Former Military Head of State, Ibrahim Babangida has revealed why he annulled the June 12, 1993 election, widely believed to have been won by Moshood Kashimawo Olawale, M.K.O, Abiola of the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
Babangida, popularly known as IBB cited the possibility of a deadly coup and pressure from both the military and civilians.
The 79-year-old retired General stated this while speaking on the development in an interview with Arise TV on Friday.
Responding to why he annulled the June 12 election, widely considered to be the best in the country’s history, IBB said; “Do you want me to be honest with you?”
He continued: “If it materialized [If the election had gone through], there would have been a coup d’etat which could have been violent. That is all I can confirm.
“It didn’t happen, thank God for the Maradonic way we handled you guys in the society.”
He added that the election “could have given room for more instability in the country.”
Asked further if he was pressured by the military or civilians to annul the election, Babangida said: “Both.”
“Both, the Military, they can do it because they have the weapons to do it. The other is the social agitation.”