By Femi Anamelechi
The former military Dictator and one of the gladiator of the dark days of Nigeria’s political history Rtd. General Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida (IBB), has revealed reasons behind the execution of his childhood friend, General Mamman Vatsa, over an alleged coup plot. IBB, In in his recently published autobiography, A Journey of Service, launched on February 20, 2025 posted how initial rumors of Vatsa’s involvement in a coup attempt were dismissed but later confirmed through covert investigations.
The Maverick stated that intelligence reports provided “incontrovertible evidence” that Vatsa had financed officers to facilitate a planned takeover. According his account the coup plot involved plans to bomb key infrastructure, including Eko Bridge in Lagos, and sabotage Air Force assets.IBB in the book recounted that he found it had to believe the coup plot because of his personal relationship with Vatsa, He said National security took precedence over personal sentiments Following the military tribunal’s ruling, he approved the execution in March 1986, emphasizing that failed coup attempts carried clear and severe consequences.
Reflecting back on the decision, IBB admitted feeling “somewhat depressed” but maintained that Nigeria’s stability and military cohesion were paramount. The former Head of State also noted that attempts to politicize the execution did not change his belief that it was necessary for maintaining order and discipline.
