IBB, Not Abacha, Was Behind June 12 Annulment – Family Claims

The family of a key figure in Nigeria’s political history asserts that former military ruler Ibrahim Babangida, not Sani Abacha, was responsible for annulling the June 12, 1993, presidential election.

The family of the late General Sani Abacha has stated that former military Head of State, General Ibrahim Babangida (IBB), was accountable for the annulment of the June 12 presidential election, rather than their late father.

In a statement released on Sunday by Mohammed Abacha, the family addressed allegations made in IBB’s book, “A Journey in Service,” where he claimed that Abacha was responsible for annulling the election.

The Abacha family emphasized that for years, various parties have tried to alter the history of that crucial period in Nigeria’s democratic development; however, the facts remain unchanged.

Mohammed Abacha advised Nigerians to be cautious of narratives that attempt to alter history in order to influence public opinion for personal or political motives.

He emphasized that the legacy of their late father and leader should not be tainted by unfounded allegations designed to exonerate those who were genuinely accountable.

The younger Abacha asserted that, despite the regrettable efforts to redirect blame, his father remained a true and loyal friend to IBB until his passing.

Mohammed Abacha emphasized that his father was deeply dedicated to his comrades. He added that when Babangida’s life was in danger, it was the late general who rescued him and ensured his safety.

It is crucial to clarify without any doubt that General Sani Abacha was not the Head of State or the Commander-in-Chief when the June 12 election was nullified.

The choice to annul the election was taken during General Ibrahim Babangida’s administration. As the Head of State at that time, he wielded absolute executive authority and was solely accountable for his government’s actions.

Any effort to transfer blame onto General Sani Abacha, a highly senior military officer within the regime, is an intentional misrepresentation of historical facts.

We regret that “A Journey in Service” did not seize the opportunity to provide a truthful and objective account of past events. As one public commentator aptly pointed out, honesty, sincerity, and integrity are virtues not typically linked with the author.