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Mixed Reactions Trail Babangida’s June 12 Confession and Apology

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3 months ago

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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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Sahara weekly online is published by First Sahara weekly international. contact saharaweekly@yahoo.com

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#FreeVDM Trends as EFCC Secures Court Order to Remand VeryDarkMan Over Alleged Cybercrime

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2 days ago

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May 6, 2025

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#FreeVDM Trends as EFCC Secures Court Order to Remand VeryDarkMan Over Alleged Cybercrime

#FreeVDM Trends as EFCC Secures Court Order to Remand VeryDarkMan Over Alleged Cybercrime

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has obtained a court order to remand controversial social media activist Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), pending the conclusion of an investigation into alleged cybercrime offences.

VDM was dramatically arrested last Friday outside a bank in the Wuse area of Abuja by a combined team of EFCC operatives, Department of State Services (DSS) officers, and the Nigeria Police Force. Eyewitnesses say the activist was apprehended moments after leaving the bank, sparking immediate online outrage.

The arrest has ignited a social media firestorm, with the hashtag #FreeVDM dominating trends across platforms throughout the weekend. Many critics argue that the arrest is yet another attempt by authorities to intimidate dissenting voices online.

“The remand order was granted to allow us to complete our investigation and finalize the charges,” a senior EFCC official told reporters, noting that charges would be filed under the Cybercrimes Act once investigations are complete.

Sources familiar with the case say the EFCC is building a case focused on alleged violations involving online financial misconduct, which fall under the commission’s purview.

As of Monday morning, VDM remains in EFCC custody, with his legal team led by rights activist Deji Adeyanju confirming efforts to gain access to him and prepare a legal response.

“We are seeking to visit our client and are reviewing the legal implications of his arrest,” Adeyanju said in a statement.

Despite the mounting public interest and widespread speculation, the EFCC has yet to release an official statement detailing the arrest or outlining the specific charges VDM may face.

The arrest of VeryDarkMan adds to growing concerns over press freedom and digital expression in Nigeria, where several social media commentators have recently faced legal action for controversial posts.

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David Abioye Begins New Chapter with Launch of Living Word Conquerors Global Assembly

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4 days ago

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May 5, 2025

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David Abioye Begins New Chapter with Launch of Living Word Conquerors Global Assembly

David Abioye Launches New Church, Living Word Conquerors Global Assembly, Amid Jubilant Crowd

Former Vice President and retired pastor of the Living Faith Church Worldwide, Bishop David Abioye, has officially inaugurated his new ministry, Living Word Conquerors Global Assembly, marking a new chapter in his over four-decade-long spiritual journey.

The launch took place today, Sunday, May 4, 2025, during the ministry’s first Sunday service, which saw a massive turnout of enthusiastic worshippers. The atmosphere was charged with excitement as congregants gathered to witness what Abioye described as the “manifestation of God’s eternal purpose.”

In a passionate address during the inaugural service, Abioye emphasized that the establishment of the new church was not the result of public opinion or personal ambition, but a divine assignment birthed from deep spiritual conviction.

“May I make it very clear that the inauguration of this assembly is not in response to demands of people to start a church,” Abioye declared. “But by the emergence of God’s eternal purpose, ordained from the foundation of the word, which is just coming to light at His own time.”

The renowned cleric explained that the Living Word Conquerors Global Assembly is founded on divine direction and is dedicated to the spiritual development, edification, and victory of believers worldwide.

Clarifying his role in the new ministry, Abioye stated that he does not view himself as someone attempting to fulfill the entire Great Commission alone, but rather as a messenger raised for a specific divine assignment within God’s broader agenda.

“In the name of God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit, for the spiritual development, edification, and triumph of the saints globally… this assembly is hereby inaugurated,” he declared, drawing a resounding “Amen” from the congregation.

The launch follows Abioye’s retirement from Living Faith Church in October 2024, alongside Pastor Thomas Aremu, after the church implemented a policy setting a mandatory retirement age for senior leaders. Abioye bowed out of active service at the age of 63, concluding a distinguished ministry career under the leadership of Bishop David Oyedepo.

As the curtain lifts on this new ministry, many see it not as a departure from Abioye’s legacy, but as a continuation of his divine calling—this time under a new banner with a global vision.

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Power in Service: Texas Outpouring 2025 Led by Prophet Samuel Akinbodunse Calls for Volunteers

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1 week ago

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May 1, 2025

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Power in Service: Texas Outpouring 2025 Led by Prophet Samuel Akinbodunse Calls for Volunteers

A spiritual wave is set to sweep across Dallas this October as the Outpouring Healing & Miracle Conference 2025 returns with greater power, purpose, and partnership. Hosted by Freedom for All Nations Outreach (FANO) of South Africa in collaboration with Power Haven Church (PHC) of Dallas, Texas, the two-day event is scheduled for October 3rd and 4th at 7 PM (CST) — with the venue to be announced soon.
Power in Service: Texas Outpouring 2025 Led by Prophet Samuel Akinbodunse Calls for Volunteers
Led by international minister Dr. Samuel Akinbodunse from South Africa , the conference promises an electrifying atmosphere of worship, healing, prophecy, and divine encounters. With an expected turnout of thousands, the organizers are making a call for volunteers to help support this mega-faith gathering.
The volunteer drive is open for various departments including:
Ushering
Protocol
Car Guard
Security
Music Ministry
Sound Engineering
Publicity
Logistics
Registration & Administration
Service Managers
Coordinators
Health Team
Welfare/Children Care
Transportation
Hospitality
Those willing to serve are encouraged to scan the QR code on the official event flyer to register and join the workforce powering this divine mission.
“This is more than just a conference — it’s a divine appointment,” said Dr. Akinbodunse. “We’re preparing a space where heaven meets earth, and every helping hand makes a difference.”
With a theme centered on healing and miracles, Outpouring 2025 is not only a spiritual highlight on the calendar, but also a unifying force drawing believers from across nations.
Stay tuned for the venue announcement and get ready to witness a powerful move of God in Dallas this October.
Power in Service: Texas Outpouring 2025 Led by Prophet Samuel Akinbodunse Calls for Volunteers

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