News

How I Begged Abacha to Spare Obasanjo’s Life – Gowon

Published

4 weeks ago

Nov 30, 2024.

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

Speaking at the maiden Interdenominational Unity Christmas Carol and Praise Festival in Plateau State, Gowon recounted his efforts in 1995 when Obasanjo was convicted and sentenced to death for allegedly plotting a coup against Abacha’s government.

Despite Obasanjo maintaining his innocence, he was imprisoned and faced the death penalty.

EDITOR’S PICKS

EKO HOT BLOG reports that Gowon explained that he wrote a heartfelt letter to Abacha, urging him to act with compassion and spare Obasanjo’s life.

“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,” Gowon said.

His plea bore fruit, as Obasanjo’s life was spared. Following Abacha’s death in 1998, Obasanjo was released from prison and went on to become Nigeria’s President in 1999. Gowon expressed gratitude for the outcome, attributing it to prayers and sincerity.

At the event, where both Gowon and Obasanjo were special guests of honour, the former Head of State commended Plateau Governor Caleb Mutfwang for promoting unity and peaceful coexistence through initiatives like the carol festival.

Abacha Obasanjo Gowon

Gowon noted that Plateau State had endured significant security challenges, and the event offered an opportunity for healing and communal bonding. Both leaders praised the festival as a symbol of hope and unity for the people of Plateau.