1985 Coup: Babangida Recalls Shock Over Vatsa’s Role

Former Military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, has recalled the circumstances surrounding the alleged involvement of his childhood friend, General Mamman Jiya Vatsa, in the 1985 coup plot against his administration, saying there was nothing he could do to save him from the consequences of the allegations.

Babangida said he initially found it difficult to believe reports that Vatsa was involved in the coup because of their long-standing friendship. According to him, the two grew up together, attended the same Bida Middle School, now Government College Bida, graduated in the same year and later joined the military together.
Speaking on a special programme hosted by Baddegi 901 FM as part of activities marking his 85th birthday, Babangida said he was informed by a senior military officer about rumours linking Vatsa and General Mohammed Gado Nasko to the planned coup.
He said he immediately invited both officers to his office and asked them about the allegations, but they denied any involvement in the plot.
However, Babangida said the military commission of inquiry later exonerated Nasko, while investigations established Vatsa’s involvement in the aborted coup.
Recalling his reaction, the former military leader said he was shocked, devastated and disappointed when Vatsa’s involvement was confirmed. He explained that military law left him with no option to prevent the consequences of the coup allegation.
“There is nothing I can do to exonerate him from the already existing consequence of the coup plot in the Military law. My hands were tied. That was how I lost my brother General Mamman Vatsa,” Babangida said.
Babangida’s 85th birthday is scheduled for Monday, August 17, 2026, with special prayers expected to be held at his Uphill residence in Minna.