Former military Head of State Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB) has said that no successful military coup in Nigeria’s history occurred without civilian involvement, noting that wealthy civilians have often supported and funded such takeovers.
Babangida made the remarks in an interview on Badeggi 90.1 FM in Minna, Niger State, as part of activities marking his 85th birthday.“No successful coup in Nigeria’s history has ever happened without the involvement of civilians,” he stated.
The former leader also recounted the 1985 plot to overthrow his government and the subsequent execution of then Federal Capital Territory Minister Mamman Vatsa.
IBB described Vatsa as a schoolmate and close associate who initially denied any role in the plot. He said he found the allegations hard to believe given their long friendship.
According to Babangida, he summoned Vatsa and Mohammed Gado Nasko to his office after a senior military officer reported that both men had been linked to the conspiracy. Both denied involvement.
A panel later cleared Nasko but found evidence connecting Vatsa to the plot. Babangida said he was “shocked, devastated and deeply disappointed” by the findings.
“There was nothing I could do to exonerate him from the consequences prescribed by military law. My hands were tied. That was how I lost my brother, General Mamman Vatsa,” he added.
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