my watch. Mistakes were made, but every action taken was in the best interest of the country to ensure Nigeria’s survival.”
Regret Over Disrupting Democracy
Babangida admitted that canceling the election delayed Nigeria’s return to democracy.
“I deeply regret that our nation’s democratic journey was interrupted. However, Nigeria survived, and democracy remains strong. This book tells my personal story, which is also part of Nigeria’s history,” he added.
June 12: A Historic Election
The 1993 election is widely considered Nigeria’s most credible election. Many believe Moshood Abiola of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) won, and calls for him to be officially recognized have continued over the years.
To honor Abiola, former President Muhammadu Buhari changed Democracy Day from May 29 to June 12 in 2018.
Osinbajo’s Revelation
During the book launch, former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo made a significant statement.
“In the past, I had expressed doubts about Abiola’s victory, but after reviewing detailed election results published in this book, it is clear that MKO Abiola won the June 12 election,” Babangida wrote in his 420-page memoir.
The event was attended by former presidents, governors, business leaders, and other top figures from Nigeria and beyond.
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