President Tinubu's Democratic Credentials Under Scrutiny as Critic's Claims Debunked

Strategic Insights -

President Tinubu has been accused by a former governor of Jigawa State, Sule Lamido, of supporting the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election. However, the Presidency has strongly denied these claims, citing historical records that show Tinubu's unwavering commitment to democracy. According to Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Lamido's claims represent a distortion of history and a regrettable attempt at revisionism.

Key Takeaways:

  • Sule Lamido, former Governor of Jigawa State, accused President Tinubu of supporting the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election.
  • Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, debunked Lamido's claims, stating that Tinubu was among those who opposed the military's injustice and fought for democracy.
  • Tinubu wrote his name in the book of honor by standing firm even before General Abacha dissolved the political parties and democratic institutions on November 17, 1993.
  • Onanuga recalled that Tinubu condemned the annulment on the Senate floor on August 19, 1993, describing it as another coup d'etat and urging Nigerians to reject injustice and lawlessness.
  • Tinubu was among those who reconvened in Lagos on November 17, 1993, defying the junta, and was arrested and detained by the police.
  • Tinubu continued to fund pro-June 12 protests in Lagos, including the blockade of the Third Mainland Bridge, while in police detention.
  • The National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) was born on May 15, 1994, with Tinubu playing a significant role in the organization.
  • Tinubu lived in exile for nearly five years while Lamido and others made deals with the Abacha regime.
  • Agents of the junta bombed Tinubu's home in Balarabe Musa Crescent, Victoria Island, while he was in exile.
  • Tinubu backed Professor Wole Soyinka's NALICON and offered material resources to fuel the struggle.
  • Lamido admitted that Tinubu played a significant role in NADECO, but attempted to rewrite history for political reasons.

Statistics:

  • June 12, 1993: The date of the annulled presidential election.
  • November 17, 1993: The date on which General Abacha dissolved the political parties and democratic institutions.
  • August 19, 1993: The date on which Senator Tinubu condemned the annulment on the Senate floor.
  • May 15, 1994: The date on which the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) was born.
  • 5 years: The duration of Tinubu's exile.
  • 10 days: The time it took for Abiola to be arrested after his declaration on June 22, 1994.
  • 1993: The year in which the military regime of General Babangida dissolved the National Assembly.

Sources:

  • Onanuga, Bayo. Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.
  • Presidency.
  • Lamido, Sule. Former Governor of Jigawa State.
  • Tinubu, Bola. President of Nigeria.
  • Abiola, MKO. Winner of the June 12, 1993, presidential election.
  • Abacha, Sani. Military leader who dissolved the political parties and democratic institutions on November 17, 1993.