President Bola Tinubu on Thursday described former Military Head of State, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida, as courageous and patriotic for admitting that the late M.K.O. Abiola won the June 12, 1993 election.
Tinubu spoke 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.
Recall that, for the first time, General Babangida confirmed that Chief Abiola won the historic June 12 election based on collated results at the time.
While the annulment remains a defining moment in Nigeria’s democratic history, resulting in political crisis, it also hastened Babangida’s exit from power.
According to Tinubu, Babangida’s admission regarding Abiola’s victory will help set 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,” 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.
