Former Niger State Governor Babangida Aliyu has stated that former military Head of State, Ibrahim Babangida, is fortunate to have had the opportunity to apologize to Nigerians for some of his past decisions.
Aliyu specifically referenced the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, a decision that has remained a controversial chapter in Nigeria’s history.
Aliyu, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), noted that Babangida deserves to be forgiven, especially for his role in canceling what is widely regarded as Nigeria’s freest and fairest election. He made this statement during an appearance on Arise News’ Prime Time program on Thursday.
Babangida recently addressed the issue in his autobiography, A Journey in Service, which was launched in Abuja. In the book’s 12th chapter, he described the annulment as an “accident of history.” He also admitted that Moshood Abiola, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) candidate, had indeed won the election.
In his own words, Babangida stated, “Although I am on record to have stated after the election that Abiola may not have won the election, upon deeper reflection and a closer examination of all the available facts, particularly the detailed election results…there was no doubt that MKO Abiola won the June 12 election.”
Aliyu believes that Babangida’s decision to publicly acknowledge this mistake and seek forgiveness is significant. He noted that not many leaders get the chance to reflect on their past and take responsibility in this manner.
“I consider today one of the luckiest days of my brother, Ibrahim Babangida. President IBB is lucky he got a chance to apologise after 32 years to be able to say and indeed apologise to Nigerians for some of the actions he took,” Aliyu said.
He further described Babangida as a leader with a history of responsibility and leadership, dating back to his early days as a school prefect and head boy. According to Aliyu, Babangida has always been a man of great consideration, forgiveness, and generosity.
