Former Military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), has publicly acknowledged that Basorun Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola won the June 12, 1993 presidential election.
This revelation is contained in IBB’s newly launched autobiography, "A Journey in Service", which was unveiled in Abuja on Thursday.
IBB’s Admission Through Osinbajo
Reviewing the book at the launch, former Vice President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo confirmed that Babangida acknowledged Abiola’s victory based on a detailed examination of election results.
Osinbajo quoted Babangida, stating:
"Although I am on record to have stated after the election that Abiola may not have won, 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."
Babangida also admitted that if given another chance, he would have handled the events of June 12, 1993, differently.
June 12 Election and Its Annulment
The 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as Nigeria’s freest and fairest, saw MKO Abiola of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) contesting against Bashir Tofa of the National Republican Convention (NRC).
As the results were being announced, Babangida’s military regime ordered the National Electoral Commission (NEC), led by Prof. Humphrey Nwosu, to halt the process—ultimately leading to the election’s annulment.
IBB Commends Buhari for Recognizing Abiola
In the book, Babangida expressed satisfaction that former President Muhammadu Buhari posthumously recognized Abiola and awarded him Nigeria’s highest national honor—Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR).
This latest revelation by Babangida adds new weight to the long-standing debate over the annulment of the June 12 election and reinforces calls for full historical accountability regarding the event.
