Babangida at 85: From ‘Evil Genius‘ to Beneficent Oracle
Engagements with Chidi Amuta When in February 2025 Babangida released his long awaited memoir, A Journey in Service, the book launch at the Congress Hall, Abuja Hilton Hotel, was filled beyond
In February 2025, former Nigerian military president Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida released his memoir, A Journey in Service. The book launch at the Congress Hall, Abuja Hilton Hotel, was attended by a large crowd, indicating that Babangida remains a popular figure in Nigeria. Since leaving office in 1993, Babangida has received daily visitors, ranging from traditional rulers to politicians and community leaders, seeking his guidance and inspiration.
His popularity as an "oracle" on leadership and political matters has transformed him from the controversial "Evil Genius" who annulled the 1993 presidential election. Despite his past controversial decisions, Babangida's developmental legacies and infrastructure projects have earned him respect. Critics argue that his economic reforms, influenced by the IMF, caused hardship for lower-income Nigerians, while others praise his efforts in liberalizing the economy.
Babangida's approach to leadership, which he calls himself a "dictator," sets him apart as a military ruler who still maintains a democratic temper. His legacy is a paradox, being praised for his reform agenda while being vilified for annulling a presidential election. Despite the controversies, Babangida's popularity remains strong among Nigerians, making him an enduring figure in Nigerian politics.
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