Over six decades ago, a prophecy was made about a young boy from Niger State. It seemed unlikely at the time, but today, history has proven the prediction to be true.
Retired General Abdulsalami Abubakar, former Head of State, has revealed that a soothsayer once foretold that General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB) would one day lead Nigeria. Abubakar made this revelation at the launch of Babangida’s autobiography, Babangida: A Journey in Service, held at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, on Thursday.
A Prophecy That Came True
Speaking at the event, Abubakar, who was a longtime friend and classmate of Babangida at Government College Bida, recounted an astonishing moment from their youth. According to him, 62 years ago, a soothsayer predicted that Babangida would rise to the highest office in the land.
“It might interest you all that as far back as 62 years ago, a soothsayer told us that Ibrahim will be Head of State of this country,” Abubakar told the distinguished audience, which included President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and several former leaders.
The prediction, he admitted, seemed far-fetched at the time. “We never believed him because when me and him joined the military courtesy of Captain Gowon, a young dashing officer who came to woo us to join the military, all we hoped to get to was the rank of Captain and retire,” he said.
However, fate had other plans. “By God’s mercy, we became Generals, and by His grace, both of us became Heads of State of this country,” Abubakar added with a sense of nostalgia.
Friendship and Brotherhood
The former Head of State expressed deep appreciation for his long-standing relationship with Babangida, describing their bond as one of true friendship and brotherhood. He reflected on their shared past, recalling moments that still bring a smile to his face.
Babangida and Abubakar’s journey through military service was one of ambition, discipline, and national service. While both men held the highest office at different times, their legacies continue to shape Nigeria’s political history.
Babangida’s Legacy and Influence
Also speaking at the event was former President Goodluck Jonathan, who praised Babangida’s leadership qualities. Jonathan humorously referred to himself as “the most junior in the committee of Presidents” but emphasized Babangida’s lasting impact on Nigeria.
“General Babangida is one of the most charismatic leaders this country has ever had,” Jonathan remarked. He noted that Babangida’s home in Minna remains a destination for politicians, business leaders, and policymakers seeking wisdom and guidance.
The former president also commended Babangida’s contributions to Nigeria’s infrastructural development and governance, acknowledging the important role he played in shaping modern Nigeria.
Jonathan went further to propose that Nigeria should establish a department within the Presidency to manage presidential libraries, similar to what former President Olusegun Obasanjo has already initiated.
From Young Soldiers to National Leaders
Babangida and Abubakar’s military journey began under the guidance of Captain Yakubu Gowon, who encouraged them to join the Nigerian Army. At the time, neither of them could have imagined the heights they would reach.
Babangida eventually became Nigeria’s military ruler from 1985 to 1993, a period marked by economic reforms, political controversies, and significant national developments. His administration introduced the Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP), aimed at reviving Nigeria’s struggling economy, though it remains a subject of debate among economists and historians.
One of the most controversial moments of Babangida’s tenure was the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, widely believed to have been won by business mogul Moshood Abiola. This decision led to nationwide protests and political instability, ultimately resulting in Babangida’s resignation.
Abubakar, on the other hand, took the reins of power in 1998 following the sudden death of General Sani Abacha. His leadership was instrumental in Nigeria’s return to democracy, as he oversaw the transition that led to the election of President Olusegun Obasanjo in 1999.
The Power of Destiny?
The revelation of the soothsayer’s prediction adds a fascinating layer to Babangida’s life story. While some may dismiss it as mere coincidence, others see it as a sign of destiny.
In African traditions, spiritual predictions and prophecies are often taken seriously. Many leaders, both past and present, have been known to consult seers and spiritual figures for guidance. Whether Babangida’s leadership was truly written in the stars or simply a product of hard work and opportunity remains a matter of interpretation.
Regardless, his journey from a young boy in Niger State to Nigeria’s Head of State aligns remarkably with the prophecy made over six decades ago.
A Lasting Impact
The launch of Babangida: A Journey in Service provided a moment to reflect not only on Babangida’s legacy but also on Nigeria’s political evolution. His story is one of ambition, leadership, and the complexities of governance.
From his role in shaping Nigeria’s military landscape to his influence in modern politics, Babangida remains a towering figure in the country’s history. His relationship with other past leaders, such as Abdulsalami Abubakar and Goodluck Jonathan, underscores the interconnectedness of Nigeria’s leadership over the decades.
As the autobiography continues to generate discussions, one question lingers: Was Babangida’s rise to power a product of fate, or was it simply the result of strategic ambition and military opportunity?
For now, history stands as the final judge.
