A COUPLE of days ago, the Nigerian capital of Abuja played host to a gathering of the country’s political elite and money bags, all united in their quest to celebrate the launch of former military dictator, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida’s book.
The event was a veritable who’s who of Nigerian politics, with past Presidents, Vice Presidents, Governors, and ex-ministers in attendance. But beneath the pomp and circumstance, a more sinister reality lurked.
General Babangida’s admission that late Chief MKO Abiola won the June 12, 1993, election, which he annulled, was a stark reminder of the country’s dark past.
The election, widely regarded as the fairest and freest in Nigeria’s history, saw people from all walks of life come together to vote for a man of their choice.
But Babangida’s actions, driven by a desire to cling to power, shattered the dreams of Nigerians and plunged the country into chaos.
The national outrage that has greeted Babangida’s admission is palpable. Many are asking why it took him so long to acknowledge the truth, and why he should be praised for doing so now.
As Abiola himself once asked, “Why did IBB start the transition process and ask people to come out to vote if he knew he was not prepared to announce results or hand over to a civilian government?”
What is even more annoying is that over N16 billion was raised at the book launch supposedly to build a Presidential library. This guy was a military dictator for God’s sake. Have we all forgotten so soon ?
The fact that all the key power players were in attendance at the book launch raises serious questions about the country’s commitment to justice and accountability.
Who will try Babangida for his role in annulling the June 12 election? Will it be the same elite that gathered to celebrate his book launch? The answer, sadly, is no.
As Nigerians, we must demand more from our leaders. We must demand accountability, justice, and a commitment to the truth.
Babangida’s admission may be a step in the right direction, but it is only the beginning. We must continue to push for answers, for justice, and for a Nigeria that truly serves the people.
In the words of Abiola, “The man dies in him who keeps silent in the face of tyranny.” Let us not keep silent. Let us demand justice for Abiola, for the Nigerian people, and for the future of our great nation.
