Olayiwola Matthew
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has reacted to former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (Rtd.), revealing that he had intervened with the late General Sani Abacha to save Obasanjo’s life during his imprisonment.
Obasanjo was among those detained by Abacha’s regime on charges of attempting to overthrow the government.
Speaking 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 shared that he had written to Abacha, urging him to show mercy to Obasanjo.
Gowon explained that he delivered the letter through his wife, stressing to Abacha that as a leader, his duty was to do good, not harm. He expressed his gratitude that Obasanjo was not only released 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 acknowledged Gowon’s intervention, revealing that he had been unaware of it until it was disclosed.
“I want to acknowledge my boss, General Yakubu Gowon. Yesterday, he made a revelation, and I have to thank you specifically for that. When I came out of prison, I had the opportunity to thank friends, inside and outside the country, who contributed to appeal and pray for my release from prison.
“And I went round the world thanking those that have been appealing and praying for my release from prison. But I did not know that you wrote a personal letter for my release until you said it yesterday; I thank you for that,” Obasanjo said.
The event was attended by Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, as well as former governors Jonah Jang, Joshua Dariye, and Boni Haruna, among other prominent dignitaries.