Nigerian ex-military ruler declares election bid

ABUJA Aug 16 (Reuters) - Nigeria's former military ruler Ibrahim Babangida has formally declared his intention to seek the ruling party nomination for the presidential election next year, a further blow to incumbent President Goodluck Jonathan.

"(The ruling party) accepts that all of us including Jonathan have the right to contest and I will exercise my franchise," Babangida said in a speech, a copy of which was read to Reuters by his spokesman. (For more Reuters Africa coverage and to have your say on the top issues, visit: af.reuters.com/ ) (Reporting by Felix Onuah; Writing by Nick Tattersall)