By James Isaac, Abuja
Former Governor of Abia State and Senator representing Abia North, Orji Uzor Kalu, has stated that the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election was a “Nigerian coup” executed by the military, not an “Igbo coup” as widely speculated.
Kalu made this assertion while addressing journalists at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja on Tuesday, dismissed claims that Igbos were responsible for the controversial annulment. He insisted that the military, not any ethnic group, orchestrated the action that denied Chief MKO Abiola his presidential mandate.
“One does not need IBB’s revelation to know that Igbos were unjustly accused. The coup was a Nigerian coup, and some people failed to do their job. Unfortunately, Igbos have been bearing the brunt, which is unfair,” Kalu stated.
His remarks was in reaction to the recent launch of former military president Ibrahim Babangida’s book, in which Babangida cleared the air on the circumstances surrounding the annulment. However, Kalu argued that the book did not fully disclose the realities of what transpired, especially regarding the role of Professor Humphrey Nwosu, the then Chairman of the National Electoral Commission (NEC).
“I am waiting for the second edition of that book because the first edition did not reveal all the facts, especially concerning Professor Humphrey Nwosu, who was unfairly criticized after the annulment. Babangida should name those responsible and clarify their roles so that Nigerians will know the truth,” he added.
Kalu further affirmed that MKO Abiola won the 1993 election, echoing Babangida’s admission. He called on President Bola Tinubu to take an additional step in recognizing Abiola’s mandate by posthumously swearing him in as a former president.
“I would appeal to President Tinubu to swear in Abiola posthumously so that his picture can be placed where other past presidents’ portraits are displayed. This will help heal the wounds of his family and further recognize his rightful place in Nigeria’s history,” Kalu emphasized.
The annulment of the June 12 election, widely regarded as the most credible in Nigeria’s history, remains a significant moment in the country’s democratic journey. While Abiola was later honored with the Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR) title and June 12 declared Democracy Day, Kalu’s call for further recognition reignites discussions on how best to acknowledge Abiola’s legacy.
