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Justice Delayed: The Imperative for Accountability in the Wake of Ibrahim Babangida’s Autobiography
By Dr Gabriel Nwambu
**Abstract**
The launch of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida’s autobiography, “A Journey in Service,” on February 20, 2025, at the Transcorp Hilton in Abuja, marks a critical juncture in Nigeria’s political narrative.
While the book offers insights into Babangida’s life, his controversial past raises urgent questions about accountability, justice, and the prospects for Nigeria’s future.
As Nigeria seeks to grapple with its historical challenges, the call for Babangida to face consequences for his actions has never been more pertinent. This paper examines the need for accountability as crucial not only for justice but also for the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic foundation.
**Introduction**
Ibrahim Babangida’s persona as a leader encapsulates a troubling chapter in Nigeria’s history. Celebrated by some as a political strategist, his tenure as military head of state is also marked by egregious violations of civil rights and democratic principles. This analysis interrogates the implications of Babangida’s actions throughout his rule, particularly regarding deep-seated issues such as betrayal, the nullification of free elections, and the need for restorative justice in Nigeria.
**The Dark Legacy of Betrayal: The Execution of General Mamman Vasta**
A significant chapter in Babangida’s narrative is the betrayal of General Mamman Vasta, a man he once considered a closest friend. Their relationship, characterized by intimate gestures such as exchanging clothing, was shattered when Babangida accused Vasta of plotting a coup and ordered his execution. The pleas from respected figures in Nigerian society failed to dissuade Babangida from this decision, reflecting a chilling disregard for human life and friendship. The implications of this act extend beyond personal betrayal; they symbolize the treachery embedded within the political fabric of leadership in Nigeria, raising critical questions about loyalty and morality among those in power.
Babangida’s precarious ascent to leadership came through a coup d’état, overthrowing General Muhammadu Buhari, and establishing a regime characterized by manipulation and coercion. Despite ruling with an iron fist, he demanded respect as a democratically elected president, a title that contradicted the reality of his rise to power and governance. The duality of Babangida’s nature as both a strategist and a tyrant complicates the narrative, leading to a legacy fraught with contradictions and injustices.
**The Cynical Nullification of the 1993 Democratic Elections**
One of the most grievous acts of Babangida’s presidency was the denial of the results of the June 12, 1993, elections, widely regarded as the freest and fairest in Nigerian history, won by Chief Moshood Abiola. Nigeria had, for the first time, expressed its democratic will, and yet Babangida nullified the election, leading to a national crisis and significant unrest. The repercussions of this decision continue to resonate across generations, undermining trust in democratic processes and institutions. The tragic outcomes included the untimely deaths of pro-democracy activists, such as Kudirat Abiola, and an atmosphere of political hostility that set Nigeria on the brink of civil strife.
The key players and contributors to this crisis, including Babangida himself, are now deceased, including figures like Professor Humphrey Nwosu and General Sani Abacha. As Babangida now seeks to narrate his perspective from a wheelchair, the timing of the revelations seems more an exercise in self-justification rather than a sincere pursuit of truth and reconciliation.
**The Need for Accountability: A Call to Action**
As Civil Rights Organizations advocate, “A New Nigeria is Possible.” This ideal hinges upon confronting the past and demanding accountability.
Babangida’s actions warrant scrutiny not for the purpose of vengeance but as a vital component of a healing process that Nigerian society so desperately needs. It is essential that those who wielded power and exercised it with impunity face the full weight of the law. Only then can Nigeria embark on a path to genuine democracy, lifting the embers of a fractured past toward a cohesive future.
Moreover, the staggering sum of ₦17 billion raised during the launch of Babangida’s autobiography in a country struggling financially highlights a disconnection between wealth and accountability. This disparity poses a fundamental question about the values that the Nigerian elite perpetuate and the societal implications of such actions.
**Conclusion**
Babangida’s autobiography opens a window into a complex saga of Nigeria’s history, intertwining personal narrative with profound political consequences. However, it does not absolve the former leader from the weight of his legacy, marked by betrayal and the systematic dismantling of democracy. As Nigeria looks to reforge its identity and re-establish its governance structures, it stands as an imperative for the nation to confront its past injustices head-on. To pave the way for a better future, Ibrahim Babangida must face the law, not merely as a pursuit of justice but as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s commitment to democracy, accountability, and human rights for all. Until that day arrives, the specter of an unaddressed past will continue to haunt Nigeria’s political landscape.
Nwambu Gabriel, Ph.D.
…as reps panel reviewed over 150 bills
By Gloria Ikibah
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Benjamin Kalu, has reaffirmed the 10th National Assembly’s commitment to delivering a Constitution that reflects the interests and aspirations of Nigerians.
Speaking at the close of a two-day retreat in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, organized by the House Committee on Constitution Review, Kalu commended lawmakers for their dedication. The retreat focused on reviewing bills, incorporating expert input, prioritizing proposals based on national interest, and preparing for zonal public hearings and a harmonization process with the Senate.
As Chairman of the Committee, Kalu stressed the importance of the constitutional review process, urging members to stay resolute in their task. He expressed confidence that their collective efforts would produce a people-centered Constitution.
During the retreat, the committee reviewed, amended, and voted on over 151 bills referred by the House. These bills, grouped into key thematic areas, covered federal structure and power devolution, local government autonomy, fiscal federalism, revenue allocation, and electoral and judicial reforms.
…advocate PPP, endowment at ZEDA AGM
By Gloria Ikiba
The Speaker House of Representatives, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas, has emphasised the need for diversified funding sources in Nigeria’s education sector to reduce dependence on government allocations.
He highlighted Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) and endowment funds as viable alternatives to sustain and improve education financing.
Speaker Abbas made this call on Saturday during the 31st and 32nd Annual General Meeting of the Zaria Education Development Association (ZEDA) in Zaria, Kaduna State.
He was also honoured by constituents for his contributions to society.
As Chairman of the combined AGM, Abbas encouraged ZEDA to explore various funding opportunities to support educational development.
The Speaker stated that human capital development remains the cornerstone of our national progress, citing the examples of Japan, Singapore, Switzerland, Taiwan, Luxembourg, Ireland, and Denmark, which have achieved remarkable progress.
He said: “Diversifying funding streams is critical as well. By establishing endowment funds or engaging in public private partnerships, we can reduce our reliance on government funding. Successful models in countries such as Denmark and Ireland have demonstrated that diversified funding can drive long-term, sustainable growth in the education sector”.
“They have done so not by relying solely on natural resources but by investing heavily in education, training, and innovation. Their success is reflected in their high rankings on the Human Development Index and ease of doing business.
“Nigeria, blessed with vast natural resources, must equally prioritise the development of its people to realise its full potential”.
Speaker Tajudeen Abbas underscored Zaria’s long-standing educational legacy, tracing back to the 16th century, as a cornerstone of academic excellence and national development.
Recognized as home to Ahmadu Bello University and several other institutions, he highlighted Zaria’s vital contributions to Nigeria’s intellectual and professional landscape.
“Our collective history compels us to safeguard and expand this legacy for future generations,” said Abbas, who represents Zaria Federal Constituency. He noted that several new educational initiatives he facilitated would significantly enhance learning opportunities in Kaduna State and beyond.
Among these are a Federal College of Education, a College of Health Sciences, a National Open University of Nigeria campus, and a College of Legal Studies. “Once fully operational, these institutions will drive both educational and socio-economic progress within our community,” he stated.
However, Abbas stressed the need to tackle obstacles hindering educational growth, particularly at the primary and secondary levels, and noted challenges such as out-of-school children, support for learners with special needs, and overall education quality as urgent issues requiring attention.
He said: “I commend the proactive measures by Governor Uba Sani’s administration in Kaduna State. The efforts have notably reduced the number of out-of-school children through the construction of over 62 new secondary schools, thereby addressing critical infrastructure deficits.
“Looking ahead, it is imperative that ZEDA continuously evolves to meet emerging challenges. Successful models, such as the United Kingdom Education Development Trust and Singapore’s Agency for Science, Technology and Research, have shown the benefits of embracing digital innovation.
“ZEDA should integrate technology in order to transform how we monitor educational outcomes, facilitate virtual training for teachers, and expand access to learning resources. By doing so, we can connect stakeholders, streamline processes, and enhance transparency.”
In the House of Representatives, the Speaker pointed out that the Legislative Agenda is aligned with these priorities.
He said: “We remain committed to advancing universal basic education, enhancing secondary and technical education, and integrating innovative reforms that address both current and future challenges.”
Speaker Abbas hailed the Grand Patron of ZEDA , His Royal Highness, the Emir of Zazzau, Malam Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, CFR, LLD, for his “fatherly guidance and unwavering commitment have been a beacon for ZEDA.”
Later, Emir Bamalli thanked the Speaker and other prominent indigenes of Zaria for their developmental strides in the ancient city. The monarch emphasised the importance of ZEDA to Zaria, while seeking more support from stakeholders.
By Gloria Ikiba
The Speaker House of Representatives, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas, has emphasised the need for diversified funding sources in Nigeria’s education sector to reduce dependence on government allocations.
He highlighted Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) and endowment funds as viable alternatives to sustain and improve education financing.
Speaker Abbas made this call on Saturday during the 31st and 32nd Annual General Meeting of the Zaria Education Development Association (ZEDA) in Zaria, Kaduna State.
He was also honoured by constituents for his contributions to society.
As Chairman of the combined AGM, Abbas encouraged ZEDA to explore various funding opportunities to support educational development.
The Speaker stated that human capital development remains the cornerstone of our national progress, citing the examples of Japan, Singapore, Switzerland, Taiwan, Luxembourg, Ireland, and Denmark, which have achieved remarkable progress.
Speaker Tajudeen Abbas underscored Zaria’s long-standing educational legacy, tracing back to the 16th century, as a cornerstone of academic excellence and national development.
Recognized as home to Ahmadu Bello University and several other institutions, he highlighted Zaria’s vital contributions to Nigeria’s intellectual and professional landscape.
“Our collective history compels us to safeguard and expand this legacy for future generations,” said Abbas, who represents Zaria Federal Constituency. He noted that several new educational initiatives he facilitated would significantly enhance learning opportunities in Kaduna State and beyond.
Among these are a Federal College of Education, a College of Health Sciences, a National Open University of Nigeria campus, and a College of Legal Studies. “Once fully operational, these institutions will drive both educational and socio-economic progress within our community,” he stated.
However, Abbas stressed the need to tackle obstacles hindering educational growth, particularly at the primary and secondary levels, and noted challenges such as out-of-school children, support for learners with special needs, and overall education quality as urgent issues requiring attention.
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