Nigeria’s former military president, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), has revealed that the annulment of the historic June 12, 1993, presidential election was driven by what he termed “national interest.”
Speaking in Abuja on Thursday at the launch of his autobiography, A Journey in Service, Babangida took full responsibility for the controversial decision made 32 years ago, despite acknowledging that the election, widely believed to have been won by the late Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, was free and fair.
“As the leader of the military administration, I accept full responsibility for all decisions taken by me. And June 12 happened under my watch,” he said.
The former military ruler admitted that while mistakes and oversights occurred, the annulment was done to safeguard the nation.
“In all matters, we acted in extreme national interest so that Nigeria could survive,” Babangida told the audience.
The annulment of the June 12 election remains one of Nigeria’s most defining political moments, leading to widespread unrest and shaping the country’s democratic journey.
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