By Fustus
Arthur Nzeribe is a name that many Nigerians find hard to forgive because of his major role in ruining what could have been a turning point for democracy in the country. In 1993, Nigeria held what was considered its fairest and freest presidential election. Moshood Abiola was believed to have won this election, giving people hope for a brighter and more democratic future. But these hopes were crushed, and Nzeribe played a big part in this disappointment.
Nzeribe led a group called the Association for Better Nigeria (ABN). This group was responsible for getting a court to cancel the results of the election. This action is seen by many Nigerians as a huge betrayal because it went against the people’s will and their hope for change. The cancellation of the election results led to massive protests and international condemnation. It also brought about more military rule, especially under the harsh regime of General Sani Abacha, who was known for his brutal leadership.
The annulment of the election had dire consequences. It created political chaos and instability, which hurt the country’s economy and led to widespread suffering. People hoped that Abiola’s victory would bring about positive change, but instead, they faced more years of oppression, human rights abuses, and economic problems. Nzeribe is often blamed for playing a part in causing this prolonged period of hardship.
Many Nigerians see Nzeribe as a symbol of betrayal. They believe he helped destroy their chance at having a democratic government when the country needed it most. The disappointment and pain from this time in Nigeria’s history are still fresh for many, and Nzeribe’s actions are a big part of that pain. People find it hard to forgive him because they feel he stole a critical opportunity for the country to move forward and improve.
This inability to forgive is rooted in the deep scars left by the annulment of the election. For many Nigerians, remembering what could have been and what was lost is too painful. They see Nzeribe as a key figure in this loss, making it difficult to move past the anger and disappointment. The collective memory of this betrayal is strong, and it continues to affect how people view Nzeribe and the events of 1993
