President Bola Tinubu on Thursday praised former Military Head of State, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida, for his “courage and patriotism” in publicly acknowledging that the late Chief M.K.O. Abiola won the annulled June 12, 1993, presidential election.
Tinubu made the remarks as the Special Guest of Honour at the launch of Babangida’s autobiography, A Journey in Service, and the fundraising event for the IBB Presidential Library Project.
The President described Babangida’s admission as a significant step toward setting the historical record straight.
“I am glad about the revelation of June 12. My General, we will not forget to pray for you. I listened to you carefully. I am not here to read a speech. I am here to pay homage,” Tinubu said.
“Thank you for everything—for who you are, what you are, and how you have contributed to the history of this great country,” he added.
Babangida, who led Nigeria from August 1985 to August 1993, annulled the June 12 election, widely considered Nigeria’s freest and fairest poll, leading to a political crisis and ultimately his exit from power.
Tinubu also used the platform to reaffirm his commitment to Nigeria’s development, emphasizing the need for tough decisions to reposition the economy. He urged Nigerians to focus on building the nation amid tightening global migration laws.
“I am glad about what is happening in America and Europe—the contradictions you have seen now. What is it telling us? It is telling us to wake up and make Africa a better place, particularly this country, Nigeria,” he said.
“I want to thank all of you for your mandate, patience, and perseverance. Whatever might have happened, we have heard the truth from our dear leader, father, and uncle, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida,” Tinubu concluded.
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