Former presidential candidate and businessman, Dr. Gbenga Hashim, has praised ex-military ruler General Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida (IBB) for admitting past mistakes and offering a public apology to Nigerians.
In a statement released Tuesday, Hashim described IBB’s gesture as a significant step toward national reconciliation and healing, emphasizing the importance of leaders taking responsibility for their actions.
Hashim, who was once detained under Babangida’s regime, revealed that although he was invited to the launch of IBB’s latest book, he couldn’t attend. However, he later visited the former Head of State to personally congratulate him on the milestone, acknowledging the book’s impact on national discourse.
From Political Opponent to Advocate for Reconciliation
Despite being a fierce critic of Babangida in the past, Hashim stated that time and mediation efforts by figures like the late Governor Abdulkadir Kure and Prof. Tunde Adeniran helped him see IBB in a new light.
“IBB is not the only leader to make mistakes, but not everyone has the courage to admit them. His willingness to do so is a major step toward national reconciliation,” Hashim said.
He went further to highlight Babangida’s crucial behind-the-scenes role in ensuring Goodluck Jonathan became President during Nigeria’s 2010 political crisis, calling him a strategist committed to Nigeria’s unity.
A Call for Broader National Healing
Hashim urged Nigerian leaders to embrace accountability and reconciliation, referencing South Africa’s post-apartheid healing process as a model.
“We need to close the chapter of hatred in Nigeria. From the victims of the first coup to those affected by counter-coups and political crises, there are wounds that must be addressed. Only through honest reflection and unity can we move forward as a nation,” he stated.
With Babangida’s public admission sparking renewed conversations on leadership and accountability, Hashim’s remarks add to the growing call for truth, reconciliation, and a united Nigeria.
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