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Babangida Must Face Justice for June 12 Annulment, Says CDHR

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Revisiting General Ibrahim Babangida's Legacy: A Balanced Perspective" by Dare ADELEKAN

Babangida Must Face Justice for June 12 Annulment, Says CDHR

 

The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) has called for the prosecution of former military ruler, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (Rtd), over his admission of involvement in the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election. The CDHR describes the annulment as a coup d’état against the administration of the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola and a crime against humanity.

In a strongly worded press statement, CDHR President, Debo Adeniran, condemned Babangida’s recent public confession regarding his role in the controversial annulment, calling it an attempt to mislead Nigerians into believing that he acted in their best interests. According to Adeniran, the actions of the former dictator led to widespread political instability, loss of lives, and economic hardship that plagued Nigeria for years.

“The worst injustice inflicted on the 14 million Nigerians who voted in that election was the inexplicable annulment on June 23, 1993, when the world expected the announcement of Chief MKO Abiola as the rightful winner,” Adeniran stated.

The June 12 election, widely regarded as the freest and most peaceful in Nigeria’s history, was ultimately nullified by the Babangida-led military government, plunging the country into political turmoil. The CDHR argues that the annulment was not only illegal and unconstitutional but also constituted a direct attack on democracy and the rights of Nigerian citizens to freely elect their leader.

CDHR insists that Babangida’s actions amounted to a coup d’état against a civilian administration that should have been led by Abiola. The group also decried the severe human rights violations that followed the annulment, including arbitrary arrests, political assassinations, and the suppression of press freedom.

In light of these concerns, the CDHR is calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to order Babangida’s immediate prosecution for crimes against humanity. The group also demands that all those who benefitted from the annulment—including members of the defunct Interim National Government led by the late Chief Ernest Shonekan—be stripped of national honors and any privileges they received from their participation in the illegitimate government.

“We remind President Tinubu that just as he once stated that Babangida lost the opportunity to be a hero by annulling the June 12 election, he should not miss the chance to be the hero of the June 12 struggle,” Adeniran emphasized. He urged the government to posthumously recognize MKO Abiola as a past president of Nigeria and grant full privileges to his family.

Additionally, the CDHR has urged the Nigerian judiciary, anti-corruption agencies, and international human rights organizations to ensure that justice is served. “The culture of impunity must end, and those responsible for Nigeria’s democratic setbacks must be held accountable,” Adeniran said.

The statement concluded with a strong call for justice: “Justice for June 12 is justice for democracy, and Nigeria must never allow such an egregious crime to go unpunished. The time for accountability is now.”

 

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Eid Fitri: Ambassador Ajadi Calls for Peace, Unity, and Continued Acts of Kindness

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Eid Fitri: Ambassador Ajadi Calls for Peace, Unity, and Continued Acts of Kindness By Ibrahim Kegbegbe

Eid Fitri: Ambassador Ajadi Calls for Peace, Unity, and Continued Acts of Kindness

By Ibrahim Kegbegbe

 

The Chairman and CEO of Bullion Records, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has extended warm congratulations to Muslims worldwide, particularly Nigerians, on the successful completion of the 1446 Ramadan fast and the celebration of Eid Fitri today, Sunday, March 30, 2025, which marks the first of Shawwal in the 1446 Muslim Calendar.

Eid Fitri: Ambassador Ajadi Calls for Peace, Unity, and Continued Acts of Kindness
By Ibrahim Kegbegbe

In a goodwill message sent to The Merit Newspaper and other media outlets, Ambassador Ajadi emphasized the significance of the holy month, urging Muslims to uphold the values of steadfastness, love, and unity that were observed during Ramadan. He encouraged them to extend these virtues beyond the fasting period to foster societal harmony.

“The spirit of Ramadan should not end with the sighting of the crescent moon. I urge all Nigerians to continue in the path of righteousness, avoid any ungodly activities they abandoned during the holy month, and embrace the virtues of kindness, generosity, and peace,” Ajadi stated.

Highlighting the essence of Eid Fitri as a time of joy and reflection, he called on Nigerians to celebrate in a manner that promotes peace and unity among all faiths. “Eid Fitri is a celebration of happiness, joy, and peace. It should remind us of the need to maintain the spirit of tolerance and togetherness,” he added.

In the spirit of the season, Ambassador Ajadi also announced that Bullion Records’ fast-rising artist, Abdul Rahman Yusuf, popularly known as Harcher, has released a new single, Peace, which aligns with the message of tranquility and unity. “This song resonates with the peaceful essence of Eid Fitri. It is available on all digital streaming platforms, and the video is being aired on local and cable TV stations, including YouTube,” he noted.

Furthermore, he revealed that Bullion Records is set to unveil two additional singles from Harcher—L.O.V.E and JO SI (Dance To It)—on April 1, 2025. “As we celebrate this joyous occasion, I encourage fans of good music to anticipate these upcoming hits that will add more rhythm to their celebrations,” Ajadi enthused.

He went on by wishing all Muslims and Nigerians a prosperous and peaceful Eid Fitri, reiterating his commitment to supporting positive initiatives that unite and inspire the people.

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DR ADEGBOLA CALLS FOR UNITY AMONG NIGERIANS AS MUSLIM CELEBRATES EID -EL- FITR

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DR ADEGBOLA CALLS FOR UNITY AMONG NIGERIANS AS MUSLIM CELEBRATES EID -EL- FITR

 

In a heartfelt Sallah message to mark this year’s Eid-el-Fitr, Dr. Gbenga Adegbola has extended warm greetings to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje and the entire Muslim ummah, especially in Oyo, the pace-setter State.

Dr Adegbola, who recently transitioned into active politics by joining the APC, emphasized the critical need for unity and collective purpose among Nigerians to effectively address the myriad challenges facing the nation and Oyo State. His call for solidarity comes at a time when Oyo State is navigating complex socio-economic issues, and he believes that a united front is essential for its progress and repositioning as the pace-setter State.

In his message, Dr Adegbola expressed, “As we celebrate Eid-el-Fitr, let us remember the values of love, compassion, and unity that this holy occasion embodies. It is imperative that we come together, to support one another and foster a spirit of cooperation that will lead to a brighter future for our beloved Nigeria, and Oyo State in particular.”

He further urged the general public to rally around President Tinubu’s administration, expressing confidence in the leadership’s ability to steer the nation towards greatness. “I have unwavering faith that under President Tinubu’s watch, Nigeria will continue to rise and overcome its challenges,” he stated.

Dr Adegbola’s recent entry into the APC was marked by a warm reception from party stalwarts, including Dr. Ganduje and other key stakeholders. This transition signifies his commitment to serving the nation in a new capacity, leveraging his extensive experience in the military to contribute to the accelerated development of Oyo State.

As Muslims across the country gather to celebrate Eid-el-Fitr, Dr Adegbola’s message resonates with the essence of the festive period—encouraging love, unity, and support for one another in the quest for Oyo State to be prosperous.

In closing, he reiterated, “Let us embrace the spirit of Eid by fostering unity and love among ourselves, and building a stronger and more resilient Oyo State: TOGETHER, WE CAN”

DR ADEGBOLA CALLS FOR UNITY AMONG NIGERIANS AS MUSLIM CELEBRATES EID -EL- FITR

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Araraume Felicitates With Tinubu At 73, Commends His Leadership Style

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Araraume Felicitates With Tinubu At 73, Commends His Leadership Style

 

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Ifeanyi Araraume has congratulated President Bola Tinubu on his 73rd birthday.

In his message, Araruame described Tinubu’s birthday as a time to celebrate a life dedicated to service, vision and national progress.

He stated that Tinubu’s leadership is dedicated to service, vision, and transformative leadership which continues to inspire hope for a better Nigeria.

Araraume in his message to the president said
“On this auspicious occasion of your 73rd birthday, I join millions of Nigerians and admirers worldwide in celebrating a life profoundly dedicated to service, vision, and transformative leadership. Your journey, marked by an unwavering commitment to the ideals of democracy and national progress, continues to inspire generations.

“Mr. President, your legacy as a foundational architect of modern Nigerian politics is indelible. From your pioneering role in Lagos State’s economic revitalization as Governor to your steadfast advocacy for equitable federalism and democratic consolidation, your leadership has consistently embodied courage, innovation, and inclusivity. Today, as our nation navigates complex challenges, your resolute focus on economic reform, security, and unity reaffirms your status as a visionary steward of Nigeria’s destiny.

“Your intellectual depth, political acumen, and unyielding optimism for a prosperous Nigeria resonate deeply with those who believe in the promise of this great nation. I am particularly inspired by your strategic approach to governance—rooted in wisdom, pragmatism, and an unshakable faith in the potential of our people.

“On this milestone, I pray Almighty God grants you enduring vitality, wisdom, and grace as you guide Nigeria toward its loftiest aspirations. May your year ahead be filled with joy, strength, and the fulfillment of seeing your labours yield lasting fruit for our beloved country.

“Happy 73rd Birthday, Mr. President! May history remember you as the leader who ignited Nigeria’s golden era”

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