In February 2025, former Nigerian military ruler General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB) released his long-anticipated autobiography, “A Journey in Service.” The memoir has ignited a firestorm of controversy, with critics accusing Babangida of distorting historical events and maligning deceased individuals who cannot defend themselves. This development has reopened debates about his tenure and its lasting impact on Nigeria’s political and economic landscape.
Allegations of Historical Distortion
Prominent human rights lawyer and former Chairman of the Nigerian Human Rights Commission, Professor Chidi Odinkalu, has been vocal in his criticism of Babangida’s memoir. Odinkalu contends that the former leader strategically delayed the book’s publication until key figures mentioned had passed away, thereby preventing any challenges to his narrative. He describes Babangida as the “Grand Commander of the Order of Cowardice,” accusing him of portraying himself as a victim of those who are no longer alive to counter his claims. Odinkalu further asserts that Babangida’s lack of contemporaneous records to substantiate his allegations undermines the memoir’s credibility.
The June 12, 1993 Election Annulment
One of the most contentious issues revisited in the autobiography is the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, widely regarded as the fairest in Nigeria’s history. In his memoir, Babangida acknowledges that Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (M.K.O.) Abiola won the election but shifts the blame for the annulment onto the late General Sani Abacha. He claims that Abacha announced the annulment without his approval, a narrative that contradicts widely held beliefs and has been met with skepticism.
Economic Reforms and the Structural Adjustment Programme
Babangida’s tenure from 1985 to 1993 was marked by significant economic reforms, most notably the implementation of the Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP). In “A Journey in Service,” he provides an insider’s perspective on the adoption of SAP, aiming to offer context for the controversial policy that aimed to liberalize Nigeria’s economy. While intended to address economic challenges, SAP led to widespread protests and debates due to its harsh austerity measures and the social hardships it imposed. Critics argue that Babangida’s portrayal of these reforms in the memoir glosses over the adverse effects they had on the Nigerian populace.
Reactions from Peers
The memoir has elicited varied reactions from Babangida’s contemporaries. Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who chaired the book’s launch event in Abuja, commended Babangida for documenting his version of history. Obasanjo emphasized the importance of accurate record-keeping in nation-building and advised Babangida not to be overly concerned with critics, suggesting that criticism can be an indication of success. He recounted an instance where a critic condemned his own book without reading it, highlighting the inevitability of detractors.
Legacy and Ongoing Debates
Babangida’s rule is remembered for both its political maneuverings and allegations of human rights abuses. The assassination of investigative journalist Dele Giwa in 1986, via a parcel bomb, remains a notable incident from his regime. Giwa had been investigating corruption and human rights violations, and his death has been a subject of numerous conspiracy theories, some implicating high-ranking officials of the time. Babangida’s memoir addresses such incidents, but critics argue that his accounts lack transparency and fail to provide closure on unresolved issues.
The release of “A Journey in Service” has reignited discussions about Babangida’s impact on Nigeria’s trajectory. Supporters view the memoir as a valuable contribution to the nation’s historical record, offering insights into the complexities of governance during a turbulent period.
Detractors, however, see it as an attempt to rewrite history and absolve himself of responsibility for controversial decisions. As debates continue, the memoir underscores the enduring complexities of Nigeria’s political history and the challenges of reconciling differing perspectives on past events.
While “A Journey in Service” provides a platform for Babangida to present his narrative, it also highlights the necessity for critical engagement with historical accounts. The memoir serves as a reminder of the importance of diverse viewpoints in understanding a nation’s past and the imperative of holding leaders accountable for their actions, both during their tenure and in their recounting of history.
