Renowned human rights activist and lawyer, Dele Farotimi, has strongly criticized former military ruler, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), over his recent public appearances and political recognition in Nigeria.
Farotimi argued that in a truly conscious and just society, Babangida would not dare to show his face in public due to his controversial past, particularly the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election.
Farotimi expressed his discontent on social media, describing Nigeria as a “crime scene” where Babangida, rather than being held accountable for his actions, enjoys the status of a statesman.
Farotimi’s Strong Rebuke of Babangida
Farotimi’s comments followed Babangida’s recent admission in his newly launched autobiography, A Journey in Service, that Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola won the June 12, 1993, presidential election fair and square. However, Babangida justified his annulment of the election, calling it one of the most difficult decisions of his life.
Reacting to this, Farotimi stated:
“To die for a people devoid of memory is to be killed over and over, again and again. In a place inhabited by the conscious, IBB would not dare to show his face in public. But in the crime scene that doubles as our country, having been succeeded by even more villainous rulers, Badamasi is installed in the seat of the statesman. Tueh.”
Farotimi’s remarks highlight the frustration many Nigerians feel about the continued reverence for Babangida despite his role in one of the most significant political crises in Nigeria’s history.
Babangida’s Admission of Abiola’s Victory
At the book launch held at the Congress Hall of Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja, Babangida admitted that MKO Abiola had met all constitutional requirements to be declared president.
According to Babangida, Abiola, the candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), not only won the majority of votes but also had the geographical spread required to secure the presidency.
However, despite acknowledging Abiola’s victory, Babangida defended his decision to annul the election, claiming it was necessary at the time. This justification has sparked outrage among Nigerians who believe justice was never served for Abiola, who later died in detention while fighting to reclaim his mandate.
June 12 and the Fight for Democracy
The annulment of the June 12 election triggered nationwide protests and a prolonged struggle for democracy. Abiola’s persistent fight to claim his mandate eventually led to his arrest in 1994 by the regime of General Sani Abacha. He remained in detention until his controversial death on July 7, 1998, just weeks after Abacha himself died.
The struggle for democracy culminated in Nigeria’s return to civilian rule in 1999, with former military leader Olusegun Obasanjo emerging as the first elected president of the Fourth Republic.
In 2018, former President Muhammadu Buhari officially recognised June 12 as Nigeria’s Democracy Day and posthumously honoured Abiola as the winner of the annulled election. However, activists argue that these gestures do not equate to true justice.
Activists Demand Accountability for June 12 Annulment
Despite the official recognition of Abiola’s victory, human rights activists like Omoyele Sowore insist that those responsible for the annulment must face legal consequences. Sowore and other critics argue that Babangida and his associates should be held accountable for subverting democracy and plunging Nigeria into years of political instability.
Babangida’s legacy remains deeply controversial. While some view him as a skilled political strategist, many Nigerians consider him responsible for derailing the country’s democratic progress.
His role in the annulment of June 12, his handling of the economy, and allegations of widespread corruption during his administration have all contributed to his polarizing reputation.
A Nation with Short Memory?
Farotimi’s comments reflect a broader concern about Nigeria’s political landscape—where past leaders who contributed to the country’s struggles are often rehabilitated and celebrated instead of being held accountable.
Many argue that Nigeria’s culture of political amnesia enables leaders with questionable records to enjoy public recognition without facing the consequences of their actions.
As Babangida continues to receive invitations to high-profile events and his autobiography garners public attention, the question remains: Should Nigeria continue to honour those who undermined its democracy, or is it time to demand accountability?
For Farotimi and other activists, the answer is clear—without accountability, history is bound to repeat itself.
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