General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida is a retired Nigerian Army general who served as the military president of Nigeria from 27 August 1985 until his resignation on 26 August 1993. Born on 17 August 1941 in Minna, Nigeria, Babangida attended the Nigerian Military Training College (NMTC) and later the Indian Military Academy. Over the course of his military career, he participated in numerous operations, including his active involvement in the Nigerian Civil War between 1967 and 1970.

In the years following the war, Babangida rose quickly through the ranks of the Nigerian military, eventually taking part in a series of coups that shaped Nigeria's political landscape. He played a role in the coup that ousted President Shehu Shagari in 1983, leading to Major General Muhammadu Buhari's rise to power. On 27 August 1985, Babangida led another coup, this time deposing Buhari and becoming Nigeria’s military ruler. He justified this action by criticizing Buhari's economic policies and human rights abuses.

During his time in power, Babangida enacted several controversial policies and decisions that had lasting impacts on Nigeria. Notably, he introduced the Structural Adjustment Program (SAP), an economic reform strategy supported by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank. The SAP aimed to restructure Nigeria’s economy by promoting privatization and reducing government control, but it also led to widespread discontent due to austerity measures that increased hardship for the Nigerian populace.

Babangida’s tenure was also marked by several major political events. One of the most significant was the annulment of the 12 June 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s freest and fairest. The election had been poised to bring in a democratic government under the leadership of Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola. Babangida's annulment of the results led to political chaos and is often cited as one of the most contentious actions of his presidency.

Despite stepping down from power on 26 August 1993, Babangida has remained an influential figure in Nigerian politics. He oversaw the interim government led by Ernest Shonekan, though that government was short-lived, with General Sani Abacha seizing power later that year.

Over the years, Babangida has faced criticism for his role in various events during his presidency, particularly the annulled election and the economic challenges faced during his rule. However, he is also credited for some efforts at political reform, including attempting to transition Nigeria to a multi-party democratic system, although these efforts were marred by the political instability that followed.

Babangida’s legacy is a complex one, encompassing military leadership, economic reform, and significant political influence in Nigeria's history. He remains a prominent figure in Nigeria's socio-political discourse, with many viewing his era as a pivotal period in the nation's development.

REFERENCE:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ibrahim_Babangida