The Fallout

History is a valuable tool in determining how the past affects the future. The recent release of General Ibrahim Babangida’s autobiography sparked an air of nostalgia around military rule in Nigeria, specifically the death of Mamman Vatsa.  

To understand what happened, the event needs to be retold. This is the IBB-Vatsa Conspiracy reimagined. 

General Babangida

If no one else will do the job properly, I will. The previous leaders have driven this great country’s economy to the ground with their incompetence. As the former Chief of Staff, I had a front-row seat to their focus on social campaigns geared towards “enforcing disciplined citizenry” and, in my opinion, unnecessary over-involvement in private and public organisations, as well as the use of taxes and subsidies to control the economic environment. 

Now, I am in charge. Not only did I have to take over and fix the country’s mess, but I also had to deal with my colleagues who believed they would be a better substitute than me.  

“Sir,” my subordinate salutes as he updates me. “We have gotten word that some of the officers are planning a coup against you.”. 

Do I need to remind this fool of the protocol? “Have you come here to waste my time? Arrest and question the suspects?”. He looks uncomfortable before finally speaking. “General Mamman Vatsa is listed as a major conspirator in the coup.” 

So, do I have to watch out for my comrades and my best friend? We grew up and attended school together. He cared for my wife and children while I was away for military training. Our wives are friends. “It’s fine; excuse me.” He salutes me and leaves the room.  

I summon Mamman to my office and ask him if he is involved in plotting a coup against me. Looking shocked, he asks, “So you heard I was scheming against you, and you believed it?” Since we are all acting dumb, I will respond with a question: “Are you planning a coup?” which he denies doing.