JOS, Nigeria – Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has expressed deep surprise and gratitude to former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (Rtd), for secretly pleading with the late General Sani Abacha to spare his life during the 1995 coup trial.
The revelation came during the Plateau Interdenominational Unity Christmas Carols and Praise Festival held in Jos.
Speaking at the event, Gowon shared the emotional details of his intervention during the height of Abacha’s regime.
In 1995, Obasanjo had been sentenced to death for allegedly plotting a coup against the military dictatorship.
Unable to stand by in silence, Gowon wrote a personal letter to Abacha, appealing for clemency.
“I wrote to Abacha, reminding him that God made him a leader to do good, not harm,” Gowon revealed.
“I sent the letter through my wife in the middle of the night, urging him to reconsider.”
Obasanjo’s Reaction
Obasanjo, who was unaware of Gowon’s efforts until the recent revelation, expressed profound appreciation.
“Yesterday, General Yakubu Gowon made a revelation I had never heard before,” Obasanjo said.
“When I came out of prison, I went around thanking those who appealed for my release, but I didn’t know you wrote a personal letter. Thank you for that.”
The former president, who was released in 1998 after Abacha’s death, praised Gowon for his statesmanship and compassion, highlighting the remarkable forgiveness given their history.
Obasanjo and the late Murtala Mohammed had overthrown Gowon’s government in a 1975 coup, making Gowon’s gesture all the more extraordinary.
A Testament to Forgiveness and Unity
Reflecting on the moment, Gowon gave glory to God, crediting divine grace and prayers for the outcome.
“It’s a miracle that only God could have orchestrated,” he said.
Obasanjo also used the opportunity to commend Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang for his efforts in fostering peace and development in the region, urging him to continue prioritising progress and unity.
This heartfelt exchange between the two former leaders underscored the importance of statesmanship, forgiveness, and the enduring bonds of shared history.
