General Olusegun Obasanjo’s choice not to retire military coup plotters led to the rise of key figures like Babangida. In his autobiography, “A Journey in Service,” Babangida attempts to justify his actions during an era characterized by his military’s detrimental impact on Nigeria. However, the book is criticized for its revisionist perspective and failure to genuinely address the harms caused by his rule.
General Olusegun Obasanjo’s decision not to retire the professional military coup plotters before transferring power to Alhaji Shehu Shagari on October 1, 1979, allowed Generals Muhammadu Buhari, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, Sani Abacha, Abdulsalam Abubakar, and Muhammed Gusau to remain prominent figures in Nigeria. This oversight may have been rooted in military loyalty, distrust of civilians, or a reluctance to fully embrace civilian governance.
Shagari’s failure to retire these influential figures, despite pressure from key politicians like Alhaji Umaru Dikko, can be attributed to ethnic, religious, and geopolitical considerations. While Babangida might have faded into obscurity without his coup-making, he ascended to power and his autobiography, “A Journey in Service: An Autobiography,” warrants scrutiny due to its historical implications.
The 420-page autobiography, complete with a prologue, epilogue, and numerous appendices, largely affirms what was already known about Babangida’s controversial reign. It reflects a colonial mentality among military leaders and the suffering inflicted upon Nigerian civilians, along with the inherent risks posed to the military itself. Babangida’s reflections underscore the current crises affecting Nigeria’s federalism, democracy, and development.
However, the autobiography is flawed, notably due to its misleading title. Nigerians did not elect Babangida; he orchestrated the overthrow of both the Second Republic and Buhari, implementing his personal agenda while neglecting national interests. His actions during protests against military rule and the Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP) further highlight his focus on self-serving goals.
Critics argue that a more appropriate title for the autobiography would be “My Failed Journey Towards the Destruction of Nigeria,” as Babangida’s regime persisted despite widespread resistance from democratic forces. Notable figures such as Comrade Ali Chiroma and various student and legal organizations galvanized opposition, ultimately challenging his rule alongside divine providence.
Despite its publication, Babangida’s autobiography brings little new information to light, as many contemporary news magazines had already documented the realities of his regime. His narrative dishonestly depicts significant events, such as the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, glossing over the electoral fairness acknowledged by independent observers.
Additionally, the autobiography fails to address the downward spiral of Nigeria’s political and economic conditions during his leadership. Babangida strategically avoids discussion of the detrimental legacies of his rule, which include rampant corruption, ethnic violence, and the decline of public services.
The book carries a revisionist perspective aiming to portray Babangida in a favorable light while deflecting blame for his failures onto others. This action not only distorts history but also insults the collective memory of those who suffered under his administration.
In response, there is a pressing need for victims of Babangida’s regime to document their experiences, countering his narrative while exposing the truth. This should involve compiling firsthand accounts from various publications, initiating scholarly discussions about the period, and rejecting any attempts to sanitize his legacy.
The aim of such efforts is to correct historical inaccuracies, raise awareness, and deter future tyrants from manipulating public narratives under the guise of autobiography. It is essential to reinforce the message that no individual is above the collective will of the populace.
Ahmed Aminu-Ramatu Yusuf has served as deputy director in the Cabinet Affairs Office at The Presidency and concluded his career as General Manager of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet). He can be reached via email at aaramatuyusuf@yahoo.com.
The failure of Obasanjo to remove military coup plotters before transferring power to civilian rule contributed significantly to the troubled political landscape in Nigeria. Babangida’s autobiography, while shedding light on his time in power, ultimately fails to truthfully address the consequences of his administration. The need for victims to share their narratives is imperative to challenge his portrayal of history and ensure accountability for past misdeeds. This effort aims to preserve the integrity of Nigeria’s collective memory and discourage future authoritarianism.
Original Source: www.premiumtimesng.com
