Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB) has completely lost the long-standing respect I once had for him. His recent confession regarding the annulment of the June 12, 1993, election raises more questions than answers and, in my view, does little to rehabilitate his image. Here’s why:
1. A Pointless Confession at the Wrong Time
What purpose does his admission serve at this critical moment in Nigeria’s history? The country is grappling with its worst economic crisis in decades, and Nigerians are more concerned with survival than rehashing past wounds. The nation has endured enough—from the civil war to years of misgovernance by corrupt leaders. This revelation adds no value to our present challenges.
2. A Betrayal of a Trusted Ally
IBB’s claim that Abacha was responsible for the annulment reeks of betrayal. This was the same Abacha who, by IBB’s own admission, saved his life multiple times and prevented his government from being overthrown. Has he considered how Abacha’s family would feel about this posthumous blame? Integrity demands consistency, but this sudden shift in narrative paints IBB as someone willing to rewrite history to suit personal convenience.
3. A Tarnished Image of Leadership
With this confession, IBB has drastically reduced himself in the eyes of many who once held him in high regard, like my humble self. His statement now suggests that, much like Tunde Idiagbon was to Buhari, Abacha was the real mastermind and enforcer behind many of IBB’s major decisions. This revelation diminishes his perceived political acumen and makes one question whether he was truly in control of his own government.
4. A Misguided Use of Wealth and Influence
Instead of using his influence for meaningful development, IBB accepted a ₦10 billion donation to build a private library, benefiting only a select few. This is particularly painful considering that the northern region, including his home state of Niger, suffers from a staggering number of out-of-school children, poor healthcare facilities, and lack of basic infrastructure. Imagine the impact if those billions were used to build boreholes, improve schools, or provide healthcare for the masses. If he had chosen to invest in these critical areas, he might have regained some respect.
In the end, IBB’s confession does not rewrite history in his favor. Instead, it exposes the contradictions in his leadership, weakens his legacy, and reminds Nigerians why the country remains stuck in a cycle of failed governance.
