Sowore Slams IBB on 85th Birthday, Says His Legacy “Ruined Nigeria”

Human rights activist and African Action Congress presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has criticised former military Head of State Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida as he marks his 85th birthday, accusing him of making decisions that damaged Nigeria during his time in power.

Sowore, in a message shared on social media, described Babangida as “the man who did Nigeria dirty” and questioned the celebrations surrounding the former military ruler’s birthday.

“He lived long but is no longer living well,” Sowore wrote, while arguing that Nigeria would not be facing some of its present challenges if Babangida had not, in his words, been “wicked and selfish” in the exercise of power.

Sowore accused the former military ruler of leaving behind a legacy characterised by decisions that, according to him, deepened corruption, weakened democratic institutions and created consequences that Nigerians continue to deal with decades later.

He argued that Babangida’s legacy should not be assessed solely through the birthday celebrations organised by his supporters and associates, but also through the impact of the decisions made during his years in power.

“History should remember not just the birthday celebrations, but the consequences of the choices he made while holding power that ruined Nigeria,” Sowore said.

Babangida, who ruled Nigeria as military president from 1985 to 1993, remains one of the country’s most influential and controversial political figures.

His administration introduced major economic and political reforms, including the Structural Adjustment Programme, while his decision to annul the June 12, 1993 presidential election remains one of the most controversial events in Nigeria’s political history.

Sowore’s comments reflect the continued criticism of Babangida’s administration by activists and other Nigerians who argue that the policies and political decisions of the military era contributed to some of the institutional and economic problems confronting the country today.

The former military leader, however, has continued to maintain his place as an influential figure in Nigeria’s political history, with former colleagues, politicians and associates celebrating his 85th birthday.

The contrasting reactions to Babangida’s birthday once again highlight the deeply divided assessment of his years in power and the lasting debate over his role in shaping modern Nigeria.