On February 20, 2025, the political landscape in Nigeria was rocked by the launch of an autobiography titled “A Journey in Service,” authored by former military ruler Retired General Ibrahim Babangida, popularly known as IBB. The event, which took place amidst fanfare and attended by notable politicians—including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu—has sparked widespread condemnation among Nigerians, many of whom view Babangida’s emergence as a public figure with deep skepticism, given his controversial past.
The launch of Ibrahim Babangida’s autobiography “A Journey in Service” represents not only a personal narrative from a controversial figure but also a flashpoint for ongoing debates about accountability and governance in Nigeria. IBB’s rise to power was marked by a coup that ousted then-President Muhammadu Buhari, and during his tenure, he implemented policies that had lasting negative effects on the country’s political landscape, economy, and social fabric.
IBB’s reign, which lasted from August 27, 1985, until August 26, 1993, is marred by allegations of human rights abuses, corruption, and economic mismanagement. His administration is often associated with the infamous annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, which is widely regarded as one of the most democratic in Nigeria’s history. This controversial decision led to widespread protests, unrest, and ultimately, the loss of lives. Many Nigerians believe that Babangida’s actions during his tenure have left an indelible mark on the nation’s political and social fabric.
The timing and circumstances surrounding the book launch have not only incited anger but also disbelief among the Nigerian populace. Critics argue that IBB, who many believe should be serving a life sentence for the crimes committed during his rule, has shown a brazen disregard for the pain and suffering caused by his decisions. For a man whose legacy is intertwined with the suppression of democratic values and the flourishing of corruption, the celebration of his autobiography feels like a slap in the face to those who fought for justice and accountability.
Social media platforms have been abuzz with reactions, as many Nigerians took to Twitter, Facebook, and other outlets to express their outrage. Comments range from outright condemnation of the political elite who chose to honour IBB, to poignant reminders of the sacrifices made by activists and citizens who stood against his authoritarian rule. The sentiment is clear: many feel that celebrating a figure like Babangida is tantamount to endorsing the very misconduct that has plagued Nigeria for decades.
Moreover, the presence of prominent politicians at the launch raises questions about the current state of Nigeria’s leadership. Observers have expressed concern that such gatherings only serve to normalize a culture of impunity, where past transgressions are overlooked in favour of political camaraderie. Critics argue that it sends a dangerous message to the youth and future leaders of the country—that one can escape accountability for their actions and still be celebrated.
In addition to the political implications, the content of Babangida’s autobiography has been met with skepticism. Many believe that it is an attempt to rewrite history, filled with justifications for his controversial decisions and a lack of accountability for the widespread suffering experienced during his rule. The book is perceived as an effort to polish his legacy, which many Nigerians refuse to accept.
A facebook user, Chimnemezu Nwaeze expressed on his handle, “The devil authored a book and deceived many into seeing him as a saint; tragically, his ruthless followers began to pay tithes, sowing seeds of ongoing slander and the nation’s downfall—singing hymns of destruction with malicious intent.”
Renowend Lawyer and political activist, Dele Farotimi shared on Instagram, “To sacrifice oneself for those who forget is to face perpetual death. In a society of the aware, IBB wouldn’t dare show his face publicly. Yet, in our nation, which resembles a crime scene, he remains in power, succeeded by even more malicious leaders.”
Babangida admitted to regretting his earlier decisions, claiming that internal pressures, particularly from his deputy late General Sanni Abacha, led to actions he was allegedly unaware of. Sadiq Abacha, son of the late military leader Sanni Abacha, countered this by asserting that history would view his father as a superior leader. He stated on social media that his father faced jealousy and deceit, but insisted that detractors would not prevail, concluding with the Hausa saying, “Duk wanda yayi jifa a kasuwa,” which translates to “whoever throws a stone in the market…”
Adeniran, President of the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights, argued that Babangida should face consequences for his actions, emphasizing that his recent admissions do not absolve him of past crimes. He recounted his detention during the initial protests following the June 12 elections, where he and fellow activists were arrested and imprisoned by Babangida’s forces.
Morayo Brown, daughter of the late Aka-Bashorun, expressed on her ig handle that Babangida must be held accountable for nullifying the June 12 election. She revealed her father’s efforts to bring Babangida to justice before his passing and criticized President Bola Tinubu for socializing with someone who had caused her father significant distress. In her Instagram post featuring a photo of her father and Babangida on Cover page of African Concord magazine, she lamented, “My father warned the nation about this man. Despite all he did to ensure justice, nothing came of it. Brave individuals raised their voices against him, yet Babangida ruled with a relentless force, silencing many and forcing my father into exile.”
She questioned the President’s decision to accept Babangida’s claims of responsibility and suggested that a true reckoning was necessary for the annulment of Nigeria’s most credible election, which led to countless innocent lives lost. “I saw the laughter at the book launch, but it was no joke to me. Mr. President, you supported my father throughout his life. Given the history, how can you laugh with our oppressor?”
Raees Abacha, grandson of the former military ruler Sanni Abacha, criticized General Babangida, labeling him a traitor and coward. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he remarked that had their roles been reversed, Abacha would never have forgiven Babangida’s “treacherous” actions. He further stated that anyone who believed Babangida’s narrative in his book was heading towards ruin, calling out Babangida for shifting the blame for the June 12 election annulment onto Abacha.
Another “X” (formerly twitter) user, Yomi Akinfesoye compares IBB writing the book to Satan writing another version of the Bible. The post reads, “IBB’s book, “A Journey in Service,” would have been better titled “A Journey in Disservice.” It’s reminiscent of Satan attempting to craft an alternate version of the Bible, and you expect me to buy, read, and accept its claims? Absolutely not”
As the nation grapples with its complex history, the reactions to IBB’s book launch serve as a reminder of the enduring scars left by military rule and undemocratic governance. The Nigerian populace continues to demand transparency, justice, and a political culture that honours the values of democracy rather than celebrating those who have undermined it. In the wake of this event, it is evident that the call for accountability remains stronger than ever, as Nigerians refuse to let the past be buried under the weight of political expediency. The response from Nigerians demonstrates that no amount of memoirs or political theatrics can alter the history we recognize concerning the dark tenure of IBB as commander-in-chief and the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election.
