How you failed to make history in 1993 – Tinubu to Babangida

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has revealed how he once confronted former military leader Ibrahim Babangida, accusing him of missing an opportunity to make history by delaying the inauguration of elected officials in 1992.

Speaking at a book launch in Babangida’s honor on Thursday, Tinubu recalled his frustration when the inauguration of elected officials, including himself as Senator representing Lagos West, was repeatedly postponed. He described how his bold challenge to the military leader made him fear imprisonment, but he remained firm in his stance.

“I confronted you that you had an opportunity to make history that day, and you failed to do it. Why not inaugurate us? Why are you calling us back and postponing the inauguration? They thought I would end up in jail. You came out right at the end of the remark, you shook me. I can’t forget that,” Tinubu stated, drawing applause from the audience.

The President also praised Babangida for his role in nation-building, acknowledging how the former head of state encouraged young and intelligent individuals to enter politics.

“Without you, people like me won’t be in politics. Your progressive revolution to say that you want young, brilliant people in politics, you inspired some of us,” he said.

In response, Babangida shed light on his decision to annul the June 12, 1993, presidential election, an event that remains one of Nigeria’s most controversial political moments. Thirty-two years later, he maintained that his decision was taken in the best interest of the country.