Former Head of State, General Ibrahim Babangida, IBB, has taken a rare step in Nigerian politics—publicly admitting his past mistakes and apologizing to the nation.
“If I have to do it all over again, I’ll do it differently”, said Babangida in his book A Journey in Service, now sold on the streets of Abuja for N120,000! Ibb’s book sells for N120k in Abuja
“His action has drawn praise from former presidential candidate Dr. Gbenga Hashim.
In a statement from his media team on Tuesday, Hashim described Babangida’s public admission as a crucial move towards national healing and reconciliation.
Despite being detained without trial under Babangida’s military regime, Hashim emphasized the significance of the former leader’s humility in admitting past errors. Though unable to attend the launch of IBB’s book and fund raiser for IBB Presidential Library, he later paid a visit to congratulate him on the project, which has sparked widespread discussions across the country.
“IBB is not the only leader who made mistakes, but not everyone has found the courage to admit them. What he has said and written are important testimonies for national reconciliation,” said Hashim.
He clarified that he is neither a supporter nor a beneficiary of Babangida’s government, recalling his strong opposition to the regime and imprisonment under Decree 2. However, through mediation efforts since 2004, he has come to recognize Babangida’s commitment to Nigeria’s unity.
“IBB is an enigma. Despite our differences, I admire his humility, simplicity, and deep love for Nigeria’s unity. To him, national unity is like a religion,” Hashim noted.
Hashim also revealed Babangida’s behind-the-scenes influence in ensuring Goodluck Jonathan became President under the Doctrine of Necessity during Nigeria’s 2010 political crisis.
“He asked me to fly in from London when some groups were working to prevent Jonathan from becoming Acting President. I ran errands between him and Baba in Ota. I was with IBB till 1 a.m. the night Yar’Adua was being brought back into the country,” Hashim stated.
Stressing the need for Nigerian leaders to acknowledge past mistakes, Hashim urged the country to embrace a culture of accountability and healing.
“As a nation, we need to apologize to some people so we can close the chapter on hatred and move forward. The victims of the first coup, those affected by the counter coup, and various crises in our history—these wounds need to be addressed,” he said.
Referencing Nelson Mandela’s reconciliation efforts in South Africa, Hashim called on Nigerians to work towards unity, emphasizing that genuine healing is key to national progress.
Crediblenewsng.com
