Sowore Blasts Nigerians Celebrating IBB at 85

The presidential candidate of the African Action Congress, Omoyele Sowore, has criticised Nigerians celebrating former Military Head of State, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, on his 85th birthday.

Sowore made the remarks in a post on his verified X handle late Monday, accusing Babangida of contributing significantly to Nigeria’s current challenges through his exercise of political power.

According to the human rights activist, Babangida may have lived to an advanced age, but he argued that the former military leader’s legacy remained deeply controversial.

Sowore alleged that Nigeria would not have deteriorated to its present condition without what he described as Babangida’s “wickedness and selfishness” while in power.

He further argued that the former Head of State’s legacy should not be judged solely by birthday celebrations but also by the consequences of decisions taken during his administration.

“History should remember not just the birthday celebrations, but the consequences of the choices he made while holding power that ruined Nigeria,” Sowore said.

Babangida, popularly known as IBB, ruled Nigeria as Military Head of State from August 1985 until August 1993.

His administration introduced several major political and economic reforms, but his tenure remains particularly associated with the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election.

The election, widely regarded as having been won by businessman and politician Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, was annulled by Babangida, triggering widespread political controversy and protests.

Babangida eventually stepped aside in August 1993 following mounting pressure and handed power to an interim national government.

Sowore has consistently criticised Nigeria’s past military rulers and political establishment, arguing that decisions made by successive administrations contributed to the country’s governance and economic challenges.

His latest comments come as tributes and birthday messages were shared by Nigerians and political figures marking Babangida’s 85th birthday.

While some Nigerians have praised the former military leader’s contributions to national development, others have continued to criticise his administration, particularly over the annulment of the June 12 election and its broader political consequences.

Sowore’s remarks have therefore added to the continuing debate over Babangida’s place in Nigeria’s political history and the legacy of his years in power.