Atiku Abubakar, a former vice president has paid glowing tribute to General Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida (IBB) on the occasion of his 83rd birthday, lauding the retired military leader for his statesmanship and enduring legacy in Nigerian politics.
In his message, Atiku highlighted the rare quality of IBB’s captivating personality, which has left an indelible mark on all who have encountered him. He emphasized that Babangida’s distinguished military career and his inclusive approach to politics have set him apart as a unique figure in the nation’s history.
Reflecting on the challenges of Nigeria’s current political landscape, Atiku lamented the rise of ethno-religious divisions and bigotry, contrasting it with IBB’s commitment to unity in diversity. He noted that while some scholars liken IBB’s political strategies to those of Niccolò Machiavelli, he personally views the Babangida administration as one that pursued altruistic goals, striving to manage Nigeria’s diversity through a shared commitment to national unity.
Atiku pointed to IBB’s federalist orientation as a testament to his belief in an inclusive Nigeria, expressing concern that today’s politics has become polarized, with some leaders promoting divisive tendencies. He urged the nation’s leaders to reflect on the values that IBB embodied, particularly the importance of unity over division.
“As we commemorate General Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida on his 83rd birthday, let us reflect on our values regarding national unity and the promotion of Nigeria as a nation where primordial tendencies have no place for growth,” Atiku said.
He concluded by calling on opposition political parties to come together in the spirit of unity to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy and ensure it lives up to its name.
Atiku Abubakar served as Vice President of Nigeria from 1999 to 2007 and was the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 election.
Seunmanuel Faleye is a brand and communications strategist. He is a covert writer and an overt creative head. He publishes Apple’s Bite International Magazine.
