IBB: No Successful Coup in Nigeria Without Civilian Backing
*Recalls Gen. Vatsa’s denial before inquiry linked him to 1985 coup plot
Laleye Dipo in Minna and Chuks Okocha in Abuja
As investigations into an alleged plot to overthrow President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2025 continue, former military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, has said that military coups have always taken place with the support of civilians.Babangida who will turn 85 years on Monday, also declared that late General Mamman Jiya Vatsa then Minister of the Federal Capital Territory denied involvement in the 1985 coup Plot to unseat him as head of state.General Babangida made the remarks while speaking on Badeggi 90.1 FM Radio monitored in Minna Niger State, yesterday, as part of activities to mark his 85th birthday
Babangida declared: “No successful coup in Nigeria’s history had occurred without civilian involvement,” explaining further that wealthy civilians had often played significant roles in sponsoring military takeovers.According to him, General Vatsa, a school mate of his denied involvement in the plot to overthrow his government but reports from the Commission of inquiry which investigated the matter Indicted him.
