President Bola Tinubu has commended former military leader General Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida (IBB) for showing courage and patriotism by admitting that the late M.K.O. Abiola won the June 12, 1993 presidential election.
Tinubu made the remarks on Thursday as the Special Guest of Honour at the launch of Babangida’s autobiography, A Journey in Service, and the fundraising for the IBB Presidential Library Project.
For the first time in 32 years, Babangida publicly confirmed that Abiola had won the historic election, based on collated results. The annulment of the election remains a defining moment in Nigeria’s democratic history, leading to political turmoil and Babangida’s eventual exit from power.
“A Revelation That Sets the Record Straight”
Speaking at the event, Tinubu described Babangida’s admission as a significant step in setting the 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.
“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,” Tinubu said.
He also reaffirmed his commitment to making difficult decisions to reposition Nigeria’s economy, urging Nigerians to focus their energy on building a stronger nation rather than seeking opportunities abroad.
“I am glad about what is happening in America and Europe—the contradictions you see now. What is it telling us? It is telling us to wake up and make Africa a better place, particularly this country, Nigeria,” he added.
Babangida Reflects on June 12, Calls It His Toughest Decision
In his remarks, General Babangida acknowledged that annulling the June 12 election was the most challenging decision of his life and admitted that, given another chance, he would have handled it differently.
“Undoubtedly, credible, free, and fair elections were held 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 expression of regret. As the leader of the military administration, I accept full responsibility for all decisions taken under my watch,” Babangida stated.
He expressed relief that former President Muhammadu Buhari later recognized Abiola’s victory, awarding him the Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR)—Nigeria’s highest honor reserved for presidents.
Dignitaries Honor Babangida’s Legacy
The event brought together Nigerian business and political leaders, including former presidents and top government officials.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo chaired the event, while former Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo delivered the keynote address.
Also in attendance were:
General Yakubu Gowon
General Abdulsalami Abubakar
Former President Goodluck Jonathan
Former Vice President Namadi Sambo
A representative of former President Muhammadu Buhari
Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, who reviewed Babangida’s book, noted that the former military leader clearly stated that Abiola won the election by securing the majority vote and the required geographical spread.
As the night unfolded, Tinubu lauded Babangida’s role in Nigeria’s economic liberalization, particularly his approval of new banking licenses and deregulation policies that spurred the rise of new-generation banks.
“Nigeria has never been the same since then. You have made your mark,” he concluded.
