Former Military Head of State, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), has sparked controversy on social media after a tweet acknowledging former President Muhammadu Buhari’s recognition of late Chief M.K.O. Abiola as Nigeria’s duly elected president.
Babangida, who ruled Nigeria from 1985 to 1993, posted on X (formerly Twitter):
“I was pleased when the Buhari administration finally recognised the Late M.K.O. Abiola as a former Head of State because he won the June 12, 1993, Presidential election. I want to thank Nigerians for giving me the opportunity to conduct the freest and fairest election in history.”
However, this statement has ignited heated reactions, with many Nigerians criticising Babangida for failing to take direct responsibility for the annulment of the election, widely regarded as the most credible in Nigeria’s history.
Users on X wasted no time in slamming the former military ruler, accusing him of deflecting blame onto the late General Sani Abacha.
@MezieAbia wrote: “Abacha is no longer alive to defend himself. They always blame it on the dead. An election that IBB annulled himself, he’s blaming it on a dead man who cannot defend himself. Abacha did everything else but the annulment of Abiola’s election victory. IBB should face the truth and accept culpability to appease the gods of democracy.”
@AdamawaLas79384 echoed similar sentiments: “I don’t think pushing everything about Abiola on late Sani Abacha was a good idea knowing fully well that he is not alive to defend himself. Grandpa, please take responsibility.”
@Real_Buchio did not hold back: “Terrible oldies. Only God can forgive and have mercy on you all. See where you people have kept this nation. A nation that her organs have failed is a walking skeleton. May God reward you bountifully.”
Some commenters lamented the impact of the annulment on Nigeria’s political and economic trajectory.
@Godbles82 wrote: “You annulled the freest election in the history of Nigeria. Since then, Nigeria has never been the same. Imagine the number of lives lost and the generations destroyed because of your single selfish act. May posterity continue to judge you to the grave.”
Read also: MKO Abiola won June 12 Election Babangida reveals
Others praised the recognition of Abiola as a former Head of State, crediting both Buhari and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for upholding his legacy.
@DaresOlayemi stated: “Thanks to the present President PBAT for pushing the PMB administration to acknowledge the late MKO as a President of the Fed Rep of Nig and equally honouring him with the highest title of the land GCFR. Thanks to PBAT for changing the calendar from May 29th to June 12th.”
@Jonathan3Onuh added: “June 12, 1993, remains a defining moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey. The recognition of Late M.K.O. Abiola as a former Head of State is not just a correction of history but a reminder of the power of the people’s vote.”
The debate over the June 12 election and its annulment remains a sensitive topic in Nigeria’s political history. While Babangida’s recent comments have reignited discussions, many Nigerians still demand accountability for the decision that altered the country’s democratic course.
As reactions continue to pour in, one thing is clear: the memory of June 12, 1993, and the role Babangida played in its annulment will not be forgotten anytime soon.
