On 24 June 1993, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida announced the annulment of the election widely believed to have been won by Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola of the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
Babaginda, who was the military ruler, cited the issue of vote-buying and other electoral irregularities.
The annulment led to protests and political unrest, including the resignation of IBB and a weak interim civilian government.
It later culminated in the continuation of military rule in the country with Sani Abacha ascending to power as the military head of state via a bloodless coup later in the year.
However, Babangida, on Friday, in an exclusive interview with Arise TV, was again faced with the question of why he annulled the election considered to be the best in the history of Nigeria.
He responded by saying;
“Do you want me to say the truth?”
When Ngozi, the interviewer, gave a nod, he continued and said:
“If it has happened (if the election had gone through without the annulment) there would have been a coup that will be violent.
According to Babangida, the 1993 election “will give room for instability.”
Babangida also confirmed that he was pressured by “cabals.”
He said: “Yes, the pressure was from both military and civilians. The Military has the weapons to cause problems and also unrest from civilians.”
