About a week ago, Nigeria’s former Military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), unveiled his long-awaited autobiography titled A Journey in Service. The event, held in Abuja, was attended by the crème de la crème of Nigerian society, including surviving former military and civilian Presidents and Heads of State. Notably absent was former President Muhammadu Buhari, who sent a representative instead. Buhari’s absence was symbolic, as he has yet to forgive Babangida for ousting him in a coup on August 25, 1985, and detaining him for several years.
Among the dignitaries was billionaire businessman Arthur Eze, who succinctly captured the essence of Babangida’s influence: “He made me who I am. He made all of us here.” This statement was far from hyperbolic. During his eight-year reign (1985–1993), Babangida implemented sweeping economic, social, political, and constitutional reforms that reshaped Nigeria’s trajectory.
Babangida’s Legacy: The Architect of the “New Breed” Political Class
One of Babangida’s most controversial legacies was his deliberate dismantling of Nigeria’s old political class, which had dominated the nation’s politics from independence in 1960 until the collapse of the Second Republic in December 1983. In its place, he introduced what he termed the “New Breed” political class. This new generation of politicians, however, abandoned the politics of ideology and principles, embracing instead a Machiavellian style of maneuvering and trickery.
This shift was most evident during Babangida’s convoluted Transition to Civil Rule programs, which were marked by political engineering, manipulation, and the eventual annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election. The annulment remains one of the most contentious decisions in Nigeria’s history, and it has dominated discussions following the launch of Babangida’s autobiography.
The June 12 Annulment: A Painful Chapter in Nigeria’s History
In his book, Babangida finally admitted what many Nigerians had long known: Chief Moshood Abiola, the presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), won the June 12, 1993, election. Babangida claimed that he annulled the election to prevent a potential civil war, fearing that Abiola’s assassination could plunge the nation into chaos.
However, this explanation has been met with skepticism. Many believe that the annulment was a calculated move to prevent power from shifting to the South, particularly the South-West, where Abiola hailed from. Babangida and his allies, driven by a desire to protect the political interests of the North, failed to recognize that they were fighting against an idea whose time had come.
The Aftermath of June 12: Power Shift and National Reconciliation
The annulment of the June 12 election triggered widespread protests and political instability, culminating in the eventual death of General Sani Abacha in June 1998. Abacha, who had been a key figure in the anti-June 12 forces, was succeeded by General Abdulsalami Abubakar. Under Abubakar’s leadership, Northern elites, including Babangida, rallied to cede power to the South-West. This led to the election of former Head of State Olusegun Obasanjo as Nigeria’s President in 1999.
Since then, power rotation between the North and South has become a defining feature of Nigeria’s political landscape. The South has produced three Presidents (Obasanjo, Goodluck Jonathan, and Bola Tinubu), while the North has produced two (Umaru Yar’Adua and Muhammadu Buhari). Interestingly, the 2023 election of Bola Tinubu was significantly supported by Northern All Progressives Congress (APC) Governors, underscoring the enduring relevance of power rotation.
The Dele Giwa Murder: An Unresolved Mystery
Another dark chapter in Babangida’s regime is the unsolved murder of Dele Giwa, a renowned journalist and founder of Newswatch magazine. Giwa was killed by a letter bomb on October 19, 1986, in what many believe was a state-sponsored assassination. Despite numerous investigations and calls for justice, the case remains unresolved, casting a long shadow over Babangida’s legacy.
Lessons from Babangida’s Era: Nigeria Must Come First
The launch of Babangida’s autobiography has reignited debates about his role in shaping modern Nigeria. While his reforms laid the foundation for many of the nation’s current institutions, his authoritarian tendencies and controversial decisions, such as the June 12 annulment, continue to polarize public opinion.
One of the key lessons from Babangida’s era is the futility of using military force for sectional domination. Nigeria’s diversity is its strength, and the equitable sharing of power, resources, and responsibilities is essential for national unity. As Babangida himself acknowledged in his book, Nigeria must always come first, above any sub-national interests.
A Story for Posterity
General Ibrahim Babangida’s autobiography is more than just a personal memoir; it is a historical document that offers valuable insights into Nigeria’s political evolution. While his legacy remains contentious, there is no denying that he played a pivotal role in shaping the nation as we know it today. By sharing his story, Babangida has provided future generations with an opportunity to reflect on Nigeria’s past and draw lessons for a brighter future.
Related Stories and Historical Context
- The June 12 Election: A Turning Point in Nigerian Democracy
The June 12, 1993, election is widely regarded as the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history. Its annulment not only derailed the nation’s democratic progress but also highlighted the deep-seated ethnic and regional tensions that continue to shape Nigerian politics. - Dele Giwa’s Murder: A Stain on Nigeria’s Press Freedom
The assassination of Dele Giwa remains one of the most brazen attacks on press freedom in Nigeria. Despite decades of advocacy, justice has yet to be served, raising questions about the safety of journalists and the rule of law. - Power Rotation in Nigeria: A Balancing Act
The principle of power rotation between the North and South has become a cornerstone of Nigeria’s political stability. However, it has also sparked debates about meritocracy versus regional representation in leadership. - Babangida’s Economic Reforms: A Mixed Legacy
Babangida’s Structural Adjustment Program (SAP) introduced in 1986 aimed to revitalize Nigeria’s economy. While it achieved some successes, it also led to widespread hardship and inequality, leaving a mixed legacy that continues to be debated.
In conclusion, General Ibrahim Babangida’s autobiography is a timely reminder of Nigeria’s complex political history. As the nation grapples with contemporary challenges, the lessons from Babangida’s era serve as a guide for building a more inclusive and equitable society.
