24/02/2025
IBB, Obasanjo, Abdulsalami, and David Mark Must Face Justice for the Annulment of June 12, 1993 Election – Sowore
Nigerian human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has once again called for justice regarding the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, widely regarded as the most free and fair election in Nigeria's history. According to Sowore, key figures responsible for the injustice—General Ibrahim Babangida (IBB), former President Olusegun Obasanjo, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, and Senator David Mark—must be held accountable and face prosecution for their roles in subverting the will of the Nigerian people.
The June 12 Betrayal: A Crime Against Democracy
The 1993 presidential election, won by Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola, was annulled by then-military ruler General Ibrahim Babangida, plunging Nigeria into political turmoil and setting the stage for prolonged military rule and repression. The election was a rare moment in Nigeria’s history where Nigerians, across ethnic and religious lines, overwhelmingly voted for a leader they believed could unify the country. However, the military junta had other plans, denying the people their democratic choice.
Sowore’s Call for Accountability
Sowore, speaking on the matter, did not mince words in his demand for justice. He stated that the individuals who orchestrated the annulment and benefited from the chaos that followed must face trial for their actions.
Ibrahim Babangida (IBB): As the mastermind of the annulment, Babangida cited vague “security concerns” for his decision, an excuse that has never held water. His actions plunged Nigeria into years of instability, leading to the deaths of many pro-democracy activists.
Olusegun Obasanjo: Although he was not directly involved in the annulment, Obasanjo played a questionable role in the aftermath, downplaying the significance of June 12 and later benefiting politically by becoming president in 1999.
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