Why Femi Falana Is Taking IBB to Court—Two Key Reasons

Prominent Nigerian lawyer and human rights activist, Femi Falana (SAN), has announced his decision to sue former military ruler, General Ibrahim Babangida (IBB). 

His decision was sparked by revelations in Babangida’s recently released book, A Journey in Service, where the former president admitted that the late Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola won the June 12, 1993, presidential election.

For decades, Falana and many others had insisted that the election was unfairly annulled, and now, with Babangida’s own words confirming it, the legal firebrand is ready to take action. But why exactly is he suing? Here are the two major reasons.

Malicious Prosecution

Back in 1993, Falana was among the many Nigerians who opposed the annulment of the June 12 election. He publicly challenged the military government, demanding that MKO Abiola be recognized as the rightful winner. In response, he was arrested, charged, and prosecuted for his activism.

For years, Babangida’s government had justified the election annulment with claims of irregularities. But now, with the former president admitting that Abiola did win, Falana sees this as proof that his arrest and prosecution were unjust. He is seeking legal redress for what he describes as a wrongful prosecution.

According to Falana, Babangida’s admission effectively nullifies the government’s justification for cracking down on protesters like him. He insists that there was no legal basis for his prosecution at the time, and now that the truth has been acknowledged, he wants the courts to set the record straight.

Human rights infringement

Beyond his wrongful prosecution, Falana is also suing Babangida for violating his fundamental human rights. His arrest, detention, and legal battles were not just politically motivated—they were a direct attack on his rights as a Nigerian citizen.

Falana argues that his freedom of expression and right to peaceful protest were trampled upon simply because he stood against injustice. Many others, including journalists, activists, and politicians, also suffered similar fates under the military regime.

Now that Babangida has openly admitted that the annulment was a mistake, Falana believes it is time to hold him accountable for the suffering caused by his decision. He is assembling a team of lawyers to pursue the case, stating that IBB’s confession has “brought the issue back to life.”

What this means for Nigeria

The annulment of the June 12 election remains one of Nigeria’s most controversial political events. It led to widespread protests, loss of lives, and the eventual rise of General Sani Abacha’s dictatorship. With Falana’s lawsuit, the conversation about justice for victims of that era is being reignited.

While some may argue that the case is coming too late—32 years after the incident—Falana insists that justice has no expiry date. By challenging Babangida in court, he hopes to ensure that the mistakes of the past are fully acknowledged and that those who suffered due to political repression receive the justice they deserve.

This lawsuit is not just about Femi Falana. 

It is about the many Nigerians who were silenced, arrested, and even killed for standing up against injustice. Whether or not the case succeeds, it will serve as a reminder that history cannot be erased, and those responsible for past wrongs must be held accountable.