A prominent Nigerian human rights organization has called for the prosecution of former military leader General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida over his role in the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, labeling his actions as a “coup d’état” against Nigeria’s democracy.
The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) issued the demand after Babangida publicly acknowledged his involvement in the annulment. The group criticized the former ruler’s admission, accusing him of attempting to deceive Nigerians into believing he acted in good faith.
In a statement signed by CDHR President Debo Adeniran, the group called the annulment “reckless, illegal, and unconstitutional,” arguing that it remains one of the worst injustices inflicted upon Nigeria, severely undermining democracy and plunging the nation into political instability.
The 1993 election, widely regarded as Nigeria’s most free and fair, was set to declare business magnate Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola as president.
However, Babangida abruptly annulled the results on June 23, sparking widespread protests and unrest across the country. This move paved the way for a prolonged period of military rule and social upheaval.
CDHR claims that Babangida’s public acknowledgment is a direct admission of his involvement in an act that led to years of political chaos, economic hardship, and civil unrest.
The group insists that his actions meet the criteria for crimes against humanity and should be prosecuted accordingly.
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The rights organization has called on President Bola Tinubu to take immediate action against Babangida, asserting that his confession provides enough grounds for legal action.
“We urge President Tinubu to prosecute General Babangida for crimes against humanity and for orchestrating a coup d’état that undermined the democratic will of Nigerians,” the statement declared.
CDHR also called for posthumous recognition of MKO Abiola as a former Nigerian president and urged penalties for those who benefited from the annulment. The organization appealed to international human rights bodies to ensure that justice is served.
Babangida, who served as Nigeria’s military president from 1985 to 1993, has yet to publicly respond to the calls for his prosecution.
