Nigeria’s Untold Injustice: Vatsa’s Family Seeks Redemption After Execution Under Babangida’s Regime

Vatsa was accused of plotting a coup against Babangida in 1985 and was executed by firing squad in March 1986, alongside other alleged conspirators, following a controversial military tribunal trial. However, his execution remains a subject of debate, with many believing he was a victim of political maneuvering rather than an actual coup plotter.

Vatsa and Babangida, both from Niger State, were childhood friends and close allies before the circumstances that led to Vatsa’s death.

In his autobiography, A Journey in Service, Babangida defended his decision, insisting that Vatsa was guilty of treason. He acknowledged the personal pain of witnessing his friend’s execution but argued that national stability and military discipline took precedence.

Family Rejects Babangida’s Justification

Vatsa’s family has dismissed Babangida’s claims, accusing him of distorting the facts in his book.

Speaking to Punch, family spokesperson Jonathan Vatsa stated that no form of compensation could erase the pain of losing the late General. However, he emphasized that the only meaningful redress would be for the Federal Government to restore Vatsa’s rank and accord him a dignified military burial.

“There is no amount of compensation that can bring Vatsa back. If there is anything we seek—not from Babangida, but from President Bola Tinubu—it is to clear Vatsa’s name, exhume his body, and grant him the full military burial he deserves. If these steps are taken, we will finally find peace,” Jonathan Vatsa declared.