Ibrahim Babangida
The family of the late General Mamman Jiya Vatsa, who was executed in 1986 over allegations of plotting a coup against then-Head of State General Ibrahim Babangida, has strongly condemned Babangida’s recently released autobiography. The book, which attempts to justify the execution, has drawn sharp criticism from Vatsa’s relatives, who described it as a collection of lies and distortions aimed at misleading future generations.
Speaking at a press briefing in Minna on Tuesday, Hon. Jonathan Vatsa, a former Niger State Commissioner for Information, Culture, and Tourism and a cousin of the late General Vatsa, dismissed Babangida’s claims, stating that the former military leader had “lost his honor” by publishing what he called “a book of deceit.”
Jonathan Vatsa asserted that Babangida’s autobiography could not serve as a credible reference for young Nigerians but would rather be useful to criminals due to its misleading narratives.
“A book written by a man without an identity cannot serve as a reference for the younger generation but is a good material for the criminal-minded,” he stated emotionally.
The former publicity secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Niger State further criticized Babangida for refusing to let the memory of General Vatsa rest in peace, accusing him of reopening old wounds with falsehoods.
He also questioned Babangida’s admission in the book that he changed his name from Badamosi to Babangida to appear more northern, calling it a betrayal of identity. “Where did he get the name Badamosi from? Northerners don’t bear that name.
That name is synonymous with the South West. A man who denies his tribe and identity is not fit to live,” he said.
Jonathan Vatsa also dismissed Babangida’s claim that it was General Sani Abacha who annulled the June 12, 1993, presidential election, arguing that Babangida, as Head of State, was fully in control and should take responsibility. He further described Babangida as a “lily-livered general” for failing to retire Abacha out of fear, as mentioned in the book.
Criticizing those who attended the book launch, Jonathan Vatsa lamented that Nigeria continues to celebrate individuals who, in his view, contributed to the country’s suffering.
“This confirms why some Nigerians believe this country is not worth dying for. How can we gather to celebrate the evil done to a nation?” he questioned.
Concluding his remarks, Jonathan Vatsa recalled his late cousin’s words to the military tribunal that sentenced him: “The day the Nigerian Army starts insulting itself, others will join.” He asserted that Babangida, through his book, had insulted himself and history would judge him accordingly.
The autobiography’s release has sparked widespread controversy, with many Nigerians questioning its credibility and the motives behind its publication.