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The former military president, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd), has provided a defense for the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, arguing that the decision was taken in the utmost national interest to preserve Nigeria’s stability.
During the launch of his autobiography, A Journey in Service, and the inauguration of his presidential library in Abuja on Thursday, Babangida conceded that while the election was credible, his administration was unable to finalize the process due to existing national challenges.
“Without a doubt, the elections held on June 12, 1993, were credible, free, and fair. Yet, the sad irony is that the government that created a nearly flawless electoral system and conducted those elections could not see the process through. This twist of fate is greatly lamentable,” he remarked.
Taking complete responsibility for the annulment, Babangida underscored that although the decision was painful, it was essential to avert a crisis in Nigeria.
“As the leader of the military regime, I take full accountability for all choices made during my tenure, and June 12 occurred under my leadership. There were mistakes, oversights, and missteps that followed one after another, yet in all situations, we acted in the highest national interest to ensure Nigeria’s continuity,” he asserted.
In the context of Nigeria's democratic trajectory, Babangida recognized that his administration’s decisions hindered the transition to civilian rule, but he affirmed that the nation ultimately prevailed over the ordeal.
“The progress of our nation towards democracy faced interruptions, which I truly lament. However, Nigeria endured, and democracy remains intact a reflection of our resilience and dedication to advancement,” he concluded.
