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ABUJA – General Yakubu Gowon (Rtd.), former Nigerian Head of State, has described the Nigerian Civil War (1967–1970) as the “most painful chapter” of his life. He made this statement in Abuja while receiving a Lifetime Integrity and Achievement Award at the 5th Convention of the Christian Men’s Fellowship, Anglican Diocese. This Civil War reflection was a key part of his address.
“I always remember the civil war. It was the most difficult period of my life,” Gowon stated. He added, “It was not my choice, but I had to be there and had to do what I did in order to keep this country together.” He clarified his wartime actions aimed to preserve national unity, not from animosity. “It was never a hatred against any people, I can assure you,” Gowon stressed. This time remains a significant difficult period.
Post-War Leadership Guided by Prayer
Looking back at his leadership after the war, General Gowon said he relied on prayer and divine guidance to lead with integrity. “I ask God to help me to do the right thing the way He thinks it should be done, with love and respect for all the people,” he said. He recalled the post-war declaration aimed at healing: “That is why, in the end, what do we have to say? As they say: no victor, no vanquished.”
Gowon urged Nigerians to support truth, forgiveness, and reconciliation across ethnic and religious lines. He encouraged prioritizing national unity, a message tied to the lessons of the Civil War experience.
Tributes and Call for Honorable Leaders
Other figures also spoke. John-Kennedy Opara, representing former President Goodluck Jonathan, praised the awardees. “These men have touched lives, and God has used them in different ways to touch the nation,” Opara said.
Archbishop Henry Ndukuba, Primate of the Church of Nigeria, urged Christians to uphold truth and integrity. He stated Nigeria needs honorable leaders. “Nigeria needs men and women of honour and integrity, leaders willing to serve the people and not corruptly pile up wealth,” Ndukuba declared. The event concluded with a call for moral leadership, reflecting themes from Gowon’s discussion of the difficult period.
By Abiodun Labi
