Renowned human rights lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN), has announced plans to take legal action against former military Head of State, General Ibrahim Babangida (rtd.), over alleged human rights abuses linked to the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election.
Falana, who was jailed alongside other activists for protesting against the military regime, revealed that he is assembling a team of lawyers to challenge his “malicious prosecution” under Babangida’s rule.
IBB Admits June 12 Was Free and Fair
Babangida recently launched a book titled ‘Journey in Service’, where he made notable confessions about his time in power.
One of the key revelations was his admission that the June 12, 1993 election—won by MKO Abiola—was indeed free and fair. He also expressed regret over not handing over power to a civilian government as scheduled.
These statements have reignited old wounds for Falana, who insists that his arrest, detention, and prosecution were unjustified. Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, he declared:
“IBB has now admitted that Abiola won the election, which was the basis for our protest. He also acknowledged that postponing the terminal date of his transition was a mistake. This means my prosecution had no legal basis—it was purely malicious.”
Legal Battle Over Human Rights Violations
Falana further argued that his imprisonment in Kuje Prison was a gross violation of his fundamental human rights, including his right to liberty, freedom of movement, and political participation.
“I was denied my right to choose the government of my country. Now, the man who ordered my imprisonment is admitting he was wrong. That is why I am taking legal action.”
With this latest development, the debate surrounding June 12 and its political implications continues to resurface, keeping the fight for justice and democracy in Nigeria alive.
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