June 12, 1993, remains a major turning point in Nigeria’s democratic journey. It was the day Nigerians went to the polls for the first presidential election since the military took over power in 1983.
The contest was between Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and Bashir Tofa of the National Republican Convention (NRC).
Although reports from both local and foreign observers described the election as one of the most credible in Nigeria’s history, the results were later cancelled by the then Head of State, General Ibrahim Babangida. The controversial decision triggered political unrest that eventually led to a coup led by General Sani Abacha.
As the country marks another Democracy Day, The Guardian highlights 10 facts that some Nigerians may not remember about the June 12 election:
1. Nigeria used a two-party system at the time
Only two registered parties were allowed to participate, the SDP and the NRC.
2. Both presidential candidates were Muslims
Abiola and Tofa were both Muslims, which made the ticket unusual in Nigeria’s diverse political landscape.
3. MKO Abiola was 56 years old during the election
He ran for president at a time when older candidates dominated the political scene.
4. Baba Gana Kingibe was Abiola’s running mate
While Sylvester Ugoh ran as the deputy to Bashir Tofa of the NRC.
5. Abiola reportedly won in 20 states
He even won in Kano, the home state of his opponent, Bashir Tofa.
6. Tofa won in 11 states
Despite losing his stronghold, he managed to secure wins across 11 other states.
7. The election was judged free and fair
Observers from across the world praised it as transparent and peaceful.
8. Babangida cancelled the results citing security concerns
This sparked massive protests and political chaos across the country.
9. The electoral umpire was called the National Electoral Commission (NEC)
The NEC, headed by Prof. Humphrey Nwosu, had begun announcing results before the annulment.
10. Nigeria had 31 states at the time
Including the FCT, the states then included Abia, Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Bauchi, Benue, Borno, Cross River, Delta, Edo, Enugu, Imo, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Kogi, Kwara, Lagos, Niger, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, Oyo, Plateau, Rivers, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe, and the Federal Capital Territory.
