President Bola Tinubu has revealed how former military leader General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB) played a pivotal role in his political career, acknowledging that without IBB’s influence, he would not have ventured into politics.
In a candid and emotional address at a book launch in Babangida’s honour in Abuja, Tinubu recounted a defining moment during the Babangida administration.
Reflecting on the political turbulence of the era, the President shared a personal experience that shaped his own political ambitions.
He recalled how IBB, during his tenure, repeatedly delayed the inauguration of elected officials, creating widespread uncertainty among politicians.
Tinubu, known for his boldness, recounted an intense encounter at the International Conference Centre in Abuja, when he and other elected officials were summoned to the capital amidst growing frustration over the postponements.
Tinubu said, “One thing I will never forget: you were in office, and you acknowledged that we were elected, yet you kept postponing our inauguration.”
In a move that highlighted his radical stance at the time, Tinubu boldly confronted Babangida, accusing him of missing a historic opportunity to make decisive changes.
“I told you that you had the opportunity to make history that day, but you failed to seize it. I asked, ‘Why not inaugurate us? Why are you calling us back and postponing it again?’”
The confrontation nearly led to a breakdown in relations, with some believing Tinubu’s defiant speech could land him in jail.
However, the moment ended in an unexpected resolution when Babangida approached Tinubu afterward, shook his hand, and acknowledged his boldness.
Beyond the personal recollection, Tinubu praised Babangida’s broader influence on Nigerian politics, particularly his vision for the inclusion of young, talented leaders in the political arena.
“General Ibrahim Babangida, without you, people like me wouldn’t be in politics. You inspired some of us,” Tinubu said.
The President also credited Babangida with shaping a more progressive political climate that encouraged the rise of young leaders.
He said, “Your progressive revolution — you said you wanted young, brilliant people in politics — inspired some of us.”
While the event focused on celebrating Babangida’s political legacy, Tinubu acknowledged the broader significance of IBB’s tenure, noting that his leadership, though controversial for certain decisions like the annulment of the 1993 presidential election, laid the groundwork for the modern political landscape in Nigeria.
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