Morayo Brown Reveals Why Babangida Saw Her Father As A Top Enemy

Media personality Morayo Afolabi Brown has opened up about her father’s role in Nigeria’s pro-democracy movement, recounting how his opposition to the military government of former Head of State Ibrahim Babangida shaped their family’s life.

Speaking during a recent interview on Jay On Air TV, Morayo described her father as a fearless activist who consistently challenged military rule and spoke out against policies he believed were detrimental to the country.

She said his outspoken criticism of the Babangida administration made him a prominent target of the military government, exposing him to constant surveillance, intimidation, and persecution.

According to Morayo, her father’s political activities led to multiple arrests, during which he was detained alongside several pro-democracy campaigners, including the late human rights advocate, Beko Ransome-Kuti.

She explained that the persistent pressure from the military authorities eventually forced him to flee Nigeria and seek safety abroad.

The television host noted that exile became the only viable option as the threats against him intensified.

Reflecting on her upbringing, Morayo said being raised by a father who was deeply committed to the struggle for democracy profoundly influenced her outlook on life.

She credited his courage, resilience, and determination to speak truth to power with shaping her own values and belief in standing up for what is right.

Recalling those experiences, she said:

“My father was an activist. Growing up, I knew he was one of Babangida’s top enemies. Babangida deeply despised him and hated him with passion. My father shared prison cells with Beko Ransome-Kuti and others. He eventually had to go into exile because Babangida was after him.”