Former military Head of State, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), on Thursday, publicly accepted for the first time that, the late presidential candidate of Social Democratic Party (SDP), Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola won the June 12, 1993, presidential election......CONTINUE READING THE ARTICLE FROM THE SOURCE>>>>>
The revelation was contained in Babangida’s newly launched autobiography, A Journey in Service, unveiled in Abuja on Thursday, February 20.
According to the book reviewer, former Vice President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, Babangida affirmed that Abiola, met all constitutional requirements to be declared Nigeria’s president.
“There was no doubt in my mind; MKO Abiola won the election. He satisfied all the requirements, but annulling the election was the most difficult decision of my life.
“I sincerely expresse satisfaction with President Muhammadu Buhari for the posthumous honoured bestowed on Abiola with the Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR), a title reserved for presidents.
“The June 12, 1993, election remains one of Nigeria’s most controversial electoral events.”
Often regarded as the country’s freest and fairest election, Babangida’s regime annulled it, leading to nationwide protests and political instability.
Abiola was later arrested by the military government of General Sani Abacha after declaring himself president. He died in detention in 1998 under mysterious circumstances.