Former Military Head of State General Ibrahim Babangida (retd), has revealed that ex-Head of State, Major General Muhammadu Buhari (retd), was removed from office in 1985 because he personalized leadership and alienated both the military and the general populace.
Babangida, who took power through a coup on August 27, 1985, made these revelations in his book, A Journey in Service. He explained that Buhari and his deputy, Brigadier Tunde Idiagbon (late), adopted a rigid and authoritarian style of governance, which led to widespread discontent within the military and the country.
Why the Coup Was Necessary
Reflecting on the political climate before the coup, Babangida stated that by early 1985, the country was in distress. He noted that while the military’s initial intervention in 1983 was intended to salvage the nation, Buhari’s administration had derailed.
“The change in leadership became necessary due to the worsening mood of the nation. The armed forces, which were meant to be a symbol of unity, were becoming divided. If this had continued, it would have posed a serious threat to national stability,” he said.
Buhari’s Leadership Style
Babangida criticized Buhari’s administration for adopting a high-handed approach, describing it as a government that ruled with fear rather than hope. He said Buhari and Idiagbon distanced themselves from their colleagues in the military and failed to engage with the public.
“They took a ‘holier-than-thou’ attitude, antagonizing civilians and restricting fundamental freedoms. The country was governed through draconian decrees, with people being detained indefinitely for minor infractions,” Babangida wrote.
Surveillance and the Coup Execution
Babangida also disclosed that, as Chief of Army Staff, he was placed under surveillance due to his concerns over Buhari’s leadership. He said that pressure from senior and middle-ranking officers led to the decision to remove Buhari.
The coup, which took place on August 26, 1985, was executed without bloodshed, and Babangida assumed office the following day.
Regret Over Leaving Abacha in Power
In the book, Babangida admitted that one of his biggest mistakes was allowing General Sani Abacha to remain in the military after his exit in 1993. He revealed that Abacha had opposed the transition to democracy and played a role in mobilizing opposition within the military against him.
“I underestimated Abacha’s ambitions. He was not committed to the transition program, and I later realized he was working against me,” Babangida confessed.
Denial of Involvement in ABN and June 12 Annulment
Babangida also distanced himself from the controversial Association for Better Nigeria (ABN), led by Senator Arthur Nzeribe, which played a role in the annulment of the June 12, 1993 election won by MKO Abiola. He claimed that the group’s activities took him by surprise and insisted that his government was not behind it.
Despite these revelations, Babangida maintained that his administration was focused on stabilizing Nigeria and addressing economic and political challenges.
