President Bola Tinubu has reflected on a bold moment when he confronted former military ruler Ibrahim Babangida, telling him he had missed a historic opportunity by failing to inaugurate elected officials in 1993.
Speaking at a book launch in Babangida’s honour, Tinubu recalled how, as a senator-elect in 1992, he questioned Babangida’s repeated postponement of their swearing-in.
The President recounted that at the time, he feared imprisonment for challenging the then-military ruler.
“One thing I will never forget: you were in office, and you acknowledged that we were elected, yet you kept postponing our inauguration,” Tinubu stated.
He narrated how he confronted Babangida at a gathering, telling him:
“You had the opportunity to make history that day, but you failed to seize it. Why not inaugurate us? Why are you calling us back and postponing it again?”
According to Tinubu, some thought his boldness would land him in jail. However, Babangida instead shook his hand—a moment Tinubu said he would never forget.
Babangida’s Influence on Tinubu’s Political Journey
Despite the criticism, Tinubu also acknowledged Babangida’s role in shaping his political career.
“Without you, people like me wouldn’t be in politics. Your progressive revolution—your insistence on bringing young, brilliant minds into politics—inspired us,” he said.
Babangida Defends His Decision on June 12 Annulment
In response, Babangida reflected on his controversial decision to annul the June 12, 1993 election, maintaining that his actions were taken in Nigeria’s best interest.
The former military leader has long faced criticism for overturning what is widely regarded as Nigeria’s most credible election, won by Moshood Abiola. However, he reiterated that the circumstances at the time necessitated the decision.
