Ibrahim Babangida, often referred to as IBB, has always been a figure that elicits a wide array of opinions in Nigerian politics.
Known for his role in shaping the country during his 8 years as a military ruler (1985–1993), Babangida’s legacy remains a cocktail of admiration, disdain, and curiosity. So, when the former Nigerian military leader released his memoir, A Journey of Service, in 2025, it was bound to stir the pot.
From military coups to controversial decisions, and from economic policies that shaped Nigeria to accusations of corruption, A Journey of Service is packed with revelations that are both shocking and thought-provoking.
Whether you agree or disagree with his actions, there’s no denying that IBB’s book opens a Pandora’s box of political secrets and untold stories that have shaped Nigeria’s modern history.
But does it live up to the hype? Is it worth the huge amount it is sold for?
Let’s dive into this rollercoaster of a memoir and dissect what makes it not just a political document, but a fascinating – and at times, a very controversial – narrative.
The Author: A Complex Legacy
Before we get into the details of the book itself, let’s take a quick look at the man behind it all – Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida.
Born in 1941, Babangida is often remembered as the architect of Nigeria’s 1985 military coup, which overthrew the then-President Muhammadu Buhari.
His reign, though filled with both progress and controversy, has left an indelible mark on Nigerian politics.
However, IBB’s political journey is clouded by allegations of corruption, the annulment of the 1993 presidential elections, and his role in the infamous “June 12” debacle.
While many consider him one of the most intelligent and strategic leaders Nigeria has ever had, others see him as a symbol of manipulation and mismanagement.
This dual perception is what makes his memoir so riveting – it’s not just a recollection of facts, but an exploration of his controversial role in shaping the country.
The Book: A Journey Of Service….Or Regrets
In A Journey of Service, Babangida presents himself as a man who was both a servant of the people and a victim of circumstances.
He attempts to justify his decisions, especially the annulment of the 1993 elections, by presenting them as the best options at the time, given the political and societal pressures.
According to IBB, the annulment was a move to protect Nigeria from descending into chaos, something he says he regrets but views as the lesser evil in hindsight.
This justification has, unsurprisingly, been one of the most controversial aspects of the book.
Many Nigerians who lived through that tumultuous time find it hard to accept IBB’s version of events.
The annulment of the elections led to mass protests, the rise of civil unrest, and ultimately, the loss of trust in military governance.
Babangida’s attempt to rewrite history raises eyebrows, especially when he denies any direct involvement in the death of Chief MKO Abiola, the winner of the annulled election.
However, the book doesn’t just dwell on the negative. IBB also highlights his contributions to Nigeria’s infrastructural development during his time in office, including road construction, the establishment of economic policies like SAP (Structural Adjustment Program), and his role in Nigerian diplomacy.
For many, this part of the book feels like a desperate attempt to salvage his image, and while some of these achievements are undeniable, others question their long-term effectiveness.
The Power Struggles: Behind Closed Doors
Perhaps one of the most fascinating – and unsettling – parts of A Journey of Service is IBB’s portrayal of the inner workings of Nigeria’s power struggles.
Through candid accounts, Babangida sheds light on his battles with fellow military officers, political elites, and the international community.
His discussions on the various coups that threatened his leadership, the assassination attempts on his life, and the betrayals within his own ranks give readers a rare glimpse into the dark side of Nigerian politics.
One particularly controversial segment of the book revolves around Babangida’s description of how he manipulated certain political forces to maintain power.
While he never outright admits to corrupt practices, he does imply that his use of political maneuvering, strategic alliances, and sometimes even covert actions were essential in preserving his presidency.
It’s a stark reminder of the lengths to which leaders can go to stay in control, even at the expense of democratic ideals.
The Cultural and Economic Impact: IBB’s Legacy
While IBB claims that his government helped modernize Nigeria, the economic policies of his regime are a subject of heated debate.
Babangida presents his Structural Adjustment Program (SAP) as a necessary reform that was misunderstood by many at the time.
According to him, SAP was aimed at reducing Nigeria’s dependence on oil and diversifying the economy. However, critics argue that it resulted in widespread poverty, unemployment, and an even deeper reliance on foreign loans.
This part of the book reveals a man who is either genuinely passionate about Nigeria’s development or someone who is justifying the harm caused by his policies.
In his defense, he notes that no policy is perfect, and the decision to introduce SAP was based on the challenges Nigeria faced at the time. However, this remains one of the more controversial aspects of his tenure.
The Fallout: The People Speak
One of the book’s more emotional sections comes when Babangida reflects on the Nigerian people’s view of his leadership. He acknowledges that many Nigerians felt betrayed by his decisions and still view his presidency with bitterness, particularly because of the June 12 crisis.
Also Read: ‘A Journey Of Service’: Some Hidden Secrets About Nigerian Politics Exposed In IBB’s Book
His decision to step down in 1993, despite the country’s demand for him to hand over power, is another point he revisits – and it raises the question: Was this a noble act of self-restraint, or a calculated move to maintain influence behind the scenes?
In a very personal segment, Babangida discusses the role of his family, his friends, and his colleagues in helping him navigate the stormy waters of Nigerian politics. Yet, the most compelling part of this section is his refusal to acknowledge how some of the deepest wounds in Nigeria’s political history were inflicted under his watch.
The Verdict
Ultimately, A Journey of Service is a book that will continue to spark debate for years to come.
Babangida presents his side of history, but whether you see him as a visionary or a manipulator depends on where you stand on Nigeria’s political spectrum.
What makes this book so compelling is not just the insight it offers into the man, but also the broader questions it raises about Nigeria’s political landscape. How far will leaders go to protect their power? Can one man’s service to his country be both celebrated and vilified at the same time? And, most importantly, can we ever really know the truth behind the decisions that shaped our nation?
At the end of the day, A Journey of Service is more than just a memoir. It’s a provocative look into the complex world of Nigerian politics, filled with contradictions, secrets, and untold stories. And perhaps, that’s exactly what makes it one of the most controversial books of our time.
What do you think? Is Babangida’s book a genuine attempt to offer clarity, or is it just another attempt to manipulate public perception? Let us know your thoughts in the comment section.
