Hussaini Kafi in Kano
Former military President Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB) has once again defended his decision to annul the June 12, 1993, presidential election, widely regarded as Nigeria’s freest and fairest poll.
Speaking at the unveiling of his autobiography, A Journey In Service, in Abuja, Babangida insisted that the annulment was necessary to prevent what he described as a potential national crisis.
“The decision was not made lightly. We had intelligence that if we proceeded, Nigeria could have been plunged into chaos,” Babangida stated, revisiting one of the most controversial moments of his eight-year rule.
While he acknowledged that the annulment hurt many Nigerians, he maintained that his actions were taken in the country’s best interest.
The high-profile book launch, held at the Congress Hall of the Transcorp Hilton, drew Nigeria’s political elite.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo chaired the event, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the special guest of honor.
Also present were former leaders Muhammadu Buhari, Yakubu Gowon, Abdulsalami Abubakar, and Goodluck Jonathan.
Former Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo delivered the keynote address, while ex-Vice President Yemi Osinbajo reviewed the book. A fundraising segment was also held for the IBB Presidential Library.
Beyond the June 12 saga, Babangida’s memoir explores his rise through the military, his role in past coups, the Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP), and the challenges of governance during his tenure from 1985 to 1993.
He admitted that some of his policies had unintended consequences but argued they were necessary steps in Nigeria’s evolution.
The book’s release has reignited debates over Babangida’s legacy, particularly his handling of democracy and economic reforms. While some attendees praised him for finally offering personal insights, others believe his explanations fall short of addressing the damage done to Nigeria’s democratic journey.
Regardless, A Journey In Service provides an unprecedented look into one of Nigeria’s most enigmatic leaders, ensuring that conversations about his administration—and its most controversial decisions—will continue for years to come.
