President Bola Tinubu says former Head of State Gen. Ibrahim Babangida (rtd) showed unusual courage and patriotism by admitting that late M.K.O. Abiola won the June 12, 1993, presidential election.
Tinubu, who was the Special Guest of Honour at the launch of Babangida’s autobiography and the fundraising for the IBB Presidential Library Project in Abuja on Thursday, February 20, 2025, commended the former leader’s contribution to the country’s history and development.
Babangida, who served as Nigeria’s Head of State from August 1985 to August 1993, confirmed for the first time in 32 years that Abiola won the historic June 12 election based on collated results.
The annulment was a watershed moment in Nigeria’s democratic history, precipitating a political crisis and hastened his exit from power.
Tinubu said Babangida’s admission about Abiola’s victory will help to set the records properly.
Tinubu said: “I am glad about the revelation of June 12. My General, we will not forget to pray for you. I listened to you carefully. I am not here to read a speech. I am here to pay homage.
“Let me say thank you for everything, for who you are, what you are, and how you have contributed to the history of this great country.”
The president stated that he will continue to do his best for the country by making tough decisions to reposition the economy.
Babangida: I regret annulling June 12 presidential election
He called on Nigerians to refocus their time, energy, and resources on building the country that remains their home and be more mindful of changes in global migration laws that could impede their dreams of a better life.
Tinubu added: “I am glad about what is happening in America and Europe, the contradiction you have seen now. What is it telling us? It is telling us to wake up and make Africa a better place, particularly this country, Nigeria.
“I have seen the need to make some decisions on behalf of this country. I want to thank all of you for your mandate, patience, and perseverance. Whatever might have happened, we have heard the truth from our dear leader, father, and uncle, Gen. Ibrahim Babangida.”
President Tinubu further thanked Babangida for his foresight in ensuring the private sector’s growth in Nigeria.
He said: “Without you, people like me will not be in politics. I thank you for your progressive revolution. You said you wanted young, brilliant people in politics. We met you in Dodan Barracks.
“You inspired some of us. And when you look at the programme today, the names of bankers and many of us here today for this library project are all because they believe in the visionary Babangida. Thank you for what you are.”
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