The history of Nigeria’s democratic journey is incomplete without mentioning Colonel Dangiwa Umar, a courageous military officer who chose the path of justice and truth during one of the nation's darkest political moments the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election.
The June 12, 1993 election, widely regarded as the freest and fairest in Nigeria's history, was poised to return the country to democratic rule after years of military dictatorship. Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) was presumed to have won the election by a wide margin. However, in a shocking turn of events, the military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida annulled the election, plunging the nation into political turmoil and widespread protests.
While most military officers either supported or remained silent about the annulment, Col. Dangiwa Umar courageously broke ranks with the ruling elite. As a respected former military governor of Kaduna State and a serving officer, his voice carried weight. Umar condemned the annulment as a betrayal of the Nigerian people's trust and a dangerous setback for the nation’s democratic aspirations. In a powerful and now historic letter to General Babangida, he warned of the consequences of undermining the people's will, stating that the annulment had robbed the military of legitimacy and destroyed public confidence in the transition program.
Col. Umar’s unwavering support for MKO Abiola was rooted in principle, not politics. He did not act out of personal gain or ethnic sentiment; rather, he stood for what was right. He believed that a nation as diverse and complex as Nigeria could only thrive on the foundation of justice, equity, and democratic governance. His call for the validation of the June 12 election results and for Abiola to be sworn in as president was an act of heroism, especially given the risks he faced. His defiance led to his arrest, detention, and eventual forced retirement from the army, but he never wavered in his convictions.
In the years following the crisis, Col. Umar has remained a vocal advocate for good governance, national unity, and social justice. He has consistently challenged oppressive policies, corruption, and ethnic favoritism, regardless of which government is in power. His speeches, writings, and public interventions reflect a deep commitment to building a fairer and more just Nigeria. He has become a moral compass for many Nigerians who look up to him as a rare example of integrity in public service.
In conclusion, Col. Dangiwa Umar is more than a pro-June 12 advocate—he is a true Nigerian hero. He chose the difficult path of truth when it was dangerous to do so. He stood for democracy when many abandoned it. His legacy continues to inspire those who believe in justice, accountability, and the power of the people's voice. In a country still struggling to deepen its democracy, the story of Dangiwa Umar serves as a powerful reminder that true leadership is not about holding power, but about defending what is right, even when it costs everything.
References
- Umar, D. (1993). Letter to General Ibrahim Babangida on the annulment of the June 12 election.
- Adebanwi, W. (2014). Yoruba Elites and Ethnic Politics in Nigeria: Obafemi Awolowo and Corporate Agency. Cambridge University Press.
- Ojo, E.O. (2000). The June 12 Presidential Election Crisis and the Future of Nigerian Democracy. Journal of African Elections, 2(1), 1–18.
- The Guardian Nigeria (1993). "Colonel Umar Slams Annulment." June 1993 edition.
- Diamond, L. (1995). Nigeria: The Uncivic Society and the Descent into Praetorianism. In Politics in Developing Countries. Lynne Rienner Publishers.
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