Babangida Must Face Justice for June 12 Election Annulment, Says Yele Sowore

Human rights activist and former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, has fiercely condemned the ongoing admiration of former military ruler General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), labeling him a “villain” responsible for Nigeria’s stalled democratic progress.

In a candid interview on Nigerian Info FM, Sowore expressed outrage that Babangida, who annulled the historic June 12, 1993, election, continues to be celebrated instead of facing justice. He emphasized the deep political betrayal Nigerians still face because of the annulment, which led to prolonged military rule.

Babangida, who led Nigeria from 1985 to 1993, remains a highly controversial figure. His decision to annul the election, widely believed to have been won by Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola, is blamed for political chaos and extended military governance. Despite admitting his responsibility for the annulment, IBB’s actions continue to haunt the nation.

Sowore argued that Nigeria’s failure to prosecute leaders who sabotage democracy has allowed impunity to thrive, damaging the country’s political and economic systems. He also pointed to IBB’s recent public appearances—launching a book and raising millions for his presidential library—as a slap in the face to Nigerians.

“IBB should be rotting in jail, not enjoying privileges,” Sowore declared. He also highlighted the sad reality that many younger Nigerians, who were not born in 1993, are unaware of the monumental crimes committed by IBB, further enabling him to avoid accountability.

Sowore sharply dismissed Babangida’s claims that the annulment was in the nation’s best interest, describing them as foolish. He argued that IBB, along with his co-conspirators, should face punishment, no matter their age. He compared IBB’s lack of justice to ongoing trials for Nazi war criminals, emphasizing that crimes against humanity should never go unpunished.

When asked if IBB should apologize, Sowore firmly replied that an apology is insufficient. What is needed, he said, is punishment. He pointed out that historical figures like MKO Abiola, whose family was torn apart by the annulment, deserve justice and recognition. “Abiola should posthumously become President, and his family should be properly compensated,” Sowore insisted.

Sowore closed by calling for an immediate investigation into the crimes during Babangida’s rule, from the annulment of the election to the mysterious deaths and financial mismanagement.

“The crimes committed during his tenure must not be forgotten,” he said. He also warned that without holding leaders accountable, Nigeria’s political future will remain in peril.