The President of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu says former military president, retired Gen. Ibrahim Babangida, showed unusual courage and patriotism by admitting that late M.K.O. Abiola won the June 12 election in 1993.
President Tinubu made this known on Thursday in Abuja, while appearing as a special guest of honour at the launch of Babangida’s autobiography, ”A Journey in Service.”
9News Nigeria reports that Babangida confirmed for the first time in 32 years that Abiola had won the historic June 12 class election based on collated results.
The credible News Outlet also reports that the annulment was a watershed in Nigeria’s democratic history, which seems to have precipitated a political crisis and hastened Babangida’s exit from power.
Tinubu said the former leader’s admission about Abiola’s victory would help to set the records properly, expressing that he would continue to do his best for the country by taking tough decisions to reposition Nigeria’s economy.
Some of his words were; “I am glad about the revelation of 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,” he said.
The Number one citizen of Nigeria, therefore thanked the leaders who graced the occasion, saying their sacrifice was worth it.
He said; “Let me start from the celebrant; I listened to your remarks, your recollection of history. ” The dream, progressive ideas, the joy of being alive today, 32 years after, to give us an account of stewardship and service.
“Your excellency, it is challenging to find the people present here if not because of your personality, character, and impact,” said Tinubu.
President Tinubu also used the opportunity to thank former president of Ghana, Nana Akufo-Addo, who gave the keynote remarks, for his contributions to ECOWAS and commitment to Africa’s sovereignty.
“To our brother, Ernest Bai Koroma, former President of Sierra Leone, I met you before I became president and interacted with you. ” Fate has brought us together again.
“To our father, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, I am glad about the restoration of your rank and everything.” We learn history from you. ” Thank you for who you are and your commitment to nation-building.
“To former President Goodluck Jonathan, we sometimes interact, argue and discuss the future of this country,” said the president.
Acknowledging the efforts of former military leaders, the president said that they had set the pace for democratic elections in the country, stressing that Babangida deserved the sacrifice made by many to be at the event.
