Former military Head of State, General Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida, has described the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election as the most difficult period of his life.
Speaking at the official launch of his memoir, A Journey in Service, in Abuja on Thursday, February 20, 2025, Babangida acknowledged that the election was widely regarded as credible, free, and fair. However, he admitted that his administration’s inability to complete the process remains a regrettable chapter in Nigeria’s history.
“That accident of history is most regrettable,” he said., adding, “The nation is entitled to expect my impression of regret. As the leader of the military administration, I accept full responsibility for all decisions taken under my watch.”
Reflecting on the annulment, Babangida admitted that mistakes and missteps were made but insisted that all actions taken at the time were in the country’s supreme national interest.
“Our nation’s march to democracy was interrupted, a fact that I deeply regret. But Nigeria and democracy are still alive, a testament to our commitment,” he added.
Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, who reviewed the book, echoed Babangida’s reflections, quoting a section where the former military leader acknowledged that, given another chance, he would have handled the situation differently.
“The June 12 election was the most challenging of my life. If I had to do it all over again, I’d do it differently,” Osinbajo read from the memoir.
The book also sheds light on other significant national events, including the 1976 coup attempt that led to the assassination of then-Head of State, General Murtala Muhammed, and the 1986 letter bomb that killed investigative journalist, Dele Giwa.
Babangida’s decision to annul the June 12 election—won by businessman and politician Moshood Abiola—triggered nationwide protests and political unrest, ultimately leading to his resignation. The struggle for democracy continued until Nigeria transitioned to civilian rule in 1999.
The launch of A Journey in Service attracted prominent political and business figures who reflected on Babangida’s legacy and the state of democracy in West Africa.
Former Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo delivered the keynote address, emphasising the importance of multi-party democracy in Africa’s development. He warned against the resurgence of military takeovers, calling them a setback to democratic progress.
“Multiple parties are good for our continent,” Akufo-Addo said, urging African leaders to strengthen democratic institutions.
Former Nigerian Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (retd.), praised Babangida’s leadership, describing him as a “boss of bosses”, thanking him for restoring his military rank after it was stripped following the 1976 coup.
Meanwhile, former military Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, shared personal anecdotes about his lifelong friendship with Babangida, recalling a childhood prophecy that foretold his rise to power.
“You have documented your journey, and this book will enrich the country,” Abdulsalami remarked.
Former President Goodluck Jonathan lauded Babangida as one of Nigeria’s most charismatic leaders and advocated for the establishment of presidential libraries to preserve the nation’s political history.
“IBB brought us here today to celebrate his book and library. His home has become somewhat of a pilgrimage site,” Jonathan noted.
Representing former President Muhammadu Buhari, ex-Minister of Transportation Jaji Sambo delivered a congratulatory message, expressing hope that Babangida would continue to provide valuable counsel to Nigeria’s leadership.
The event saw significant financial contributions toward Babangida’s memoir and the construction of the IBB Presidential Library.
Prominent businessmen, including Aliko Dangote and Abdulsamad Rabiu, led the donations, with Dangote pledging N8 billion and Rabiu contributing N5 billion. Dangote also committed to donating N2 billion annually for the next four years for the library’s construction.
Other major donations included:
- Senator Sani Musa (Niger East Senatorial District): N250 million
- Fidelity Bank: N150 million
- Businessman Arthur Eze: N500 million
The launch of A Journey in Service not only provided insights into Babangida’s role in Nigeria’s history but also sparked discussions on democracy, governance, and leadership in Africa.
