Nigeria’s former Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, has revealed an insight into the autobiography of former military President Ibrahim Babangida, “A Journey In Service.”
The book, which was launched on Thursday at the Congress Hall of Transcorp Hilton, was described by Osinbajo as “an important book.”
Osinbajo, who was the book reviewer, held the audience spellbound while giving a brilliant assessment of the book.
He described the book as “the story of stories; it is the story of our nation.”
He said IBB was one of the most charismatic and enigmatic leaders of the country, making his memoir a valuable addition to history.
He said Babangida gave his views on all the major national events that defined his eight-year rule as Nigeria’s military president.
Quoting excerpts from the book, he said IBB explained his role in stopping the 13 February 1976 coup attempt led by Lieutenant Colonel Bukar Suwa Dimka.
Lt. Dimka, along with other officers, who was later executed, attempted to overthrow General Murtala Mohammed’s government.
Dimka and IBB were family friends.
The book also clarifies IBB’s friend, Maman Vatsa’s involvement in the 1986 coup that resulted in his execution.
Osinbajo also explains the relationship between IBB, Generals Yakubu Gowon, T.Y. Danjuma, and Abdulsalam Abubakar as narrated by the author, which has led to mutual respect amongst them.
It was Gowon who inspired IBB, Abubakar, and eight others to enlist in the army after he visited their secondary school and gave a talk.
The students then were impressed by Gowon’s smart dress and motivational talk.
Perhaps the most shocking revelation in the book is IBB’s admission that late M.K.O. Abiola won the June 12, 2023 presidential election, which he annulled.
Osinbajo teased the audience with a few details about what led to the annulment before telling his listeners to find out from the book who ordered the annulment.
He got a standing ovation after his masterful delivery, which was commended by IBB and his son Mohammed.
