Former military president, General Ibrahim Babangida (retd.), has acknowledged that Chief MKO Abiola won the June 12, 1993, presidential election but described its annulment as the most difficult decision of his life.
Babangida made this revelation in his autobiography, A Journey in Service, which was officially presented in Abuja on Thursday. The book provides insights into key moments in Nigeria’s history, including the controversial annulment of the election, which remains a major talking point in the country’s political history.
“There Was No Doubt Abiola Won”
While reviewing the book at the event, former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo quoted Babangida as saying that Abiola, who contested under the Social Democratic Party (SDP), met all the constitutional requirements to be declared president.
“There was no doubt in my mind; MKO Abiola won the election. He satisfied all the requirements,” Babangida was quoted as saying.
The 1993 election was widely regarded as Nigeria’s most credible, with Abiola securing a majority of votes and meeting the geographical spread needed for victory. However, despite the overwhelming support, Babangida annulled the results, citing concerns over national security.
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A Regrettable Decision
Babangida admitted that annulling the election was a painful decision and a defining moment in his career. He expressed regret over the event but maintained that he acted in what he believed was the national interest.
“Undoubtedly credible, free and fair elections were held on June 12, 1993,” he said.
“However, the tragic irony of history remains that the administration that devised a near-perfect electoral system and conducted those near-perfect elections could not complete the process. That accident of history is most regrettable. The nation is entitled to expect my impression of regret.”
The former military leader accepted full responsibility for the decision and acknowledged the mistakes that followed.
“As a leader of the military administration, I accept full responsibility for all decisions taken under my watch,” Babangida wrote.
“And June 12 happened under my watch—mistakes, oversights, and missteps happened in quick succession, but I say in my book, in all matters, we acted in the supreme national interest so that Nigeria could survive.”
Buhari’s Recognition of Abiola
Despite the annulment, Babangida noted that he found solace in the fact that former President Muhammadu Buhari later recognized Abiola’s victory by posthumously awarding him the Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR), a title reserved for Nigerian presidents.
This move, he said, acknowledged Abiola’s rightful place in Nigeria’s political history.
Other Historical Controversies in the Book
Apart from the June 12 election, Babangida’s book also sheds light on other significant events in Nigeria’s history. These include the 1976 coup attempt that led to the assassination of then-Head of State, General Murtala Muhammed, and the 1986 letter bomb attack that killed investigative journalist Dele Giwa.
Babangida’s memoir provides a rare inside look at decisions that shaped Nigeria’s political landscape. However, the annulment of the June 12 election remains one of the most controversial chapters of his leadership, sparking debates that continue to this day.