Ozekhome Urges Nigerians To Forgive Babangida Over June 12 Annulment

Renowned constitutional lawyer and civil rights activist, Prof. Mike Ozekhome, has called on Nigerians to forgive former Military President, Gen. Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida, for annulling the June 12, 1993, presidential election.

Babangida, in his memoir, A Journey in Service, released on Thursday, February 20, admitted that Chief MKO Abiola won the election but claimed he was pressured into annulling it by forces beyond his control.

In a statement titled “Babangida’s Confession and Atonement: Quo Vadis,” Ozekhome commended the former military leader for publicly expressing remorse, stating, “It takes courage for a man to own up to his past mistakes. IBB’s confession should be seen as an effort to heal the wounds of the past.”

The June 12 election, regarded as Nigeria’s freest and fairest, was expected to end years of military rule.

However, its annulment plunged the country into chaos, leading to nationwide protests, loss of lives, and the eventual detention of Abiola, who later died under controversial circumstances.

For years, Babangida defended his decision, insisting it was in Nigeria’s best interest.

But during his memoir’s launch, he admitted, “I regret June 12. I accept full responsibility. That accident of history is most regrettable. The nation deserves my expression of regret.”

Ozekhome, reflecting on the impact of the annulment, recalled how he joined street protests against military oppression, suffered detentions, and faced professional setbacks.

Despite this, he urged Nigerians to embrace forgiveness, quoting, “To err is human, to forgive is divine.”

Beyond the annulment, Ozekhome acknowledged Babangida’s contributions to Nigeria’s development, citing his role in establishing the Federal Capital Territory and promoting intellectual governance.

He concluded with a plea: “Let the wounds heal. Let the spirit of national triumphalism prevail. Nigerians, please, accept IBB’s confession and forgive him.”