He also said Abacha had deep-seated hatred for the claimed winner of the annuled June 12 election, Chief M.K.O Abiola, whom he said would have been eliminated by the Abacha-led “forces”.
Babangida made these revelations in his autobiography “A Journey in Service” presented to the public on Thursday in Abuja.
The former maximum leader said in the book that Abacha was one of his biggest headaches during his unending transition programme to civil rule.
Admitting Abacha once saved his life and risked his life to ensure that he (Babangida) took over in 1985, the warlord of Minna Hilltop mansion described the Kano-born general as a complex character, whose intention cannot be easily understood.
Babangida on pages 278 and 279 of the book painted the relationship that existed between and his comrade at arms while he was in the military.
He wrote: “Without question, one of my biggest headaches at this time was Sani Abacha. I knew that Abacha was ambivalent about a return to civil rule. But I thought, in retrospect now, naively, that he would support our transition to civil rule programme.
“As I said earlier, Abacha and I had come a long way. We were good friends, and he had indeed been nice to me. As I have said elsewhere, he saved my life once and also risked his life to ensure that I took over in 1985. I could never forget those details.
“But it’s also correct that he was a complex character. He was capable of bottling up a lot inside without giving a hint of where he was. And then, suddenly, the bottle bursts, and we begin to see a different person.”
He further said: “I obviously didn’t know everything about him! For instance, I was alarmed to discover that he and a handful of others mobilised negative opinions against me within the military, portraying me as the problem. That campaign was geared towards a violent military coup to remove me as President forcefully.
“But even more bizarre for me was my discovery of the loathing that Abacha had for the person of Abiola, whom I thought had a good relationship with him.”
Babangida on page 275 of his book alluded that the annulment of the June 12 election was masterminded and hatched by “forces” led by Abacha.
He further said on page 278 of the book that the same Abacha “forces” would have eliminated Abiola if he had allowed him to become the President.
Shedding light on Abacha’s disdain for the acclaimed winner of June 12 election, Babangida wrote: “Unfortunately, the forces gathered against him (Abiola) after the June 12 elections were so formidable that I was convinced that if he became President, he would be quickly eliminated by the same very forces who pretended to be his friends.
“While I accept that the unfortunate denial of his mandate amounted to a subversion of the will of the Nigerian people, I was petrified that if Abiola got killed, it could lead to a civil war. Having participated in one civil war, with all its horrors, pains and devastation, I wasn’t prepared to see another.”
All three former vice presidents were also in attendance.
The venue was not the State House Council Chamber inside Aso Villa, but the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in the heart of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The occasion was the twin event of a public presentation of the autobiography of former military President Gen. Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB) titled “A Journey in Service” and the inauguration of his proposed Presidential Library to be located in his hometown Minna, Niger State.
Gen. Babangida led the military government between August 27, 1985 and August 27, 1993.
That government initiated the transition to civil rule programme which culminated in the June 12, 1993, presidential election won by the late business mogul Moshood Abiola.
On June 23, the election was annulled, leading to a chain of events, including the setting up of an interim government headed by the late Chief Ernest Shonekan which collapsed within 91 days, followed by Gen. Sani Abacha’s military government.
Yesterday, Gen. Babangida admitted for the first time in 32 years that Abiola won the election.
He praised former President Muhammadu Buhari for declaring Abiola president based on the results.
He explained also for the first time how the election was cancelled by forces led by Gen. Abacha who was then the Chief of Army Staff, without his authorisation.
But he accepted responsibility for the actions taken by his government.
In attendance along with the cream of the country’s political and business leaders were former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan and former Heads of State Gen. Yakubu Gowon and Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar.
Three living former vice presidents Atiku Abubakar, Namadi Sambo and Yemi Osinbajo, who reviewed the book, graced the event.
IBB takes responsibility for June 12 annulment
Gen. Babangida described the annulment as a “most regrettable” incident in Nigeria’s history.
He said: “I have had to contend with this question all the time – when will you tell your side of the story?
“Understandably, our period of service has evoked many questions and stories among the public.
“This book, which chronicles my experiences, decisions and challenges, tries to answer some of these questions from my modest perspective.”
Gen. Babangida highlighted the sweeping reforms and significant challenges his government faced, particularly in the economy, foreign affairs, defence and national security.
He noted that despite the sacrifices and inconveniences endured by Nigerians during his tenure, his administration was committed to leaving the country better than it was.
The former leader acknowledged the historic significance of the June 12, 1993, election widely regarded as Nigeria’s freest and fairest at the time.
However, he expressed deep regret that his administration, which had designed the electoral system that produced such a credible process, ultimately failed to complete it.
“Undoubtedly, credible, free, and fair elections were held on June 12, 1993.
“However, the tragic irony of history remains that the administration that devised a near-perfect electoral system and conducted those near-perfect elections could not complete the process.
“That accident of history is most regrettable. The nation is entitled to expect my impression of regret,” he said.
Not shying away from accepting personal accountability for the decision that led to the annulment, Gen. Babangida said: “As the leader of the military administration, I accept full responsibility for all decisions taken under my watch, and June 12 happened under my watch.
“Mistakes, oversight, and missteps happened in quick succession, but as I state in my book, in all matters, we acted in the supreme national interest so that Nigeria could survive.”
Reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic journey, Gen. Babangida acknowledged that his administration’s actions disrupted the nation’s transition to civilian rule but emphasised that the country ultimately overcame the setback.
“Our nation’s march to democracy was interrupted, a fact that I deeply regret.
“But Nigeria survived, and democracy is still alive, a testament to our regime and commitment to progress.”
‘Abacha forces annulled poll’
Gen. Babangida said he was away in Katsina on a condolence visit to the Yar’adu family when some forces led by the late Gen. Abacha annulled the election without his knowledge.
In a portion of the book, he sheds more light on the intrigues culminating in the cancellation of the election.
The former leader noted in the book that he was away in Katsina to commiserate with the Yar’Adua family over the death of Alhaji Musa Yar’Adua, only for him to be informed that the June 12 election had been annulled.
In the book, Gen. Babangida admitted that the annulment of the election was contained in “a terse, poorly worded statement from a scrap of paper, which bore neither the presidential seal nor the official letterhead of the government”.
Exonerating himself, Gen. Babangida on page 275 of his book admitted that the annulment was only a component of a series of other options.
He said: “But to suddenly have an announcement made without my authority was, to put it mildly, alarming. I remember saying: ‘These nefarious inside forces opposed to the elections have outflanked me!’
“I would later find out that the ‘forces’, led by Gen. Sani Abacha (late) annulled the elections. There and then, I knew I was caught up between ‘the devil and the deep blue sea’! From then on, the June 12 elections took on a painful twist for which, as I will show later, I regrettably take responsibility.”
Gen. Babangida also regretted in the book how the fallout of the annulment of June 12 divided the military hierarchy in 1993.
On page 276 of the book, Gen. Babangida writes: “Within the military leadership, there was palpable outrage. The best of us, like Lt. General Salihu Ibrahim and Maj.-Gen. Ishola Williams were alarmed and Col. Abubakar Dangiwa Umar threatened to resign.
“Even Admiral Augustus Aikhomu (late), whose press secretary, Nduka Irabor, had announced the annulment, was horrified. The public vilified me.
“Instigated, among other things, by elements within the armed forces, the Nigerian press called me all kinds of names and described me as a power-drunk dictator who desperately wanted to cling on to power.”
The former military leader described Tinubu as Asiwaju of the universe and Jagaban of Niger State.
Book reviewer Prof. Yemi Osinbajo said Gen. Babangida wrote that Abiola secured a majority of votes and achieved the constitutionally required spread of 25 per cent in two-thirds of states.
IBB inspired me into politics
Recounting how his political journey was inspired by Gen. Babangida, President Tinubu said without his leadership and reforms, people like him would not have ventured into politics.
He described the former leader as a visionary, who championed the inclusion of young, brilliant minds in governance.
He said: “Without you, people like me wouldn’t be in politics. Your progressive revolution encouraged young, brilliant people to participate in politics. We were with you in Dodan Barracks, and you inspired some of us.”
The president reminisced about Gen. Babangida’s leadership and the impact of his policies, particularly in economic and political development.
He praised Gen. Babangida’s role in fostering a new generation of bankers and politicians, noting that the launch of his presidential library was a testament to his legacy.
Tinubu said: “When you look at the programme, some of the bankers and many of us here today, we saw the happiness of a missionary in Babangida. Thank you for what you are.”
Reflecting on his early political career, President Tinubu recounted a tense encounter with Gen. Babangida over the delayed inauguration of elected officials.
He recalled how he challenged the former military ruler on the repeated postponement of the swearing-in of National Assembly members in 1990 despite widespread anticipation.
He said: “One thing I cannot forget: You were in office, and you’ll recall we were elected. You kept on postponing the inauguration. You summoned us to Abuja, and when we became rancorous, you moved us to the International Conference Center.
“I was not expecting to make any comment, I was just listening in my own radical manner, thinking, ‘This man will not inaugurate us again.’ But before we returned to the hotel, the hotel was locked – no keys.”
He recalled how, despite fears that his bold confrontation would land him in jail, Gen. Babangida displayed statesmanship by giving him a handshake afterwards.
President Tinubu said: “I confronted you, telling you that you had an opportunity to make history that day. Why not inaugurate us?
“Why were you calling us back and postponing the inauguration? They thought I would end up in jail. But you came out at the end, shook my hand, and I can never forget that moment. You are courageous.”
Reaffirming Gen. Babangida’s impact on his personal and political life, the president described the Minna-born General as a leader deserving recognition.
He said: “That inspiration has been so impactful in my life. You deserve this day, and we celebrate you for what you are and what you have contributed to the history of this great country.”
Reflecting on Gen. Babangida’s economic policies, President Tinubu praised his role in transforming Nigeria’s banking sector by granting licenses to new-generation banks.
According to him, this decision changed the country’s financial landscape forever.
On the controversial annulment, President Tinubu said he was pleased to hear Gen. Babangida’s reflections on the matter, emphasising the importance of learning from history.
In a firm commitment to governance, the President vowed to make tough but necessary decisions in Nigeria’s best interest, no matter the challenges.
“All I can promise as the President is to strive to do the best, put the best forward, take decisions – no matter how difficult they are – in the interest of the country. You have done so, you have laid the example. Thank you very much.”
President Tinubu cited recent global shifts as a wake-up call for Africa to become more self-reliant and competitive, noting that unfolding events in the United States (U.S.) and Europe highlight the need for the continent to rise to the challenge of nation-building.
The President said: “I’m glad about what is happening in America and in Europe, the contradiction that we are seeing now all over.
“What is it telling us? It’s telling us to wake up, to make Africa a better place, particularly this country, Nigeria.”
The President acknowledged the sacrifices required to advance Nigeria and expressed appreciation for the patience and perseverance of the people.
What they said
Immediate past Ghanaian President Nana Akufor-Ado challenged Nigeria to provide ‘’aggressive’’ leadership for Africa.
He said the call was necessitated by the nature of developments in Europe, Asia and the Americas.
Delivering the keynote address, the former President said Nigeria and Nigerians have vital roles to play in uniting African nations and their economies.
He said: “I cannot forgo the chance of this prestigious platform to mount an important hobby horse of mine, and that is the appeal I’ve made before in this great country, to the political and economic elite of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to take aggressively the leadership of West Africa, and Africa’s efforts to unite our nations and economies.
“Developments in the world indicate the nature of the concentrations that are emerging in Europe, Asia and the Americas, to fortify and expand the possibilities of power and wealth available to them.
“We in Africa cannot afford to be left out of such a process and for our prospects of effective integration to materialise, the Federal Republic of Nigeria has to assume our historic responsibilities and lead our development towards an integrated democratic West Africa and Africa.”
He also advised African nations to desist from reliance on foreign aid, arguing that the COVID-19 pandemic made some nations to be independent.
I recruited Babangida, Abdulsalami into Army
Gen. Gowon recalled how he drafted Gen. Babangida, Gen. Abdulsalami and eight other young “boys’’ who he did not name to join the military in 1962.
He particularly commended the resilience, dedication and courage of Gen. Babangida.
Going down memory lane, Gen. Gowon remembered how Gen. Babangida restored his military ranks and honours after being stripped of them all in 1976 for his alleged involvement in the failed Bukar Suka Dimka coup.
Obasanjo tells author to expect criticisms
Gen. Obasanjo advised the former military President to expect criticisms that would trail his book.
Gen. Obasanjo, who chaired the occasion, commended Gen. Babangida for writing the book, stressing that he (Babangida) has not only contributed to history-making, he has documented history.
He said: “You have not only contributed to history, you have contributed to documenting history.
“It is an important part of our nation-building to keep accurate records.
“Please don’t be unduly worried about critics and put him down syndrome.
“The book will be reviewed, read, quoted, praised and lambasted.
“Some will agree with you in part, and some will disagree with you in part.
“Some may even wholly disagree with you. Why should you write the book?
‘’They will say it is self-glorification. Controversy may even develop. It’s all good for you and good for the book and our nation-building.
“The more praised and condemned the book is, the better because it means that it is being read.
“Please don’t be unduly worried about critics and put-him-down syndrome.
“It may even be an indication of success but take note of objective criticisms. You should expect a reaction galore. The reaction will be good, bad and ugly.”
IBB product of prophesy, says Abdulsalami
Gen. Babangida’s childhood friend and Nigeria’s last head of state, Gen. Abdulsalami, said the author was a product of prophecy.
He recalled how a soothsayer in Minna predicted in 1952 that Gen. Babangida would lead the country.
Abdulsalami said: “Mr President, with your permission, I will go back to memory lane.
“When we were growing up on the street of Minna (Niger State capital), that was about 80 years ago, it might interest all the distinguished guests here that as far back as 1952, a soothsayer told us that Ibrahim was going to be the Head of State of this country.
“Ibrahim and I joined the military, courtesy of the then Captain Gowon, a young dashing and very smart officer.
“Captain Gowon came to lecture us to join the military. When we joined the Army, all we were hoping for was to get to the rank of captain and then retire.
“But God in His mercy propelled us to become generals, and by His grace, both of us became heads state of this country.’’
Gen. Abdulsalami thanked Gen. Babangida for their friendship and brotherhood, saying: “No moment goes by when we remember our escapades without bringing smiles to our faces.”
He prayed for the smile to “continue during our twilight as we continue our service to this nation.”
Jonathan: Author still relevant
Dr. Jonathan said the author remains relevant in the country’s contemporary political development after over three decades of leaving office.
He said the fact that his wisdom was still being sought by many who troop to his Minna Hilltop home for consultation was a testament to his relevance.
Dr. Jonathan said: “Ibrahim Bagandiga as we all know, is one of the most charismatic leaders in this country. He is up-to-date.
“People go as if they are on a pilgrimage to consult him. We thank God for giving him that grace and the wisdom to continue to mentor people.”
Turning to Gen. Babangida, the former President said: “In terms of leadership, Nigerians know you have contributed significantly in terms of the infrastructure development of this country and social mobilisation.
“We cannot write the history of Nigeria without dedicating a reasonable part to your service. You’ve done well.”
Dr. Jonathan called on the Federal Government to take over the administration of the proposed Library and that of former President Obasanjo in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
He said: “When I left office the first six months, I visited most of the presidential libraries in the United States. The presidential libraries there are taken as federal government assets.
“So, Mr. President should set up a department in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) office.”
Former President Muhammadu Buhari, who was represented by ex-Transportation Minister Jaji Sambo, expressed hope that Gen. Babangida would continue to offer valuable counsel to Nigeria’s current leaders.
Naira rain
Leading pack of fundraisers for the proposed IBB Presidential Library was business magnate, Abdulsamad Rabiu, who donated N5 billion.
Former Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Theophilus Danjuma donated N3 billion and Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, pledged an annual donation of N2 billion for four years.
Others included Oranto Oil boss, Arthur Eze, N500 million, Pastor Folorunso Alakija and Senator Sani Musa, who did not make their donations public.
Abuja stands still for Babangida
There was traffic gridlock on roads leading to Transcorp Hilton Hotel venue of the event as early as 8:30am.
Many dignitaries and guests struggled to gain access to the venue.
As early as 7am, security presence was visible within and around the hotel as armed policemen, plain-clothed detectives and security personnel stood strategically to direct human and vehicular traffic.
From the Unity Fountain to Aguyi Ironsi Street and Adetokunbo Ademola Cresent, many invitees hopped out of their cars and walked down to the Congress Hall.
Access into the hall was not without thorough screening by the security operatives stationed at the three checkpoints created on the approach to the hall.
Notwithstanding Gen. Babangida’s membership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), in attendance at the three-hour event were politicians from across different political divides.
They freely mingled and threw banters at the gathering that reflected the former military leader’s political influence in the West African sub-region.
Former Sierra Leone’s President Ernest Bio Koroma and his Ghanaian counterpart Akufor-Ado were among the international guests.
Dangote, Rabiu and Alakija were among the representatives of the business community.
Also in attendance were serving and former governors, members of the National Assembly, and traditional and religious leaders.
Dangote hails architect of private sector IBB
Dangote yesterday praised Gen. Babangida for implementing policies that liberated the private sector in during his regime.
He commended Babangida for his transformative policies that encouraged local investors to play prominent roles in the economy.
Dangote highlighted the abolition of import licences, which helped stimulate domestic industries.
These reforms, among others, ensured that Nigeria now has more private-sector involvement than any other country in Africa, he said.
This shift, according to Dangote, led to a contribution of 85 per cent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from the private sector, while the government contributes just 15 per cent.
He said: “Your Excellency, I would like to express my sincere gratitude for all you have done for Nigeria. Many may not realise that you were the architect of the private sector in Nigeria.
“Anyone in the private sector who has achieved prominence today owes it to you, as you provided us with the necessary licences. In the past, we used to struggle to obtain licences through intermediaries, including Indians.”
Dangote recalled how Babangida’s policies facilitated the growth of Nigerian businesses, enabling them to thrive.
He said: “Your Excellency, in 1986, you abolished the requirements for import licences, and it was because of that decision that we were able to reach the highest levels of growth.
“I recall a day when you granted almost 30 of us banking licences. You also instructed five Nigerians to pay N1 million each for oil blocs.
“Your Excellency, I could continue to list all the reforms you introduced that liberated the private sector, which is why Nigeria has more private sector involvement than any other country in Africa.
“It is only in Nigeria where government contribution to GDP is a mere 15 per cent, with the remainder being driven by the private sector.”
Expressing hope that future leaders will adopt similar policies for the betterment of the country, he said: “I want to thank you once again, and I am confident that future leaders will continue to follow your example, working closely with the private sector.”
On his contribution to the IBB Presidential Library project, Dangote said: “Your Excellency, based on what I have observed, I believe this project will require at least four years to complete.
“I would like to contribute N2 billion each year for the next four years, amounting to N8 billion in total. Should the project extend beyond four years, I will continue to contribute N2 billion annually.”
Former Military President, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), has said the late Basorun Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola won the June 12, 1993 presidential election.
General Babangida’s revelation was contained in his autobiography, “A Journey in Service”, which was launched in Abuja on Thursday.
Through the book reviewer and former Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osibanjo, Babangida said that the late MKO Abiola, who contested the presidential election on the platform of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), secured the majority of votes and the geographical spread to be the president.
Osinbajo said: “He also answers the question whether Abiola actually won the June 12 election, and I quote him, ‘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 available facts, particularly the detailed election results, which are published as an appendix to this book, there was no doubt that MKO Abiola won the June 12 elections.”
The former Vice-President quoted IBB to have said, given another chance, he would handle events of the June 12 election differently.
In his book, Babangida was quoted to have said he was happy that ex-President Muhammadu Buhari acknowledged Abiola and honoured him with the greatest national title of Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR).
Abiola, candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the election adjudged as Nigeria’s freest, was up against Bashir Tofa of the National Republican Convention (NRC).
The results of the election were trickling in when the military regime ordered the then National Electoral Commission (NEC) under the leadership of late Professor Humphrey Nwosu to halt the exercise.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has advised former military President and Head of State, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida to expect diverse criticism of his new literary work – “A Journey in Service”.
He disclosed this on Thursday in Abuja while declaring open the public presentation of the book and fundraising for a presidential library to be built in Minna, Niger State capital.
Obasanjo, who was the chairman of the occasion commended the efforts of the former military tactician in writing the book, stressing that Babangida has not only contributed to history-making, he has contributed to documenting history.
He stated: “You have not only contributed to history, you have contributed documenting to history.
“It is an important part of our nation-building to keep accurate records. Please don’t be unduly worried about critics and put him down syndrome.
He then advised Babangida to expect a wide range of criticism over the book.
According to him, “The book will be reviewed, read, quoted, praised and lambasted, and some will agree with you in part, and some will disagree with you in part, some may even wholly disagree with you. Why should you write the book? It is self-glorification. They will say. Controversy may even develop. It’s all good for you and good for the book and our nation-building process, the more praised and condemned the book is, the better because it means that it is being read.
“Please don’t be unduly worried about critics and put him down syndrome. It may even be an indication of success but take note of objective criticism. You should expect a reaction galore. The reaction will be good, bad and ugly.”
…Senator Tinubu is Nigeria’s number 1 Ambassador – Abdulsalami
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has commended the country’s former leaders for their role in maintaining stability, particularly during the tense period following the removal of fuel subsidies.
Speaking to journalists during a visit to former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, at his Uphill residence in Minna, she noted that Abdulsalami has consistently offered encouragement to President Bola Tinubu.
She emphasized that former leaders are the fathers of the nation and that current leaders should honour and respect them, clarifying that her visit was not politically motivated.
“I haven’t seen Daddy (Abdulsalami) and mummy for a long time. We did not make it here when we were campaigning and we feel it is rude for us to be talking to them on the phone. From where I am coming from it is not respectful. It is only right for a Nigerian who has a proper upbringing to come and greet them.
“General Abdulsalami is doing a lot for us trying to juggle and stabilise the government to an extent because with subsidy removal, people were getting a lot agitated but we thank them for the patience because if they do not believe that we can do it, it is not what we should be talking about now.
“Daddy (Abdulsalami) has always encouraged Mr President, so it is only right for us to come and visit him. When I went to Abeokuta, I went to see Baba even though he wasn’t there, but he said he would come and see me in Lagos. It is right for me to come here and greet them because they are the fathers of our nation, the patriarchs of this great nation, it is good for us to pay our respect. It is nothing political, it is just respect for me and Hajiya Shetimma. That is why we do not have any entourage like the Governors’ wives accompanying us. It is a private visit”, she stated.
Former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, appreciated the visit by the president’s Wife, applauding her for her interventions, which have placed Nigeria in a positive light to the world.
He described her as the number one Ambassador of Nigeria, commending her for carrying the wives of the Governors and the wives of former leaders of the nation along in her programmes and interventions.
“It is a pressure for the First Lady to come and visit us. She has been planning to come and pay her respects to us. I want to thank the First Lady for what she is doing and will continue to do especially for the young children, the motherless and the orphans. She has done very well during her first and second years in office, she has done the Nigerian fabric, and she has done a lot of things to bring out Nigeria and place a positive image of Nigeria to Nigerians and the world. She is Nigeria’s number one Ambassador.
“I want to thank her for what she has been doing. She has been carrying the Governors’ wives along, and in all the things you are doing, you are in consultation with the former First Ladies. I want to thank you for this visit. Through you, I want to say thank you to Mr President for allowing you to come and visit us”, he said.
The First Lady had earlier met with former Military President General Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida at his uphill residence before proceeding to the residence of Abdulsalami.
Tinubu arrived in a private aircraft with number N685AR at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport in Minna at about 10.30 am. She was received at the airport by the Niger State Governor, Dr Umaru Mohammed Bago and his wife, Hajiya Fatima Bago and other government officials.
She proceeded from the airport straight to the Uphill residence of the former Military President, where she had a closed-door meeting with him for about 35 minutes before proceeding to the residence of former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, whose residence is adjacent IBB’s residence.
The wife of the president, Oluremi Tinubu, met on Tuesday with former Military President, General Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida and the former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, at their uphill residences in Minna.
Mrs. Tinubu arrived in a private aircraft at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport in Minna at about 10.30 am.
She was received at the airport by the Niger state Governor, Dr Umaru Mohammed Bago and his wife, Hajiya Fatima Bago.
The wife of the president proceeded directly from the airport to the Uphill residence of former Military President Ibrahim Babangida, where she held a closed-door meeting with him for about 35 minutes.
Afterward, she visited the nearby residence of former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, for another meeting that was still ongoing at the time of filing this report.
Journalists, except those in the Niger State Governor’s press crew, were not informed about the meetings. When asked, officials described the visits as private.
Businessman and former presidential candidate, Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, at the weekend visited former military President Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida at his residence in Minna, the Niger State capital.
Leading a delegation of some personalities, Dr. Hashim said he was in Minna to convey the new year message to the former Nigerian leader.
The Minna visit followed another trip he and his team embarked upon during their condolence visit to the family of elder statesman, Ahmadi Kurfi, in Katsina State.
Joining the Minna leg of the tour was Zakari Angulu, alongside the Kebbi State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and three other associates who had accompanied him to Katsina.
While in Minna, Olawepo-Hashim expressed his admiration for Babangida’s enduring influence and intellectual sharpness.
“At his age, General Babangida remains alert and significantly relevant in the affairs of Nigeria. His wisdom and experience continue to be a resource for national progress,” Olawepo-Hashim said.
The delegation discussed national unity and the path towards a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria, which have remained central to Hashim’s political philosophy.
Olawepo-Hashim, known for his commitment to promoting unity and inclusive governance, noted that building on the foundational efforts of elder statesmen would boost the efforts to create a more stable and economically vibrant country.
The visit underscored Olawepo-Hashim’s sustained engagement with Nigeria’s political landscape and his dedication to forging alliances that prioritise national development.
He expressed optimism that Nigeria has a better future, calling for collaboration and visionary leadership among the people.
His campaign slogan #BetterTogetherWithGOH, was echoed during the visit, reinforcing his belief in collective efforts for nation-building.
Former Nigeria Military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, has said that the reintroduction of religious knowledge subjects in public primary and secondary schools across the country is the only way the country and society can change for the better.
The former President said he would speak to President Bola Tinubu, the Niger state governor, Mohammed Umar Bago, and other governors he knows for the reintroduction of religious knowledge subjects in schools.
Babangida, who stated this when he played host to the leadership of the Niger state Chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), led by the state chairman, Most Reverend Bulus Dauwa Yohanna at his hilltop residence in Minna, said that he believes that this government will be very interested in issues that can bring peace and good morals to the youths.
“I can see that you are making a lot of efforts in trying to bring back morals and religious knowledge in our society. This is the only way we can change our society, by teaching Christian Religious Knowledge, Islamic Religious Knowledge and other moral subjects in our public schools.
“It may not be easy, but I know it is what this country needs at the moment. We need to go back to what it used to be especially in the teachings of religious knowledge. I think we can still get it right, I am very confident that, with people like you (CAN), and your efforts, we can get things back to normal.
“I believe this government will be very interested in issues that can bring peace and good morals. You are doing it for the society, and the society automatically becomes the beneficiary. And when the society benefits from it, then we have a better society.
“I am prepared and I will be ready anytime with any good cause you have. I will be ready to speak to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago and I can assure you that something will be done both at national and state levels”.
It would be recalled that the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has been on the campaign for the reintroduction of Christian Religious Knowledge (CRK) to public schools in Niger state and has submitted several proposals to the state government.
Babangida commended the Niger state CAN for its effort in ensuring that morals are inculcated in the lives of youths stressing that he is ready to champion the cause for a better society as he disclosed that during in his secondary school days in the 50s and 60s, Christians and Muslims prayed nd played together in love and unity pointing that “religious knowledge was one factor that shaped the society in my growing days but somehow as a nation, we missed it somewhere.”
The Niger State CAN Chairman, Most Reverend Bulus Dauwa Yohanna said the leadership of CAN visited the former Military President to formally introduce themselves, get counsel, and draw from his wealth of experience.
Yohanna who is also the Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese said that the association is doing its best to inculcate good morals into its youths for a better society and to ensure that they are best suited as future leaders of the nation.
“One of the best strategies we believe in is to catch them young, especially in basic schools. And we strongly want to appeal to you to join us in the call for the reintroduction of Christian Religious Knowledge (CRK) in the curriculum of all public primary and secondary schools across the state and the country.
“We believe through the teachings, we can inculcate good morals in our children, tackle insecurity, and put an end to youth restiveness.”
He told the former Military President that Christians all over the state are not relenting in praying for leaders both past and present, at state and national levels.
Excerpt from Bayo Osiyemi’s new book, Wilderness Trodden, due for launch soon, ahead of his 74th birthday tomorrow
I have had top-level connections with people in high places since my early years in journalism.
I’m not too sure now whether it was by design or by accident. But what I’m certain about is that it was purely in my genes to use most of the advantages and contacts I had for the benefits of those I regarded as my friends and colleagues and whosoever else sought my help.
Many in the Lagos State Public Service knew that after my tour of duty as Governor Lateef Jakande’s chief press secretary from October 1979 to December 1983, he directed me from his detention camp to resume work in his John West Publications office, then on ACME Road in Ogba, Ikeja and join hands with his most trusted deputy, Mr Bayo Fadoju to keep the company running until he was released from the prison detention to which Major General Muhammad Buhari had clamped him and other civilian governors after forcibly enthroning himself as military head of state in December 1983.
While functioning in John West as press officer, Jakande thought out a plan from the gulag to which he had been clamped by the military, to start a daily and a Sunday newspaper to be known as LAGOS NEWS and SUNDAY NEWS.
I was named editor of the Daily afternoon newspaper, while a more senior colleague, Mr Peter Apesin, who many years before then, edited the Nigerian Tribune in Ibadan, was named editor for the Sunday newspaper. Suffice it to reveal here that for reason unknown to me to this day, the Sunday newspaper ended as a still-birth.
I moved straight to work as editor of the daily LAGOS NEWS, with a fitting motto: “The afternoon newspaper for the people of Lagos, by those who know Lagos.”
The story of that newspaper was akin to making hay without straw. Perhaps except the Nigerian Tribune, no other newspaper to my knowledge, up to that time, was lacking in most of the wherewithal to take off as a full-fledged newspaper. But the LAGOS NEWS emergence was a classic study in focus, grim determination, and an uncompromising will to succeed. I must not forget the encouragement given by Mr Fadoju, and Mr Jimi Taiwo, the financial controller in getting LAGOS NEWS off the ground; as well as the devotion and commitment of my editorial and features team which included Kunle Oyatomi, now a barrister at law, who grew to become editor of the Vanguard; Mr Muka Popoola who later moved on to edit series of celebrity magazines, and Mrs Titi Pearce, an English major from the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife, a finicky young lady who handled the women’s page with panache and excelled with me there as the Female page editor. They along with others in the graphics and production departments worked tirelessly to make LAGOS NEWS a hit, recording a daily circulating figure of 50,000 daily – a feat acknowledged by other publishers which included Vanguard founder, Chief Sam Amuka-Pemu and Mr Muyiwa Adetiba of the soft-sell magazine.
One of my young business friends, Tunde Onakoya, who ran a popular motor selling outfit known as DEBASCO MOTORS at Idiroko in Anthony on Ikorodu road, was a ready hand of help who supported my editorship of the newspaper to a flying start.
It was also a time another friend of mine, Navy Captain Okhai Mike Akhigbe – whose friendship began in 1975 in Port Harcourt, Rivers State – was named by the military high command when General Ibrahim Babangida ousted Buhari in 1985 as the military governor of Lagos State.
On assumption of office in Lagos, Akhigbe identified me as a trusted friend he could rely on. He remembered our days in Port Harcourt, where I was the group sports editor of the Rivers State-owned Nigerian and Sunday Tide when Colonel Zamani Lekwot was military governor in 1975, and he was the Naval Sports Officer to Navy Captain Allison Madueke, the Naval Base Commander in Borokiri. It was also the period when sports bonded me with the then Army Captain David Achelenu Bonaventure Mark who was the chairman of the post-civil war Abandoned Properties Implementation Committee in Rivers State at the time; Army Commander, Col Sani Abacha; Air Force Commander, Major Awe and Police Commissioner, Mr Olarinde, good golfers all.
One of our first discussions when he arrived his duty post in Lagos was to sound me out to become his commissioner for information, which I stoutly rejected on two grounds.
First was the fact that his predecessor, Group Captain Gbolahan Mudashiru had not long ago appointed Mrs Folasade Adeogun, an information officer at the University of Lagos, as the Lagos State Information Commissioner before Akhigbe’s advent and that it would be a minus for him and as well for the military espirit de corp to remove the lady who had hardly spent one year in office, without any known infraction, simply because of the change in the headship of the state government.
The second reason for my refusal of his kind offer was more personal. I reasoned with him that it would serve his own interest better if I operated in the background and from outside the public service orbit.
Akhigbe bowed to that plausible argument, and before meddlers messed up our relationship, I was a strong pillar of support for him in quickly settling down to understand the rudiments of governance in Lagos as against Ondo State from where he was coming.
He directed that all advertisements of Lagos State Government and its agencies to be given to LAGOS NEWS to buoy up its fledgling finances. I can never forget this huge help.
In return, aside from assisting to rally general media support for his administration, I also ran a regular opinion and expository column in my newspaper titled “ALAUSA DIARY.” It was authoritative and incisive and supportive; you underrated that column to your peril.
As the governor’s pointsman, I had the rare privilege of having a hand in the appointment of one of his Commissioners, two permanent secretaries and an executive Secretary in one of the highly graded agency of the state government.
Before his appointment as military governor and shortly after Babangida seized power, Akhigbe had wished I became the military president’s chief press secretary. He broached the idea with me and planned to take me to meet with IBB on the coup-day at the Flagstaff residence of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) at Ikoyi from where Babangida ran the affairs of state as military president for the first few weeks of his ascendancy.
I was upbeat that I was going to meet face-to-face with IBB on the very day he assumed power for a different reason. I had planned to use that opportunity to plead with IBB to release my boss, LKJ, from prison because I had a strong conviction that he did not abuse his office as governor of Lagos State to deserve detention like a common felon.
I confided in a colleague of mine who was then editor of the National Concord, Mr Duro Onabule, that I was to see IBB along with Akhigbe on that day.
Duro knew my connection with the military and offered that he would yield his official vehicle and driver to me to move from my Ilupeju home on that coup morning to keep my appointment with Akhigbe at his Naval Base official residence in Victoria Island for the planned visit to IBB in Ikoyi.
Unknown to Duro of Akhigbe’s plan for me, he pleaded with me to push a common friend and senior colleague, Mr Sola Odunfa, for the job of chief press secretary to the military president. I knew I would oblige him but once I got to Akhigbe and mentioned Odunfa’s name, he rejected it because according to him, he didn’t know Odunfa or his professional prowess and would therefore press ahead with my name.
Convinced that I was more interested in getting Jakande released than going for the IBB job, I peremptorily dropped Duro’s name, knowing that his was more popular, being a popular newspaper editor. That sealed it; and when I returned to my house where Duro was waiting expectantly for good news on Odunfa, I dropped him the bombshell that it was his name I pushed, when that of Odunfa didn’t jell.
That news of Odunfa’s rejection didn’t meet with Duro’s pleasure; neither did he object to my dropping his name instead at the Flagstaff House.
I now remember another reason why Akhigbe had a special liking for me. As Jakande’s image maker, I bought a land allocation form from the Land Use and Allocation Committee (LUAC) at their Ilupeju LSDPC premises for Akhigbe to fill, so I could help him facilitate land allocation in the state as a middle grade officer of Lt. Commander status. He wasn’t too enthusiastic about it; in fact, he vaccilated about it and didn’t bother to fill out and return the form before Buhari sacked the civilian regime in 1983.
Being an appreciative person, he did not forget to use his executive power to allocate a land for me at the Victoria Island Extension as well as a particularly nice gentleman and friend, Chief Ime Umana of the then Century Merchant Bank fame whose allocation in the same area behind Eko Hotels I facilitated.
It is important to underline it that at the time of the coup, Duro’s boss in Concord, Chief M.K.O Abiola was in his Abeokuta home for the Muslim Ileya festival and since all communication links had been cut by the coupists up till that coup day morning, there was no way for Abiola to have known of the Duro’s offer. I guess IBB sounded him off on it on his return from Abeokuta and he gave his nod. To be fair, Duro was appreciative of my role in his making for some time up to the point of a rupture in our relationship.
While on the fortuitous meeting with IBB on the coup day at his Flagstaff House residence, I remember that when I told him I wished he released my boss, he asked if I saw Wole, Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s son, who he said had just left his presence and through who he said he had sent words of assurance to Papa Awo in Ikenne that he would soon release his disciples.
Before I move away from this issue, let me say this, for the record, that IBB amazed and dazzled me on that our first-ever meeting, that he was as prolific, reeling out Shakespearian verses, as he was proficient in manipulating his artillery gunfire in battle; and I told him so.He was as amused as he acknowledged the compliment.
Not long after, another military friend of mine, Colonel Adetunji Idowu Olurin became governor of Oyo State, and confided in me that he would rather pick his information commissioner independently than be beholden to the well known three media musketeers of the time who, he learnt, were scheming to pick one for him.
It came at a time the president of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) had just been relieved of his chief information officer position in Lagos State by Governor Gbolahan Mudashiru for no other reason than being professionally close to Alhaji Lateef Jakande who had replaced as military governor.
I moved in and recommended Alhaji Bola Adedoja to Col. Olurin not only because of Adedoja’s versatility in media propaganda but because his stature as NUJ national president would rub off well on the new Olurin Administration.
The Oyo governor instantly bought into the idea when I took Alhaji Adedoja to him at the Government House in Agodi, Ibadan, and confirmed to me that day that he would get Alhaji Adedoja on board as a member of his cabinet.
On his appointment as commissioner for information, he became the governor’s favourite because of myself, partly and because of Adedoja’s professional prowess, on the other hand. What Alhaji Adedoja did to fall into dis-favour within a year in office is a story to be retold on another day.
Ibrahim Babangida (IBB), the former military president of Nigeria, has expressed his conviction that the military would not meddle again and impede the country’s democratic progress.
Following its independence, Nigeria saw many military intrusions into its political system, with uniformed personnel leading the nation for a longer period than civilians until 1999.
Among the military leaders of that era was Babangida, who ruled for eight years, from 1985 to 1993.
The former military chief said that military meddling deprived Nigeria of true federalism in an interview with Channels Television’s Inside Sources.
He also said that the military’s political meddling is over because Nigerians are now more eager to establish a truly democratic country.
“I think that is (failure to achieve true federalism) one of the effects of the aberration that the military regime, it countered the democratic process.
“Such things happen, but I believe it will not happen again because Nigerians are becoming more interested in becoming a truly democratic nation in Africa and such thing, I don’t think it will happen,” Babangida said.
