Former military president General Ibrahim Badamasi Babagida (rtd), has taken full responsibility of the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, describing it as a “most regrettable” incident in Nigeria’s history.

Speaking at the presentation of his autobiography, “A Journey in Service”, and the launch of his presidential library in Abuja on Thursday February 20, 2025, the military Head of State, reflected on his time in office, acknowledging the controversies surrounding his administration’s decision.

“I have had to contend with the question all the time – when will you tell your side of story?

“Undoubtedly, credible, free and fair elections were held in June, on June 12, 1993. However, the tragic irony of history remains that the administration that devised a near-perfect electoral system and conducted those near-perfect elections could not complete the process.

“That accident of history is most regrettable. The nation is entitled to expect my impression of regret. As a leader of the military administration, I accept full responsibility of all the decisions taken under my watch, mistakes, oversights and missteps happened in quick succession, but I say in my book, in all matters, we acted in supreme national interest so that Nigeria could survive.

“Our nation’s march to democracy was interrupted, a fact that I deeply regret. But Nigeria and democracy is still alive, a testament to commitment.