Obasanjo Responds to Gowon’s Revelation

Obasanjo Responds to Gowon’s Revelation: “I Told Abacha Not to Kill Obasanjo”

Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has reacted to an unexpected revelation by retired General Yakubu Gowon, a former Head of State, about his role in saving Obasanjo’s life during the military regime of General Sani Abacha. Gowon disclosed that he had intervened to prevent Obasanjo’s execution, a gesture Obasanjo claimed he had only just learned about.

Gowon’s Intervention to Save Obasanjo

General Gowon made this revelation while speaking at the inaugural Plateau Interdenominational Unity Christmas Carols and Praise Festival held in Jos South Local Government Area. During his address, Gowon recounted how he had acted to spare Obasanjo’s life during a perilous time when Obasanjo was imprisoned by the Abacha regime for allegedly plotting a coup.

Gowon revealed that he had written a heartfelt letter to General Abacha, appealing to his conscience and urging him to remember his divine responsibility to act justly. The letter, which Gowon sent discreetly through his wife in the middle of the night, was a personal plea for mercy.

Obasanjo’s Imprisonment and Release

Obasanjo spent three years in prison under Abacha’s government before regaining his freedom. Gowon expressed immense gratitude that his intervention, along with the efforts of others, had contributed to Obasanjo’s eventual release. He noted his joy in seeing Obasanjo not only free but also assuming the presidency in 1999, leading the country during a crucial period of democratic transition.

Obasanjo’s Response

The day after Gowon’s speech, Obasanjo addressed the same gathering and publicly acknowledged the retired general’s efforts. He admitted that he had been unaware of Gowon’s specific intervention until that moment. “I want to acknowledge my boss, General Yakubu Gowon,” Obasanjo said. “Yesterday, he made a revelation, and I have to thank you specifically for that.”

He explained that while he had always known many people worked behind the scenes for his release, Gowon’s letter was a revelation to him. This newfound knowledge further deepened his appreciation for Gowon’s role during a dark chapter of Nigerian history.

Commending Plateau State’s Leadership

During his speech, Obasanjo also took the opportunity to praise Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang for his efforts in promoting peace and development within the state. He commended Mutfwang’s leadership and peacebuilding initiatives, underscoring the importance of unity and progress in the region.