In a landmark moment for Nigeria’s democratic history, President Bola Tinubu on Thursday commended former President General Ibrahim Babangida for openly acknowledging that the late Chief M.K.O. Abiola won the annulled June 12, 1993, presidential election. Speaking at the launch of Babangida’s autobiography, A Journey in Service, and the fundraising for the IBB Presidential Library Project in Abuja, President Tinubu described the admission as an act of courage and patriotism.
For the first time in 32 years, Babangida publicly confirmed that the results of the historic election had declared Abiola the winner, marking a crucial step in setting the records straight. The annulment of the election remains a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s political history, leading to a national crisis and the eventual transition from military to civilian rule.
President Tinubu praised Babangida’s role in shaping Nigeria’s political landscape, stating:
“I am glad about the revelation of June 12. My General, we will not forget to pray for you. I am here to pay homage and to thank you for your contributions to the history and development of this great country.”
Babangida, who served as Nigeria’s leader from 1985 to 1993, admitted that annulling the election was the most difficult decision of his administration, adding that if given another chance, he would have handled it differently.
“Undoubtedly, credible, free, and fair elections were held on June 12, 1993. However, the tragic irony of history remains that the administration that devised a near-perfect electoral system could not complete the process. That accident of history is most regrettable, and I take full responsibility,” he said.
He further acknowledged that his administration had acted in what it believed was the “supreme national interest” at the time, but expressed relief that former President Muhammadu Buhari posthumously recognized Abiola’s victory and conferred on him Nigeria’s highest honor, the Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR).
Tinubu Calls for National Renewal
During his remarks, President Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to making tough economic decisions to reposition the country. He urged Nigerians to refocus their energies on nation-building, warning that recent shifts in global migration laws serve as a reminder of the need to create opportunities at home.
“I am glad about what is happening in America and Europe—the contradictions we see. It tells us to wake up and make Africa a better place, particularly Nigeria,” Tinubu stated.
He also credited Babangida’s economic reforms, particularly the deregulation of the banking sector, for shaping Nigeria’s private sector. “Without you, people like me wouldn’t be in politics. You encouraged young, brilliant minds to participate in governance. Today, many of us are here because of the visionary Babangida.”
Dignitaries in Attendance
The event was a gathering of Nigeria’s political and business elites, including former Presidents of Ghana and Sierra Leone. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo chaired the event, while Ghana’s former President, Nana Akufo-Addo, delivered the keynote address. Also in attendance were former Heads of State General Yakubu Gowon and General Abdulsalami Abubakar, former President Goodluck Jonathan, and former Vice President Namadi Sambo.
In his review of Babangida’s book, former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo highlighted the former leader’s admission that Abiola met all constitutional requirements to be declared winner of the 1993 elections.
The event underscored the lasting impact of June 12 on Nigeria’s democratic evolution, while Babangida’s revelations added new dimensions to the historical narrative.
