The monthly Boiling Point Arena discussion took a heated turn on Sunday as panelists revisited the controversy surrounding the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election. The discussion brought together notable figures, including retired General Ishola Williams, journalist and politician Senator Babafemi Ojudu, and Jamiu Abiola, son of the late Chief MKO Abiola.
During the session, speakers reflected on the political drama, conspiracies, and hidden agendas that led to the election annulment. Many believe the event disrupted Nigeria’s democratic progress, with some describing it as “a well-scripted game of deceit.”
Senator Babafemi Ojudu strongly criticized former military leader General Ibrahim Babangida, accusing him of orchestrating the crisis. He argued that Babangida and his associates should be held accountable for their actions.
“It is about time that Civil Society Groups take the case to the International Court of Justice to try a lot of these people for genocide. Over hundred thousands of people died in the process,” Ojudu stated.
He further suggested that civil society organizations (CSOs) should take legal action, saying: “Based on the confessions by Babangida, what we need to do in the immediate is for CSOs to get a good lawyer to file a class action on behalf of all of us who are victims of the annulment.”
Ojudu also pointed out the lack of concern among Nigerian leaders, both past and present, claiming that many see politics as nothing more than a game. He recalled a conversation with Babangida, in which the former military ruler allegedly admitted to playing political games, contrasting this with the views of late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, who saw politics as a serious matter affecting millions of lives.
Retired General Ishola Williams added that Babangida’s political maneuvers, including banning political parties and specific individuals, created instability. He described the annulment as a confusing and destructive strategy that prevented the country from making real progress.
“If I have to be very honest, I must say even at that time, there were officers like me whose only goal was to bring Nigeria back on its feet. But the political maneuverings being orchestrated by Babangida were not a good foundation for any political development for any country,” Williams noted.
Jamiu Abiola, speaking on behalf of his family, expressed the deep suffering they endured as a result of the annulment. He revealed that his father, MKO Abiola, was aware of the political manipulation but was determined to fight for his mandate despite knowing the odds were against him.
“My father knew their game. The game was already on from the beginning, but my father couldn’t do anything because the thing was more powerful than him,” Jamiu said.
The discussion, themed “June 12: The Babangida Apologia and Opening of Old Wounds and What Consequences to Follow, if any,” was hosted by media professional Dr. Ayo Arowojolu. The keynote speaker, Oba Prof. Saka Matemilola, Olówu of Owu Kingdom, urged Nigerians to reflect on past mistakes to build a better future.
