IBB Speaks: Why I Ordered The Execution Of My Childhood Friend, Mamman Vatsa

Former Head of State, Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida (IBB), has disclosed details of the failed coup allegedly orchestrated by his childhood friend, General Mamman Vatsa, and the agonizing choice he faced between personal loyalty and national security.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

In excerpts from his autobiography, A Journey of Service, launched on February 20, 2025, Babangida recounted how initial warnings about Vatsa’s alleged coup plot began as mere “rumors.” At first, he dismissed them, believing they stemmed from jealousy over his close relationship with Vatsa.

However, after seeking counsel from senior military officers, including Generals Nasko, Garba Duba, and Wushishi, he ordered a covert investigation into the claims.

Uncovering the Coup Plot

According to Babangida, intelligence agencies eventually uncovered “incontrovertible evidence” linking Vatsa to the financing of officers in preparation for the coup attempt.

“As the rumors intensified, I confronted Vatsa himself after discussing the matter with senior colleagues like Generals Nasko, Garba Duba, and Wushishi. Nasko stepped in to probe further, but Vatsa denied any involvement. Despite his denials, the military and intelligence services continued their covert investigations,” Babangida revealed.

He further disclosed that one of the arrested officers, Lt-Col. Musa Bitiyong, admitted to receiving ₦50,000 from Vatsa. Vatsa insisted the money was meant for a farm project, but Bitiyong’s prior involvement in previous coup attempts weakened his defense.

Alleged Plans to Target Key Infrastructure

Intelligence reports revealed that the coup plot included plans to bomb Eko Bridge in Lagos, sabotage Air Force assets, and even hijack or shoot down the presidential aircraft.

Describing the scheme as “dastardly,” Babangida expressed profound personal betrayal, given his decades-long friendship with Vatsa.

Following the military tribunal’s conclusion, Babangida maintained that execution was the only viable course of action to safeguard national stability.