IBB’s Autobiography: Key Lessons from Nigeria’s Former Military Leader

Insights from IBB’s Memoir: A Journey in Service
Former Military President Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB) recently launched his autobiography, A Journey in Service, in a grand event attended by Nigeria’s top political figures.

The only notable absence was Muhammadu Buhari, who sent a representative, signaling lingering tensions between the two former leaders since Babangida’s coup against Buhari in 1985.

Babangida’s Influence on Nigeria’s Political Landscape

During his eight-year rule (1985–1993), Babangida reshaped Nigeria’s political and economic landscape.

His ban on the old political elite and creation of the “New Breed” political class significantly altered Nigeria’s democracy.

However, his leadership was also marked by controversial decisions, including the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election.

IBB Finally Admits Abiola Won June 12 Election

A major highlight of Babangida’s book launch was his official acknowledgment that Chief Moshood Abiola won the annulled June 12, 1993 election.

Babangida defended his decision, claiming he feared Abiola’s assassination could spark another civil war.

However, many Nigerians believe the annulment was part of a broader effort to prevent a power shift to the South.

Ironically, after General Sani Abacha’s sudden death in 1998, Northern elites, including Babangida, played a key role in ensuring the presidency shifted to the South, leading to Olusegun Obasanjo’s election in 1999.

This set a precedent for power rotation between North and South, a practice that remains in place today.

The Legacy of June 12 and Nigeria’s Power Rotation

Since 1999, Nigeria has seen a balanced power rotation:

• South: Presidents Obasanjo, Goodluck Jonathan, and Bola Tinubu
• North: Presidents Umaru Yar’Adua and Muhammadu Buhari

This tradition was reaffirmed in 2023, when Northern APC governors backed Tinubu’s candidacy, ensuring power shifted back to the South.

Final Thoughts: Nigeria Must Come First

The biggest lesson from June 12 and Babangida’s legacy is that military force can no longer dictate Nigeria’s political future.

For the nation to progress, fair power-sharing, economic growth, and national unity must take precedence over regional interests.

IBB’s autobiography provides valuable insights into Nigeria’s political evolution, offering lessons for future generations.