On Thursday, President Bola Tinubu recalled a time when he challenged former military President, Ibrahim Babangida, telling him he missed the chance to make history.
Babangida, who ruled Nigeria from 1985 to 1993, is infamous for annulling the June 12, 1993 presidential election, which many believe was won by businessman Moshood Abiola.
At the time, Tinubu was elected to the Senate to represent Lagos West in 1992 during Babangida’s rule.
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Speaking at a book launch dedicated to Babangida, Tinubu remembered confronting the former leader about repeatedly delaying their inauguration after they had won the election. He admitted he feared he might be jailed for questioning the head of state.
“I told you that you had an opportunity to make history, and you failed to do it. Why not inaugurate us? Why keep postponing it?” Tinubu recalled. “They thought I would end up in jail, but you came out and shook my hand. I’ll never forget that,” Tinubu said, prompting applause from the audience.
The President also praised Babangida for his role in shaping the nation, highlighting how the former leader’s progressive approach encouraged young, bright individuals like himself to get involved in politics.
Without your influence, Tinubu said, people like him wouldn’t have entered politics. “Your push for young, brilliant people to take part in politics inspired us,” he added.
In his comments, Babangida provided insight into his decision to annul the June 12 election, stating that he made the move to protect the country’s best interests.
