Babangida's Memoir Reopens Debate on June 12 Election's Annulment

The Controversy Behind June 12's Annulment

Former Nigerian Military President Ibrahim Babangida has stirred the political waters with his recent admission in his memoir, A Journey in Service, recognizing the importance of the June 12, 1993 election where Chief MKO Abiola claimed victory. However, Babangida attributes the subsequent annulment to manipulations by General Sani Abacha and his supporters. This assertion has sparked widespread disbelief and skepticism, as many Nigerians find it hard to swallow, given Babangida's previously tight control over his military administration.

Nigerians are raising eyebrows at Babangida's claim that he was unaware of the annulment plans, especially since he was the Commander-in-Chief who abolished the key position of Chief of Staff after toppling Buhari's regime. His position and authority at the time seemingly contradict the idea that Abacha could have orchestrated such a significant event without Babangida's knowledge or endorsement.

Backlash and National Outcry

The delayed acknowledgment, nearly three decades after the occurrences, has only added fuel to the fire of public criticism. One glaring omission is Babangida’s silence on other unresolved issues from his tenure, such as the mysterious assassination of Dele Giwa, a move that continues to perplex many observers of Nigerian history.

Student groups, particularly the National Association of Ogun State Students (NAOSS), vocally rejected Babangida's narrative, accusing him of cowardice and attempting to rewrite history. For many, the memoir is seen as a deflection, with Babangida trying to wash his hands clean of responsibility. This disdain echoes throughout the political landscape, with President Bola Tinubu recounting experiences where Babangida was hesitant to pass power to duly elected civilians, reinforcing suspicions about his true intentions.

Senator Orji Kalu has also joined the chorus of critique, challenging Babangida to publicly disclose the names of those allegedly responsible for the annulment, demanding transparency and accountability. Notably, Babangida's claim that his authority was superseded by subordinate actions, like Admiral Augustus Aikhomu’s press secretary announcing the annulment without presidential approval, is widely dismissed as improbable.

The underlying issue here transcends individual grievances—it cuts to the heart of a national legacy. Babangida’s belated recognition of Abiola’s win, without addressing the hard questions, leaves Nigerians staring into the past, grappling with unresolved injustices attached to what is often deemed Nigeria’s most credible election. Each revelation—or lack thereof—prolongs a narrative of doubt and discord, leaving many to wonder if the full story will ever truly come to light.