Babangida: Wealthy Civilians Funded Nigerian Coups

In an interview with Badeggi 90.1 FM in Minna, Niger State, former military president Ibrahim Babangida, who governed Nigeria from 1985 to 1993, revealed that wealthy civilians have played a crucial role in funding military coups in Nigeria. He asserted that no successful coup in the country’s history occurred without civilian involvement.

Babangida revisited the 1985 coup plot against his government, which led to the execution of Mamman Vatsa, then Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. Babangida expressed his initial disbelief regarding Vatsa's alleged involvement due to their close friendship and shared history.

After a senior military officer informed him of Vatsa's connection to the plot, Babangida summoned Vatsa and Mohammed Gado Nasko, who both denied any wrongdoing. A military commission of inquiry later cleared Nasko but found evidence against Vatsa, leading to his execution by firing squad in March 1986.

Babangida expressed deep disappointment over the outcome. He also urged Nigerians to support President Bola Tinubu amid current economic and security challenges.