Renowned human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, SAN, has vowed to take legal action against former Military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, over alleged human rights violations, including wrongful detentions and extrajudicial executions during his regime.
Speaking on national television, Falana condemned the military government’s prosecution of activists, particularly the execution of Major General Mamman Vatsa, whom he described as a victim of a “premeditated murder” over a “phantom coup.”
Recounting events during the June 12 struggle, Falana accused Babangida of orchestrating mass arrests of pro-democracy activists, including the late Chief Gani Fawehinmi, Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti, and himself. He detailed how they were charged with unlawful assembly, conspiracy, and sedition after publishing election results that the regime had refused to release.
“The military thought that by throwing us in Kuje Prison, they could suppress the protests,” Falana stated.
He also criticised Babangida’s continued refusal to apologise for the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, describing it as a demonstration of “a lack of accountability.”
“No apology has been offered for our wrongful arrests and detentions. So, I am going to sue the General for engaging in massive violations of fundamental human rights,” Falana declared.
Reflecting on Babangida’s tenure, he noted that despite initially promising to step down in 1990, the military leader repeatedly postponed his exit, finally setting 1993 as the transition date. This led to widespread protests, including the famous “IBB Must Go” campaign.
Falana also revisited the assassination of journalist Dele Giwa, alleging that Babangida’s regime was responsible for his murder and engaged in a cover-up to obstruct justice.
Despite these historical injustices, Falana reaffirmed his commitment to holding Babangida accountable, vowing to pursue legal redress for victims of the military dictatorship.
