Legacy of June 12: Reflections on IBB’s Book Amidst Nigeria’s Struggles
By Shua’ibu Usman Leman
In recent days, Nigeria has witnessed events that evoke profound historical reflections while starkly highlighting the pressing challenges of our time. As President Bola Tinubu commemorated former President General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida during the launch of Babangida’s memoir, “A Journey in Service”, alongside a fundraising effort for the IBB Presidential Library Project, the irony of this gathering resonates deeply against the backdrop of Nigeria’s ongoing hardships.
General Ibrahim Babangida
It is particularly disconcerting that President Tinubu, a figure who actively opposed the annulment of the June 12 election and suffered exile as a result, would choose to eulogise Babangida. In the interest of moral accountability, Tinubu should have refrained from participating in this gathering, as IBB represents a legacy that ought to be condemned rather than celebrated. A nation that fails to confront its past can never hope for a brighter future.
While the political elite revel in the contributions of figures like Babangida and engage in discussions about historical milestones, such as the ill-fated annulment of the June 12, 1993 election, Nigeria continues to endure dire crises. Once-thriving hospitals now resemble mere consulting clinics, with countless individuals caught in the precarious balance between life and death. Millions of Nigerians grapple daily with inadequate access to food, and many children remain out of school due to systemic failures.
The funds directed towards the IBB Presidential Library could undoubtedly be allocated to far more constructive purposes. Rather than prioritising the establishment of a library likely steeped in historical inaccuracies, these financial contributions could be utilised to revitalise a few of our decaying infrastructure, assist struggling industries, or provide essential educational resources for our youth. As sycophantic elites celebrate the past, the urgent needs of the present demand action and accountability.
During the ceremony, President Tinubu extolled Babangida for finally acknowledging that Chief M.K.O. Abiola indeed won the 1993 election, suggesting that this admission might serve to rectify a critical moment in our nation’s history. However, such platitudes resonate little with a populace beset by immediate threats to their well-being. Babangida’s self-reflections regarding his administration’s policies and their devastating consequences feel distant from the everyday struggles of ordinary Nigerians, who continue to bear the burdens of decisions made long ago.
As Babangida expressed regrets regarding the annulment, framing it as a difficult yet pivotal choice, we must ponder: who truly benefits from such reflections if they fail to inspire meaningful change? The historical significance of June 12 is undeniable, as it galvanised the struggle for democracy; yet, we must recognise that the lessons from that period ought to inform our actions today to foster healing and progress.
In light of recent gatherings highlighting military coups in West Africa and widespread political instability, we are starkly reminded of the fragility of our democracy. The pressing need for inclusive governance and civic engagement is abundantly clear—not merely as lofty ideas to be discussed in grand halls, but as essential principles to be enacted in every corner of our nation.
The substantial contributions from prominent business figures, including Aliko Dangote’s commitment of N2 billion per annum for the library’s establishment over the next four years, exemplify a collective commitment to heritage while provoking crucial questions about our priorities. At this crossroads, we must ask ourselves: will we continue to funnel resources and energies into preserving political legacies that resonate little with the struggles of the masses, or will we invest in tangible solutions that directly address the urgent plight of our people?
As Babangida’s autobiography beckons readers to reflect on a critical chapter of Nigeria’s political history, it simultaneously underscores the necessity to pivot our focus towards safeguarding the future of our democracy through actionable commitments to the socio-economic welfare of our citizens. While nostalgia may be a tempting indulgence, the time for action and accountability is now.
In light of these challenges, we must actively confront the realities of our present while laying the groundwork for a more equitable and just future for all Nigerians. For if there is to be forgiveness, there must first be restitution.
By: Shu’aibu Usman Leman,
(Former National Secretary,
Nigeria Union of Journalists )
shuaibuusmanleman@yahoo.com
