The Unfinished Business of Justice: IBB and the June 12 Betrayal by Comrade Daniel Onjeh

Former military ruler General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), who once described himself as an "evil genius," had yet another opportunity to seek genuine reconciliation for his role in the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election. However, rather than offering a sincere apology, his recently published 420-page autobiography, A Journey in Service, minimizes the gravity of that dark chapter in Nigeria’s history. His attempt at atonement is riddled with evasions and deflections, shifting blame onto others—many of whom are no longer alive to challenge his version of events.

True to his reputation as a master strategist, IBB maneuvers around the truth, presenting himself as a victim of circumstances rather than the architect of one of the most significant betrayals of democracy in Nigeria’s history. His memoir conveniently absolves him of responsibility while implicating deceased individuals such as Chief MKO Abiola, General Sani Abacha, Prince Arthur Nzeribe, Clement Akpamgbo, Justices Bassey Ikpeme and Dahiru Saleh, Admiral Augustus Aikhomu, Abimbola Davis, Prof. Omo Omoruyi, and Prof. Humphrey Nwosu, who oversaw the election. It is ironic that he expects Nigerians to accept his narrative uncritically.

The unveiling of IBB’s autobiography was a stark display of hypocrisy. The event, attended by prominent figures and marked by extravagant donations to an "IBB Presidential Library," stood in contrast to the neglected state of public libraries, schools, and infrastructure that serve ordinary Nigerians. What legacy is he preserving—one of deception, broken promises, and stolen mandates? The annulment of the June 12 election was not merely an act of impunity; it was a betrayal of the Nigerian people. A mandate freely given by over 14 million citizens was overturned to protect the selfish interests of a power-hungry military elite. This single act plunged Nigeria into prolonged political instability, economic stagnation, and a period of severe repression.

Justice Must Prevail

The passage of time should not absolve those responsible for undermining Nigeria’s democracy. IBB and his accomplices in the annulment of June 12, 1993, must be held accountable. There should be no statute of limitations on crimes against democracy. In an era of global accountability, world leaders and organizations that advocate for democracy must take decisive action, including sanctions, particularly given longstanding allegations of illicit wealth hidden in foreign accounts. Actions must have consequences—not only to serve justice but to deter future subversions of democracy.

For ordinary Nigerians, June 12 is more than just a historical date; it symbolizes resilience, unity, and an unwavering demand for democracy. The 1993 election, widely regarded as the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history, proved that citizens could rise above ethnic and religious differences in pursuit of a common goal. Across towns and villages, millions stood in long queues under the scorching sun to exercise their democratic rights. MKO Abiola was overwhelmingly elected as President and Commander-in-Chief, yet his mandate was stolen. The annulment of June 12 was not just an injustice against one man—it was an assault on democracy itself.

IBB must understand that no amount of revisionist history can erase the legacy of June 12. As a former president of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), I stand with the countless heroes who sacrificed their lives for democracy. I personally cast my vote in that election and witnessed the brutal crackdown by IBB’s regime. Many pro-democracy activists, journalists, and students were imprisoned, tortured, or forced into exile for daring to stand on the right side of history. Their sacrifices must never be forgotten.

Our Demands

1. The Immediate Arrest and Prosecution of IBB and His Accomplices: The annulment of the June 12 election undermined democracy and inflicted long-term harm on Nigeria. Those responsible must be held accountable for their actions.

2. Full Compensation for Victims of the June 12 Struggle: Families who lost loved ones or suffered grave injustices deserve recognition and restitution. Many paid the ultimate price in the fight for democracy.

3. Official Recognition of MKO Abiola as a Former President of Nigeria: While the posthumous award of the Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR) and the declaration of June 12 as Democracy Day by President Muhammadu Buhari were commendable steps, more needs to be done. Abiola’s rightful place in Nigeria’s history must be formally acknowledged, and his family should receive all entitlements due to a former president.

If IBB is now in a confessing mood, he should also address one of Nigeria’s most infamous financial scandals—the disappearance of the $12.4 billion Gulf Oil Windfall. This substantial sum, generated during the 1990-1991 Gulf War due to soaring oil prices, was meant to provide financial stability for Nigeria. Instead, it vanished under IBB’s watch. A probe by the Pius Okigbo Panel indicted his administration for gross mismanagement, yet the funds were never recovered. Despite legal battles led by civil society groups, a Federal High Court in Abuja dismissed the case. However, Nigerians have not forgotten. Where did the money go, and who benefited from it? IBB must provide answers.

He may attempt to rewrite history, but he cannot escape its judgment. No amount of self-glorification can erase the blood of those who died fighting for the democracy he sabotaged. Nigeria must not be a country where impunity thrives. If we are serious about justice and democracy, we must act decisively.

IBB and his accomplices must face the full weight of the law. Anything less would be a betrayal of the ideals that June 12 represents. Nigeria deserves closure—not a sanitized version of history from a man who has evaded accountability for far too long.

Comrade Daniel Onjeh
Former President, National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS)
Former President, West Africa Students’ Union (WASU)
Former Chairman, Governing Board, Projects Development Institute (PRODA), Enugu
APC 2016 & 2023 Senatorial Candidate for Benue South