IBB Confirms Abiola’s Win in June 12 Election
On February 20, 2025, former Nigerian military president Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB) publicly acknowledged that the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola won the June 12, 1993, presidential election. This admission was made during the launch of his autobiography, “A Journey In Service,” in Abuja.
Babangida, who annulled the election results in 1993, described the annulment as his “toughest decision” and expressed regret over the action. He stated that the decision was made in “extreme national interest,” aiming to prevent potential unrest and maintain stability in the country.
The annulment of the June 12 election, widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s freest and fairest, led to significant political turmoil and unrest. Babangida’s recent acknowledgment of Abiola’s victory and his expressed regret over the annulment provide a new perspective on this pivotal event in Nigeria’s political history.