Former military president General Ibrahim Babangida has opened up about the circumstances that led to the overthrow of Major General Muhammadu Buhari’s government in 1985, shedding light on the pivotal events that shaped Nigeria’s history.
In his latest memoir, ‘A Journey in Service’, Babangida attributed the decision to remove Buhari to the former head of state’s authoritarian style and the deteriorating state of the nation under his leadership.
Babangida described Buhari and his deputy, Brigadier Tunde Idiagbon, as adopting a “holier-than-thou” attitude, which alienated both the military and civilian populace alike.
“The change in leadership became imperative as a response to the worsening national mood and growing concerns about our future,” Babangida writes.
He highlighted that by 1985, public apprehension was rife, driven by economic hardship and a sense of disconnect between the government and the people.
Babangida recalled, “Fundamental rights and freedoms were routinely infringed upon, and the administration, meant to represent national unity, began to be perceived as a personal autocracy.”
This perception, he noted, fueled discontent among the populace and within the military ranks, posing a risk of internal division that could destabilize the nation.
Reflecting on his role in the coup, Babangida admitted to feeling compelled to act in the face of mounting challenges.
“As Chief of Army Staff at the time, I faced pressure from within the military to restore the government’s connection with society,” he explained.
This internal turmoil, coupled with economic hardships and social unrest, culminated in the decisive action taken on August 27, 1985, when Babangida assumed leadership.
The memoir also delves into Babangida’s regrets and challenges during subsequent political transitions, including his interactions with other senior military figures and the controversial annulment of the June 12 election.
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