Former Nigerian Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (rtd), has revealed how he intervened to prevent the execution of former President Olusegun Obasanjo during General Sani Abacha’s regime. Gowon shared this during the maiden Interdenominational Unity Christmas Carol and Praise Festival organized by the Plateau State Government.
In 1995, Obasanjo was convicted of plotting a coup against Abacha’s government and sentenced to death. Gowon recounted his efforts, saying he sent his wife to Abacha with a letter in the middle of the night, pleading for clemency. He stated, “I pleaded with him [Abacha] that God made him a leader to do good and not evil.”
Obasanjo was eventually released in 1998 after Abacha’s sudden death. Reflecting on this, Gowon expressed gratitude, noting that Obasanjo not only regained freedom but also became Nigeria’s president in 1999.
The event also celebrated Plateau State’s unity, with Gowon praising Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s initiatives to promote peaceful coexistence.
The carol provided a platform for the state to reflect on its past security challenges and move toward reconciliation.
