Aisha Babangida: A Tale of Daddy’s Girl

One of Nigeria’s most notable political godfathers and former military president, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (alias IBB) just clocked 80! As expected of one so mighty, IBB had to play the role of a party host to the movers and shakers of Nigerian politics in his Minna residence, Niger State. Underlying all the hustle and bustle was the quiet and solid love and dedication of his daughter, Erelu Aisha Babangida.

It would be the most erroneous claim that Aisha requires anything material from her father. The lady has made a name for herself and has even managed to jump out of the clout generally accorded to the family of a former Nigeria Head of State. This is just as true for her having outgrown the large and still-distinct shadows of her mother, the late Maryam Babangida, the original First Lady. Yet, Aisha’s devotion to the Babangidas, especially her father, is proof that love outlives everything else.

At IBB’s 80th birthday event, the Women Enterprise Alliance (WenA) founder was everywhere at once, greeting guests and commandeering the flow of events like the General her father once was. Her dedication and commitment were there for invited folks to see, and these duly commended her. The daughter of a jaguar, at the end of the day, is a jaguar.

Meanwhile, the guest list is something else that makes the heart soften with amazement. Among the folks that visited IBB’s mansion were former President Olusegun Obasanjo; former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar; former Senate President, Bukola Saraki; former Anambra State Governor and Vice Presidential Candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mr Peter Obi; former Imo and Kebbi States governors, Senators Rochas Okorocha and Adamu Aliero respectively; Akwa Ibom Governor, Emmanuel Udom; and a nearly innumerable number of dignitaries.

Every one of these was treated to the best of welcomes by Aisha and her siblings. Unfortunately, these open arms were not extended to reporters. The “Press not allowed” inscription was just as large as the crowd of beggars and praise singers at the gate. All, but the aforementioned dignitaries, were turned out. Nevertheless, it was a fine and colourful celebration, that much was obvious.