President Bola Tinubu, on Thursday in Abuja, said former President Ibrahim Babangida showed unusual courage and patriotism by admitting that late M.K.O. Abiola won the 12 June, 1993 election.
The president, who was the special guest of honour at the launch of Mr Babangida’s autobiography, ” A Journey in Service,” and the fundraising for the IBB Presidential Library Project, saluted the former leader’s contribution to the country’s history and development.
Mr Babangida, a retired General, confirmed for the first time in 32 years that Mr Abiola had won the historic 12 June election based on collated results.
The annulment was a watershed moment in Nigeria’s democratic history, precipitating a political crisis and hastened his exit from power.
President Tinubu said the former leader’s admission about Abiola’s victory will help to set the records properly.
“I am glad about the revelation of June 12. My General, we will not forget to pray for you. I listened to you carefully. I am not here to read a speech. I am here to pay homage.
“Let me say thank you for everything, for who you are, what you are, and how you have contributed to the history of this great country,’’ he said.
Mr Babangida served as Nigeria’s leader from August 1985 to August 1993.
