IBB admits MKO Abiola won June 12 1993 presidential election

..Dangote, Rabiu, others donate N14bn IBB Presidential Library

By Kunle Sanni

Former military head of state, Ibrahim Babangida, on Thursday expressed regret over the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, describing it the most difficult period of his life.

Babangida said this at the official launch of his memoir, ‘A Journey in Service’, in Abuja.

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.

“Our nation’s march to democracy was interrupted, a fact that I deeply regret. But Nigeria and democracy is still alive, a testament commitment”

Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo also rehashed Babangida’s words while reviewing the book.

“June 12 elections were the most challenging of my life. If I have to do it all over again, I’ll do it differently,” Osinbajo said, quoting a section from the book.

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 June 12 election, won by businessman and politician, Moshood Abiola, is considered Nigeria’s freest and fairest election.

However, Babangida annulled the results, citing national security concerns.

This sparked widespread protests and political unrest nationwide at the time.

The annulment eventually led to Babangida’s resignation and a prolonged struggle for democracy in Nigeria, culminating in the return to civilian rule in 1999.