He Lived Long, But Not Well’ – Sowore Blasts IBB At 85

Omoyele Sowore, publisher of SaharaReporters and presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC) for the 2027 election, has criticised former military Head of State, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, accusing him of contributing to some of the challenges currently confronting Nigeria.

Babangida, popularly known as IBB, marked his 85th birthday on August 17 and received congratulatory messages from political figures and other Nigerians.

According to Ireporter Online, Babangida served as Nigeria’s military Head of State between 1985 and 1993 before leaving office following the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, which was widely regarded as having been won by the late Chief MKO Abiola.

However, in a post shared on his verified account on Monday, Sowore took a critical view of the former military ruler’s legacy, arguing that Nigerians should focus on the consequences of decisions made during his time in power rather than simply celebrating his birthday.

Sowore described Babangida as a leader whose administration, in his view, made decisions that contributed to corruption, weakened democratic development and created problems that subsequent generations have continued to face.

He argued that Nigeria could have been in a better position today if Babangida had exercised power differently during his years in office.

The AAC presidential candidate also accused the former military leader of putting personal and political interests ahead of the broader national interest.

Sowore maintained that Babangida’s place in Nigerian history should be assessed not only through birthday tributes and celebrations but also by examining the long-term impact of policies and decisions taken during his tenure.

His comments have added a critical voice to the widespread tributes surrounding Babangida’s 85th birthday, particularly regarding the former military ruler’s controversial political legacy and the annulment of the June 12 election.