As Nigeria marks another anniversary of the historic June 12, 1993, presidential election, the nation is once again reflecting on the tumultuous era of General Ibrahim Babangida’s military regime and the unresolved assassination of renowned journalist Dele Giwa. Naija247news gathered that the twin narratives of June 12 and Giwa’s death remain deeply intertwined, symbolizing the struggle for democracy and press freedom in Nigeria.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!According to Naija247news, the June 12 election, widely regarded as Nigeria’s freest and fairest poll, was annulled by Babangida, plunging the country into political chaos and eroding public trust in the democratic process. The election’s presumed winner, Chief MKO Abiola, died in detention years later, leaving a legacy of unfulfilled promises and unanswered questions.
Naija247news understands that the annulment of June 12 is not the only stain on Babangida’s legacy. The brutal murder of Dele Giwa, founder of Newswatch magazine, in 1986 continues to haunt the nation. Giwa was killed by a letter bomb at his Lagos home, a method of assassination that shocked the world. Despite widespread allegations of state involvement, no one has been held accountable for his death.
According to Naija247news, many Nigerians believe that Giwa’s killing was linked to his investigative journalism, which often exposed corruption and human rights abuses under the military regime. His death remains a stark reminder of the dangers faced by journalists in their pursuit of truth.
As the nation commemorates June 12, activists and civil society groups are calling for justice for both Abiola and Giwa. “June 12 is not just about democracy; it’s about accountability. We must address the unresolved injustices of that era, including Dele Giwa’s murder,” said Comrade Femi Falana, a human rights lawyer.
Naija247news reports that Babangida, now retired from active politics, has maintained a low profile, rarely commenting on the events of his regime. However, his role in the annulment of June 12 and the unresolved questions surrounding Giwa’s death continue to cast a long shadow over his legacy.
The Nigerian government has taken steps to honor the significance of June 12, declaring it Democracy Day in 2018. Yet, for many, the celebration remains incomplete without justice for Dele Giwa and other victims of that era.
According to Naija247news, the stories of June 12 and Dele Giwa serve as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made in the fight for democracy and press freedom. As Nigeria continues its democratic journey, the lessons of the past must guide its future, ensuring that such tragedies are never repeated.
