Former military president, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd), has taken full responsibility for the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, describing it as a “most regrettable” incident in Nigeria’s history.

Speaking at the presentation of his autobiography, ‘A Journey in Service’, and the launch of his presidential library in Abuja on Thursday, Babangida reflected on his time in office, acknowledging the controversies surrounding his administration’s decisions.

“I have had to contend with this question all the time—when will you tell your side of the story?

“Understandably, our period of service has evoked many questions and stories among the public. This book, which chronicles my experiences, decisions, and challenges, tries to answer some of these questions from my modest perspective”, he said.

Babangida highlighted the sweeping reforms and significant challenges his government faced, particularly in the economy, foreign affairs, defence, and national security.

He noted that despite the sacrifices and inconveniences endured by Nigerians during his tenure, his administration was committed to leaving the country better than it was.

He acknowledged the historic significance of the June 12, 1993, election, widely regarded as Nigeria’s freest and fairest at the time.

However, he expressed deep regret that his administration, which had designed the electoral system that produced such a credible process, ultimately failed to complete it.

“Undoubtedly, credible, free, and fair elections were held on June 12, 1993. However, the tragic irony of history remains that the administration that devised a near-perfect electoral system and conducted those near-perfect elections could not complete the process. That accident of history is most regrettable. The nation is entitled to expect my impression of regret,” he stated.

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Babangida did not shy away from accepting personal accountability for the decision that led to the annulment.

“As the leader of the military administration, I accept full responsibility for all decisions taken under my watch, and June 12 happened under my watch. Mistakes, oversight, and missteps happened in quick succession, but as I state in my book, in all matters, we acted in the supreme national interest so that Nigeria could survive,” he said.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic journey, Babangida acknowledged that his administration’s actions disrupted the nation’s transition to civilian rule but emphasized that the country ultimately overcame the setback.

“Our nation’s march to democracy was interrupted, a fact that I deeply regret. But Nigeria survived, and democracy is still alive, a testament to our regime and commitment to progress,” he concluded.