– In a fierce critique of former military ruler Gen. Ibrahim Babangida’s newly released autobiography, “A Journey in Service,” human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi has described the memoir as a blend of “lies, half-truths, urban legends, and obfuscations” regarding Babangida’s “ruinous” reign from 1985 to 1993.
Farotimi, who lived through Babangida’s rule and actively participated in the struggle against his administration’s oppressive actions, voiced his disappointment over Babangida’s recent admission that Chief M.K.O. Abiola won the annulled 1993 presidential election. This acknowledgment, he argues, does little to redeem the former leader’s tarnished legacy.
In a statement shared on social media platform X, Farotimi responded to a comment from Adnan Abdullahi Adam, who suggested that reading Babangida’s memoir could provide a well-rounded perspective. Farotimi countered, “I lived through his ruinous reign. I wasn’t a passive victim of his evil actions and inactions; I was a participant in the fight to be freed of him. I am painfully aware of the extent of his evil capabilities, and I have not been disappointed by the mixed bag of lies in the excerpts already in the public domain. No hagiographic allocutus can redeem the Evil Genius of Minna.”
Babangida’s autobiography has sparked significant controversy, with critics alleging that he distorts historical facts and maligns deceased individuals who cannot defend themselves. This backlash highlights ongoing debates about the impact of Babangida’s policies, particularly the Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP), which aimed to liberalize Nigeria’s economy but resulted in severe social and economic hardships.
Former Nigerian Human Rights Commission Chairman, Prof. Chidi Odinkalu, echoed Farotimi’s sentiments, labeling the memoir a “pack of lies.” He criticized Babangida for making claims against the deceased, framing himself as a victim of circumstances that he created and which others can no longer contest.
The publication of “A Journey in Service” has reignited discussions surrounding the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, widely regarded as Nigeria’s freest and fairest. Babangida’s attempts to justify this controversial decision have drawn ire from many Nigerians, who see it as a major setback to the nation’s democratic progress.
