The Bola Tinubu Support Organisation, UK chapter, has called for a formal apology from former military president, General Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida, over the annulled June 12, 1993, presidential elections.
This demand comes after Babangida admitted in his autobiography that Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola won the election, stating “I have no doubt he won the election”.
The group’s Head of Media and Publicity, Mr Muyiwa Adeliyi, criticized Babangida for annulling the election, widely regarded as Nigeria’s freest and fairest.
Adeliyi described Babangida’s remarks as “a step in the right direction but wholly inadequate,” emphasizing that an official apology is necessary to address the injustice.
Adeliyi noted that the election annulment triggered protests, international condemnation, and prolonged political instability, ultimately leading to Abiola’s arrest and tragic death in 1998.
He stressed that a formal apology would help heal national wounds and that Babangida must fully account for the consequences of his decision.
The group has also called on the National Assembly to intervene, suggesting a televised public apology and reparations for Abiola’s family.
With Babangida’s admission reopening old wounds, Adeliyi believes that this is an opportunity for Nigeria to confront its past and for Babangida to make amends.