President Bola Tinubu has recognised former Military Head of State, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida, for his courageous and patriotic admission that the late M.K.O. Abiola was the rightful winner of the June 12, 1993 election.
Gatekeepers News reports that this acknowledgement was made during an event where Tinubu acted as the Special Guest of Honour at the launch of Babangida’s autobiography, “A Journey in Service,” alongside a fundraising effort for the IBB Presidential Library Project.
For the first time, General Babangida confirmed that Chief Abiola won the historic election based on the collated results available at that time. The annulment of the election is considered a significant event in Nigeria’s democratic history, leading to a political crisis and contributing to Babangida’s eventual departure from power.
Tinubu asserted that Babangida’s acknowledgement of Abiola’s victory serves to clarify historical records regarding that pivotal moment in Nigeria’s political landscape.
“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.
“Let me say thank you for everything—for who you are, what you are, and how you have contributed to the history of this great country,” the President stated.
Babangida served as Nigeria’s leader from August 1985 to August 1993.
President Tinubu said he would continue to do his best for the country by making tough decisions to reposition the economy.
However, he urged Nigerians to refocus their time, energy, and resources on building the country, which remains their home, and to be more mindful of changes in global migration laws that could hinder their dreams of a better life.
“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.
“I have seen the need to make some decisions on behalf of this country. 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,” he added.
