.Denies having a hand in Abiola’s death in 1993
In what seem to be a means to curb the agitating Biafra youth faction of their unending demand for their independence, the former head of State, Ibrahim Babangida has shown his support for the Igbo, claiming to support them in 2019 to run for presidency.
He also said he did not have a hand in the death of Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, the declared winner of the June 12, 1993, election.
The former military head said he received the news of Abiola’s death with shock, but without regret.
Contrary to the belief that the late philanthropist was served poisoned tea, Babangida said he did not play a role even if the rumour was medically confirmed.
The revelation was made in an interview with the former executive director of The Punch, Azu Ishiekwene.
Babangida further spoke on his relationship with President Muhammadu Buhari, Mamman Vasta, his childhood friend executed on his orders as well as Sani Abacha, the former military ruler.
According to Ishiekwene’s interview, Babangida revealed how the former Abia state governor, Orji Uzor Kalu, arranged a meeting between him and Buhari in 2006.
Babangida spoke on the two ‘most traumatic’ coups during his eight-year regime – the Mamman Vatsa and Gideon Orkar coups.
He disclosed that he had a meeting with Vatsa before the latter’s trial began.
The interview also covered Dele Giwa and the C130 Hercules plane crash in Ejigbo which killed 150 military officers.
On the agitation for Biafra and the turbulence within the south-eastern region, Babangida said there was no need for the Biafra agitation.
He also said he will support the Igbos to take over power in 2019, “I will vote for an Igbo president in 2019, if I find one, we do not need this distraction now.”
IBB pledges to support Igbos in 2019 Presidential election
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