How I begged Abacha not to kill Obasanjo – Gowon

How I begged Abacha not to kill Obasanjo – Gowon

Former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (Retired), has disclosed how he intervened to prevent the execution of former President Olusegun Obasanjo during the regime of the late General Sani Abacha.

Speaking at the inaugural Interdenominational Unity Christmas Carol and Praise Festival, organized by the Plateau State Government, Gowon recounted the steps he took to save Obasanjo, who had been convicted of involvement in an alleged coup plot against Abacha in 1995.

“I wrote a letter to Abacha, I pleaded with him that God made him a leader to do good and not evil. I sent my wife with the letter in the middle of the night to Abacha in Abuja; I pleaded with him that such a thing should not happen,” Gowon stated.

Obasanjo, who maintained his innocence, was sentenced to death but eventually had his sentence commuted to a prison term. He spent three years in detention before his release in 1998, following Abacha’s sudden death. In 1999, Obasanjo emerged as Nigeria’s democratically elected president.

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Reflecting on the events, Gowon expressed gratitude for the outcome. “I’m glad that soon after that, things changed, and not only that Obasanjo left prison, he became our president in 1999. This is something that only prayers and sincerity can do. I’m happy that today myself and Obasanjo are here to celebrate the unity of Plateau,” he said.

The event, held to foster unity and peace in Plateau State, saw Obasanjo as the Guest of Honour and Gowon as the Special Guest of Honour.

Gowon also commended Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang for organizing the carol, emphasizing its significance in promoting peaceful coexistence in a state that has faced numerous security challenges.

“This event is a testament to the power of faith and unity. It provides a platform for the people to come together in harmony,” Gowon added.

Governor Mutfwang was lauded for his initiatives aimed at fostering peace and unity across the state.

 

How I begged Abacha not to kill Obasanjo – Gowon