Ibrahim Babangida
In a manner typical of him, former military President, General Ibrahim Babangida Monday declared support for the presidential candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), General Muhmamadu Buhari, weeks after openly endorsing the PDP candidadte, President Goodluck Jonathan. Babangida, otherwise known as Maradona, for his mercurial and dribbling political skill, promised to mobilise retired generals to back Buhari.
Babangida, who toppled Buhari as military Head of State, 30 years ago, gave the assurance when the latter visited him at his Minna Hilltop residence. Buhari’s presidential campaign train was in Minna to canvass for votes.
APC chieftains present during the visit to IBB’s mansion include, the deputy national chairman of the party, Lawan Shuaibu, national leader, Bola Tinubu, Audu Ogbeh, Bisi Akande, Governor Rotimi Amaechi, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Mr. Segun Oni, General Abdulraham Danbanzzau, George Akume, Niyi Adebayo, Bukola Saraki, Kawu Baraje and Mrs. Kemi Nelson.
Our correspondent recalls that few weeks ago, Babangida, declared support for President Goodluck Jonathan when he visited him in Minna, saying the President meant well for the country and deserves the support of all.
Speaking, IBB told Buhari: “You have beaten some of us in proving General Douglas McArthur’s theory that ‘old soldiers never die but fade away gradually’, but you have refused to fade away.
“I wish to congratulate members of the party for the honour of nominating my colleague, General Muhammadu Buhari, as your presidential candidate in the 2015 election.
“I want to commend APC for choosing our colleague as their flag bearer. All of us will support you (Buhari) in this course to salvage this country”.
Babangida also used the opportunity to explain that he was not fighting with Buhari, saying they both fought to keep the country together.
His words, “You media men have created this impression that we are fighting each other. Look at us here today, he knows what I mean and I know what he means.
“We both fought to keep Nigeria one when we were young majors then. We were well travelled”.
Speaking, Buhari expressed delight that IBB received the entourage warmly. He also told his host that he had earlier met with former President Olusegun Obasanjo, another General and also former Head of State.
