Examining General Babangida’s Autobiography: A Critical Review of His Rule in Nigeria
Ahmed Aminu-Ramatu Yusuf analyzes General Babangida’s autobiography, arguing it misrepresents his tragic rule over Nigeria. The author emphasizes the historical importance of documenting the experiences of those who suffered under Babangida’s leadership and the need for a collective counter-narrative to challenge his revisionist portrayal of events.
General Olusegun Obasanjo’s decision not to retire military coup plotters when he transferred power to Alhaji Shehu Shagari on October 1, 1979, had significant implications for Nigeria’s political landscape. This lack of action allowed Generals like Muhammadu Buhari, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, and others to remain influential. Obasanjo’s military background and possible distrust of civilian politicians may have influenced his inaction toward these military figures who would later become prominent in Nigerian politics, undermining democracy.
Despite pressures from politicians such as Alhaji Umaru Dikko, Shagari’s refusal to retire military figures appeared rooted in ethnic, religious, and geopolitical considerations. Babangida, primarily remembered for his coup-making rather than as a significant political figure, rose to power and published an autobiography titled “A Journey in Service: An Autobiography,” which must be critically analyzed due to its impact on Nigerian history.
Babangida’s autobiography is structured into five parts containing twelve chapters, including an introduction and conclusion, yet it generally reinforces what Nigerians lived through during his eight years in power. His writings reveal the destructive attitudes of military leaders toward civilians and provide insight into the adversities caused by military regimes while hinting at the dangers posed to the military itself.
However, the title of the book is misleading, as Babangida was never elected by the people of Nigeria. He seized power through coups and primarily pursued personal agendas that favored himself and his military allies rather than national interests. His regime faced widespread protests against military rule and the corrupt Structural Adjustment Programme, demonstrating the failure of his government to serve the populace.
The book’s title might more accurately reflect Babangida’s tenure as “My Failed Journey Towards the Destruction of Nigeria: An Autobiography” due to the widespread resistance his regime faced from civil society groups and ordinary citizens. Significant figures, including labor leaders, students, and activists, opposed Babangida’s rule, substantiating that his government was met with considerable popular dissent.
Despite its claims, the autobiography offers little new information, as many aspects of Babangida’s regime have been diligently reported by various Nigerian publications. Critically, the book also misrepresents key events such as the annulment of the June 12, 1993 elections, avoiding the catastrophic consequences of his governance and the promotion of disunity among different social groups.
Overall, Babangida’s narrative reflects a distorted view of his tenure, seeking to absolve himself of the blame for the suffering and systemic corruption that characterized his rule. The need for victims and critics of his administration to document their experiences and truths is crucial to countering his revisionist history and preserving the collective memory of Nigeria. Organizing conferences and publications about this era is vital to ensuring that future generations understand the implications of Babangida’s rule on Nigerian democratic principles and equity.
In conclusion, Ahmed Aminu-Ramatu Yusuf critiques General Babangida’s autobiography for its misleading title and inaccurate portrayal of his time in power. The book fails to acknowledge the widespread resistance to his regime and the socio-political damage it inflicted on Nigeria. By revisiting this history, documenting the experiences of victims, and promoting discourse, the goal is to counter Babangida’s narrative and ensure accountability in Nigeria’s political history.
Original Source: www.premiumtimesng.com
