I Never Knew Gowon Asked Abacha not to Kill Me - Obasanjo

Nigeria's former president, Olusegun Obasanjo, has reacted to a news report by former head of state, General Yakubu Gowon (retd.), that he (Gowon) intervened with the late Gen. Sani Abacha to spare Obasanjo’s life during his detention. 

Obasanjo was among those jailed by Abacha’s regime over accusations of plotting a coup to overthrow the government.

Commenting at the inaugural Plateau Interdenominational Unity Christmas Carols and Praise Festival at the 10 Commandments Prayer Altar in Du, Jos South Local Government Area, over the weekend, Gowon revealed that he had written to Abacha, advising him to show clemency to Obasanjo.

Gowon disclosed that he handed over the letter through his wife, telling Abacha that his duty as a leader was to do good, not harm.

He expressed his appreciation that Obasanjo was not only freed after Abacha’s death in June 1998 but also went on to serve as Nigeria’s president in 1999.

The following day, at the same Christmas carol event, Obasanjo appreciated Gowon’s efforts, stating that he was ignorant of the intervention until it was disclosed.

“I want to commend my boss, General Yakubu Gowon. Yesterday, he made a disclosure, and I have to thank you especially for that. When I came out of the jail, I had the opportunity to appreciate friends, inside and outside the country, who contributed to appeal and pray for my freedom from prison.

“And I went round the world appreciating those that have been appealing and praying for my release from prison. But I was unaware you wrote a personal letter for my freedom until you announced it yesterday; I thank you for that,” Obasanjo said.

Those who attended the event include the Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, together with former governors Jonah Jang, Joshua Dariye, and Boni Haruna, among other dignitaries.