Facts are emerging about the dictator's thirst for power. Nigerian Tribune reports on the level of consultation already carried out by former military usurper, Ibrahim Babangida, regarding his 2011 presidential bid. Sources say the foot-soldiers of the man who scuttled a democratic government had already got the endorsement of some members of the National Assembly, and he was in Ogun State to win more support.
According to the source, the foot-soldiers first sought the support of the Senate President, David Mark; Speaker of the House of Representatives, ’Dimeji Bankole and the Senate Leader, Teslim Folarin, a few weeks back.
The source said the leaderships of both arms of the National Assembly did not oppose the move by General Babangida to return to power, but were said to have told the lobbysts to measure the pulse of Nigerians to ensure his acceptability.
“The message from the National Assembly is favourable,” the source said.
According to Tribuen findings, the consultations being made by General Babangida had so far taken him to five of the geo-political zones in the country.
It was learnt that the opinion in the Northern part of the country was unanimous that the former military president should run for the presidency so long as ailing President Umaru Yar’Adua was ruled out of contention for the plum job.
ST learnt that, in continuation of the sensitisation of Nigerians, Babangida was in Kaduna on Thursday and was expected to be in Kano today (Saturday). He would also use the attendance of the wedding of the daughter of his former security chief, Halilu Akilu, to reach out to the guests at the occasion.
It was gathered that those accompanying General Babangida on his nationwide tour included AVM Abdulahi Hussaini and one Mr. Jalo.
Babangida, during his nationwide consultation, would also speak to all Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) delegates, fuelling speculations that he could contest on the platform of the party.
The General had told newsmen on Thursday in Abeokuta, Ogun State that he was still consulting to enable him decide if he would contest the 2011 presidential election.
He was to have contested the 2007 election, but powers at Aso Rock then stopped the bid .
General Babangida ruled Nigeria for eight years, but “stepped aside” in 1993, after pressure from Nigerians.
