A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Nicholas Tofowomo, has urged former military ruler Ibrahim Babangida to offer a public apology to Nigerians over the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election.
Speaking to journalists on Friday in Okitipupa, Ondo State, Tofowomo insisted that Babangida’s recent acknowledgment that Moshood Abiola won the election was not enough. He argued that the former head of state must take full responsibility and apologize for the pain, financial losses, and political instability caused by the annulment.
Tofowomo, who represented Ondo South Senatorial District in the ninth National Assembly, criticized Babangida for merely reflecting on the annulment in his newly launched book, A Journey in Service. He warned that any attempt to use the revelation for personal gain, such as fundraising for a presidential library, would be unacceptable.
“Babangida must not use this revelation to raise funds for a presidential library. He needs to offer a deep and sincere apology to Nigerians for the pain caused,” Tofowomo stated.
He emphasized that the annulment not only robbed Abiola of his mandate but also disenfranchised elected politicians, including senators-elect who were never sworn in.
Tofowomo called on the federal government to establish a committee to assess the full impact of the annulment and provide compensation to those affected. Until these steps are taken, he said, the scars left by the annulment will not be forgotten.