When the June 12 Election, 1993 was annulled by president Ibrahim Babangida, the people of Northern Nigeria were “attacked” through newspapers particularly southern-based newspapers.

The reasons for their stance is not far-fetched. In Nigeria General Babangida, who annuled the election won by MKO Abiola is seen as doing the bidding of the North.

However, the questions I want those critics who were attacking Northerners and blaming the Northern Nigeria region for annulment is as follows:

If the North did not vote massively for late Abiola (may his soul rest in peace) how will he (Abiola) have won the election? Again, the running mate of late Abiola, Alhaji Babagana KIngibe is from Northern Nigeria.

In addition to all these there were prominent personalities from Northern Nigeria who felt the Yorubas were unjustifiably treated. A Yoruba man has won election, it has been annulled. These prominent personalities sat and decided that a Yoruba should contest for election. The two candidates General Olusegun Obasanjo a man of integrity and Olu Falaye contested. Eventually, General Obasanjo won election. This shows that the people of Northern Nigeria have respect for leaders who have integrity.

Thus, it is unfair to continue to blame the North collectively as responsible for the nullification of the election. It is time to stop the blame game. NIgeria needs unity and focus to face the numerous challenges facing the country.

Mohammed A.Bedi, No. 70 Isa Kaita Road, Kaduna  08108188115, 08055985200