Ayo Opadokun, a chieftain of the National Democratic Coalition, has strongly criticized former military ruler General Ibrahim Babangida’s recent admission of wrongfully annulling the June 12, 1993 election.
Opadokun described Babangida’s admission as “pretentious, dubious, and lacking remorse”.
His reaction came after Babangida’s 420-page autobiography, Journey in Service, was released. According to Opadokun, Babangida did not disclose anything new in his book, but rather rehashed widely known facts under the guise of statesmanship. It was already well known that MKO Abiola won the June 12, 1993 election, as results were publicly displayed from polling units to state collation centres.
Opadokun cited Babangida’s former political adviser, Prof. Omo Omoruyi, who confirmed that Abiola was the rightful winner in his book. Opadokun expressed disappointment that Babangida showed no remorse for his actions, accusing him of “dancing on the graves of innocent martyrs killed due to the June 12 saga”.
He recounted the atrocities committed during the June 12 saga, including the killing of Abiola, his wife, and many young Nigerians who were shot on sight on the orders of General Sani Abacha. He argued that Babangida should be held accountable for the treasonous act that led to the loss of numerous lives following the June 12 annulment.
Opadokun also expressed sorrow that Babangida remained unrepentant for his “treasonable conduct,” stating that he would go to his grave “in error.” Opadokun further noted that Babangida’s admission held no significance, stressing that Nigeria’s growth and development had been severely stunted due to prolonged military rule.