Minna, Nigeria – The family of the late General Mamman Vatsa has strongly criticized former military president, General Ibrahim Babangida (rtd.), over claims made in his newly launched autobiography, describing it as a collection of lies and a reference material for criminals.
Speaking to journalists in Minna, Hon. Jonathan Vatsa, a former Niger State Commissioner for Information, Culture, and Tourism, accused Babangida of distorting historical facts, particularly regarding the execution of General Vatsa for an alleged coup attempt in 1986.
Vatsa dismissed Babangida’s justification of the execution, saying it was motivated by envy, malice, and hatred rather than national security concerns. He also questioned Babangida’s personal identity, alleging that he changed his name to fit into a certain ethnic group.
“This so-called autobiography is a bunch of lies and deceit. Babangida has refused to allow General Vatsa to rest in peace. Even in death, our brother remains more honorable,” he stated.
Jonathan Vatsa also accused Babangida of lacking courage, pointing out his admission that he could not retire the late General Sani Abacha due to fear of being killed by loyalists in the army. He also challenged Babangida’s claim that Abacha was responsible for the annulment of the June 12, 1993, election, describing it as a desperate attempt to rewrite history.
He further criticized prominent Nigerians who attended the book launch, questioning why a nation that claims to value democracy would celebrate a man whose actions contributed to political instability.
“This book presentation is a mockery of democracy. No serious-minded Nigerian should take this book seriously. It is a clear attempt to justify past atrocities,” Vatsa declared.
The family vowed to continue countering any attempts to rewrite history, insisting that the execution of General Vatsa was unjust and remains a painful memory.
