The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has condemned the recent attempt by former Nigerian military leader General Ibrahim Babangida (IBB) to absolve himself of any responsibility for the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election.
IBB, who was the head of state at the time, recently made statements distancing himself from the controversial decision, a move that has sparked strong reactions from various groups, including MURIC.In a public statement, MURIC criticized IBB’s remarks, calling them an "attempt to rewrite history" and avoid accountability for one of Nigeria’s most significant political events. The June 12 election, which was widely regarded as the freest and fairest election in Nigeria’s history, was annulled by IBB, a move that led to widespread protests and political unrest across the country.
"The annulment of the June 12, 1993 election was a travesty of justice, and General Babangida’s attempt to exonerate himself from the consequences of that action is unacceptable," said Professor Ishaq Akintola, director of MURIC. "IBB cannot escape the historical truth that he is the architect of this injustice. His attempt to rewrite the history of June 12 is an insult to the memory of those who lost their lives fighting for the restoration of democracy."
The annulment of the June 12 election, which was won by business tycoon Moshood Abiola, led to widespread protests and the eventual death of Abiola in controversial circumstances. The decision also fueled years of political instability and military rule, eventually leading to Nigeria’s return to civilian governance in 1999.
IBB has long been criticized for his role in the annulment, and his recent comments have reignited the debate about Nigeria’s democratic journey. While some argue that the annulment was necessary to avoid potential political chaos, others believe it was a blatant subversion of the people’s will.
MURIC’s condemnation is part of a larger public outcry, with various groups demanding that the truth about the annulment be acknowledged and that those responsible be held accountable. The statement comes at a time when Nigeria is reflecting on its democratic achievements and shortcomings, particularly in the wake of the 2023 elections.
As the debate continues, many Nigerians are calling for more transparency and accountability in the country’s political history, emphasizing that the events of June 12 must never be forgotten.
