June 12: We Acted In ‘Extreme National Interest’

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Ibrahim Babangida, a former military leader, claims that the election’s cancellation on June 12, 1993 was “in the interests of the country.” &nbsp,

IBB, as he is affectionately known, served as the military’s president in Moshood Abiola’s widely believed victory in that election. Without announcing a winner, the election was canceled. &nbsp,

But 32 years after the election, Babangida said he acted to protect the country’s interest. When he released his autobiography, “A Journey in Service,” on Thursday in Abuja, he said this.

“I owe complete accountability for all decisions I make as the head of the military administration.” And June 12 happened under my watch. Mistakes, oversights, and missteps happen in quick succession but I say in my book, in all matters, we acted in extreme national interest so that Nigeria could survive”, the former military president told the gathering.

READ ALSO: &nbsp, Babangida Makes U-Turn 32 Years After, Says MKO Abiola Won June 12 Election

‘ Deeply ‘ Regretted

MKO Abiola and IBB collaborate in a photo.

Babangida expressed regret over the poll’s cancellation, calling it a blow to democratic leadership.

“Our nation’s march to democracy was interrupted, a fact that I deeply regret. Nigeria’s resilience and commitment to progress are a testament to how resilient and stable democracy is still in place. This book is part of my personal story with national history”, Babangida added.

The 1993 presidential election, which many observers have deemed to be the most credible election in the country’s history, has continued to dominate discussions there.

Abiola was believed to have won the exercise. Over the years, calls have been made to declare the SDP candidate’s candidacy as the poll’s winner.

Former President Muhammadu Buhari changed the date of democracy day from May 29 to June 12 in honor of Abiola.

But on Thursday, ex-Vice President Yemi Osibanjo who reviewed IBB’s book made a striking revelation.

There is no doubt that MKO Abiola won the June 12 elections, Babangida wrote in the 420-page memoir after declaring on record that I may have won the election after further reflection and a thorough examination of all available information, particularly the detailed election results that are published as an appendix to this book.