No coup succeeds in Nigeria without civilian backing — IBB

Former military president Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida has said no successful coup in Nigeria’s history occurred without civilian involvement, according to The Sun Nigeria.

Speaking to Badeggi 90.1 FM ahead of his 85th birthday, Babangida said wealthy civilians historically sponsored military takeovers. He also recounted the 1985 coup plot involving his close friend Mamman Vatsa, who was executed in 1986 after a military panel linked him to the plot.

Babangida described the episode as devastating, saying he was powerless to spare his friend. He urged Nigerians to remain hopeful under President Tinubu’s administration.