FORMER Nigerian military President, Ibrahim Babangida, expressed his conviction that there will not be any military interference that could disrupt the progress of democracy in the country. He acknowledged the history of military involvement in Nigerian politics, noting that the military ruled for a significant period after independence.
Babangida, who was one of the military leaders during that time, emphasized that the era of military intervention in politics has ended, as Nigerians are now more committed to establishing a truly democratic nation.
He also highlighted the impact of military rule on Nigeria’s federalism, stating that it hindered the country’s progress towards true federalism. Babangida shared his perspective on the need for restructuring and devolution of powers to the states, emphasizing the importance of empowering states with more resources to manage their affairs effectively.
“I think that is (failure to achieve true federalism) one of the effects of the aberration that the military regime, it countered the democratic process.
“Such things happen, but I believe it will not happen again because Nigerians are becoming more interested in becoming a truly democratic nation in Africa, and such thing, I don’t think it will happen,” Babangida said.
Regarding the issue of brain drain and mass emigration of Nigerians to other countries, Babangida suggested that creating a conducive environment would motivate citizens to contribute to their country’s development. He emphasized the potential for Nigerians to excel in their own country and proposed measures to create a suitable environment for this.
Babangida also addressed concerns about the possibility of Nigeria becoming a one-party state, expressing confidence that Nigerians would resist such a scenario. He advocated for a two-party state, suggesting that it would reduce costs and challenges associated with a multi-party system. Additionally, he proposed allowing independent candidates to contest for political offices, provided they have sufficient support.
“I think the environment should be created in such a way that people will be motivated to work for the country. So, I share the view very much that we made names in a lot of countries, US and, UK; Nigerians are doing very well in all professions.
“Why not do the same here in our own country? So we have to create an environment that is suitable for this sort of service that Nigerians have to give to their own country, I think it is possible.”
Babangida also allayed fears that Nigeria may be heading to a one-party state, saying that Nigerians will not allow that to happen.
“I have been in a military regime and the Nigerians I know won’t allow a one-party state. I have been a military man and I know a dictatorship can’t survive in a civil society.
“The Nigerians I know will not allow it; they will talk you out of it. You can say okay, I don’t want and forget about it,” the ex-military leader said.
He advocated for a two-party state as that would save Nigeria a lot of funds and problems associated with a multi-party state.
Babangida equally suggested that in addition to two major political parties, independent candidates could also be allowed to contest for political offices.
“One can contest as an independent candidate if the person is strong enough to get supporters,” he said
