For decades, Nigerians have suffered the consequences of the failed election of June 12, 1993.
Indeed, the June 12 election is one that Nigerians may never forget. For the first time, and perhaps the last, Nigerians had the chance to save themselves and grab the Nigeria they always desired, but one man, just one man crushed that desire.
By annulling that election, former military leader, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), deprived Nigerians the chance of getting a better Nigeria.
You see, 1993 was not like any other year for Nigerians, it was the year they had decided to put MKO Abiola in power. His promise of Hope was one that Nigerians could not overlook not to mention the flamboyance of his campaign which stood as a testament to his capabilities.
But guess what?
Just when Nigerians believed they had won, IBB did the unthinkable.
Now, decades later, IBB has decided to reveal the reason behind his actions. But trust Nigerians, such act is one that cannot be forgiven in a hurry.
Ibrahim Babangida Book Launch
On Thursday, February 20, 2025, IBB disclosed that the late Chief Moshood Abiola was the rightful winner of the presidential election held on June 12, 1993.
IBB made this revelation in his autobiography, titled “A Journey in Service,” which was launched in Abuja.
During the book review conducted by former Vice President Prof. Yemi Osibanjo, Babangida stated that MKO Abiola, who ran for the presidency under the Social Democratic Party (SDP), garnered both the highest number of votes and the necessary geographical distribution to assume the presidency.
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He characterised the annulment of the June 12 election as the most difficult period of his life.
“There was no doubt in my mind; MKO Abiola won the election. He satisfied all the requirements,” he said.
National Interest
IBB expressed his satisfaction that Muhammadu Buhari recognised Abiola as the rightful winner of the election and bestowed upon him the esteemed national title of Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR), a title typically reserved for presidents.
On why he annulled the election, IBB said it was due to national interest.
But is that enough? Will Nigerians take that excuse?
The truth is, many Nigerians have not forgotten. Till this very moment, many remember IBB as the main cause of their lifelong sufferings.
