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Mixed Reactions Trail Babangida’s June 12 Confession and Apology

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

Babangida Expresses Regret Over June 12 Annulment, Acknowledges MKO Abiola’s Victory

Former military Head of State, Ibrahim Babangida, has expressed regret over the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, acknowledging that the late MKO Abiola won the poll. Speaking at the launch of his autobiography, A Journey In Service, on Thursday in Abuja, Babangida described the annulment as an “accident of history.”

The June 12 election, regarded as Nigeria’s freest and fairest, was annulled by Babangida’s administration over alleged national security concerns. The decision led to nationwide protests and political unrest, ultimately forcing Babangida to step down. The country’s democratic progress was stalled until the return to civilian rule in 1999.

Reflecting on the election, Babangida admitted that Abiola had secured the majority votes and geographical spread, obtaining 8,128,720 votes against Bashir Tofa’s 5,848,247. He claimed, however, that forces opposed to Abiola were so formidable that he feared Abiola would be eliminated if allowed to assume the presidency.

Public Reactions and Criticism

Babangida’s remorse drew mixed reactions. The pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, criticized the statement as belated and insufficient to address the consequences of the annulment. In a statement by Organising Secretary Kole Omololu, Afenifere highlighted the lives lost and the scars left on Nigeria’s democracy, including the assassination of Kudirat Abiola and the persecution of many democracy activists.

Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Chief Olu Falae, and National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) chieftain, Ayo Opadokun, dismissed Babangida’s remarks, stating there was nothing new in his admission.

Former Governor of Ogun State, Segun Osoba, viewed Babangida’s statement as a healing step, saying Abiola would be “laughing his head off in heaven.” Ex-Governor of Plateau State, Jonah Jang, commended Babangida for his honesty and called for adequate compensation for the Abiola family.

Calls for Justice and Recognition

Afenifere reiterated its demand that all presidential honors be posthumously conferred on Abiola, insisting he must be remembered as Nigeria’s rightful President-elect. Senior lawyers Mike Ozekhome (SAN) and Wahab Shittu welcomed Babangida’s remorse and called for forgiveness, alongside proper recognition for the Abiola family.

Reflections on Babangida’s Legacy

At the book launch, former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo noted that the June 12 election marked the most challenging chapter of Babangida’s life. Former Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo warned against the resurgence of military coups in West Africa, while President Bola Tinubu praised Babangida’s contributions to national unity and pledged to make difficult decisions in the nation’s interest.

Business leaders, including Africa’s wealthiest man Aliko Dangote and BUA Group Chairman Abdulsamad Rabiu, donated billions to the IBB Presidential Library project. Dangote pledged N8 billion over four years, while Rabiu committed N5 billion.

Babangida’s autobiography also addresses other significant events in Nigeria’s history, including the 1976 coup that led to Murtala Muhammed’s assassination and the 1986 letter bomb that killed journalist Dele Giwa. Babangida maintained his innocence regarding Giwa’s death, expressing hope that the truth will be uncovered.

As the dust settles on Babangida’s remorse over June 12, pro-democracy groups and citizens alike continue to reflect on its far-reaching impact on Nigeria’s democratic journey.

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‘I Cry Because of the Burdens People Carry’ – Pastor Jerry Eze Opens Up on Emotional Prayer Sessions

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‘I Cry Because of the Burdens People Carry’ – Pastor Jerry Eze Opens Up on Emotional Prayer Sessions

‘I Cry Because of the Burdens People Carry’ – Pastor Jerry Eze Opens Up on Emotional Prayer Sessions

Renowned Nigerian televangelist and founder of Streams of Joy International, Pastor Jerry Eze, has revealed the deep emotional weight behind his tearful prayer sessions, sparking conversations among his followers.

Speaking during an interview to mark the fifth anniversary of his popular online prayer platform, NSPPD (New Season Prophetic Prayers and Declarations), Pastor Eze explained that his tears are not mere theatrics but a reflection of his overwhelming compassion for the countless people who seek divine intervention.

“The Bible says we do not have a high priest who cannot be touched with the feelings of our infirmities,” he stated. “I have always known myself to be a very compassionate person, and coming into ministry, I realized that compassion is an inevitable tool for the miraculous.”

According to him, his inbox is flooded daily with heartbreaking messages from people facing unimaginable hardships, making it impossible for him to remain indifferent. He recounted a particularly devastating story: “How do you make this kind of prayer? You see a woman who lost her husband, tried to remarry, lost the second one, and after everything, tried to marry a third time only to lose him too. How do you not feel that?”

Pastor Jerry Eze’s tearful prayers have become a signature aspect of his ministry, drawing millions to his online services. His explanation has further solidified his reputation as a pastor deeply moved by the struggles of his congregation, with many testifying to miraculous turnarounds after his intercessions.

While some critics have questioned his emotional displays, his followers see them as a sign of genuine empathy and spiritual burden. As NSPPD continues to grow globally, Pastor Eze remains committed to his calling, declaring, “What God cannot do does not exist!”

 

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Governor Monday Okpebholo aide condemn killing in Uromi…..

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Governor Monday Okpebholo aide condemn killing in Uromi…..

No amount of pressure, frustration, or disagreement should ever justify the taking of another person’s life. Life is sacred, and the act of unlawfully ending someone else’s existence goes against the fundamental principles of justice, morality, and human dignity.

With that being said, the tragic incident that occurred yesterday in Uromi, the administrative headquarters of Esan North East where about eight person of the Hausa community where allegedly identified to be kidnappers beaten and burnt alive, is deeply condemnable. It is disheartening to witness such acts of violence within the uromi community, where peace and unity should be the guiding principles. The behavior exhibited during this unfortunate event was not only unnecessary but also unacceptable, as it disregarded the values of justice and respect for human life.

In times like this, we must remind ourselves that violence only leads to pain, loss, and division. As a people, we must strive for peaceful resolutions to any issues that may arise from our community and uphold the virtues of patience, understanding, and dialogue. No grievance, no matter how severe, should push anyone to commit such a grievous act.

My thoughts and prayers are with the family and loved ones of the departed. May their soul rest in eternal peace. Amen.

May God heal the land, restore peace, and guide us towards a society built on love, justice, and mutual respect.

Daniel Eromosele Aka Pikolo,
Chief Protocol,
Edo State Government.

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Speed Darlington Sparks Outrage After Pricing Coffin for Portable

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Speed Darlington Sparks Outrage After Pricing Coffin for Portable

Speed Darlington Sparks Outrage After Pricing Coffin for Portable

Controversial Nigerian rapper Speed Darlington has ignited a firestorm of reactions after a video of him pricing a coffin for fellow artist Portable surfaced online.

The drama between the two musicians escalated after Speed Darlington invited Portable to perform at his upcoming show, only to be met with rejection and insults. Portable, known for his outspoken nature, accused Speed Darlington of using his name for clout, insisting that his appearance fee was N20 million—an amount he claimed Speed Darlington couldn’t afford.

Following Portable’s refusal, Speed Darlington took to social media to express his frustration, stating that he regretted ever extending the invitation. He also revisited an old incident where Portable allegedly suffered a beating from an associate, vowing to release the footage as a form of public humiliation.

However, the feud took a darker turn when Speed Darlington shared a shocking video of himself negotiating the price of a coffin for Portable. In the clip, he was seen bargaining with an undertaker while directing his message at the Zazoo crooner. The video was captioned:

“@portablebaeby are you ready to die for not coming to my show April 13th?”

The post has since triggered widespread backlash, with many calling out Speed Darlington for taking their online banter too far. Some fans have dismissed the stunt as mere entertainment, while others have condemned it as insensitive and a potential threat.

As the feud continues to unfold, all eyes are on Portable’s response, with many wondering whether he will retaliate or simply ignore the provocation. Meanwhile, fans of both artists have taken to social media to share their opinions, with some urging them to settle their differences amicably.

 

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