Former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, has revealed that he pleaded with the late General Sani Abacha not to execute former President Olusegun Obasanjo over the alleged coup plot of 1995.
Speaking during the maiden edition of the Interdenominational Unity Christmas Carol and Praise Festival, organized by the Plateau State Government, Gowon recounted his efforts to save Obasanjo.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Obasanjo was arrested in 1995, accused of plotting a coup against the Abacha-led government. Despite maintaining his innocence, he was convicted and sentenced to death. However, he spent three years in prison before being released in 1998 following Abacha’s death on June 8 of that year.
Gowon, the event’s Special Guest of Honour, shared how he intervened:
“I wrote a letter to Abacha, pleading with him to remember 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 Abuja, imploring him not to carry out the execution.
“I’m glad that soon after, circumstances changed. Not only was Obasanjo released, but he also went on to become our president in 1999. This is a testament to the power of prayer and sincerity. Today, I’m overjoyed to celebrate unity alongside Obasanjo here in Plateau State.”
Gowon expressed gratitude to the Plateau State Government for organizing the carol event, emphasizing its significance in fostering unity among the citizens, especially in a state that has faced numerous security challenges.
He commended Governor Caleb Mutfwang for initiatives aimed at promoting peaceful coexistence and reiterated the importance of such gatherings in bringing people together.
Obasanjo, who was the Guest of Honour at the event, joined Gowon in celebrating the spirit of unity and reconciliation.
