Africa (Commonwealth Union) _Former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon has issued a heartfelt appeal to Nigerians, urging them to safeguard the nation’s unity and prevent the resurgence of a tragedy akin to the devastating civil war of 1967-1970. Speaking at the 2024 Annual Conference of the Bible Society of Nigeria, Gowon drew from his experiences during the conflict, which left millions dead and countless others displaced, to highlight the dire consequences of disunity.
Reflecting on that turbulent chapter, Gowon warned that no nation should endure such anguish twice. He called for Nigerians to rise above sectional divides, urging leaders to prioritize national harmony over personal or regional interests. According to Gowon, the collective focus should be on building a resilient nation grounded in peace, mutual respect, and shared progress.
Despite the current challenges facing the nation, Gowon expressed unwavering optimism about Nigeria’s potential. He emphasized that peace remains the only pathway to sustainable development, advocating for unity as the foundation of a brighter future. His message was not just a plea but a reminder that every citizen has a role to play in fostering love, faith, and cooperation within the nation.
In a poignant recollection, Gowon shared a story from 1995, when his intervention saved the life of former President Olusegun Obasanjo. General Sani Abacha‘s regime had sentenced Obasanjo to death for an alleged coup plot. Gowon revealed that he had written directly to Abacha, appealing for clemency on Obasanjo’s behalf, ultimately preventing his execution. This act of statesmanship underscored Gowon’s enduring commitment to preserving life and unity in Nigeria, even in its darkest hours.
His appeal serves as a clarion call to reflect on the past and strive for a future devoid of the divisions that once tore the nation apart. Gowon’s words, steeped in the wisdom of a leader who has witnessed the cost of conflict, resonate deeply: peace is not just a necessity but a shared responsibility. Nigerians can avoid repeating the painful lessons of history and steer the nation towards sustainable progress by embracing unity and setting aside differences.
