‘I Thank You For That’– Obasanjo Replies Gowon For Being A Lifesaver
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has responded to a recent disclosure made by former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (Rtd.), that he (Gowon) desperately appealed to the late General Sani Abacha in a letter to spare Obasanjo’s life during his imprisonment.
Recall, The Pendulum Media reports that Obasanjo was among those detained by Abacha’s regime over allegations of plotting a coup to overthrow the government in 1995.
Over the weekend, Gowon, while
speaking during the inaugural Plateau Interdenominational Unity Christmas Carols and Praise Festival at the 10 Commandments Prayer Altar in Du, Jos South Local Government Area, revealed he had written to Abacha, to spare Obasanjo’s life as it was the right thing to do.
Gowon revealed that he delivered the letter through his wife, emphasising to Abacha that his role as a leader 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 efforts, stating that he was unaware of the intervention until it was disclosed.
The ex- president said, “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,”.
The event was attended by Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang, alongside former governors Jonah Jang, Joshua Dariye, and Boni Haruna, among other dignitaries.
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