Former military president, General Ibrahim Babangida (retd.) has admitted that the late Chief MKO Abiola won the June 12, 1993, presidential election but described its annulment as the most difficult decision of his life.
Babangida made the revelation in his autobiography, ‘A Journey in Service,’ which was unveiled in Abuja on Thursday.
Reviewing the book at the event, former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo quoted Babangida as saying that Abiola, who contested on the platform of the Social Democratic Party, met all constitutional requirements, including securing the majority of votes and the necessary geographical spread, to be declared president.
“There was no doubt in my mind; MKO Abiola won the election. He satisfied all the requirements,” Babangida was quoted as saying.
The former military ruler noted that while the annulment of the election remained a defining moment in his career, he took solace in the fact that former President Muhammadu Buhari posthumously honoured Abiola with the Grand Commander of the Federal Republic title, a recognition reserved for Nigerian presidents.
The book, which offers insights into key moments in the country’s history, also addresses other national controversies, including the 1976 coup attempt that led to the assassination of then-Head of State, Murtala Muhammed, and the 1986 letter bomb that killed investigative journalist, Dele Giwa.
Reflecting on his decision to annul the June 12 election, widely regarded as the most credible in the country’s history, Babangida admitted that if given another chance, he would have handled the situation differently.
The election was won by businessman and politician, Moshood Abiola, but Babangida annulled the results, citing concerns over national security.
The former military leader expressed regret over the annulment, describing it the most difficult period of his life.
He said, “Undoubtedly credible, free and fair elections were held in June, on June 12, 1993.
“However, the tragic irony of history remains that the administration that devised a near-perfect electoral system and conducted those near-perfect elections could not complete the process.
“That accident of history is most regrettable. The nation is entitled to expect my impression of regret.
“As a leader of the military administration, I accept full responsibility for all decisions taken under my watch.”
He added, “And June 12 happened under my watch, mistakes, oversights and missteps happened in quick succession, but I say in my book, in all matters, we acted in the supreme national interest so that Nigeria could survive”
