June 12: Group demands public apology from Babangida over election annulment

The UK chapter of the Bola Tinubu Support Organisation has called on former military president, General Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida (retd.), to issue a formal apology for the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election.

In a statement released on Friday, the group’s Head of Media and Publicity, Mr. Muyiwa Adeliyi, condemned the annulment of what is widely regarded as Nigeria’s most credible election, won by Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola.

Adeliyi’s demand follows Babangida’s recent revelation in his autobiography that Abiola was the legitimate winner of the election.

The former leader admitted: “I have no doubt he won the election.” His statement has reignited debates about the historic event.

While acknowledging Babangida’s remarks during his book launch in Abuja, Adeliyi described them as “a positive step but insufficient.”

He insisted that a public apology was necessary to fully address the injustice done to Abiola and the Nigerian people.

“For over 30 years, Nigerians have lived with the painful reality of that stolen mandate,” he said. “General Babangida must go beyond mere acknowledgments. A sincere and unreserved public apology is the right course of action.”

Adeliyi stressed that the annulment of the June 12 election on June 23, 1993, remains one of Nigeria’s most consequential political missteps.

He noted that it led to widespread protests, international criticism, and prolonged political instability.

He further recalled that Abiola was arrested while attempting to reclaim his mandate, and his subsequent detention ended in his death in 1998, further deepening national grievances.

According to Adeliyi, many Nigerians in the diaspora believe Babangida’s admission is not enough. “Genuine reconciliation goes beyond acknowledging past mistakes,” he stated.

“A formal apology would be a crucial step toward national healing. Babangida must take full responsibility for the consequences of his decision.”

He also urged the National Assembly to take action, suggesting that a public apology broadcast on national television, along with reparations for Abiola’s family, would help restore justice.

“Abiola’s widow, Kudirat, was assassinated in 1996 while fighting for democracy. Her death remains a painful reminder of the sacrifices made for justice,” Adeliyi added.

He emphasized that Babangida must seize this opportunity to address the wrongs of the past.

“History will not only judge leaders by their actions but also by their willingness to make amends. Babangida’s admission has reopened old wounds, but it also presents a chance for Nigeria to confront its past. Now is the time for him to apologize to Nigerians.”